el cid la cieba ^Alcatraz The Rock is always a hit with older children, particularly boys, who relate immediately to

The city s daily and weekly newspapers the weekly ones are free and superr rr abundant are loaded with information about all the things going on in town. Perusing their websites will give you a head start on planning your trip. d San Francisco Chronicle (daily): www.sfgate.com el cid la cieba San Francisco Bay Guardian (weekly): www.sfbg.com

Tucked away in a flowerr rr filled Mediterranean el cid la cieba courtyard decorated with murals, this motel offers guests a peaceful oasis right in the heart of the beautiful Marina District. Rooms are simple and clean, and parking is included. d 2576 Lombard St Map E2 (415) 9219406 or 1-800 346-6118 el cid la cieba www.marinamotel.com $

San Francisco generally fills up quickly in almost every price category, so don t waste a moment securing a reservation. Telephone bookings are accepted with a valid credit card, although some may require a fax before confirming.

^Alcatraz The Rock is always a hit with older children, el cid la cieba particularly boys, who relate immediately to the grim, quasi-military aspects of the place. The wildness of the island s natural beauty, el cid la cieba as well as the great ferry ride out and back, will also delight. Smaller kids might find the place a bit frightening (see pp14 17).