Am poised to book a hotel for the next three days as a quick trip out of San Fran before returning to New Zealand.

Was originally looking at Mendocino but haven't found a hotel or Inn that has caught our eye yet. Would prefer something with antiques/heritage.

Otherwise might go to Tahoe, although not to ski. Again, any thoughts on a nice place to stay?

Are power outages or snow a problem, as I know the mountains were hard hit last weekend.

Money an issue as we are nearing the end of our trip. Around $150-$160 a night desirable.

Kind regards

Bradford

If snow bothers you, I would stay away fom Tahoe right now and a power outage is not out of the ordinary.
Mendocino is closer and may be more affordable in overall costs. You can go just a little north of Mendo and find more affordable lodging in Beautiful Fort Bragg, Ca.

Thank you. Do you know if any of the hotels/inns at Bodega bay are any good. I am looking at Inn of the Tides and Bodega Bay Lodge?

I'm sorry, I don't know of them. I have always wanted to visit Bodega Bay and I'm sure you would like it. I have heard of the Tides restaurant which is a well known eatery and don't forget the movie "The birds" was largely filmed in Bodega bay.
It is much closer to SF as well.

Bradford-
No to 3 days at Bodega Bay.
Have you considered Pt. Reyes ?
http://www.ptreyes.com/
I think you may be able to find something in your price range, ( although the inclusion of Friday in your
dates could pose a potential problem - YET, the time of year may help).

In Mendocino, the Brewery Gulch Inn has rooms for $165
if you book 48Hrs in advance-
a last minute special or such -
www.brewerygulchinn.com

You may also find some incredible deals to be had on 3 night packages for Mendocino at Luxury Link
www.luxurylink.com
(Just do not STAY at Stevenswood-eat there, yes-
stay, no!)

Let me know if you decide
on Pt. Reyes or Mendocino and I will be happy to assist with dining ideas.

R5

Oh I didn't see the 2 or 3 days, that's too long in any one of these lovely spots, maybe try 2 places and then go home,
The 2 inns at Bodega bay look great on the net, but may be expensive.
Point reyes is quite lovely too.

Have to disagree with Pildrege that 2 or 3 nights is too long in either Pt. Reyes or Mendocino-you'll just be getting a taste of either of these places and there surrounds ! Figure you'll spend the balance of Day 1 getting there, that leave you with only 2 days to explore the areas.

I am quite biased as I live in Sonoma County and we do
2-3 day mini escapes to both of these places and still find new places to explore as well as a visit the old favorites.

Do you need a tour guide, Bradford?

R5

I cannot disagree.

Bradford---the north California coast, from Bodega up to Ft. Bragg, is incredibly beautiful, and makes a great winter getaway. I wish I were there right now!

i can't imagine going up to Tahoe unless I were going to ski there. Even then, it isn't always worth it---if bad weather drops in, the drive up can take 8 hours or more, chains required and the whole bit.

Razzledazzle has given you great advice---she knows the area very well, and has great taste.