We are taking our daughter and son-in-law on a trip in Aug. They are in their mid twenties. Our son-in-law found out last summer that he has stage three brain cancer and has has a round of chemo and radiation and is back on chemo. We want to take them on a nice trip to San Francisco and on to either Napa or Sonoma area. Would like to keep the room rate around $300. or less. Any suggestions? Thanks! Libby

I'd say Sonoma for a variety of reasons. SInce he is back on chemo the heat and the crowds could be even more taxing than usual. Sonoma is less crowded and often times just a tad cooler given it's closer proximity to the coast. I am also a fan of Sonoma over Napa any day because there are smaller tasting rooms, more chances of encountering a family or smaller than megacorporation winery, and generally less people. Since you are going in August, I'd say book ASAP. Look at Sonoma Creek Inn for lower end rooms and consider places like the Lodge at Sonoma. The El Dorado Hotel in Sonoma has detached cottages for folks with disabilities(sorry it's the nurse in me..if he has stage 3 and is on another round of chemo, his gait might be off).
On the Healdsburg side(although a bit warmer) check out the Grape Leaf Inn. It's gotten great press on this site from folks in the know. It will be well within your price range.I think most places will be air conditioned but I'd recommend making certain of it. Other folks will pour forth now with all sorts of tips regarding places to stay and places to eat. I'll simply add..should he need any emergency help while in SF..UCSF is the place to go. It's neuro service is top drawer. Have a very good trip!

Actually toured some wineries in NApa recently. WE were only able to drive through Sonoma and Sonoma has prettier scenery than Napa in my opinion.

My prayers are with you! Napa is just awful, IMO. We spent 45 minutes trying to get 10 miles in OFF season! Sonoma has lovely roads, wineries and ambience. There are other great places to visit (Sierra Foothills, Amador Co, Mendocino, Oregon) Pam knows I love Grape leaf Inn. Ahhhhh. You won't get better treatment! I have found great deals off-season on the Internet. I got a 3 day package for the Brewery Gulch Inn in Mendocino for 315! That included breakfast, happy hour and other huge perks. Skip Napa and find some better, quieter areas. Maybe 2 days in Healdsburg, and then head north to coastal regions. it is unbeleivable up there!!!

Thanks Everyone... I am getting on right now! I'll let you know.