WE have narrowed our accomodation down to Hotel Cosmo near Union Square or Francisco Bay Inn, Lombard Street in the Marina area does anyone have info on either of these . Which is the better area to stay in for sightseeing.

We were in San Francisco again in July and we always stay in Union Square. Yes there are panhandlers but we have always felt safe there. The location is very good for restaurants, cable cars, shopping, buses, and trolley cars. It is very easy from here to get to any sights anywhere in the city. We looked at the Cosmo and saw that it has been remodeled and offering good deals. We stay at a little hotel,King George, very friendly with small rooms and friendly service. Our friends always stay on Union Square at the Maxwell.

Go with theFrancisco Bay Inn on Lonbard. Union Square is so dumpy. We just got tired of having to dodge puddles of urine on the sidewalk. We avoid it, especially at night. That area makes us feel really uncomfortable. Many of the homeless there can be quite aggressive.

I would also choose Lombard street over Union square.

If by sightseeing you mean nice views I'd choose Lombard as it's close to Fort Mason and the piers. If you mean museums and theatres then Union Square.