montagu mansions Built for San Francisco s archbishop in 1904, this converted wonder is a slice of city history, and

Built for San Francisco s archbishop in 1904, this converted wonder is a slice of city history, and has the Alamo Square views that appear on postcards. Free breakfast and evening wine and cheese make it a real treat. Be aware, however, montagu mansions that the neighborhood is rundown. d 1000 Fulton St

Mount View Hotel & Spa A stay in this historic 1917 resort offers various relaxation and rejuvenation possibilities mud, milk, or herbal baths, aromatherapy steam showers, body-wraps, massages, or facials geared to individuals or couples. d 1457 Lincoln montagu mansions Ave, Calistoga (707) 9425789 www.mountviewhotel.com

Mrs. Madrigal Olympia Dukakis brought this wonderful Tales of the City character to vibrant life in the mini-series based on Armistead Maupin s books (see p53). Anna Madrigal is a transsexual land lady who rents out apartments to young singles, both gay and straight, and tends to her mari juana plants and her charges with equal wisdom and spirituality.

Most US post offices are open from 9am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 2pm on Saturdays. Stamps can be purchased here, from some hotels, and from vending machines. If you need to mail something other than postcards and letters, wait in line at the nearest montagu mansions post office. Otherwise, drop your stamped mail off at the hotel desk or in any street mailbox.