A local writer answers frequently asked questions about San Francisco

08.09.2024 - 13:42 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 7, 2024 • 12 min read

As a travel writer who’s a third-generation San Franciscan and moved back to the Bay Area in 2014 after a years-long global stint, I’ve seen tons of changes in the city, from delightful to challenging. SF debuted a gorgeous new park in the Presidio with sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge and skyline, an outdoor education center, exciting food trucks, lots of picnic space and year-round cultural festivals. On the other hand, conventions and retailers have pulled out of downtown due to hard economic times and a declining reputation.

It’s important to remember that every community ebbs and flows, and my love for the city’s resilience and creativity remains strong. Here are the questions I get asked the most about San Francisco.

In a nutshell — yes, the city is safe and great to visit. Locals are tired of hearing about San Francisco’s “doom loop” narrative, which promotes the idea that the economic decline of post-pandemic downtown has driven businesses and residents out of the city, which in turn continues to economically and culturally decimate SF, all in a viciously repeating cycle. Many media outlets have chosen to amplify this dramatic narrative, with devastating effects, like reduced tourism. While there are issues with houselessness and drugs (like many other cities) in certain areas, and some people and businesses have indeed left the city, many more have stayed, and even flourished and attracted newcomers. 

People’s worries stem from the storied reputation of the Tenderloin and nearby parts of Mid-Market and SoMa that, with a high number of SROs (single-room occupancy) and some open drug use, is not for every visitor. However, the neighborhood is also rich with tons of diverse restaurants – including new ones from established chefs – hopping nightlife like swanky jazz clubs and cheeky dives, uplifting public art, museums, community organizations and families. Use common sense like you would in any big city and make use of a rideshare, like Lyft or Uber, for door-to-door service to minimize walking around the Tenderloin. Don’t keep valuables in cars, including luggage visible in the front or back seats (this advice extends beyond downtown to other tourist-heavy areas such Golden Gate Park and even the posh Marina district).

While some retail giants and offices have left downtown San Francisco, there is still plenty to see and do, including the picture-worthy cable car turnaround, where passengers board and ride past distinctive Victorian houses all the way to Fisherman’s Wharf. Union Sq is still a good home base with a high concentration and variety of accommodations, especially for visitors who also wish to explore Chinatown and North Beach, both of which are walkable