San Francisco, a city that captivated me during my 2014 solo Couchsurfing adventure across the United States, drew me back again for conferences and workshops. This vibrant city, now revisited post-lockdowns, deserves a fresh look, especially for the pole dance community. So, welcome to your ultimate pole dancer’s guide to San Francisco!
A Pole Dancer’s Perspective: Disclaimers
Before we dive in, a few notes. My recent trip was a long weekend, making this guide insightful but not exhaustive. However, my previous three-week stay in 2014 provides a deeper foundation, blending past and present experiences. While San Francisco evolves, some beloved landmarks remain constant. You’ll find links to older content, offering a nostalgic glimpse into San Francisco’s past.
Also, note my European lens. Having lived most of my life in Europe, my observations may sometimes reflect a European viewpoint, potentially offering a different angle for US readers.
Regarding transparency, this guide is based on my personal, unsponsored experiences. Everything was self-funded, except for polewear from Pole Junkie (kindly gifted) and work-related expenses for my Stanford conference (flights, some meals, accommodation). This trip wouldn’t have been possible otherwise!
Flights to San Francisco for Pole Dancers
My flight to San Francisco was a direct British Airways flight from London, covered by work. British Airways offers a comfortable long-haul experience, even surpassing my long flight to Sydney on Etihad. However, be prepared for a long journey – at least 10 hours. Pack ample water, delicious airport snacks (in-flight food can be underwhelming), and most importantly, comfortable, breathable attire. I opted for my go-to travel outfit: the Creatures of XIX oversized jogger set in black from Pole Junkie (#gifted).
Safety in San Francisco: Addressing Concerns
San Francisco’s safety often raises concerns, particularly for solo female travelers. Many articles and reviews highlight safety issues, or a perceived lack thereof. Hotel reviews sometimes cautioned against certain areas due to “lack of safety,” which often translated to concerns about homelessness.
Having researched homelessness in San Francisco for a previous role, including interviewing a researcher involved in the San Francisco Homelessness Project, I had some prior understanding. The SF Homeless Project, an annual initiative by local newspapers, addresses the city’s acute homelessness problem, intensified by the pandemic.
Jillian C. York, in her book Silicon Values, discusses San Francisco’s transformation during the social media boom. I witnessed this shift firsthand. In 2014, Couchsurfing after my undergraduate degree, my hosts largely worked for tech giants like Facebook and Google. I recall a Facebook intern earning $8,000 monthly. The Lexington Club, then the city’s only lesbian bar, was still open. The Mission district was vibrant and relatively affordable.
However, as York notes, the influx of Silicon Valley workers, with high salaries and Google shuttle commutes to Mountain View, led to gentrification. Skyrocketing living costs and rents priced out many, especially given the US healthcare system.
Yes, San Francisco has a visible homeless population. It’s undeniable. However, my experience suggests that homeless individuals in San Francisco are generally not dangerous. They may engage in conversation or ask for money, but I personally didn’t feel unsafe.
Nevertheless, some areas warrant caution. The Tenderloin, adjacent to Downtown, is best avoided. Be mindful in quieter SoMa streets at night. Exercise general vigilance: avoid displaying valuables and stay aware of your surroundings. If an area feels deserted, opt for an Uber.
These precautions are similar to those I take in London, my home city. As a solo traveler in San Francisco, I applied the same urban awareness I use in London.
Navigating San Francisco: Transportation for Pole Dancers
San Francisco offers various transportation options. Choose based on your comfort, convenience, and schedule.
Walking in San Francisco
Despite warnings against solo walking, I explored San Francisco extensively on foot without any issues. Walking from Union Square through Chinatown to North Beach is pleasant and safe, as is strolling through the Mission District.
Walking through Chinatown in San Francisco, showcasing vibrant street scenes.
Exploring the streets of North Beach, San Francisco, highlighting the urban landscape.
Walking in San Francisco's urban areas, emphasizing pedestrian-friendly routes.
Discovering hidden alleyways and charming streets while walking in San Francisco.
Enjoying a sunny walk through a residential neighborhood in San Francisco.
Exploring San Francisco on foot, capturing the city's unique architecture and atmosphere.
Unlike many American cities with confusing grid systems, San Francisco is remarkably walkable, reminiscent of European cities. While some areas might feel quiet or less safe, this is true of any major city. Trust your instincts and adjust accordingly.
Woman confidently walking on a sunny San Francisco street, showcasing pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Public Transportation in San Francisco
Despite advice against it, I found San Francisco’s public transit efficient and safe. The N line of the Caltrain, running from Union Square through Haight Ashbury towards Ocean Beach, offers a scenic and enjoyable ride.
San Francisco’s transit system is largely paperless. Ticket kiosks are scarce. For iPhone users, adding a Clipper card (San Francisco’s equivalent to London’s Oyster card) via Apple Wallet is seamless. Simply add funds (I used $10 for three days with some leftover), and tap your phone at terminals – even on the lock screen. The Clipper card works on BART (subway), Caltrain, cable cars, and buses, covering airport trips via BART.
Uber and Lyft in San Francisco
In Silicon Valley, ride-sharing is ubiquitous. Uber is notably cheaper in San Francisco compared to other cities. A ride from San Francisco International Airport to Downtown can be under $50, a fraction of London prices for similar distances.
While I was keen to try Lyft, Uber’s pink competitor, it proved more expensive, so I primarily used Uber. Uber drivers in San Francisco are often chatty, offering a cultural exchange. In contrast to London, where driver-passenger interaction is minimal, I enjoyed the friendly conversations.
However, these ride-sharing experiences also revealed a downside. Many drivers expressed dissatisfaction with Uber’s treatment of workers. Unlike in the UK, where Uber drivers have gained worker status with minimum wage and holiday pay rights, US drivers lack similar protections. One driver shared her struggle to balance groceries and bills, citing Uber’s over-hiring and competitive gig economy conditions in San Francisco. Silicon Valley capitalism has its drawbacks, so remember to tip generously.
Having some frankly concerning convos with Uber drivers here in SF – some are saying they have to decide between food & bills, that their cut changes regularly (they’re not always told when/why) and that they don’t know how much rides cost for customers.
— Dr Carolina Are / Blogger On Pole (@bloggeronpole) October 2, 2022
Money and Tipping in San Francisco
Be aware that US prices exclude tax, and tipping is customary. While I appreciate tipping, it’s frustrating that workers rely on tips instead of fair wages.
San Francisco is expensive, even before tipping. Due to unfavorable exchange rates at the time of my visit, prices in dollars nearly matched prices in pounds. Expect to pay around $7 for coffee and $10 for beers.
When paying at various establishments, you’ll encounter POS systems with tip options (no tip, 15%, 18%, 20%, custom). The screen is often presented with an expectation of tipping, which can feel pressured for non-Americans. Budget accordingly and prepare for higher expenses than anticipated.
Accommodation: CitizenM San Francisco Union Square
Initially considering the Mission District, I found Airbnb prices high and hotel options either booked or offering shared bathrooms at exorbitant rates. For a long weekend, I opted for a central location and chose CitizenM Hotel near Powell Station and Union Square. Despite Powell’s reputation for being slightly edgy, CitizenM proved an excellent choice. Its central location allowed easy access to various neighborhoods within 30 minutes, by taxi, public transit, or walking.
CitizenM San Francisco Union Square hotel exterior at dusk, showcasing modern design.
CitizenM San Francisco lobby area, highlighting stylish and contemporary decor.
CitizenM San Francisco hotel reception desk, featuring friendly staff and efficient check-in process.
CitizenM offers convenient perks like pay-when-you-stay, virtual check-in, and free cancellation until 6 PM on arrival day – valuable in uncertain times. Upon arrival, friendly staff on the third floor reception, bar/canteen, and co-working space are exceptionally helpful. Everyone was welcoming, offered great local tips, and promptly addressed any issues.
CitizenM’s automated system streamlines check-in via the app. Room keys are obtained by scanning a code. While occasionally requiring minor adjustments (like double-checking cleaning requests), the process was generally smooth.
Rooms at CitizenM San Francisco are compact yet well-designed and high-tech. Standard rooms might lack wardrobe space for longer stays or extensive wardrobes. However, the personalized and interactive room experience compensates for the size. My room featured a dancer puppet and personalized TV screen welcome. The bed was exceptionally comfortable, pillows plush, and lighting/temperature adjustable via iPad. Crucially, the panoramic window and blackout curtains ensured excellent sleep, ideal for jet lag recovery. Waking up to San Francisco’s morning light was delightful, and the room’s darkness was remarkable.
CitizenM San Francisco hotel room interior, showcasing modern design and comfortable bed.
CitizenM San Francisco room with city view, highlighting the panoramic window.
CitizenM San Francisco room detail, showing modern amenities and personalized touches.
CitizenM San Francisco room's comfortable bed and stylish bedside table.
CitizenM San Francisco room lighting controls, showcasing the high-tech features.
CitizenM is perfect for solo travelers and young professionals. The bar fosters a friendly atmosphere, encouraging interaction with staff and other guests. The co-working space is vibrant and inspiring, ideal for work or relaxation. I completed academic papers there, feeling both productive and at ease.
Overall, CitizenM offers a luxurious yet unpretentious experience – highly recommended!
Where to Pole Dance in San Francisco: SF Pole + Dance
As a pole dancer’s guide, studio recommendations are essential. During this brief visit, I can wholeheartedly recommend SF Pole + Dance.
SF Pole + Dance offers a diverse range of classes, from hoop and silks to choreography and tricks. It’s an exceptionally welcoming studio where I felt instantly comfortable as a guest instructor. The student community is diverse and sex-positive, and the studio’s values are clearly displayed upon entry.
SF Pole + Dance studio values poster, emphasizing inclusivity and sex positivity.
Close-up of SF Pole + Dance studio values, highlighting community and respect.
Another view of SF Pole + Dance studio values, focusing on empowerment and body positivity.
The studio promotes sex positivity and sex worker inclusion, educating students about pole dance origins through inclusive language and diverse instructors. Amy, the studio owner, invited me to give a talk on platform censorship of sex and sex work alongside my heavy metal pole workshop.
Instructor teaching a heavy metal pole dance workshop at SF Pole + Dance.
In short, SF Pole + Dance is a beautiful, inclusive, and fun space. If you visit one studio in San Francisco, make it this one.
San Francisco Food and Drink Scene
San Francisco is a culinary paradise, one of my favorite cities for food and drinks.
Craftsman & Wolves
The Mission District is full of independent coffee shops. Craftsman & Wolves is a standout that has thrived and remains a favorite from my 2014 visit. Enjoy excellent coffee and delicious pastries in a stylish setting.
Linea Coffee Roasters
Linea Coffee Roasters served some of the best cappuccinos I had in the city, albeit at $7 each.
Andytown Coffee Roasters
Andytown Coffee Roasters exterior, showcasing its charming storefront in Outer Sunset.
Andytown Coffee Roasters in Outer Sunset holds special memories as my last stop before leaving San Francisco and the US in 2014. While the Outer Sunset location is now takeaway-only, their sourdough and coffee, especially iced oat lattes perfect for Ocean Beach strolls, remain excellent. Andytown has expanded with two more SF locations since my last visit.
Tartine Manufactory
Tartine Manufactory still draws crowds, much like in 2014 when I queued for 30 minutes. It remains a top breakfast and brunch spot – definitely worth experiencing.
La Taqueria (2889 Mission St)
Universally recommended, La Taqueria is a must-try. Enough said.
Sears Fine Foods
Sears Fine Foods diner interior, showing classic American diner ambiance.
Sears Fine Foods, a San Francisco institution near Union Square, is a quintessential American diner. Their signature Swedish Pancakes – 16 fluffy mini pancakes with butter, maple syrup, and lingonberries – are exceptional and addictive.
Boogaloo’s
Boogaloo’s, a Mission brunch institution, offers great Mexican food in a quirky, art-filled setting. Their huevos rancheros are delicious, and their Temple of Spuds (spicy loaded fries) are a must-try.
King of Thai Noodle House
Recommended by CitizenM staff, King of Thai Noodle House on O’Farrell Street is an affordable and consistently busy Thai restaurant. Their pineapple fried rice is a specialty, service is friendly, and portions are generous.
Chinalive
Chinalive, a sophisticated and spacious eatery, offers tapas-style Chinese food. The impossible dumplings, green beans, Dan Dan noodles, and spicy cucumber are highly recommended and filling.
Vesuvio North Beach
Vesuvio North Beach, next to City Lights Bookshop, is an iconic bar with a dive-meets-beatnik vibe. Ideal for socializing or solo people-watching, especially upstairs.
Vesuvio Cafe North Beach interior, showcasing its bohemian and artistic decor.
Vesuvio Cafe North Beach bar area, highlighting its lively and social atmosphere.
Vesuvio Cafe North Beach exterior, capturing its historic charm and location.
Shopping in San Francisco
San Francisco offers diverse shopping, from boutiques to major brands. While exchange rates might be less favorable, prices are often comparable to pound prices, offering slight savings.
isalis
isalis, a colorful Mission boutique, features fantastic jeans, dresses, and accessories.
Reformation
Reformation in the Mission combines sustainable luxury fashion with tech. Request sizes from staff, and robotic wardrobes deliver clothes to your dressing room.
Downtown Shopping
Downtown San Francisco’s Westfields mall houses major stores like Michael Kors, Adidas, and Gucci, alongside retailers like Levi’s, where good deals can be found.
Community Thrift Store (CTS)
Community Thrift Store (CTS) in the Mission offers bargains on everything from clothing to records. Fitting rooms are unavailable, so wear appropriate undergarments for trying on clothes.
City Lights Bookstore
City Lights Bookstore interior, showcasing its extensive book collection and literary atmosphere.
City Lights Bookstore exterior, highlighting its iconic signage and historic building.
City Lights Bookstore, a San Francisco institution, features beat poetry and a wide selection of books, open late for evening browsing.
Dog Eared Books
Dog Eared Books bookstore interior, showing its cozy and eclectic book collection.
Dog Eared Books in the Mission is a charming bookstore with vintage and new books, including impressive witchy and young adult sections.
Things to Do in San Francisco
San Francisco’s rich culture offers endless activities. Some highlights include:
Author at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass music festival in San Francisco, enjoying outdoor event.
What else should be added? Share your San Francisco tips in the comments!
