Perfect location within walking distance of everything. We had trouble with the hot water - we either wouldn't get any or the shower would be hot then cold then hot again. The pocket doors to the bathroom weren't ideal and our view was of a wall (beside the elevator). Other than that this hotel was great. Front desk staff was fabulous and we received a call soon after we checked in to make sure the room was satisfactory. The lobby was beautiful and the free wifi in the room was a nice touch. We also received half off the dinner menu at the restaurant which was so great and a relief from otherwise high prices in San Diego!

We booked this room for a VERY reasonable rate and loved its central location to the Gaslamp quarter. The room had been recently renovated, and after flying in that night from the east coast, I was glad to fall into a clean and cozy bed. There was a sorority holding a formal in the hotel, but management made sure to put all hotel patrons who were not part of that party on separate floors away from them. It was a very wise decision, as I know those dances can get rowdy. However, it was not those revelers that woke me up that night, but the Greyhound station across the street announcing the departure and arrival of buses. I am not a light sleeper, but it woke both my family and me up. In the morning, we requested a room on the other side of the hotel (the backside), and it was much quieter. I was not awoken (neither was anyone else) all night. If you get a room in the front, I would rate this hotel poor. If you get a room at the back, I would rate it very good.

This is my second stay at the Bristol.
The first time was in May 2011 for a weekend trip to San Diego. The second stay was this past weekend for a conference.
The official conference hotel was the Marriott Marquise, but I figured it was better for me to be 10 minute walk away from the crowd surrounding me during the conference.

The hotel is in a strategic position: only three blocks away from the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter and 10 minutes from the Convention Center. Thus, the location is convenient with the advantage of being also quiet and relaxing.

The Bristol looks recently renovated. Its decor is elegant and tasteful. The rooms are comfortable and the staff is professional and friendly.

The rooms are provided with free wi-fi, cable TV, blow dryer, bath robe, snacks and beverage (for payment). Among the hotel amenities, it's worth mentioning a fitness center; a complimentary lobby business station with printer; restaurant/bar/lounge; and valet parking.

In sum, I highly recommend this hotel.

I was attending a conference in San Diego and couldn't afford the rates at the huge chain hotels downtown. I looked around for other places, and the Bristol was everything I was looking for.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: I talked to a real front desk employee when I called the reservations line. The decor is exquisite and charming. The staff is courteous and willing. I bothered them several times for early check in, various odds and ends that I had forgotten, directions to attractions, random pictures, etc. They were very patient and helpful. Their decor is modern, dynamic, and attractive--the property really does look as it appears on the website. Cleanliness is clearly a top priority at this property, down to small details--I returned after housekeeping not only to find that everything had been restored and restocked, but my housekeeper had actually arranged my toiletries on my countertop in a more visually pleasing array. I felt taken care of. I also had an emergency with my packed clothes getting stained on the flight over, but their same-day dry cleaning service had me covered.

LOCATION: I never questioned my safety here, even when walking home at night, alone. Don't tempt the fates, of course, but The Bristol is secure. It is also very close to several remarkable restaurants and shopping centers--closer than a lot of the larger hotels, actually. If you need to save money like I did, you might find that walking is a real option here, with distances that won't leave you sore and out of breath.

SUGGESTED IMPROVEMENTS: I would have liked a heads up on some of the events that were happening in town during my stay, like foot races, comedy shows, or live bands. But I don't see this being a big issue, a lot of folks probably come to San Diego with a full itinerary anyway. My main regret is that I couldn't stay longer.