San Francisco is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top destinations for global visitors. The region enjoys a moderate Mediterranean climate, an international reputation for food and wine, a metropolis that is charming with European flair and Asian spice, stunning views and easy access to everything.

But its reputation as a hub for business catches many by surprise. One impressive fact: Northern California, and specifically the Bay Area, attracts more than 40 percent of the venture capital invested in the entire United States. Scandinavian Airlines was a pioneer of polar travel and opened the first polar route between Copenhagen and Los Angeles — a route discontinued some years ago. However, when it re-established a link to the U.S. West Coast in 2013, the carrier chose San Francisco over Los Angeles because of the stronger business traffic it could generate.

Much of that reputation has been linked to San José and Silicon Valley, but as the innovation and technology sectors continue to grow, many of the firms from those areas now call San Francisco home, with the South of Market area attracting an increasing number of both startups and established companies. Much of the biotechnology growth is focused nearer to San Francisco than to Silicon Valley.

The city is small, occupying less than 50 square miles and encompassing less than one-quarter of the region’s population. San Francisco (never “Frisco”) remains a city of neighborhoods with little use for the glitz and glitter that form the basis of so many American cities. With but one mall within the city limits, the preponderance of shopping occurs in neighborhoods where local merchants (along with some chains) serve the needs of the area’s residents. There is a Financial District, and most of the “business” of the city is located in the northeast quadrant of San Francisco proper.

Yet one thing remained constant throughout its history: a mix of quirkiness and counterculture that coexist with a traditional structure. It began with the Barbary Coast and Emperor Norton in the 1800s, continued through the Beat and Hippie movements of the 20th century, and lives on in the present creative culture that makes the city and region the world capital of cutting-edge research and innovation. All of that history and cultural richness combine to make San Francisco the place that continues to draw people for both business and recreation.

The city’s walkability adds to its appeal. That, combined with a vibrant network of public transport, creates a place in which taxis can be few and far between — especially in inclement (think rainy) weather. Its compact size also means both sights and sites are in close proximity. Golden Gate Park not only draws residents and visitors as a green respite, but it also contains the Botanical Garden, the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences. A westward stroll along the waterfront can include AT&T Park, the Ferry Building, the new and fabulous Exploratorium, Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf — venues that are available and often used by corporations during conferences and events. All are just minutes away from The Moscone Center, staging ground for most major corporate events.

Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39 © Kenishirotie | Dreamstime.com

This proximity also negates the need for a car when staying in the city, as parking can be a complex and often expensive endeavor. If you wish to strike out on a day excursion, car rentals are readily available at many downtown locations, and escorted tours abound. Most activities are either a short walk away or quickly reached by public transport. In the evening, a Giants’ game, the symphony or opera, or a dinner cruise on the Bay are equally accessible.

Finally, a few basics. Hotel accommodations, even in the city, range from B&Bs to 5-star hotels, so finding a room generally depends on budget and where you want to be. Most agree the United States has two great restaurant cities: New York and San Francisco. However, according to city lore, there are more restaurants per capita in San Francisco than anywhere else in the nation; and the wines, and their ready availability, add not only elegance but a local touch.

Note that San Francisco may be in California, but summers are often cool and foggy — bring adequate layers of clothing. Ideal conditions, with clear days, tend to be in May or September and October.

If arriving at San Francisco International Airport, Bay Area Rapid Transit, or BART, takes you within a block of Union Square in about 30 minutes. As you transit the airport, take time to enjoy the numerous art displays. It is the only airport accredited by the American Alliance of Museums — one more bonus to the region’s fascinating mix. San Francisco is a place loved by residents and visitors for what it is, and it has no grand plan of changing that reality.

SCENIC DRIVES

San Francisco is the starting point for numerous day excursions across the region, but perhaps the most traditional outing is to wine country. That used to mean Napa Valley, but there are now vineyards in virtually every direction. Napa and Sonoma are easily reached in a day, and the two towns have numerous draws for visitors. Sonoma is the smaller and more navigable, but both are fun and can be reached by car in about an hour via either Highway 101 across the Golden Gate Bridge or Interstate 80 using the Bay Bridge.

Also North on 101 are Muir Woods and the Marin Headlands, part of the Golden Gate Parks National Conservancy, which offer excellent views and wartime coastal fortifications. For those wishing a fuller agenda, the Point Reyes National Seashore and Drake’s Bay make for a beautiful — but long — daytrip. Check the weather before departing, as the seashore can be very foggy, especially in summer.

For those not wishing to cross a bridge, a drive about 28 miles south along Highway 1 to the town of Half Moon Bay provides grand vistas and a great lunch spot — again, monitor the fog situation in summer.