How well do hotels understand our needs as women? Some seem utterly clueless at times, but then ones like the Pan Pacific San Francisco come along and restore our hope. The hotel recently conducted a comprehensive survey of female guests and a focus group with several travel industry leaders and discovered the hotel is meeting (and exceeding, in some cases) the needs of women travelers, but there were a few minor improvements they could make to better accommodate their guests.

So what did the hotel do, armed with this valuable information? Made the improvements, of course!

First up are diffusers for in-room hairdryers. (And in the slim chance that you don't know what a diffuser is -- it's a funny add-on that redirects the hairdryer's heat so that hair doesn't get frizzy in the process of primping.)

Additionally, a virtual office equipped with all the necessities is high on the list for these female jet setters. Since The Pan Pacific already provides in-room fax machines in all guestrooms, they decided to upgrade the units with copy capabilities. The hotel has also added a reserve of lap top computers available for guests' use. And, due to the growing demand and expectations for high speed Internet access, all guestrooms will soon be wired with the latest technology. And, the already existing three phone lines make it convenient for guests to log on, fax, and retrieve voicemail all at once…a sure sign of 21st century efficiency.

Additional developments made as a result of the survey and focus group include:

• staff available to escort female guests to their room;
• female staff available to deliver room service;
• 24 room service menu with lighter menu choices;
• minibars stocked with wines by the glass;
• additional toiletries available through guest room services;
• massage therapy arranged in room and spa treatments available at nearby day spa;
• each individual staff member empowered to "do what it takes" to please guest;
• concierge staff trained in: recommending safe dining options for single women travelers and suggesting proper attire for excursions and entertainment venues; and
• expansion in number of non-smoking rooms.

Small things, yes, but it's the small things that count...that make life just a bit easier...that make us feel respected and appreciated.

The Pan Pacific San Francisco is located on fashionable Post Street, only one block from the city's shopping mecca Union Square and within walking distance to the theater district, cable cars and many fine restaurants. In addition, many of the city's attractions are a cable car ride away from the hotel, including Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square and Chinatown.

To make reservations or for more information about The Pan Pacific San Francisco, please call (415) 771-8600 or (800) 533-6465. You may also access hotel information and reservations through the Internet at www.panpac.com.