Remember you're in the big city, so don't look like a tourist and always walk around with your smartphone in hand. Smartphone theft makes up 50% of all crime in San Francisco. The high tourist areas like Union Square see the bulk of these crimes. It’s best to keep your phone protected and close to your body when on the street. Pay attention to your surroundings. Streets to be extra careful on near the Westin St. Francis are Ellis and Eddy west of Mason.
A quick word about San Francisco's serious and challenging problem with homelessness. We feel it is worth mentioning if you're visiting from out of town because the sheer numbers of people on the street can be shocking, even to locals. Best approach is to walk with purpose and not make eye contact. If asked for money, just say "sorry I can't help you today". If you are inclined to help out just give some change or a dollar or some food and keep going. It’s a tragic situation.
There are some great places near the Westin St. Francis for nightlife but they are in a really rough part of downtown called the Tenderloin. If you go to Piano Fight, Farmer Brown, or Bourbon and Branch, be very careful. Grab a cab even for a few blocks back to the hotel if its late at night.
