Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring?
We provide almost everything free of charge. Fresh linens,
pillows,
towels, blankets, cooking utensils in our large communal kitchen,
hairdryers & alarm clocks for a small deposit, and soap and
shampoo
for our guests in private rooms. You are welcome to use your own
sleeping bag or blanket if you prefer.
Why are you strict about on-ward travel
requirements?
Our hostel serves international, budget-conscious travelers.
We require
an international passport or an out-of-state License with a plane,
train or bus ticket that shows that you have another destination to
ensure that we are, in fact, serving this group. Unfortunately, we
cannot accommodate in-state residents, re-locators or those just
looking for an inexpensive place to stay because we know they have many
other accommodation options that international, budget-conscious
travelers do not. If you feel like you actually fit into our target
group even though you don’t have the required check-in
documents,
please contact us and we’ll see if we can make an exception.
Is it Safe?
While in San Francisco, much like when in any other city, you
need to
be aware of your surroundings. That said, overall San Francisco is a
very safe city full of helpful people who enjoy giving advice to lost
or unsure travelers. The Green Tortoise is located in North Beach,
which is one of SF’s safest neighborhoods. In our dorm rooms
we
provide large under-bed lockers (bring your own padlock or rent one
from us) and we also have safety deposit boxes available for a small
fee.
Is There a Curfew?
No, you can come and go as you please. We do have a staff
member on
duty 24 hours a day for your convenience.
Do you provide parking?
We don’t have our own parking lot, but we can help
you find a
place for your vehicle. The city is easiest seen by foot and public
transport so if this is your style the cheapest place to leave your car
is at the airport (see http://www.flysfo.com/transport/parking/gt_prk_long.asp
for more details). Otherwise, there is metered parking near the hostel
or limited free parking a bus ride away from the Tortoise. Paid parking
lots are abundant in SF and run about $15-$20/day.
Do you have a continental breakfast?
We have more than a continental breakfast - and
it’s free!
Each
morning we serve up a variety of toasted bagels complete with fresh
spreads like cream cheese, butter and jam. We also have fresh fruit
& juice daily. We serve complimentary coffee and tea all day
long.
We also heard something about Free Dinner?
Yep - we have free dinner three times a week! Every
Monday,
Wednesday, and Friday we sit down to dinner together so plan your stay
around it.