nicholas montague Palo Alto and Stanford An erstwhile sleepy university town, Palo Alto has most recently experienced

Palo Alto and Stanford An erstwhile sleepy university town, Palo Alto has most recently experienced nicholas montague a boom as the hub of Silicon Valley, and driving force of the New Economy. Although nicholas montague a lot of the gilding has lately fallen off the lily, this town has been left with a considerably dressed-up appearance, as well as many fancy restaurants, hotels, and shops. The town is home to prestigious Stanford University, with its beautiful, well-tended campus (see p79). d Hwys 101 & 82

Harry Denton s Starlight Room Something for the 40-plus set, or even 50-plus. Twenty-two stories above Union Square, couples can dance to cocktail jazz and the milder R&B hits, and relax in the easy sophistication of the place. It s 1930s-stylish, so consider it a chance to dress up in suits and party dresses, sip highballs, and enjoy the city s seductive lights. d Sir Francis Drake Hotel, 450 Powell St at Sutter Map P4 (415) 395-8595

Located on the top 11 floors of Downtown s third-tallest building, this is one of the classiest hotels in the city. Its East-meets-West decor is magnificent, its restaurant one of the finest, and the rooms, amenities, and service superb. d 222 Sansome St