The Hotel San Joaquin, Fresno

You probably wouldn't know it was there unless you knew it was there. Driving along one of the city's major East/West corridors, the Hotel San Joaquin is hidden behind tall trees. When you catch a brief glimpses of the trellised arbors, decorative stones and oriental fountains, you might believe it to be a botanical boutique.

Fresno is often referred to as the Gateway to Yosemite and is conveniently located halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco. This geographic fact makes it a convenient locale for any travelers wearing from the occupied highways. Right off the 41 and not too far from Highway 99, the hotel is easy to reach, but removed from the noise of busy traffic.

The rooms are spacious and clean; the beds comfortable and the views soothing. Colorful carpet and fine furniture grace the rooms. The suites feel like well established cottages; a vacation from a weekend getaway.

The one bedrooms are spit into a living area and sleeping quarters. The balconies afford you fresh air and a bit of privacy. If you are here on business, you can set up at the large, ergonomic desk. You'll certainly agree that this is the perfect atmosphere keep you focused or to engage in leisure.

You can tell from the photos - my belongings are scattered about - that these are authentic and taken by me.

A short stroll along the grounds provide you with nice views of gardens and well groomed shrubbery. There are pristine fountains with wooden benches where you can relax and imagine yourself in a Grecian paradise. Arbors with oriental decor and avant garde statues that please the senses and create a sense of timelessness.

You can imagine yourself in another world for a few moments. Have a seat on the outdoor furniture. Converse with other guests, study or read, imagine yourself in a time before this moment. Elegant stones, relaxing waters, fragrant flowers. The palatial ambiance will cater to your primitive instincts and rekindle your sacred spirits.

One of the other aspects of this place is that it affords you pleasant views. Whether you are looking out into the interior of the hotel and the spacious grounds or looking out to the surrounding community from your balcony, the sights and sounds are definitely pleasing.

One of the amusing things about your stay at the Hotel San Joaquin will be that there is a snack tray provided. At first I thought this was complimentary, but then you have to keep in mind that nothing in life is free.

You are charged a $100 incidental fee - which is actually more than I paid for a night's stay here - which covers any expenses. Of course, I did not take advantage of the in room convenience store, even though the items for sale were reasonably priced.

The rooms also have a refrigerator stocked with waters and sodas and a microwave tucked way in a wooden cabinet.

Your stay here will be pleasant to say the least. And if you happen to be hungry or thirsty, you don't even have to leave your room.

There are quite a few attractions in the Fresno area.

Fresno Zoo/Roeding Park: You may be interested in seeing the Fresno Zoo and Roeding Park. This is a great family getaway spot. If you have kids, they will enjoy the Kiddie Land Park. You can spend the day walking around and enjoy the man made lake or barbecue at one of of the provided grills.

Fashion Fair: One of the malls in Fresno with excellent shopping, fine dining or a place to relax and unwind. You literally are down the street from this center. Take a right when you leave the main hotel entrance/exit on Shaw Avenue. Drive over the 41 and the Mall will be on your right.

Forestiere Underground Gardens: You will be right down the avenue from this famous location visited by people from every country on the globe. The Forestiere Underground Gardens is an underground home, dug by hand by one man.

Yosemite National Park: Just up the road on the 41, about an hour, you can visit this preserve. Wind down, take a hike and enjoy the beauty of nature.