As any intrepid traveler will tell you, the next best thing to being able to sleep in your own bed is being able to sleep in a great bed at a great hotel. Luckily, on my most recent (and still present) trip, I am getting to do just that.

I stay in a lot of hotels throughout my journeys. I've stayed in five stars to no star properties, and I'm pretty flexible when it comes to where I stay. I'm so thrilled with The Bristol Hotel in San Diego. I'm ticking this out on my BlackBerry between sessions at the conference I'm attending.

The Bristol Hotel is located on First Avenue in the heart of downtown San Diego. The drive from the airport is fast and efficient, and the hotel's valet parking is competitive with self-perking costs. A taxi would be a fast option, too, if you don't want to rent a car. And being in downtown San Diego, you barely need a car unless your travel tastes wander to the tourist attractions that San Diego has become so well-known for. It's a nine story property, and it is beautifully appointed in the lobby area as well as the adjacent bistro and bar, Daisies. Admittedly, the elevators are currently being upgraded so they are a bit slow, but walking down the hallways with their circularly-printed, retro carpet, the old doors and mouldings hint at the coziness of the rooms they sequester.

My room is a double, dark, and practically perfect, and I knew it as soon as I sat down on the bed. I sunk into the mattress that was the perfect balance of lush opulence and support. I didn't want to move. Ever. There are plenty of pillows on each bed, and each of them offer their own level of support. I slept well for the first time in ages in a hotel. Success!

The details at The Bristol Hotel are what make it fabulous. A hair dryer with a diffuser. A pocket door in the bath to save on space. An iPod dock in the bedside lamp. Cotton robes in the rooms. Real mugs for the in-room coffee maker. Some fabulous amenities, to be sure, plus wireless high speed internet - and did I mention the most comfortable bed I've slept on in ages?

I can't rave about The Bristol Hotel without meentioning the wonderfully trained staff. They handle even the most difficult guests with aplomb and grace (I witnessed it upon waiting to check in as they worked with a guest), and everyone I have encountered has been friendly and helpful.

And if you love California cuisine, you're not only in the middle of downtown within walking access of tons of fabulous places, but also a fabulous restaurant lies within at Daisies. Prompt service, a good cocktail list and great food makes up for the so-so wine selection. It's cozy, comfortable, and they make some mean red mashed potatoes!

I love hotels like The Bristol. It's centrally located, within walking distance of some great locations and the marina (less than a mile away) and it has a ton of character. On your next solo San Diego adventure, I highly recommend checking it out.



(Note: This is an independent review of The Bristol Hotel. The writer received no compensation or trade).