village tours and travel the Caribbean islands and r eturn to the United S tates without a visa. F urther information is av a

the Caribbean islands and r eturn to the United S tates without a visa. F urther information is av ailable fr om any U.S. embassy or consulate. Canadian citiz ens may enter the United States without visas; they need only proof of residence.

See p. 73. A sister property, the Serrano Hotel (405 Taylor S t.; & 866/ 289-6561 or 415/885-2500), will walk your dog b y appointment and stocks gourmet pet food, tr eats, and comfy bedding. See p. 76. The Hotel Vitale (8 Mission S t.; & 888/890-8688 or 415/278-3700; p. 92) and the St. Regis (125 3rd St.; & 415/284-4000; village tours and travel

471 Jeff erson St. (at H yde St.). & 415/771-2222. www.bluemermaidsf.com. K ids menu , highchairs , boosters. Reservations accepted. village tours and travel Main courses $9 $25; kids menu $6.95. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Sun Thurs 7am 9pm; Fri Sat 7am 10pm. Muni: Powell-Hyde cable car to Beach St., and then walk 1 block nor th.

Although few obvious children s attractions exist in what is first and foremost a shopping paradise, village tours and travel Union Square is the psychological heart of the city and may be used as a launching pad for other ex cursions. Kids may find the cr owds, clanging cable cars, and big buildings exciting. Moreover, Union Square itself now hosts entertainment, both ad hoc and planned. I n the winter months, the plaza s enormous Christmas tr ee and M acy s holiday decorations are especially festive. Specifically, kid-friendly activities here include riding the glass elevator at the Westin St. Francis Hotel, greeting the beefeater-clad doorman at the Sir Francis Drake, and visiting the Disney Store. Teens may enjoy checking out the Levi s and Diesel stores, among other shops.