Redwood Creek Inn

Bare-bones but surprisingly good

Plus: The location is extremely convenient - right next to a Safeway, Whole Foods, several good restaurants and bars, a Caltrain station, and of course it's right on El Camino Real, within a quick drive of the 101. It's about 25 minutes from SFO. As noted by other reviewers, the room did not have any unpleasant smell and even has a filtered water faucet in the bathroom. Its low price and great location make it perfect for the business traveler.

Minus: To be sure, it's not a sexy luxury hotel in any way, but it's not trying to be. It's cheap and clean; that's it. I found the wi-fi shaky, and at times it would cut out and be unavailable for a while. But, if you don't intend to work out of your hotel room for part of the time (like I did), you may not notice.