[...] known for its Saturday market (March-December), Lan Su Chinese Garden and funky nightlife, the historic ’hood is also a transit hub, with the Society Hotel five blocks from Amtrak and 35 minutes from the airport via light rail. Budget comfort with minimalist style. Built in 1881 as a boarding house for sailors, and later serving as a Chinese dance hall, the renovated hotel preserved the cast-iron facade and 24 small, brick-walled rooms with tall windows and shared baths. [...] plush bedding and bath fixtures are new, as are 12 suites with private baths and a modern bunkroom, offering eight triple-deckers with privacy curtains. The front desk can provide fans and heaters. Bunk bed, $35-$45; private room with full or queen bed, sink and shared bath, $75-$85; private suite with king or queen bed and private bath, $99-$135.