A trip to San Francisco would not be complete without paying homage to the Golden Gate Bridge, undoubtedly one of the most enduring symbols of the city. Great vista points abound, yet one that always wins my vote is Battery Spencer, an abandoned military point just north of the bridge. The view here is one…
If you drive along Highway 88 towards the east or Highway 89 towards the south in early October, you will start noticing some yellow hues sparkling in between the green pine trees. Soon, these shades will morph from distinct patches into a dazzling display of gold and orange. You know this is when you have…
You will want to take that turn on Highway 1. At first glance, the road leads to an unassuming residential area on the San Mateo coast—at least not until you venture further into the trail, when you realize that there is an unworldly sanctuary out there. Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, located about halfway between Pacifica and…
“A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Such wisdom imparted by Shakespeare immediately resonates as you step into the Municipal Rose Garden in San Jose, California. With over 4,000 shrubs on display, you will find yourself greeted by rose varieties with the most lovely names—Sugar Moon, Summer Dream, and Rainbow Sorbet, just…
It was California’s first capital under Spanish and Mexican rule. It was also where California’s first constitution was drafted for admission into the U.S. as its 31st state. This is Monterey, a city of firsts—California’s first theater, public library, printing press, and many more. Aside from these pioneering events, Monterey also saw the boom and…
Here comes March. The days have started getting longer, yet it is still a tad breezy and rainy. You wonder if it is even spring, as season changes are typically not obvious in most parts of California. At least not until you see the hills—no longer a drab of yellow, but a carpet of lush…
Fresh blossoms and rolling hills flaunt a refreshing color palette at this time of year. Inspirations abound, especially for shutterbugs like me. With sunny days being a scarcity in recent months, a little break from the rain became that perfect window of opportunity to venture out and enjoy the great outdoors. I’m glad that I…
When residents of Eucalyptus Ave in San Carlos put up holiday lights each December, they mean business. The result? This might be one of the most over-the-top Christmas displays you will ever see. First started by the Liner Family as a holiday tradition, the dazzling lights and festive decorations are now an annual community affair. …
Promise and despair—these are not uncommon themes throughout California’s history and the establishment of Spanish missions across the state. Of the 21 missions founded from San Diego to Sonoma, perhaps no other mission stands witness to such intricate tales better than Carmel Mission. At the height of its time, the mission once served as headquarters…
Whoo-whoo! Slowly and steadily, the train starts moving further away from the depot as the locomotive whistles on. In a minute’s time, the sun has faded into the background and the track is now canopied by towering redwood groves. There is no more unique way to explore these giant trees than aboard the steam train…
Sandstone cliffs by the ocean, with the coastal fog relentlessly rolling in. You see beachgoers strolling or sunbathing, and even some surfers catching waves. From the distance, this seems like a typical California coastline. Not until you walk further. Your attention is now drawn to something different: a stretch of purple and white flowers! At…
It’s almost 4pm in the afternoon. You feel like stepping outside for some fresh air. The question is, where though? If you live in the Bay Area, look no further than Mori Point. This coastal gem boasts not only scenic views overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Pacifica Pier, but also gorgeous sunsets during the…