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Northern California

“We only have two kinds of weather in California, magnificent and unusual.”
James M. Cain used these words to present a general picture of California which suits as much to its Northern half as the Southern. If you have ever heard of Northern California as being the idyllic place where nature showers its best fruits and heaven protects the people, then you are probably acquainted with the Californian myth. However, to believe it without personally visiting its galore is a decision that rarely suits a traveller. So, pick up your gear and prepare for a bumpy ride in the land of total bliss! Let’s begin our journey through these areas of Northern California:

• San Francisco City
• San Jose
• Napa Valley & Sonoma County (Wine Country)
• Santa Cruz
• Mendocino
• High Sierra Mountains

San Francisco Bay Area

The prime spot for witnessing all the thrill, adventure and natural beauty of Northern California is its San Francisco Bay. Gifted with California’s best cultural attractions, culinary innovations and rejuvenating sights, it is a popular destination amongst all tourists who are travelling in Northern California. As an illustrious junction for other tourist spots, it is also the leading path to exotic hotspots like the Big Sur.

San Francisco City – This 7-mile long city of Northern California is the primary centre with most of the infrastructural marvels in San Francisco Bay Area. Assorted with multifarious activities like bay cruise tours, fine dining, guided walking tours etc. it is a labyrinth for those active travellers who are on a constant hunt for new experiences.

Golden Gate Bridge – Get ready to be amazed by one of man’s impeccable constructions – the Golden Gate Bridge. This crucial landmark of San Francisco city is as much a monument of history as a work of fine architecture. Don’t forget to seek the reason behind the misnomer name of the Bridge!

Golden Gate Park – A complete package of knowledge, fun and contentment, the Golden Gate Park deserves an equal appreciation as the Bridge. Enjoying the fragrance of exotic fruits at its Japanese Tea Garden and learning new ways of life at the de Young Museum would surely make you plan your next trip in this place ever before you leave!

Muir Woods – Mill Valley-Merely a walk away from the illustrious Golden Bridge of San Francisco Bay Area, this little patch of nature is your only way to walk into a stress-free, relaxing and fascinating journey. Hiding the Cathedral Grove, the Muir Woods of Bay Area has earned a name for themselves due to their precious safekeeping of exotic creatures and trees. If you are a hiker on vacation, then this place is sure to pump your nerves with energy.

The Alcatraz Prison, off coast of Bay Area – Featuring in the memory of almost all Northern California residents and the American cinematic history, this notorious place is best remembered as the first lighthouse of Western United States. Do not hesitate from visiting it during a dark, foggy night if you wish to enjoy the goosebumps from its harrowing public tour. However, if the atmosphere doesn’t take a toll on you, head straight to its audio cell house for getting a taste of its prisoners’ lives – in their own words!

The Exploratorium, San Francisco – Disguised as a museum, this “learning laboratory” should be the top of your list if you are travelling with family. With six main galleries and responsive devices, the exhibits of this museum would give you a “Night at the Museum” experience – which is as much informative as fun. Take a chance of investing some bucks here, for you are sure to win in kind.

San Jose, Bay Area – If you think Silicon Valley is the beating heart of the United States, then you should visit San Jose in San Francisco Bay Area. This relatively secluded city is the source and custodian of Silicon Valley’s best gems. From culture to couture, you are sure to find a solution to your hunger for amusement right here.

Roaring Camp Railroads, Bay Area – Running for decades, the gas pumping steam engines of Roaring Camp in the San Francisco Bay Area are a sight for sore eyes. Passing through the redwood forest and driving past the Bear Mountain, it promises a comfortable and relaxing day out to you and your family. Go early in the morning for catching the redwood trees shine in the light of the sun.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz – Taking a break from the travel list? Then the only place that can refresh your spirits is the beach city – Santa Cruz. Here you will find some of the best shore side revelry complimented by the warm and scented weather. Just dive into the blue waters and wash away all your worries!

Mount Hermon Adventures, Santa Cruz – Bid adieu to your trekker’s woes because the Mount Hermon Adventure’s Santa Cruz package demands your most active and energetic side. Mountain biking, surfing, sea kayaking, target sports, paintball, skating – you decide the form of amusement that best suits your needs, and the Hermon Team designs a befitting program for you. If their world class services impress you a lot, do try their Redwood Canopy Tours for experiencing an adventure like never before.

The Santa Cruz Wharf – Stretching to 21 feet in length, this simple spot is the sunbathing space for sea lions, whales, dolphins and otters. However, do not be disappointed if you miss them in their leisure hours. Take a quiet walk in the evening and dine at sunset to make the most of your Wharf Day.

Mystery Spot – If your brain isn’t wrecked enough from the tiring travel, visit the Mystery Spot of Santa Cruz. This seemingly dilapidated structure has given goosebumps to many a scientists and tourists. Because of its gravitational anomaly, you can never appear to be straight so long as you stand in its quarters. If the puzzle becomes too much for you, take a hike in the adjoining redwood forest.

North Coast – The ideal romantic getaway for couples has to be the North Coast, where redwood forests and whales in the ocean make for a dreamy sunset portrait. Barely a drive away from San Francisco, this little area has much to look forward to than just its natural beauty.

Mendocino

Internationally reputed for its natural treasures, Mendocino is also your one-stop solution for spending a quiet holiday. With a range of sophisticated activities and fascinating destinations, it stands as a perfect place for romantic getaways and summer vacations. To add to the fun, you may even carry your pet dog and pose for a complete family picture by the sunset. What more could a place offer?

Fort Bragg – Situated on the Mendocino coast, this little coastal city is a life-size version of fantasyland. With thrilling sea activities, spa hotels and thriving entertainment sector, it makes for a quiet holiday off the hassles of life. You can rediscover yourself as you indulge in some of the best fine dining and artistic creations.

High Sierra – Green grass, brimming water falls, scented breeze and laden mountains are just some of the faces of High Sierra that attract tourist from around the world. But, as you go deeper in its alleys you are sure to find more fantastic and beautiful reasons to love High Sierra.

Lake Tahoe – Any visit to High Sierra is incomplete without a touchdown at the world-famous Lake Tahoe. Its winter and spring holidays are exceptionally famous amongst travelers, thanks to the stunning natural beauty of its land during that time. You can enjoy an active, adventure filled stay or curl up in any of its fine alpine resorts for getting the ultimate bliss.

Yosemite National Park

Spread in about 1000 square miles of land, this UNESCO World Heritage site should be the top of your list of you are looking for a quiet and self-introspective vacation. Its alpine beauty, massive waterfalls and interesting parklands would give you memories you can’t ever forget.

Mammoth Lakes – Be prepared to be taken by surprises at the Lake Mammoth, where high mountains wash their feet. A horse ride in its wild forests would give you pleasant views of its wildflower meadows, narrow streams and hot springs.

Taste Revolution in Wine country

This unique area in Northern California is significant for its role in keeping the wine culture alive. Its enthusiastic citizens have set up a number of restaurants, museums and activity centres to acquaint the world with their activities and serve world-class wine at affordable prices.

Experiencing Art of Winery at Napa Valley - Napa Valley is recognized in the whole world for producing some of the best bottles of wine. So, where can be a better opportunity to learn about winemaking than in Napa? Nowhere! Go to the Robert Mondavi Winery barrel room in Oakville to get a guided tour of vineyards and cellars. The catch – you also get to taste the delicious wine produced!

Taking a Spa Treatment at Sonoma County - Little is known but besides the wineries of Wine Country, its spa centers are an equally appreciated place. Their natural and hygienic treatments coupled with the scenic landscapes of Sonoma County make for the most relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Hot Air Balloon over Vineyards in Napa Valley - If you have a fear of height, then this sightseeing adventure is not your cup of tea. However, if you are ready to embrace challenges and “fly” the extra mile to appreciate the beauty of Napa Valley, then these balloon rides are best suited to your spirit. Of all the places in Northern California, Napa Velley is probably the most active and tourist-friendly destination. However, with its balloon rides, it has become the only place in entire Northern California where new standards of sightseeing are set every day. You can hop on a colorful balloon to ride all the way around the town’s vineyards and get a detailed layout of its area. Enjoy love sky high for there is nothing you can’t touch when on a balloon ride!

Zipline across the Redwoods

Adventure sports are a universal favorite of many travelers but have you ever taken them to the next level? That is precisely what you would do while you meet the Redwoods like never before, as you transcend to its lower peaks on a zip line. Sliding on the string, you would be able to measure up to the tops of the tallest trees in the world. Shout your excitement away and soar through the skies and into the horizon!

Skunk Train Tour – Redwood National and State Park (Tallest Trees in the World) - As if the fact that redwoods are incredibly gifted creations of nature wasn’t enough, the Skunk Train tours put a cherry on the icing. The two toeing trains running through the dense forest and racing against the breeze exhilarates many a child and sets the adults in deep thought. Keep the Skunk Train Ride for your last day in Wine Country, when you wish to relax and unwind from your tiresome journey.

Being Inspired at Glass Beach - Going from trash to treasure, the Glass Beach is a destination to make eternal memories. Its waters embellished with precious stones can give you ample opportunities to capture beautiful shots. Be honest and do not pick those beautiful stones from the shore, they belong in their natural habitat !

High Sierra Mountains

High Sierra Mountains are a favorite tourist destination throughout the year. Its natural landscapes and snow-clad serenity during summers and winters respectively attracts travelers from far and wide. But not just that; the Sierra Mountains are also home to many unseen sights that have been preserved in the lap of nature since ever. So, hire a galloping friend or just walk your way into the mountain ranges. Don’t forget to carry your snowboarding gear if you plan to go in winters!

Overnight Camping at Yosemite National Park - How can a visit to nature’s favorite home ever be complete without a night stay at its very premises? Time you exploring you primeval survival instincts. At the menial fees of some bucks, you can avail hygienic resources and camping gear for spending a starlit night under the sky. Go by the rules of the park and then there’s nothing that can stop you from having a great time ahead.

Sliding Through the Chilly Surface of White Ice at Mammoth Lakes - The mountain of Mammoth lakes is undeniably one of the finest Alpine Skiing Mountain in the entire world - a reputation which it has earned after decades of hosting thrill-seeking tourists. With an average of about 400 inches (33 feet) of snow fall throughout the year, its 11 thousand feet high summit ensures that you are thrilled to the bone while boarding down through the acres of skiable area. If that wasn’t enough, you get to choose from steep chutes, wide open bowls, tree skiing, bumps, gullies or wide openings for planning your outing in the mountain snow. Such sports make the Mammoth Mountain a desirable destination for thorough vacationers looking for uncommon adventures away from the sun of summers.

Take a Short Hike to Moro Rocks in Sequoia National Park - (Home to the largest living organism – the giant sequoia trees) & Kings Canyon. Find the best way to lose the weight you have gained during the trip at the short hiking programs to Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon. Driving through the narrow roads of the park you can find the best view of the enormous sequoia trees that now form the heritage of Northern California. Bring out all your energy as you climb step by step on the 300 ft solid granite Moro rock. Don’t worry about the time, for the view of the park from the top of the Rock is the best sight you would ever have seen!

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Culture

Mostly, the people of Northern California are Catholic by faith, though only a relatively small number identifies as Roman Catholics. Besides them, the minority is dominantly Protestant and usually concentrated in smaller cities like Sierra. However, if you go to the broader circles of the cities, you may even find Chinese speaking Buddhists or bilingual Methodists, reformists and Christians.

Owing to its diverse population, you may find a number of cuisines in Northern California. Chinese, Mexican, Italian, Filipino, Vietnamese and Indian restaurants are just a few types of eateries that you may find in your day-to-day travel. However, its regional crops like avocados, tomatoes and broccoli dominate the quintessential Northern Californian food. The cities like Mendocino and Napa Valley also hold a rich tradition of wine tasting because of which they also influence the regional culture.

On an average, every city in Northern California has a rich culture of arts, sports and entertainment, with some even acting as patrons to the city teams. Baseball, hockey and soccer are the common sports enjoyed by every NorCal citizen.

LANGUAGE

Since Northern California is a culturally rich region of the United States, it is imperative to find that its population endorses a number of languages. While more than 40 percent of the population exchanges salutations in English, you may also find a number of Spanish and Tagalog speakers. Other considerably less used languages like Taiwanese, Mandarin and Cantonese also find their speakers here.

Top Restaurants & Bars

Cassava - This San Francisco restaurant is dedicated to Japanese cuisine and if that doesn’t make you travel all the way to Outer Richmond for a meal, then nothing can. Its warm hospitality and creative chefs prepare a breakfast which is as appetizing to the eyes as the tongue. However, before rushing to catch a meal do make a reservation or prepare for bearing a long line.

Hong Kong Lounge II - Bring on your experimenter’s courage as you sit to order in San Francisco’s most dynamic kitchen. Its innovative dishes and the mouth-watering menu offers a range of dishes that experiment with their traditional flavours. Order a coffee pork ribs, pepper soft shell crab with pea shoots, and there would be no one to point you wrong.

Spruce - Treat yourself to fine dining at Spruce in San Francisco. Everything from the ambience to the wine list and servicemen to chefs of this restaurant speaks of class. Take a comfortable seat and gorge into the taleggio for the ultimate flavours.

Revival at the Sawyer - The foremost place where you can enjoy a delicious meal with the light breeze and pleasant weather of Sacramento is “Revival at the Sawyer”. Offering the most comfortable and stylish set of furniture with easy dishes, this eatery is all about the craft of fine dining, wine and champagne.

Echo and Rig, Butcher, Steakhouse and Cocktails - The branch of the famous Echo and Rig Steakhouse in Las Vegas, this decent restaurant of Sacramento is light on your pockets and heavy on your hunger. Lunch, breakfast or dinner – whichever be your meal choice they have a sumptuous buffet of dishes to refuel your spirit.

Estelle’s Patisserie - Bringing French tastes to your Northern Californian holiday is Estelle’s. Second, of its type, it caters to your sweet tooth by offering on-the-go bites like macarons, fresh baguette sandwiches, croissants and croixnuts.

FuseBOX - As much as its name is interesting, the restaurant in Oakland is also a unique experience in itself. Selling Korean cuisine with a twist, its simple makeover is no hindrance in the quality of food served at its tables. Check out the mushroom saimin noodles and kimchi to fall in love with Korean food.

Hopscotch - No – you do not have to hop around to reach this decent restaurant though you might have to travel uptown of Oakland for finding a seat. Standing next to a Fox theatre it serves the most delicious and full flavour combination of dishes that are a tactful mix of Japanese and American spices.

Wood Tavern - If you have chosen Northern California as your honeymoon destination, then Wood Tavern in Oakland is where you should dine. This tightly packed restaurant is as much about food as a craft. You may find some of the most unheard-of combinations of food like hot pastrami with baguette right here.

Cheese Board Pizza - Looking for some pizza in Berkeley? Look no more and drive straight ahead to Cheese Board Pizza. You might even try the daily specials served by the restaurant on an exclusive request basis.

Vik’s Chaat Corner - Try out the Indian cuisine offered by Vik’s at Berkeley if you wish to have a light and nutritious breakfast. Go easy on the tangy flavours if you intend to eat on a binge.

Cinnaholic - Take a chance on your taste buds by eating at the Cinnaholic in Berkeley, where tastes are infused in each other. If you’re on a rush, faithfully order the macadamia nut frosting with coconut flakes.

La Papillon - Since it is a sophisticated French restaurant in San Jose, save a visit to La Papillon for the day when you are feeling luxuriant. Order anything from the menu for you are sure to be satisfied.

Falafel Drive-In - Dig into authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Falafel in San Jose. If you are comfortable with outdoor, roadside seating and food flooded with unique spices, then Falafel is your perfect fit.

Arcadia - Being an American Steakhouse, Arcadia offers a range of dishes made from prime quality beef, fresh fish and poultry. Its lobster cord dogs, ahi tuna tartare and truffled mac are sure to tingle your happy moods.

Carrying All Essentials to Tours or Excursions

When travelling through the picturesque locales Northern California, it is quite possible to get distracted easily and lose track of time. It is suggestible that you carry all your essential documents like government photo ID proof, passport and other such items with you all the time. All bars and restaurants won’t serve you any alcoholic beverage until you show them an ID card confirming that you are of legal drinking age and all follow this law quite diligently. It is generally a good idea to have your passport handy when travelling abroad.

Dressing Up to Join in the Bay to Breakers Race

Even though the tourists’ favourite time of the year to visit San Francisco is the beginning of spring, a few others also visit in May for enjoying the best of nature’s beauty at its scenic destinations. If you happen to be a part of the latter group, then you may come across NorCal’s famous Bay to Breakers Race in its complete enthusiastic action. The moment you notice a crowd of colourfully dressed citizens walking through the city streets, you can be sure that the Race is afoot. However, before jumping into the arrangement for a funky costume, do consider the massive craze that follows the event. It is the most sought-after day in San Francisco, and the considerable participation is telling proof of the same. If you participate in cheering the runners, you may end up making some agonizing memories from your trip. So, choose to lay back and enjoy the show on the hotel television.

Panicking in Emergency Situations

The States under Northern California are highly concerned about the health and well-being of its visitors. Which is why you can easily call 911 during emergency situations for getting immediate help. In addition, you can also avail tourist friendly services like vehicle hire facilities at airport, special headset for the impaired-on rent at public shows and using ramps or officer support for travelling around public transport. With such a huge cooperative personnel groups dedicated to help the travelers, there is no need for first timers to panic or take away nothing but good memory from Northern California.

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