Hello…London
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Hello…Bergen
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Hello…Budapest
One of the most beautiful cities you will ever visit is Budapest. Walking the streets from Castle to Cafe every building and person has so much character. Budapest is a city that many people pass over and instead see Vienna or Prague. This is understandable, both of those cities are beautiful. Budapest, however, is so unique and something you really shouldn’t miss. It is the perfect blend of Turkish architecture and cuisine with Central European memories. This trip we took in August, Hungary can vary drastically in temperatures and our weekend happened to be extremely warm. I would recommend late spring early fall.
Have to See:
Budapest is a great walking city for sight-seer’s. You can spend two days easy roaming the city with map in hand.
Sights you have to see include:
Andrassy Ave. – A beautiful foliage lined street with high-end shops, this street leads you straight into Heroes Square. Take some photos at the square and right behind the square is a large park for either ice skating or ice cream.
Dohany St. Synagogue (The Great Synagogue) – This is the largest synagogue in Europe and the 2nd largest in the world. If you don’t have time to go in that is totally fine, but you can not miss this religious giant. Walk behind the synagogue and you can see the graveyard and memorials.The graveyard is for some of those lost during WWII. These individuals were living in the Jewish Ghetto and the synagogue was part of this ghetto. Next you will see a large metallic structure. This is the Raoul Wallenberg memorial. This memorial was dedicated to the 400,000 Hungarian Jews murdered by the Nazi’s during WWII. It is not only visually striking but emotionally impacting as well. The memorial was made to resemble a weeping willow.
Castle Hill Funicular – Take a cute little ride to the top of castle hill. When you arrive you will be right in front of the Buda Castle. If you are lucky, you may catch a festival the weekend you visit. The castle is frequently used as grounds for festivals and fairs. We happened to be there for a very large festival and saw some great Hungarian home made treats. Felt hats and accessories, candies, cookies, wooden trinkets, and the freshly made cheeses and sausages.
Maybe See:
Hungarian National Museum – a great history museum with fascinating ruins dating back from Greek and Roman rule over the territory. You can get extremely close to relics that are 1000′s of year old.
Don’t See:
Parliament (interior) – The parliament building is HUGE. It is an architectural master piece that you absolutely must see. However, I would recommend skipping the interior tour. The lines alone can be very long and the tour can take an entire afternoon. I say pass the details and just witness the exquisite exterior.
Have to Try:
Oliver Gelatto -This cute little cafe is near the Hungarian National Museum so after your visit stop in for a cappuccino with the cutest cup and mini ice cream cone duo.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Oliver-Gelato/173220776033814
Dio Restaurant and Bar – The cutest restaurant ever. Lighting is great and the decor is fab. You can sit inside or out. The food is phenomenal, my husband would recommend pork shank which I have to agree with him was fall of the bone good. I loved the grilled goat cheese appetizer. The Hungarian wine choices are also quite enjoyable and complement the dinner perfectly.
Maybe Try:
Citadella -This location houses multiple restaurants and a hotel. It’s on top of the Citadel hill and has wonderful views of the city. Great location for dinner. For more casual sit outside with blankets available, or for a more special evening sit in the panoramic room. We happen to be lucky, because of the national holiday we enjoyed the greatest firework show I have ever seen. Truly it was fantastic.
http://www.citadella.hu/index_eng.htm
Opera House cafe – Just outside of the opera house are multiple cafes. The are along Andrassy Ave.I highly suggest stopping for some great people watching.
Don’t Try:
Don’t eat in your hotel restaurant. There are so many great places to eat so ask your concierge and they will be able to help. Get out and explore.
Have to Stay:
Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – If you want to really splurge then this is the place to stay. Location is A+++ and the hotel is in a palace, can’t beat that.
http://www.fourseasons.com/budapest/
Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge – Again location is key when you stay in Budapest. Great chain hotel and great location.
http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-3229-sofitel-budapest-chain-bridge/index.shtml
Maybe Stay:
Intercontinental Budapest – GREAT location decent hotel.
www.budapest.intercontinental.com/
Don’t Stay:
Boscolo Palace New York Hotel – This is a famous hotel and it is really quite beautiful. There are a couple of downfalls though. Price does not equal customer service, and the location is dreadful. Stop by the famous cafe and have coffee don’t waste your money on the room.
Have to Wear:
www.rag-bone.com – Cardigan
www.orlakiely.com - Bag and Luggage
www.Nordstrom.com – Sunglasses (Elizabeth and James) and Scarf (Burberry)
Maybe Wear:
www.Nordstrom.com – Sweater and Bangles
www.Jcrew.com – Pants
www.zara.com – Boots
www.shopbop.com – Bag
Don’t Wear:
I wouldn’t recommend wearing fabric shoes, or anything not water resistant. The cobble stone streets if wet can be a disaster for your favorite canvas flats.
Until the Next City….
Hello…Istanbul
So, our next stop after the Czech Republic and Switzerland was Turkey. Our tour started and ended in Istanbul, however we did visit other trip worthy cities. There were stops in Eceabat, Ayvalik, Selcuk, and Pamukkale. This was an eight day trip total. To book this trip we used a company called Intrepid Travels. Intrepid was perfect for logistics and local guides, this was necessary because of all the city hopping.
Recommended, do not visit Turkey in July, and definitely do not visit in August. This is not only the height of tourist season, it is the height of heat season. It’s a pretty warm climate generally, but in these two months you will be dying for some A.C. We made the trip the beginning of July so it was not sweltering however it was quite warm. I think March – June is the best time to go.
This country had some of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. The people are wonderful, the jewelry shopping is unbelievable and the food is DELISH! Definitely look for some silver, Ottoman inspired, jewelry. There are so many unique pieces to take home, I couldn’t stop looking at all of the rings.
Have to See:
Istanbul- Grand Bazaar/Spice Market, Hagia Sofia, and Topkapi Palace:
These were my favorite places in Istanbul, the colors and stories were the most memorable to me. Also, as I most often suggest, there are boat rides on the Bosphorus that are unbelievable! Seeing a city from the water is such a different perspective.
Grand Bazaar/Spice Market: If you are looking for some major sensory overload you found it! You can find some of Turkey’s most special treats. I found the most amazing smelling home-made almond soap, literally I couldn’t put it down. As I said earlier this is where to look for the most unique jewelry you have ever seen. You could pay 3x the price for some of the pieces at upscale department stores.
Hagia Sofia: O-M-H….Oh my Hagia Sofia. This place is breathtaking. I walked in and seriously lost my breath! The colors, the history, the ambiance is something you will never forget.
Topkapi Palace: Besides this place being a work of art made for one of the wealthiest Sultan’s of all time, you simply can’t miss the thousand’s of carats of diamonds in the jewelry room. One staggering piece is over 60 carats itself.
Ayvalik- The city on it’s own is not the most impressive, however, the water activity that you partake in is very impressive. All the Turkish locals come to Ayvalik to spend the day on the water. You pay admission for entrance on one of the massive boats, and from early morning to late evening you island, and cove hop all over the Aegean sea. At one point during the day, Greek islands are only a couple hundred feet from you. The water is magnificent, and you will get one great tan lounging up top, on huge multi-colored pillows. Food is provided, however if you are not interested in a plate of sardines let the captain know you would prefer something else.I suggest packing some snacks for the day.
Pamukkale- Pamukkale is famously known for it’s travertines and natural springs. “Travertines” does not sound that impressive, but alas, it is one of the most impressive things you will ever see. I’m talking “why is this not one of the wonders of the world?” As you walk up to this sight everything looks normal, mountains, desert, the casual cat lingering on the side of a road. With in 20 steps, you suddenly see what all the talk is about, a mountain side of stark white. A view, similar to what you see in the mid of winter, on the mountains of any ski resort. This white is NOT snow, it is calcium build up from the waters running over the mountain for 100′s of years. So unbelievably impressive, and very difficult to explain to someone. If you are in Turkey do not leave with out witnessing and walking through this natural wonder.
Maybe See:
Selcuk- Another Turkish city that in itself is not fantastic; but with a short bus ride you can see some impressive Greek and Roman ruins. Ephesus, was at one time the 2nd largest city during the Roman empire. There is an outdoor theater that sat over 44,000 people, thought to be the largest theater of ancient times.
When you get back from sightseeing, have your hotel set up an appointment at a local hammam. This was a refreshing and relaxing experience. First, you steam out all the toxins in your body. Then, you get scrubbed by a burly Turkish man, followed by a good bubble wash. You end with a fantastic deep tissue massage. Afterwards you are seated outside to wine down with some yummy apple tea.
Don’t See:
Eceabat- This was a stop on our Intrepid tour, if you do Turkey on your own, I would suggest not visiting this city. You can visit Troy from this city easily, but to me, it sounded like a story telling afternoon in the sun, walking around a bunch of rocks. There is no evidence or proof that location is actually Troy anyways. I opted for the beach in Eceabat but the beach was a big let down. Pass.
Have to Try:
Topkapi Palace Restaurant- Decent Turkish food with a spectacular view. Definitely something to enjoy. The grub is nothing special but the table overlooking the Bosphorus definitely is. Maybe even opt for some wine and apps, instead of a main course.
http://www.konyalilokantasi.com/english/esaray.htm
Sunset Grill and Bar- Again an amazing view but this time the food is equally impressive.
http://www.sunsetgrillbar.com/
Maybe Try:
Turkish Delight – Baklava and Lokum are sold at almost every place in Turkey, Italian restaurants, carpet and tapestry stores, and gas stations. So, it will be hard to miss these items. I suggest one of the ornately decorated window shops in Istanbul. The sweets are to die for. Baklava is a sticky sweet pastry and, Lokum is a chewy marshmellowy taffy treat. Try not to overindulge, this will be difficult after one savory bite. Save room for the shish-kebab at dinner.
Don’t Try:
Fish boats – Along the Bosphorus, there are boats on the water, selling fresh fish sandwiches. You may think this is something you should try, you know, maybe blend in with the locals. ONLY do this, if you like fish bones, tails, and scales. I recommend the fresh corn from the street carts if you want to eat the local treats.
Have to Stay:
Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul- 5* Pure luxury on the Bosphorus.
http://www.kempinski.com/en/istanbul/Pages/Welcome.aspx
Bonjour Pansiyon Ayvalik- 300 year old mansion renovated into bead and breakfast. Simply perfect! Make sure you don’t leave with out them giving you the home-made olive soaps on a string…too cute.
http://www.bonjourpansiyon.com/
Hotel Melrose Pamukkale- Absolutely beautiful hotel with AMAZING home cooking. Eat every meal at this hotel, once you’ve tried everything on the menu,then you can go somewhere else. Easy walk to the travertines and back to the hotel pool and lounge chairs.
http://www.melroseresidence.com/
Maybe Stay:
Hotel Amira Istanbul – 4* well reviewed hotel with in walking distance to all the sights.
Canberra Hotel Selcuk – A comfortable hotel if you decide to visit Ephesus, and only a couple blocks from the best hammam.
http://www.hotelcanberra.net/newsite/
Don’t Stay:
Bonjour Pansiyon Ayvalik (Guesthouse) – If you decide to stay at this hotel insist that your room is inside the main mansion. They may try and stick you in the additional guest rooms in the back of the house…No bueno!!!
Have to Wear:
Turkey is extremely warm in the summer, as I mentioned at the beginning. I would say late spring will be the most comfortable. Wear a light weight Tunic and comfy crochet TOMS to see the sights. Carry a nylon weekender something that won’t get to dirty or dusty with all the traveling.
I suggest …
http://www.Toryburch.com – Tunic
http://www.TOMS.com – Crochet Toms
http://www.Zappos.com – Le Sport Sac Weekender
Maybe Wear:
In the evenings It will be mostly as warm as during the day, minus the beating sun. Stick with a flowing maxi dress to keep cool while sipping wine, and a bright clutch to hold your camera and room key. Some wedge gladiator flats will be perfect for the rocky terrain.
I suggest…
http://www.freepeople.com – Maxi Dress
http://www.shopbop.com – Le Sportsac clutch
http://www.revolveclothing.com – Sandals
Maybe Wear (Accessories):
Turkey is the perfect place to rock your accessories. Sunglasses? Check. Floppy hat? Check.
I suggest…
http://www.barneysnewyork.com – The Row sunglasses
http://www.americanapparel.com - Summer hat
Don’t Wear:
Try not to wear any of your favorite dark colored shoes. Black Sandals, canvas flats, etc. The roads and sights are all pretty dusty locations. Stick with neutrals that won’t fade from dirt and sun.
Until the Next City….
Hello…Interlaken
Instead of just visiting a city and seeing the sights, our next trip was going to be active. Interlaken, Switzerland in May. I should have known that the word “active”was not meant for me, but I wanted to try out something different. My husband is an athletic guy and I want to appease his interests.So why can’t I do this, while at the same time seeing beautiful views and eating unique cuisine.
Our trip was going to include skydiving, biking, and canyoning. I will preface the below information with 2 pieces of information.
- I was excited to try all of these new activities.
- I will never canyon again.
Have to See:
Interlaken from 13,000 feet above – One of the scariest, most exhilarating things I have ever done is jump out of a plane. If you’re going to jump out of a plane, then you should do it over some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. There a tons of companies that supply outdoor adventures in Interlaken, but one in particular is very renowned. The team is great, the hanger you get ready at is awesome, and the jump is one you will never forget.
http://www.outdoor-interlaken.ch
Maybe See:
Ringgenberg on bikes – There is a city, not too far outside of Interlaken, that would be the perfect day trip. You can rent bikes at multiple locations in Interlaken and head out for a beautiful ride, to a nostalgic Swiss city. Either rent mountain style bikes or commuter bikes, I prefer the commuter style. You just can’t beat the cute baskets on the front. In Ringgenberg, there is an old Castle dating back to the 1400’s. This castle has some of the most breathtaking views, overlooking a glacier blue lake. On the way there, you will see a couple of shops to buy some yummy snacks and water to stay hydrated.
Don’t See:
You in a neoprene wet suit preparing to Canyon- the same company that you can skydive with also will provide canyoning trips. I will recommend that you not make this trip. Rocks, freezing water, dangling from ropes, and neoprene booties are not meant for me or any human. At the beginning of this trip I was terrified, and the second I finally feel like I can conquer this battle I slide down a natural water slide (the easy part) and hear a loud snap. This snap is followed by hysterical screaming; I wonder where could this screaming be coming from? Oh, it’s coming from me; probably because I’m feeling the most excruciating pain I have ever felt in my life. I have either broken, or severely sprained my ankle. Since we are stuck in the middle of a canyon and I can no longer walk, we are left with no way out. I am told by our guide, that the only option, is to be helicoptered out of this predicament. The helicopter arrives and I am threaded out of the canyon. Following this pretty picture, I am dropped in a grassy knoll in the middle of a farm, with a gathering of onlookers, for immediate inspection. Finally I’m rushed to the hospital.
HUMILIATING!
This huge mistake was followed by useless crutches, pain killers and 2 train rides to Zurich. Now tell me, is canyoning something you want to do?
Have to Try:
Schuh Grand Restaurant and Chocolateria – A wonderful restaurant overlooking the world famous Jungfrau River, established in 1818. Have a delish meal and afterwards venture over to the sweet side of the building. Here you can get cakes, cookies, and homemade chocolates.
http://www.schuh-interlaken.ch
Maybe Try:
Spice India – Great Indian food in a great city.
***Fun Fact***
You may wonder why there are so many Indian restaurants. I know I did, so I asked our fellow sky diver, a Native Indian who we befriended. He told us, this is because a large part of modern Indian culture is Bollywood Movies. Many of these movies are filmed in the mountains of Interlaken, “wow!”. This drives a lot of Indian tourists to visit, or even go as far as to move and start businesses there. I thought this was very interesting.
Bellini Restaurant – If you’re in the mood for Italian after a long bike ride this is the place.
http://www.metropole-interlaken.ch/index.php?page=341
Don’t Try:
Fast Food – You may be tempted to have a kebab or Mcdonald’s (quick and easy). Both of these are Europe’s fast food staples but don’t do it, neither of these cuisines fit the Interlaken mold.
Have to Stay:
Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel and Spa – This hotel just screams luxury, so if you want to sleep easy and possibly get a massage after sky diving or hiking this is the spot.
http://www.victoria-jungfrau.ch/
Maybe Stay:
Stella Hotel – a totally chic establishment in a great location this is a terrific option.
Don’t Stay:
Balmer’s Herberge – scrap the money together if you have to but don’t do the hostel thing. Unless your still in college, single, or legitimately broke please don’t make your reservation here, it’s just shocking to walk in on a stranger on the toilet!
http://www.balmers.com/
Have to Wear:
Since this is one of the extreme sport/outdoor meccas, you want to wear something comfortable and cute. Remember you will be moving a lot, so; not that you have to give up your total appearance, but just make sure you’re practical. A trendy pair of athletic flats would not be a bad decision. Also, as far as accessories go, a fashionable backpack for bottled water and moisturizing lip gloss (altitude) would be perfect. Don’t forget your watch, you will want to make sure you don’t miss your dinner reservation while enjoying the great views.
I suggest …
http://www.bloomingadales.com - Jeans
http://www.shopbop.com – Sweatshirt
http://www.puma.com - Flats
http://www.Neimanmarcus.com – Nylon Backpack
http://www.fossil.com – Watch
Maybe Wear:
In the evenings it’s chilly, so be prepared to rock some layers. You will be in a mountainous terrain but a pair of wedges are not unreasonable, the city area you will be visiting at nights are totally flat. So bust out a closed toe pair of booties with a little lift. Don’t be afraid of color either, the landscapes are so vivid, it may inspire you to be also.
I suggest…
http://www.zara.com – Trench, long sleeve tee, and booties
http://www.mattandnat.com – Handbag
http://www.anthropologie.com – Cuff
Maybe Wear (Men):
I feel like men may need some inspiration for this trip as well. Definitely bring some climate controlling gear and a useful messenger bag. Something to hold a camera and any extra layers you may or may not need.
I suggest…
http://www.jcrew.com – Lightweight soft hoodie
http://www.adidas.com – Climate controlling tee
http://www.levis.com – Classic pair of denim
http://www.fossil.com – Sneaks and watch
http://www.jcrew.com – Technical messenger bag
Don’t Wear:
For any of the extreme activities, make sure to bring a pair of lace up sneaks. Do not wear your ballet flats or flip flops, especially sky diving. You don’t want to have to say goodbye to any of your favorite shoes at 1,000’s of feet above ground.
Until the Next City….
Hello…Prague
Deciding on our first trip after moving overseas was going to be a tough decision. I started thinking about this logically, Adam and I both have visited Western Europe plenty and now we are living in Central Europe so why not start with another Central European country. Next stop The Czech Republic.
Prague is one spectacular city; you truly can’t help loving that old world charm. This is an easy feeling to embrace because not much has changed in hundreds of years, except for the plane you rode on to get there, and the cab you’re taking to your hotel. This trip was made in April 2011 and the timing for weather and local events could not have been more perfect.
Have to See:
Charles Bridge Before 9:00am – Walking onto this bridge feels like you’re entering the set of a period romance film. Think Kiera Knightly running into the arms of her lead actor. The tricky part is to make sure you catch this sight before there are 1,000,000 tourists surrounding you and blocking your perfect mental picture of Kiera. I suggest “early…early” morning like sunrise, but I know this is tough, so at least before 9:00 am and you’ll be good to go.
John Lennon Wall– This was kind of an odd ball sight to see; I mean John Lennon was alive during the 20th century and this city represents people and places from a time long before that. None the less you should see it. If you don’t know much about the JLW there is a really empowering story behind it, telling the fight of the Czech youth during the Soviet rule and how the death of such a significant singer/role model/hero affected them. There are some great pictures to be taken so definitely do a drive by.
Pinkas Synagogue-There is an entire Jewish quarter to be seen but if you don’t have the time for everything than just this one will suffice. The entire synagogue was turned into a present day memorial, I’m talking floor to ceiling memories of names, pictures, and drawings of people lost during the Holocaust of WWII, this is a hauntingly impactful piece of history. Don’t miss this sight.
Pariska St. – Okay after you’ve done all of your “good tourist” sightseeing, reward yourself with a stroll down Pariska Street. Pariska Street is the mini Champs Elysees of Prague. High fashion shopping, the cutest cafes, and some AMAZING people watching you should definitely take the opportunity to visit this part of town. This was a delightful window shopping and coffee drinking affair.
Maybe See:
St. Wenceslas Vineyard – You kind of have to see this vineyard if you visit the Prague Castle; you walk through it on your way out of the main exit. However I’m suggesting staying and having a cup of coffee at the Café right next store. The reason being is, that from this spot, on the vineyards; you have one of the most unbelievable views of Prague. So… why not pop a squat and enjoy the moment.
Don’t See:
Prague with a Guide, Hop on Hop off bus, or Segway – Prague is the easiest walking city I’ve been to. Everything is so close to each other; with an itinerary planned out and a good map, you can walk your way through the city on your own. I paid top dollar for a private guide and seriously this was not necessary. Also, I don’t have to explain why the buses or Segway’s are a bad idea, do I? Have some self-respect. The buses should be a last resort, only if you’re in town for less than 12 hours and want to quickly see the sights.
Have to Try:
Coda Restaurant – The terrace of the Aria hotel is the location of the beautifully situated Coda restaurant. This place is FAB, the view is breathtaking and the food is delish. This is the perfect place for a date night, a girl’s night, or to sit by yourself and ponder about life. Pour yourself a nice glass of wine and just relax in the heart of Prague.
Maybe Try:
Villa Richter – The unbelievable views from St. Wenceslas Vineyards previously mentioned, can also be enjoyed in the evening at this great restaurant. The restaurant is broken up into different settings, there are two exterior seating areas and an inside dining room. Clearly make the reservation for outside to soak up the sights.
Don’t Try:
The Beer Museum food menu – If some of your travel group (boyfriend, husband, or girlfriend) is a beer drinker, then this place is a great place to sample some of the infamous Czech beers. But please, for the love of God, do not eat your dinner here. After tasting beer after beer chosen from the “beer novel” (I mean like 50 pages of beers), your starving and tired then tab out and leave. Do not make my mistake by giving in to your exhausted feet and ordering dinner! Before you visit the museum, decide where you want to eat after and your plan of getting there. 
http://www.praguebeermuseum.com
Have to Stay:
The Aria hotel – The reviews are beyond positive, the location is perfect, and you just have to walk up stairs to my suggested restaurant for dinner and a spectacular view.
Maybe Stay:
The Golden Star – This hotel is not the most LUX but the views from the right room are absolutely amazing. Ask for rooms 35 or 43. You will have memories for a lifetime and some of the best pictures taken from sitting on your bed. It’s clean, appropriately comfortable, and the staff is truly helpful. Well worth the stay and the price is definitely affordable.
Don’t Stay:
Don’t stay at any of the chain hotels in Prague. There are plenty of Hilton’s, Marriott’s, and Radisson Blu’s but resist the temptation of certainty and book somewhere unique. It kind of fits the theme of Bohemian Prague anyways.
Have to Wear:
You have to wear some easy breezy drapey pants, a cute motorcycle jacket, and the perfect scarf. For sure, wear comfy closed toed shoes and throw in a cute animal print bag. Spring is the ultimate weather, a bit nippy, but beautiful. Everything is blooming, and there are flowers in hundreds of hues of pink all over. So… be prepared to wear some rosy pinks and muted metallic.
I suggest …
http://www.shopbop.com – Jacket
http://www.gap.com – Pants
http://www.lastcall.com – Scarf
http://www.NeimanMarcus.com– TOMS NM exclusive Shoes
http://www.Fossil.com – Bag
Maybe Wear:
Maybe wear a flowy denim tunic, a comfy cardigan, some leggings, and a cute pair of fringe boots. Again you will want to wear layers because it can get chilly but breathable cotton will keep your climate controlled. Also you maybe would like to bring some sunglasses and a travel umbrella because a smart traveler is a prepared traveler.
I suggest…
http://www.zara.com – Tunic
http://www.shopbop.com – Cardigan
http://www.zara.com – Leggings
http://www.stylebop.com – Boots
http://www.toms.com – Sunglasses
http://www.zara.com – Umbrella
Don’t Wear:
Don’t wear anything with tiny thin heels. There are a ton of cobblestone streets so stick with a thick square heel or low wedges.
Until the Next City….
Hello…San Francisco
San Francisco in July is such a beautiful city. Coming from the heat of summer in Dallas to Northern California was a GREAT decision. Sunny days and breezy nights make San Francisco a must see destination. I made this trip with my husband for July 4th weekend 2010. Neither of us had been to San Fran and we had an amazing trip due to the perfect itinerary.
Have to See:
Alcatraz – take the ferry which is a nice little ride from the San Francisco pier to Alcatraz Island. If you don’t know anything about Alcatraz, even better; you’ll be surprised how interesting this place is. It can be chilly and at times musty if you’re in tight quarters but totally worth it. Some great photo ops too!
The Golden Gate Bridge from the bay– Take a sail boat ride on the San Francisco bay. Most of the boat tours are a couple of hours, they go under the bridge allowing for some great photography, and serve some Delish beverages (hot chocolate). You can do an evening more romantic sail as well and prices range from affordable to ridiculously expensive depending on what kind of boat, what time, with who, and if you’re eating and drinking caviar/champagne or chips/hot chocolate.
Maybe See:
Napa Valley – If you have time to do a day trip; which is definitely possible, you should make a trip to Napa Valley. You can rent a car for the day which is best or hire a car service and drive to Napa early in the morning. You will be able to make it to at least 3 vineyards. Some require reservations so make sure to check. If you are interested in seeing some vineyard caves then Del Dotto Winery would be a good choice and the tour is really great, wine tasting from the barrel included! I am a fan of Cakebread Wines and their winery was really beautiful, this would be a good addition to your Napa Day. For lunch skip the restaurants and have your own gourmet picnic. You can stop at Dean and Deluca’s gourmet grocery store on St. Helena Hwy this is the main winery drag so it’s an easy stop. Run in, grab some grub and enjoy a little after wine tasting picnic. I suggest some cheese and crackers and some delicious gelato on a warm summer day. On the way home you can stop at Muir Woods and check out the ginormous redwoods.
Don’t See:
I know you are probably planning on getting some great shots of you and your man or your girlfriends on the cable cars but DON’T do it. This is the tourist trap from hell. The lines are ridiculous and then once you make it on the actual car you squished in there like sardines. No Bueno!! Turn off the child hood memories of full house and your dreams of being DJ Tanner and walk away from the line!
Have to Try:
Michelin starred – Frances! This restaurant is awesome we went there for my birthday dinner after hunting reviews online for weeks and finally made a reservation. It’s a tiny restaurant that at first glance looks like a typical San Fran row house but once you walk inside you’ll find the perfect ambiance and the most delicious dishes. You will definitely eat and drink well; leaving full with satisfaction.
Maybe Try:
The Waterbar is a great restaurant nothing overly unique about it but great food and a great view. The seafood was so fresh, the service was nice and the “people watching” is FAB. There is a bit of an unusual mix of business men and locals in this restaurant but all the more to talk about over your pecan crusted halibut.
Don’t Try:
There are some tourist traps around the piers on the bay mostly chain restaurants, put in the time and research restaurants before you go and don’t get stuck heading to the crab shack…wait staff singing over your seafood and moist towelettes in plastic baskets on the table just don’t really say appetizing!
Have to Stay:
The Clift hotel in San Francisco is a unique design hotel to stay. The location is perfect, the bar at night is kind of a “show” if you know what I mean, and the décor is quite appealing. The hotel was designed by Philippe Starck so there surprising décor elements to look at. The hotel room is a bit minimalist but the lobby is the complete opposite. In the center of the lobby there is the biggest chair I’ve ever seen, makes for a pretty cool entrance. The Staff was really accommodating too they upgraded us for my birthday.
Maybe Stay:
The Mandarin Oriental would be a perfect splurge hotel. If it is a special occasion or you just feel like being luxurious then do it! It has a great location and has a really great reputation for being fabulous.
www.mandarinoriental.com/Sanfrancisco
Don’t Stay:
By Fisherman’s Wharf, you will probably regret this decision when you are either…
A. Trampled by 60 Senior citizens getting off their tour bus
OR
B. Trampled by 6 children who would rather be at Disney
Have to Wear:
By day go with some cool cropped boyfriend denim, a chunky cardigan, and a scarf. Definitely bring layers maybe a light trench, if you’re by the water or if it’s overcast it can get pretty cool. Even more layers will be necessary if you decide to go sailing, it can get brutally cold on the bay!
In the evening a cute maxi dress or a sundress, riding boots, and a leather jacket would be super cute and appropriate.
Of course the most important items are your accessories bring a neutral crossbrody satchel that’s an easy change from day to night. Since your in sunny California where else would be better then here to wear your favorite pair of SUN-glasses. TOMS the company that gives back with one for one shoes launched there sun line and they are SUPER cute! So why not wear a pair that protects your eyes and gives sight to someone in need.
This is summer approved. Definitely bulk it up after august until late spring.
Maybe Wear:
There is a very good chance you will get stuck in some drizzle so maybe bring some rain boots for that rainy Sunday afternoon, or a cute rain coat and umbrella stuffed in your huge travel tote instead of getting stuck in some dodgy restaurant for 2 hours.
Don’t Wear:
Heels, stilettos, or even your most comfy wedges none of the above. If you’re going to see the sights in San Fran then expect some hills and by hills I mean mountain climbing. This is not an easy task in flats or boots but in heels you’re asking for three unhappy campers, and those campers will be you and both of your feet. Also if you make it to Napa don’t wear sandals the vineyards get really dusty and dirty and the cave tours are dark and damp neither are good for your freshly pedicured toes.
Until the Next City….