Visit The Windy City

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 230
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San Francisco is one of the most populous cities in California. The city''s name probably conjures up images of brightly coloured houses, the Golden Gate Bridge, the summer of love, rolling hills ? these are only a few of its delights though. Here is a quick guide to a few of this city''s best attractions.

When it comes to getting to and from San Francisco there are a couple of available options. The most obvious is flight: San Francisco International Airport lies just outside the city limits, and there are regular bus services running between it and the city itself.

Its well worth noting than San Francisco is an extremely hilly city. This means it''s a good idea to decide how you want to get around before actually visiting the city ? if you want as relaxing a holiday as possible, you don''t want to be tramping up and down hills every time you want to get somewhere! Taxis, buses and trams all provide an alternative to walking.

Hotels in San Francisco are what you''d expect from so popular a holiday destination: extremely varied in terms of cost and taste. For those who are looking to save funds then your ...
... best bet is probably something like a hostel ? a particularly friendly one is the Pacific Tradewinds Hostel. Luxury hotels are also pretty numerous ? the Hyatt Regency, The Westin San Francisco Market Street or the Intercontinental San Francisco will all suit even the most discerning traveller.

It''s also worth noting San Francisco''s nightlife ? it is some of the most exciting, varied and interesting in all of America. For a burlesque experience in a venue with a truly unique atmosphere, the recently opened ''The Parlour'' mixes early 1900s decor with a huge drinks menu and the latest sound systems. In the centre of Downtown San Francisco also lies Ruby Skye, which offers some of the best live music around and you''re practically guaranteed to see a celebrity there.

San Francisco is unique in that most of its beaches and some of its parks lie within the regional Golden Gate National Recreation Area, meaning they are well maintained and truly stunning. The beaches are popular with surfers and water sports; if you fancy something a bit quieter though there''s always the option just to relax in the sun. San Francisco''s most famous park is the Golden Gate Park; Candlestick Point is also worth a look though if you fancy something off the beaten track.

When it comes to filling your days in San Francisco you won''t have any problems ? indeed, the only issue you might be faced with is fitting in everything you want to do! One great way to see the city is to visit as many of its neighbourhoods as possible.

If you want to take in some live shows during your stay you''ll find plenty of opportunities. The War Memorial and Performing Arts Centre hosts several performing-arts companies ? the San Francisco Opera, the San Francisco Ballet and the San Francisco Symphony being just a few. For lovers of music then The Fillmore plays host to a wide variety of bands from around the world. Bonny Kominek is a travel writer with many years travel experience. They recommend octopus Travel for San Francisco hotels.