Destination Guide - San Francisco

Introduction

San Francisco undoubtedly deserves its honour as 'Everyone's Favourite City,' for it is one of America's most tightly inhabited with millions flocking each year to experience the stunning city by the bay, San Francisco's attractions and San Francisco's restaurants. Very few places enjoy such a laid-back atmosphere, varied mix of individuals and an eclectic character.

Getting there

San Francisco International Airport is situated 23 km south of San Francisco. The Bay Area Rapid Transport or "BART" Rapid Rail service connects the airport to the city centre. This provides a connection to the Caltrain commuter rail service at Milbrae Station, from here trains leave frequently to San Francisco downtown. Regular bus services also leave every thirty minutes or so in the direction of the City. Taxis take around one hour to the city centre. Car Rental is widely available and a cost-effective option.

Oakland International Airport is 12 miles from the Oakland suburb and has similar Rail and Bus links.

What to do

* Golden Gate Bridge - The rust-coloured towers, elegant suspension and supportive cables of the Golden Gate Bridge make this legendary symbol of San Francisco the most photographed bridge in the world, and visible from nearly any high point in the city, although it is often cloaked in rolling fog.

* Alcatraz Island - Out in the centre of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island, or 'The Rock,' is one of Golden Gate National Recreation Area's most well-liked destinations

* Fisherman's Wharf - Some people love the bustle of Fisherman's Wharf, while others make a conscious effort to steer well clear of it. Either way it is extremely popular, attracting more people than any other city sight, with Pier 39 the commercial tourist centre

* The Cable Cars - One of San Francisco's most charming attractions is its network of 130-year-old cable cars, the only mobile National Historic Landmark in the country, and the world's only present system of cable cars.

* North Beach - Amid Russian and Telegraph Hills, North Beach is San Francisco's 'Little Italy', that has long been the central hub for anyone with alternative inclinations. During the 1950s the pleasure-seeking, non-conformist existence of the "Beat Generation" and their rebellious literature contributed to the neighbourhood's alternative character and tourists poured into the district for 'Beatnik Tours'.

* Golden Gate Park - Of the numerous open green spaces in San Francisco, Golden Gate Park is the largest and the loveliest stretching from The Haight to the Pacific Ocean, featuring gardens, lakes, many sporting facilities, and museums.

Hotels

There are a magnificent range of hotels available in this vibrant city. The main areas of accommodation would be areas of Downtown, Chinatown and Fishermans Warf. There's an extensive range of hostels, bed and breakfasts and luxurious hotels to suit everyone's budget. Nightlife

The nightlife in San Fran is as varied as the city itself. Every one of the neighbourhood bars in San Fran has its own unique vibes and travellers looking for something beyond mainstream won't have far to look.

* SOMA - San Francisco's SOMA is the place to go for electronic music, hip hop and chill art lounges.

* Mission District - This is where you want to go if pub crawling is your thing

* Marina District - More elegant than the above the Marina district, though no less debauchers, offers a more upper class option.

San Francisco's north beach is open until the small hours and is full of strip clubs and secluded bars

Paul O'Neill is an social media innovator, entrepreneur and self confessed travel addict.



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