Flashback: An Ode to San Francisco (2010)

There are several cities that made me fell in love with their architecture, and San Francisco is one of them. It was love at first sight, I couldn't stop making pictures of buildings with my little camera, back in 2010. My travels brought me many times back to an already visited city, but unfortunately SFO always wasn't on my route.

It's almost October, so if you're looking for a perfect place for a trip during this period the you should go and visit this stunning city. During Autumn the temperatures are mild and great for in- and outdoor activities. 

I visited San Francisco four years ago during my North American trip, and fell in love immediately since the first second I stepped out of the cab. The City has so much to offer, is beautiful with all those victorian houses which change style and mood depending in which district you are.

In Haight-Ashbury for example, it's an Explosion of colours everywhere! The former Hippie quarter is still one of the main attractions. Perfect for Shopping, having coffee and do people watching: it's a delight how so many different People come together here. Haight-Ashbury is actually a paradise if you're looking for Vinyl or Vintage clothing. I was lucky enough to find an original copy of the Red Hot Chili Peppers' Vinyl record "Out in LA".
San Francisco has the oldest Chinatown of the whole USA, established around 1800, which is also totally worth a walk through.

When I'm in a City for the first time, I love to walk. I think it's the best way to discover everything and absorbe a certain vibe. I walked from the centre to the world famous Fisherman's Warf, for example. If you're getting tired there's always the legendary cable car that takes you back home :).

San Francisco also offers a lot of green Areas to chill out on a sunny day. Presidio Park is one of the biggest in the City, it also has the only sandy beach. Another one could be the Golden Gate Park with its Creeks, more in the inner City and smaller.

Up on Lombard Street you have the most stunning view over a big part of town. It's absolutely hypnotizing! Please notice the cars that have to drive a very thight Slalom the get down from there.

If you have the time, make a half day trip to Alcatraz. The audio-guided tour is very interesting, it seems to turn back time when the prison was filled with the most dangerous american Gangsters. Every part of the prison is well explained and the interviews to the inmates give variety to the tour.

Oh... And don't Forget the Golden Gate Bridge... Classic!

Practical Infos

Where to stay: We had a comfy bed at the Grant Hotel, located near Union Square. It's very convenient since it's in the centre.

Going out: We had two great nights at the Infusion Lounge. San Fran also offers clubbing for house music lovers: try Ruby Skye on Mason St.

Getting Around: I hadn't any Problems by getting around by bus or cable car (you might should watch out during rush hour).