Just lately, we took a street journey up north towards San Francisco—a bit household getaway with my brother-in-law and his girlfriend, who had been visiting from France. It was the proper excuse to spend high quality time collectively, and discover extra of the Golden State.
California is such an expansive and numerous place, full of charming cities and cities, every providing one thing distinctive. I really feel fortunate to name this state house, however I’ve come to understand simply how a lot of it I’ve but to find. So, we packed our baggage and hit the street—as a result of what higher manner to soak up California than from the automotive, home windows down, snacks packed?
First cease, Santa Barbara. Although I’ve been to Santa Barbara a number of occasions, it’s all the time a welcome cease. It’s the type of place that feels effortlessly stress-free—excellent for grabbing a chunk, doing a bit window purchasing, or taking a stroll by the seaside. When you’re planning a go to, I like to recommend testing the historic Santa Barbara Mission, grabbing a espresso and heading to the water, or stopping by a close-by vineyard for a tasting.
Since we had been already in Santa Barbara County, we made a brief detour to Montecito. Technically a part of SB, however with a character all its personal—quieter, a bit extra upscale, and extremely scenic. Suppose advantageous eating, boutique purchasing, and luxurious inexperienced environment. We visited the Montecito Nation Mart, a captivating outside purchasing heart with a small-village really feel. It’s full of curated house items outlets, natural eateries, and market-style carts that jogged my memory of corners of Europe—overflowing with contemporary produce, flowers, and native finds. It’s a gem I’d like to revisit.
After a number of extra stops, we made it to Santa Cruz. I’d by no means been earlier than, however I used to be immediately drawn to its laid-back vibe, scenic seashores, and colourful beachfront houses. We wandered by means of the full of life downtown, and finally made our method to the seaside. It was misty however lovely—we sat and listened to the waves crash, because the solar dipped behind the horizon. A type of magical sunsets that stays with you.
Our closing cease was San Francisco, a metropolis I’ve visited many occasions however all the time discover inspiring. There’s a lot to do—from snapping pictures on the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to visiting the Painted Women, exploring Chinatown for wonderful meals, or spending a day at Fisherman’s Wharf. There, you may get pleasure from eating places, outlets, excursions across the bay, and a few fairly spectacular road performances. Main tip: layer up—San Francisco will get chilly, even in summer time.
xx Jules
Trending Merchandise
