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Climbing Into the Clouds: A Christmas Eve Adventure in Guatemala

Blog, Guatemala, North America, San Francisco / Cristy S

Climbing into the Clouds: A Christmas Eve Adventure in Guatemala Acatenango Volcano Hike Around 3:30 am, someone abruptly wakes me up. That is if I had managed to get any sleep at all. Christmas Eve is a big fireworks night here in Guatemala. Our guide begins rallying the troops, but he makes it clear that visibility is limited due to cloud cover. People start to bail and head back to bed. Still, I’m here now (and awake), so I decided to push on. About half of us do. It’s cold! The sort of bitterness that the great explorers faced in the Arctic. At least, that’s what I tell myself to push through it all. It’s freezing, or at least close to it. In my current state of consciousness, everything remains the same. This time, I borrowed an actual headlamp from someone who chose to stay behind. Note to self: Always bring spare flashlight batteries. At least I can see now. Our Ascent. We start the climb to the summit. It’s steep, and it’s dark, and I’m only driven by some vague idea of the sort of satisfaction I will get when I say I succeeded. I don’t remember much of this time—it was all instinct, and I think I managed to suppress every ounce of pain that I was feeling. But eventually, we summitted! Great success. It was at this point that the guide decided it would be beneficial to tell us that people had died trying to camp up here. It was well below freezing at this altitude, and I didn’t need anything else to distract me. And now the view… Unfortunately, on a night like this, there was nothing to see but clouds. I later learned that the last time I saw the volcano before the new year was one or two nights ago. (See featured photo.) We sat on the dirt for a bit and tried to take in what we could. To be honest, I was thankfully too exhausted to be disappointed. Nevertheless, I must experience the sight of lava at some point in my life. It was time to descend. We bombed our way down that hill on the soft dirt, chasing the rising sun. I destroyed my Salomons, but at least they saw an actual trail, right? We had breakfast and then started the rest of the descent. I didn’t see anything, and yet I had a wonderful time. We had excellent guides and enjoyed the company during our Christmas Eve adventure in Guatemala! I have included a few additional photos from our trip to Guatemala City. Author and photo credit: Neal Facebook Instagram

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Neighborhoods and Nostalgia: My San Francisco Story

Blog, California, North America, San Francisco / Cristy S

Neighborhoods and Nostalgia: My San Francisco Story I fell in love with San Francisco the first time I set foot in this magical city. My family immigrated to the United States in the late 1970s from the Philippines, and I can still vividly remember stepping off that plane and feeling the cool air that chilled me with excitement. Driving into San Francisco from the airport, I immediately noticed the fog and how it cascaded through the hills of the city. This was going to be a new adventure!!! Growing up in San Francisco, my siblings and I were exposed to many different cultures and different cuisines that were reflected in the many diverse neighborhoods in the city. I remember, as a young boy, going to Sunday service at St. Patrick’s Church on Mission Street and immediately going to Chinatown after mass to eat dim sum. I can still recall the hustle and bustle of the waitstaff pushing the carts with the steaming bamboo containers filled with all kinds of goodies. I also remember the first time we went to Japantown and walked around the center and tried sushi and ramen for the first time. Of course, we also frequented the Mission District, where we had our first taste of the Mission Style Burrito, which is now popular all over the world. As I got older, I went to high school on the other side of town and was introduced to the communities on the west side of the City. My friends and I would have bonfires at Ocean Beach and explore the Sunset District. It was a more residential area at the time, but there were some hidden gems in the area. At this time, I also spent a lot of time in the Richmond District of the city. The Sunset and Richmond Districts are parallel to each other and are separated by Golden Gate Park. As a San Francisco resident, I have lived in many different neighborhoods. From Visitacion Valley with my family, my sister and I moved to Noe Valley near 24th Street, which is the commercial center of the neighborhood. After a few years of living with my sister, I moved to a beautiful Victorian building in the Duboce Triangle area. From there, I moved to Glen Park for several years, and now I am at Twin Peaks, where I wake up to a view of the city every day. I love San Francisco, and I always will. It’s not a perfect city, but it’s perfect for me! Author and photo credit: Jojo Check out our new Destination Guide, Navigate San Francisco Like a Pro, and plan your next adventure! Facebook Instagram

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Navigate San Francisco Like a Pro: A Traveler’s Guide to San Francisco

California, Destination, North America, San Francisco / Cristy S

SAN FRANCISCO A TRAVELER’S GUIDE Welcome to San Francisco, our favorite City by the Bay! We write this guide to provide you with the information you need to plan your trip. We take you through the best of what San Francisco neighborhoods have to offer, from famous landmarks to hidden gems, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re in San Francisco for one day, two days, a week, or even a month, you’ll never run out of things to do in this beautiful city. San Francisco is more than just a City to me—it’s the canvas of my formative years and my home away from home. Life has taken me away repeatedly—new opportunities, new beginnings—but each time, I find myself drawn back to this City that holds my heart. I still live within driving distance of San Francisco; it’s not the same as being fully immersed in its energy. I miss the vibe of the city, the hum of its streets, the food, and the way it feels like no other place in the world. Every visit reawakens my goal to return permanently, to once again live in this beautiful, vibrant city that shaped who I am. – Cristy Table of Contents Getting to San Francisco By AirSan Francisco International Airport (SFO) is the main gateway to the city, offering numerous domestic and international flights. Other nearby airports include Oakland International Airport (OAK) and San Jose International Airport (SJC). By TrainAmtrak offers services to San Francisco via the Emeryville station, with connecting buses to the city. The Coast Starlight and California Zephyr routes provide scenic journeys. By CarSan Francisco is accessible via major highways, including US-101 and I-80. Be prepared for traffic and limited parking in the city. Climate San Francisco has wet and moderate winters, sunny and temperate springs, foggy and cold summers, and bright and pleasant autumns. The average low temperature is 51 °F (11 °C), while the average high is 63 °F (17 °C). The average rainfall between November and April is roughly 21 inches (533 mm). There is sunlight for two-thirds of the potential daily hours. The most distinguishing element of the weather is the summer fog, which hovers low over the city until lunchtime, causing concern among shivering visitors. San Francisco Neighborhoods Things to Do and See Sunset District Sunset District The Sunset District is a predominantly residential neighborhood located in the… Read More Richmond District Richmond District The Richmond District, located in the western part of San Francisco, is a diverse… Read More SOMA (South of Market) SOMA (South of Market) It is one of San Francisco’s most dynamic and rapidly evolving neighborhoods… Read More Tenderloin District Tenderloin District The Tenderloin District is a neighborhood with a complex and storied history… Read More Japantown Japantown It is one of only three Japantowns in the United States and one of the oldest and most… Read More Union Square Union Square Union Square is the bustling heart of San Francisco, known for its central location and… Read More Pacific Heights Pacific Heights Pacific Heights is one of San Francisco’s most affluent and prestigious… Read More The Marina District The Marina District The Marina District is a vibrant waterfront neighborhood in San Francisco that… Read More The Castro The Castro San Francisco’s vibrant LGBTQ+ epicenter, the Castro, is known for its historical… Read More Northbeach Often called San Francisco’s “Little Italy,” it is a lively and historic neighborhood… Read More The Nob Hill The Nob Hill Nob Hill is one of San Francisco’s most prestigious and historic neighborhoods… Read More Haight-Ashbury District Haight-Ashbury District Simply called “The Haight,” it is a historic San Francisco… Read More Fisherman’s Wharf Fisherman’s Wharf Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most iconic and… Read More The Mission District The Mission District Commonly known as “The Mission,” it is one of San Francisco’s… Read More Chinatown Chinatown The oldest Chinatown in North America and one of the most significant outside of Asia… Read More The Presidio The Presidio The Presidio, a 1,491-acre park in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is a… Read More Beyond the Classics Hidden Gems Where to Find the Most Breathtaking Views in San Francisco Read More The Transamerica Pyramid Building Reimagined Read More Exploring Salesforce Tower and Its Urban Oasis Read More Golden Gate Park: What You Need To Know Read More Murals and Masterpieces The Streets of San Francisco Where Art and Culture Collide Click Here Budget Stays, Luxury Hotels, and Unique Alternatives The Ultimate San Francisco Accommodation Guide San Francisco Accommodations for Every Budget San Francisco Accommodations for Every Budget Finding the perfect hotel in San Francisco is all… Read More Alternative Accomodations in San Francisco Alternative Accomodations in San Francisco Affordable Stays with Stunning Views: Hostels Offering… Read More Culture and Creativity Exploring San Francisco’s Museums A guide to Art, Science, and Culture Click Here How to Get Around San Francisco Should You Drive or Take Public Transit? Driving a Car in San Francisco: Pros, Cons, and Tips Read More A Guide to Navigating San Francisco’s Public Transportation Read More Plan Your Adventure The Best of San Francisco 1, 2, and 3-Day Itinerary Click Here Our Stories Blogs Neighborhoods and Nostalgia: My San Francisco Story Read More Navigate San Francisco Like a Pro: A Traveler’s Guide to San Francisco Read More From Food Trucks to Fine Dining Our Favorite Best Eats in San Francisco Good Value – Gao Vietnamese Food Cheap Eats – Saigon Sandwich Good Value – Ichika Sushi Restaurant Good Value – Bravas Tapas Good Value – Coqueta Spanish Tapas Good Value – Che Fico Italian Restaurant Cheap Eats – Good Mongkok Bakery Cheap Eats – Truly Med Cheap Eats – Moya Ethiopian Food Z and Y Szechuan Restaurant Experiencing Keiseki at Kusakabe in San Francisco A Flavorful Escape: Dinner at Sorrel in San Francisco A Taste of San Francisco: Highlights from the Ferry Building Farmers Market Destination Guide: Bay Area and Beyond >>> COMING SOON All photos

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Good Value – Gao Vietnamese Food

California, Food Good Value, North America, San Francisco, United States / Cristy S

Good Value – Gao Vietnamese Food Gao Vietnamese Restaurant in San Francisco is a neighborhood favorite serving real Vietnamese food at a great price. The restaurant serves a wide range of traditional Vietnamese meals that are both filling and inexpensive, from hot bowls of pho to freshly made spring rolls. With care, each meal is made with fresh, high-quality products that bring out the best in Vietnamese food. Gao is a great place to get authentic, tasty food because the rich broths, soft meats, and crisp veggies make every dish taste great. Gao is a good value restaurant. It has big amounts without the high prices that are common in the city. The place is charming, and its casual, friendly vibe makes it great for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends. Gao is the best place to get tasty, high-quality Vietnamese food without spending a lot of money, whether you live in San Francisco or are just visiting. Facebook Instagram

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Cheap Eats – Saigon Sandwich

California, Food Guide Cheap Eats, North America, San Francisco, United States / Cristy S

Cheap Eats – Saigon Sandwich We’ve been coming here for over 25 years, and this cash-only spot truly serves the best banh mi in San Francisco! The short menu features banh mi with various types of meat like roast pork, chicken, meatballs, special combinations, and tofu, all served on a French baguette spread with mayo and their signature house sauce. Each sandwich is garnished with fresh cilantro, chopped jalapeños, and pickled carrots and onions. If you’re not eating the sandwich right away, you can ask them to separate the garnish to keep it from getting soggy. And do not overlook the Vietnamese coffee—it is so robust and flavorful that it will provide you with an energy boost for days. Saigon Sandwich 560 Larkin Street, San Francisco, 94102 Facebook Instagram

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Good Value – Ichika Sushi Restaurant

California, Food Good Value, North America, San Francisco, United States / Cristy S

Good Value – Ichika Sushi Restaurant Ichika in Brisbane, CA, has quickly become our go-to sushi spot in the Bay Area. It offers a perfect combination of fresh ingredients, expertly prepared dishes, and excellent value. Every visit is a delight, and the chirashi don is always my first choice. The beautifully arranged selection of fresh sashimi over sushi rice is consistently of the highest quality, with each piece of fish tender, flavorful, and impeccably fresh. Ichika’s Omakase is another standout experience. It showcases the chef’s skill and creativity with an array of the freshest sashimi and perfectly crafted rolls. The nigiri rolls are equally superb, offering a balanced mix of flavors and textures. And for those looking for a warm, comforting option, Ichika also serves up delicious ramen that rounds out their versatile menu. Overall, Ichika is a fantastic spot for sushi lovers seeking excellent value in the Bay Area, thanks to the quality of its food and its reasonable prices. Hush, this is the Bay Area’s best-kept secret for sushi lovers! Ichika 118 Old County Road, Brisbane, California Facebook Instagram

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Good Value – Bravas Tapas

California, Food Good Value, North America, San Francisco, United States / Cristy S

Good Value – Bravas Tapas Bravas in Healdsburg offers a delightful stop for lunch, especially if you’re looking for a flavorful, casual meal in the heart of wine country. Specializing in Spanish-inspired tapas, this charming restaurant delivers a lively and relaxed dining experience with a focus on shareable plates that are perfect for a midday break. The menu at Bravas features a wide variety of small plates, with highlights like the patatas bravas, which are crispy and paired with a smoky, spicy aioli, and the gambas al ajillo—succulent garlic shrimp cooked to perfection. The pork belly bocadillos are another must-try, offering a satisfying blend of crispy pork and fresh bread with bold flavors. It’s a great place to sample a variety of dishes while unwinding on the outdoor patio, contributing to the relaxed wine-country atmosphere. The combination of excellent food, friendly service, and the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere makes Bravas a wonderful lunch destination in Healdsburg. Whether you’re in town for wine tasting or just passing through, this tapas spot is a must-visit for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Bravas 420 Center St, Healdsburg, CA 95448 Facebook Instagram

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Cheap Eats – Otomisan Japanese Comfort Food

California, Food Guide Cheap Eats, Los Angeles, North America, United States / Cristy S

Cheap Eats – Otomisan Japanese Comfort Food I first heard about this restaurant on “Take Out with Lisa Ling.“ I made a note to myself to visit the next time I am in Los Angeles. This is a homestyle Japanese cooking restaurant in the Boyle Heights area, established in 1956, and now listed as a historic cultural monument. There is always a long line, so be prepared to wait. Because the space is small, lunch and dinner are always full. Fortunately, I sat at the bar by myself without having to wait. Otomisan is known for its tempura, but they also serve pork katsu curry, oyakodon, and udon noodles. Occasionally, they serve dishes that are not listed on the menu. Unagi donburi was the highlight of the day, and I ordered it right away. When the individual following me attempted to place a similar order, I informed them that I had the final one. I have to tell you that the Unagi Donburi was out of this world! It just melts in your mouth. The experience brought me back to the time I was in Japan! Otomisan 2506 ½ East First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90003 Facebook Instagram

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Cheap Eats – Good Mongkok Bakery

California, Food Guide Cheap Eats, North America, San Francisco, United States / Cristy S

Cheap Eats – Good Mongkok Bakery If you are craving authentic, delicious, and affordable dim sum, Good Mongkok Bakery in San Francisco is the place to visit. This spot is a popular Chinese bakery where there’s always a line, even before they open at 7:00 a.m. I’ve been here early to beat the morning rush, but I still wait in line most of the time. One time, I tried a different approach and arrived in the afternoon, only to discover that everything had disappeared. The selection here is consistently fresh and flavorful, and you can’t beat the price. Whether you’re a dim sum enthusiast or just curious to try, Good Mongkok Bakery is worth the wait in line. You can’t go wrong with anything you buy here. They don’t speak English, so I usually just point to what I like. Good Mong Kok Bakery 1039 Stockton Street, San Francisco, CA 94108 Facebook Instagram

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Cheap Eats – Moya Ethiopian Food

California, Food Guide Cheap Eats, North America, San Francisco / Cristy S

Cheap Eats – Moya Ethiopian Food Have you had Ethiopian food? If not, this is the perfect place to try your first Ethiopian meal. It was my first time, and the taste experience was excellent. They have vegetarian and meat dishes on their menu. I ordered a vegetarian sampler plate that included spicy red lentils, yellow pea stew, collard greens, and cabbage stew. I was surprised it was delicious, and I loved the flavor of the different spices. Try to get some injera (Ethiopian fermented flatbread); it will go well with any order. Don’t forget to use your hands to eat it properly! It is located in the South of Market (SOMA), between Minna Street and 9th Street—street-metered parking. Moya 121 Ninth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 Facebook Instagram

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