San Francisco is a city full of excitement. It has plenty of things to do and see. Tipping etiquette and nightlife might seem different compared to other cities. With famous sights, diverse neighborhoods, and a unique vibe, your first visit to the City by the Bay can be exciting and unforgettable.
Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your journey and create lasting memories.
● Dress in Layers
The City by the Bay is famous for its microclimates, so expert guides advise travelers to dress in layers when enjoying the best day trips from San Francisco. It’s because the weather can go haywire within minutes, and fog and sea breeze might make temperatures suddenly drop. Then, out of the blue, the sun may burst out of the clouds.
Dress in light layers, and you should be comfortable exploring neighborhoods and local attractions all around the city.
● Make Restaurant Reservations Before You Arrive
You’ll need reservations to get into hot San Francisco spots like Liholiho Yacht Club, Izzy’s Steaks & Chops, and State Bird Provisions. The earlier you are able to book, the better. You can book a reservation online through their websites, OpenTable or similar services.
If you can’t get a table online, reserve a call or follow through in person. Many restaurants reserve a few seats for bookings by phone or walk-ins earlier in the evening. Calling a month in advance really pays for iconic restaurants with small seats. As you make reservations, make sure to mention any special dietary needs or special occasions, like anniversaries or birthdays.
● The Fog is Beautiful When Viewed from Afar
Looking at the fog from a distance makes the city breathtaking. As a visitor, the view gives character to the town. But if you live there, well, it’s a nuisance more than anything else. Wait a few days, and the novelty will wear off.
If the fog starts getting to you, take a trip to Noe Valley, which has a more salubrious microclimate, or take a trip across the Bay Bridge to Berkeley for a change of atmosphere.
● Bring Comfortable Shoes
San Francisco is a great city for walking, although public transportation is also convenient. Get ready for a lot of hill climbing. It’s inevitable, so why not embrace the challenge? Don’t forget your sunglasses when strolling the streets. It’s not just a California thing; it’s because San Francisco can get gritty, with debris often swirling in the air.
● Definitely Check Out the Ferry Building Marketplace
This is one of the hidden gems for first-time visitors planning day trips from San Francisco: wine tastings and guided walking tours can be done at Ferry Building Marketplace. It has locations near all the popular spots, including Pier 39 and AT&T Park.
Some locals still refer to it by its old name, PacBell Park. Choose the Ferry Building Marketplace to relax after a full and bewildering day in the city.
● Leave nothing, Not Even a Map, in Your Car
Car theft is a serious issue in San Francisco, and rental cars seem to be particular targets. There are loads of videos circulating regarding how car windows can be broken. If you bring a car into the city, don’t leave anything of value in plain view, whether you’re driving or parked.
Even if you’re just carrying something as unimportant as a map, assume your car is going to be burgled specifically for that item. If you have to stash things, you should do it before you actually arrive there.
● Know Where to Go and Where to Hold It In
Most shared public toilets in San Francisco display a triangle symbol, which means the toilets are open to use by all genders. They have stalls, not urinals. There are several public toilets in the heavy footfall areas of the city. But these are often used by the city’s homeless population.
If you’d prefer to use the facilities at a restaurant instead, expect to purchase something like coffee or a cold drink from a cafe. You’ll be allowed to use their customer-only toilets.
Read More:
