Saintly cities: San Diego and San Francisco vacation packages are travelers’ blessings
California offers a staggering variety of places to visit, from the dramatic shores of the coastal highway to the most extreme temperatures of Death Valley, but for most travelers, the state's major cities are a perennial draw. And of all of the "Sans" (cities named for saints) in California, San Francisco and San Diego are perhaps the best loved among travelers.
San Francisco is one of the most unique cities in America. Its Victorian homes, patchwork of city parks, winding streets, dramatic bayside setting and forward-thinking culture are all part of its appeal.
Hotels in San Francisco are scattered all over the city, but public transit makes it simple to go virtually anywhere with little trouble. Budget-minded travelers looking for deals on hotels and flights should consider San Francisco vacation packages, which combine both costs and often offer enticing savings over booking tickets and rooms separately. Sites like Travelocity.com make it simple to search for vacations, flights, car rentals and hotels in whatever combination you need.
Be sure to include these sights and places in your itinerary:
* The Ferry Building. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market is held outside the building, and it's well worth a visit to pick up some picnic snacks or handmade goods. On any day of the week, strolling the Ferry Building's interior is a treat, particularly for foodies. Shop for books at Book Passage, and pottery at Heath Ceramics before having lunch or dinner at one of the building's well-regarded restaurants, then pick up a cupcake from Miette or a sweet indulgence at Ciao Bella Gelato.
* Alcatraz. Yes, it's touristy, but it's also a fascinating outing and a remarkable historic site. The ferry ride out to the island is a good way to get out on the bay, giving you yet another reason to ignore your inner cynic and go. The National Park Service maintains the Alcatraz Island site, but the tour is partially self-guided so you can go at your own pace. There are free programs throughout the day - be sure to catch one during the recommended two- or three hour visit.
* Golden Gate Park. There's so much to do in this one (admittedly sprawling) park that on a short trip, you might not need to go outside its borders for sightseeing. Be sure to make stops at the De Young museum, which houses everything from contemporary art to collections of works from Africa, Oceania and beyond; the Japanese Tea Garden, a serenely beautiful setting for a stroll or a cup of tea; and the Academy of Sciences, one of the world's best natural history museums.
While San Francisco has a reputation for fog and cooler temperatures, San Diego is famous for its almost invariably pleasant, sunny weather. It's only logical that visitors want to spend time outside or on the shores of the Pacific - it's a good idea to look for hotels in San Diego that are close to the beach, if not right on it.
In between dinners enjoyed on the patios of San Diego's many outstanding restaurants, there are plenty of activities to keep travelers busy.
* Surfing. If you've never tried it, there are few better places to try to catch your first wave than San Diego. Sign up for a lesson or two and see how long you can stay upright. There are a number of surf schools in the area that can help you get started - no matter what your age.
* SeaWorld. It's hard to imagine a more perfect place for a day of family fun. The outdoor park offers plenty of thrills, from rides like Shipwreck Rapids to the famous marine mammal shows featuring dolphins, whales and the famous orca Shamu.
* Balboa Park. Much like San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, this San Diego gem is packed with things to do. The San Diego History Center, just one of more than a dozen museums on the grounds, offers an interesting glimpse into the city's history, but if you want to stay outside, visit the park's incredible gardens. And above all, don't leave without visiting the famous San Diego Zoo.
