And maybe, just maybe, if you hit all these places, perhaps you'll end up with enough pearls to make a necklace as my friend and illustrator Carrie Campbell depicts below (thanks, Carrie!).

Hog Island Oyster

A beloved spot for tourists and locals alike, Hog Island Oyster is popular for a reason. They offer local (and regional) sustainable oysters with delicious wines and beer to wash them down. The vast majority of their oyster come from their oyster farm in Marshall, on Tomales Bay, and they even have farm tours. Check them out in the Ferry Building (go early to avoid lines) or in Napa at the Oxbo Market if you are out in wine country.

P.S. If you've got a non-oyster-loving friend in your dining group, they make a killer grilled cheese sandwich.

Water Bar

I confess, I go to the Waterbar for their lobster roll, fried pickles, and fabulous martinis, but they also have a fantastic oyster bar. You can not find a better view of the Bay Bridge (they're located right on the Embarcadero), they've got a great terrace for outdoor dining as well, but I love to sit at the zinc bar and fill up on delicious oysters, especially during happy hour (more on those later).

Swan Oyster Depot

People either love or hate the Swan Oyster Depot. The most common description of the counter in the 100+-year-old fish market is “no-frills.” Personally, with the quality of oysters they serve, I don't care about the frills! I will say that, given the size of the counter, it is extremely tough to get into, but it's so worth it. Go early to the Nob Hill location (1517 Polk St) and make friends, the service is excellent (all family), and please note it is CASH only!

Anchor and Hope (now closed)

I am not sure if I love Anchor and Hope for its oysters or their housemade potato chips! Paired with a beer, sometimes I never want to leave. Besides the fresh oysters, which are always amazing, they have a dish called ‘Angels on Horseback', which are smoked bacon-wrapped oysters served with a remoulade sauce, worth every bite! I know you are here for oysters, but they also have one of the best fish and chips in town.

Anchor Oyster Bar

Serving out of its Castro Street location since 1977, the Anchor Oyster Bar has a loyal following and was recently added to the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list. They focus on sustainably harvested seafood, including succulently fresh oysters. The staff is very knowledgeable, and they know the perfect oysters for beginners to try, should you find yourself with newbies.

Oyster Happy Hours

San Francisco has dozens of spots for oyster happy hours! You can get fresh, inexpensive oysters after work in nearly any part of town. 7×7 has a guide that gives you 36 oyster happy hour spots, and Eater's has their favorite oyster deals heat-mapped.

Not your Mama's Oyster

I had to share two oyster dishes that are a little unique.

Tadich Grill's Hangtown Fry with eggs, bacon, and fresh oysters is a classic hangover meal for many San Francisco natives. You can get fresh oysters as well from the city's oldest restaurant ,along with their famous cioppino.

How about you? Are you a fan of oysters? Do you have a favorite spot you go to get them? A favorite way of serving or cooking them? Do tell!

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From its snowy peaks to its sun-soaked shores, the region boasts a variety of activities and sights that cater to every type of traveler.

Lake Tahoe holds a special place in my family's heart. My parents honeymooned there. Both sides of my family have held big celebrations (anniversaries, birthdays) and family reunions there and during the 30 years I lived in the San Francisco Bay Area it was a wonderful escape just a few hours up the road.

Let's dive headfirst into the heart of Lake Tahoe, exploring its luxurious resorts, diverse outdoor activities, and unique cultural experiences that make it a premier destination for discerning travelers.

Natural Beauty and Serene Vistas

Lake Tahoe's allure begins with its breathtaking landscape. The lake, one of the largest and deepest in the United States, captivates visitors with its striking blue waters that mirror the sky. Surrounding the lake, the Sierra Nevada mountains stand majestically, their peaks serving as the perfect backdrop for a picture-perfect vacation.

It is those magnificent clear waters that have ruined me for any other lakes! I now live in North Carolina and the lakes are brown!

Whether it's the vibrant wildflowers in spring, the lush greenery of summer, the fiery hues of fall, or the pristine snowscapes of winter, Tahoe's natural beauty offers a stunning spectacle every season.

Visitors can take leisurely boat rides, try their hand at fishing, or simply soak in the sun on one of the many beaches dotting the shoreline. With its iconic vistas, the Emerald Bay State Park offers some of the best views of the lake and is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Tahoe's scenic beauty up close.

Exploring Tahoe's Surroundings

While Lake Tahoe is a powerhouse of recreational activities, the surrounding areas are replete with attractions that enrich any visit. Hikers can explore the vast trails that snake through the Sierra Nevada, offering everything from casual walks to challenging climbs. The Flume Trail, for example, is a favorite among cyclists for its thrilling ridges and breathtaking views of the lake below.

For those interested in exploring beyond Tahoe’s immediate vicinity, two hours away is Mono Lake, an ancient saline lake known for its otherworldly landscapes and limestone formations known as tufa towers. This striking locale starkly contrasts Tahoe’s alpine scenery and is a popular spot for photography and bird-watching, adding another layer of adventure to the Tahoe experience.

Tahoe’s Ski Resorts

Winter transforms Tahoe into a wonderland for snow sports enthusiasts. The region is dotted with world-class ski resorts like Squaw Valley, which hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics, and Heavenly Resort, which offers some of the most spectacular views across the lake. These resorts provide excellent skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing facilities, catering to beginners and seasoned athletes alike.

I can't think of a better spot for the holidays – skiing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year's is so much fun!

Apart from the thrilling slopes, the resorts offer luxurious accommodations and spas where visitors can relax after a day in the cold. The apres-ski scene is vibrant, with cozy lodges and upscale bars offering warm firesides where guests can unwind with a hot drink or enjoy gourmet meals. This blend of high-octane adventure and comforting luxury makes Tahoe one of the most sought-after winter destinations in the country.

Water Sports and Wilderness Adventures

As the snow melts and the warm sun bathes the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe transforms into a summer paradise, offering water-based activities and wilderness adventures that attract large numbers of outdoor enthusiasts. The lake, known for its clarity and vibrant blue color, is perfect for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.

The adventurous can explore hidden coves and secluded beaches or participate in thrilling parasailing experiences to get a birds-eye view of the majestic landscape.

Hiking and mountain biking trails become accessible and inviting, winding through lush forests and opening up to spectacular mountain vistas. The Tahoe Rim Trail, an extensive loop that circles the lake, offers hikers and cyclists a challenging but rewarding adventure.

Alongside physical activities, the summer also brings outdoor concerts and festivals where music and culture flourished under the open skies.

A Haven for Romantics

With its stunning landscapes and serene ambiance, Lake Tahoe has become a favored destination for couples looking to elope. Eloping here allows couples to exchange vows against some of nature's most breathtaking backdrops—from cliffside overlooks framing the vast lake to tranquil wooded areas and flower-filled meadows.

The appeal of purchasing Lake Tahoe elopement packages lies in its simplicity and the intimate connection it fosters, free from the elaborate trappings and extensive guest lists of traditional weddings.

When Mr. Misadventures and I decided to elope, Lake Tahoe was high on our list!

Local vendors and planners specialize in creating bespoke elopement experiences catering to various tastes and budgets. Every detail is thoughtfully considered, from securing a private lakeside spot at sunset to arranging a gourmet picnic basket filled with local delicacies.

Many couples choose to stay in the area post-ceremony, turning their elopement into a luxurious honeymoon. [My parents didn't elope but they honeymooned in Lake Tahoe and took advantage of all the romantic surroundings.] They explore the trails, indulge in spa treatments, or simply relax by the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

Culinary Delights

Beyond its natural beauty and adventure sports, Lake Tahoe boasts a vibrant culinary scene catering to food lovers and connoisseurs. The lake’s proximity to California’s agricultural heartland ensures a steady supply of fresh, local ingredients that chefs use to craft diverse menus ranging from sophisticated fine dining to casual, hearty fare.

Restaurants with lakeside views offer the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, serving everything from expertly grilled steaks to fresh trout pulled directly from the lake’s waters.

Local breweries and distilleries add a unique flavor to Tahoe’s food scene, with many establishments offering craft beers and spirits that are perfect for sipping after a day of hiking or skiing. Seasonal food festivals and farmer’s markets also give visitors a taste of local produce and artisanal products, showcasing the region's rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit.

The Timelessness of Tahoe

Lake Tahoe remains one of America’s most cherished destinations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, romance, and culinary excellence. Whether it’s the allure of its turquoise waters in the summer or the pristine snowy landscapes in winter, Tahoe provides a year-round playground for those seeking a luxury getaway in the heart of nature.

Its capacity to combine outdoor activities with upscale relaxation and intimate elopements with grand adventures makes it a versatile destination that continues to captivate the hearts of travelers worldwide. From serene hikes through verdant trails to unforgettable meals under the stars, a visit to Lake Tahoe is more than a trip—it’s an experience that enriches the soul and leaves lasting memories.

How about you? Have you been to Lake Tahoe? Tell me more!

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San Francisco: The City by the Bay

Iconic, eclectic, and ever-charming, San Francisco has an infectious energy. Standing tall and bathed in an orange hue, the Golden Gate Bridge is a marvel worth witnessing. Whether you drive, bike, or walk across, the panoramic views of the bay will leave you spellbound.

The city's historic trams offer a nostalgic ride through its undulating streets, leading you to attractions like Fisherman's Wharf, famed for its seafood stalls and lively atmosphere. And don't forget the eerie allure of Alcatraz Island, where stories of the infamous prison await.

I lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for nearly 30 years, working in San Francisco for a good chunk of that. Here is my San Francisco Guide.

Napa Valley: California’s Wine Country

Wine aficionados, rejoice! Napa Valley, California's famed wine country, is a sensory delight. As you drive through its scenic roads, the sight of rolling vineyards will surely take your breath away. Vineyard tours are plentiful, offering a firsthand experience of the winemaking process and, of course, tastings of some of the finest wines.

Apart from its vinous offerings, Napa Valley is also a haven for gourmet enthusiasts. World-class restaurants dot the region, serving dishes that perfectly complement the local wines. And if you're looking to unwind, consider booking a day at one of the luxurious spas that Napa is renowned for.

A few of my Napa Valley stories:

• Napa Valley’s Castello di Amorosa
• Napa’s Round Pond Estate
• Taylor’s Refresher – One good burger
• Making Dinner at Ramekins Culinary School

Los Angeles: Entertainment Capital of the World

Los Angeles promises glitz, glamor, and a healthy dose of stardom. Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where legends of the silver screen are immortalized. The Griffith Observatory, perched atop the hills, offers splendid views of the city and a closer look at the stars above.

For art lovers, the Getty Center is a haven of artistic masterpieces, while beachgoers can bask in the sun at Santa Monica or Venice Beach. No visit to LA would be complete without witnessing a live show at the Dolby Theatre, the traditional home of the Oscars.

I worked at Dolby for 5 years and worked the Oscars in the Dolby Theatre, check out my stories!

San Diego: America’s Finest City

San Diego, aptly nicknamed “America's Finest City,” presents a harmonious blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. For first-time visitors, San Diego walking tours offer an immersive way to navigate through the Gaslamp Quarter, Old Town, La Jolla, and beyond. As you stroll, you'll witness the lively atmosphere, architectural wonders, and remnants of bygone eras.

Considering the city’s longstanding ties to the military, one can't talk about San Diego without mentioning the USS Midway Museum. An aircraft carrier turned museum, visitors get to delve deep into naval history as well as get an up-close view of antique aircraft ranging from WW2-era fighters to Cold War-era helicopters.

For those with families or simply young at heart, the world-renowned San Diego Zoo is a must-visit. Home to more than 3,500 animals, it offers a captivating peek into the world of wildlife from every corner of the globe. Here is my story about their amazing Backstage Pass experience!

San Diego stories:

• San Diego bites – George’s at the Cove
• San Diego Bites: Nobu
• San Diego Bites: Searsucker
• Misadventures in San Diego – Gaslamp Edition

Yosemite National Park: Nature’s Masterpiece

Grand waterfalls, towering cliffs, and serene meadows – Yosemite National Park is a testament to nature's grandeur. A paradise for hikers, the park offers trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks.

The awe-inspiring view of El Capitan, a sheer rock face popular among climbers, is a sight to behold. As seasons change, so does the park's beauty, making it a year-round destination.

Yosemite stories:

• Weekend Misadventures: Yosemite National Park
• Could you have been… a Yosemite visitor?

Sequoia & Kings Canyon: Giants of the Forest

Step into a realm where trees reach the skies. Sequoia National Park, home to the gargantuan General Sherman Tree, offers a humbling experience as you walk amidst these ancient giants. Close by, Kings Canyon impresses with its deep valleys and rugged landscapes.

Together, these twin parks showcase nature in its most majestic form.

Joshua Tree National Park: A Desert Wonderland

Mystical, otherworldly, and starkly beautiful – Joshua Tree National Park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Its namesake, the Joshua Tree, stands tall against a backdrop of giant boulders and starry nights.

Artists and adventurers alike find inspiration in its unique landscape. Be it rock climbing, stargazing, or simply reflecting, this desert park offers solace and wonder.

Joshua Tree stories:

• Joshua Tree National Park
• 5 Unique Art Destinations In Joshua Tree
• RV Travels: Weekly Wanderings #50 – Palm Springs
• RV Travels: Weekly Wanderings #51 – Palm Springs

California, with its vast landscapes and diverse attractions, is truly a traveler's dream. Every city and national park narrates a unique story waiting to be experienced. So pack your bags, set the itinerary, and embark on a Californian adventure that promises memories to last a lifetime.

How about you? Have you been to California? Do you have a favorite spot? Do tell!

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Our first stop was to the orchard and the olive mill and pressing facility. The olives are pressed once a year and we were actually lucky enough to be there on the first day of the harvest so the place was bustling as teams prepared to start the picking and pressing process.

We were met by Kelly who shared the history of the property, its specifics, the milling process and taught us how to do olive oil tasting.

The orchard has 2200 trees with 8 varieties of olives, 5 Italian and 3 Spanish. It takes one hour to pick the fruit of one tree. One tree equals three bins (the blue box in the photo below) of olives and 3 bins equal one gallon of liquid gold.

The olives are immediately milled after they are picked because Round Pond built its own mill. That is not common as most farmers must pick their olives and take them to a mill. The fruit begins oxidizing immediately so if the trip to the mill takes a while they aren't as fresh and they also risk bruising in transport.

Round Pond makes eight different olive oils which they bottle on demand, allowing for maximum freshness. The olives are crushed pits and all. In addition, for the flavored versions of the oils, rinds (blood orange or lemon) are also pressed with the fruit.

Before tasting the blood orange as well as a “regular” Italian varietal, we had to first learn how to do a proper tasting. Since it was a little on the chilly side (although bright and sunny) the first thing we had to do was warm the beautiful blue glass in our hands, sort of like what you do with a good cognac.

Then we took in the rich odor of the oil, took a sip, and made some pretty disgusting sound noises as we gurgled it around in our mouths!

I love olive oil, so I could have stood there for hours smelling and tasting all the varieties, but alas we made our way to the wine side of the property.

The winery building is breathtaking. Being the exceptional photographer I am (read: sarcasm) I took completely horrible shots of the interior, but you can see a glimmer of what it looks like in this article from one of the Bay Area newspapers.

There is a ton of natural light and beautiful wood wherever you look and the terrace looking out onto the vineyard is beautiful. The fireplace makes it a perfect spot in cooler weather to sit out and watch the sunset with a lovely glass of wine.

We tried several of their wines each paired with a delicious bite of food designed by the winemaker, all extremely tasty. I would have bought some of their olive oils but they were sold out of nearly every flavor and the new batches won't be ready for prime time in March, so the calendar is marked for a return trip to do some shopping.

It was another exceptional experience that I had the pleasure of partaking in thanks to the Trafalgar team and each new activity or meal only further sold me on the fact that a Trafalgar tour is definitely in my future.

Round Pond is just one of many exceptional wineries in Napa Valley. It takes many trips to discover even a fraction. Once you get to Napa Valley it may be difficult to choose, so here are more suggestions: 30 of the best wineries in Napa Valley, an excellent list to start with! The list includes Castello di Amorosa which is one of my favorites and a treat for the whole family!

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I recently returned from a beautiful 2-day trip to Ojai, California and I can tell you it’s an amazing weekend spot! The first time GMC invited me to their Denali & Dogs event, I turned them down. It’s not that I don’t love either Denali or dogs, because I do, it’s just that I don’t actually have a dog. Then a friend of mine said she was going to travel to Ojai for the event but wasn’t bringing her dog and would I consider going dogless as well? Then GMC asked again and I said, let’s do this!

I was really curious about Ojai and when I saw the event was taking place at the Caravan Outpost I was thrilled at the opportunity to do some RV camping again. Our 18 months living on the road in our own RV had gotten me hooked and I love the Airstream brand so couldn’t wait to spend a few nights inside one.

Cacinda and I landed at LAX and hopped into our GMC Denali Terrain, a beautiful luxury SUV. If Mr. Misadventures and I weren’t already planning to get a truck and needed a second car, the Terrain would be our choice. I kept remarking to Cacinda (to the point I’m sure she wanted to tell me to shut up!) how much I loved driving the car. LA traffic? Who cares? (There wasn’t much, really.) Driving was as smooth as glass, we glided through the canyons and were a little disappointed when our ride was over!

We met at the Caravan Outpost in the late afternoon, bloggers, writers, and dog owners from Seattle (go Poulsbo!), Colorado, Brooklyn, Laguna Beach, LA, and of course Phoenix. After settling into our Airstream “Diego,” we all gathered for a seafood boil dinner at farm tables set up in the middle of the common space. One thing about the desert that I love, dining with friends in the evening! And I can not think of a better locale nor better people to break bread with than Caravan Outpost, the GMC family and my new canine friends: Daisy, Charlie, Bobbi, Leo, Ford, and Oliver.

Dog Yoga, Dog Vehicle Safety & Dog Beaches, oh my!

The next morning we fueled up with a healthy breakfast and got prepared for dog yoga. Unlike goat yoga where they climb all over you, dog yoga involved doing regular yoga with time for pets and kisses in between. Our instructor Ellen Bain of Peak Power Yoga & Wellness, even came with her own 13-week old French bulldog puppy who stole our hearts.

I had never done yoga before and was surprised how much I liked it. The dogs definitely made it a treat! If you are in Ojai, drop in for a class for Ellen, her “a pose for every body” philosophy is really encouraging!

From dog yoga to dog safety. The amazing Samantha Johnson of Pack Life LA (you must follow her on Instagram!) walked us through how to ensure our canine friends are safe inside our vehicles. One important tip I learned was about restraining your dog while driving instead of letting him or her wander where they want. It is kind of like crating inside the home, giving them a space where they feel safe will ensure that they are happier. Samantha had a ton of great tips and tricks and she ought to know her personal story is incredible.

Now that we had been “trained” on the do's and don't's of car travel with a dog, we headed to the beach! A dog beach! We hopped in our vehicles and drove a short (and beautiful) 45-minute drive to Summerland Beach. The dogs had a blast running up and down the beach and in the water while the humans enjoyed the perfect 75-degree weather. You know what the best part of the few days with the dogs was? I could play with the dogs as much as I wanted but didn't have to worry about feeding them, picking up poo, or giving them a bath after the beach! All love, no work!

We took the wet and sandy dogs back to the cars. Or…everyone else but Cacinda and I did, we just took our sandy blankets!

Every time we turned around Bobbi and Leo were playing it up for the Insta! These 2 really are really quite adorable! Bobbi was rescued from the streets of the Bahamas and couldn't get enough of the ocean, Leo had a little more trepidation, but got in the water nonetheless.

On the way back to Caravan Outpost, we took a little drive up Highway 1 as the sun was setting. This is why people love California!

We finished our day with one of the best meals I've had in a very long time. Chef Clark Staub of Full of Life Foods works a 300-mile radius of farmers and food procurers for his amazing farm-to-table meals. The entire meal was a standout, but my favorite dishes were a beef salad with slices of grass-fed beef that absolutely melted in your mouth; an abalone salad and a grilled Santa Barbara fish (caught the day before) with fresh uni (harvested that morning) on top. I was in total and absolute heaven. Both nights our food was accompanied by Land of Saints wine from Santa Barbara County, a new discovery that I really enjoyed.

I woke up happy.

Ojai made me love California again. After 20 years in the San Francisco Bay Area, I broke up with California and moved to Phoenix. But everything about Ojai, including the Caravan Outpost, the restauranteurs and chefs and the local food bounty, reminded me of why so many people have that California dream. So with enough time and a few days in Ojai, my relationship with California is on the mend.

It's because of people like Chef Staub and people like Jennifer Weir, the owner of Beacon Coffee. After spending some quiet time catching up on email and social media, Cacinda and I rolled out of our Airstream, Diego, and over to breakfast. I was intent on coffee but as we turned the corner and saw the pastries that Jennifer had laid out, I knew I was done for! (Oh well, back to low carb when I get home!) It only took 5 minutes of listening to Jennifer describe her coffee and pastries to know that she and her husband are passionate about every detail of every ingredient that goes into their offerings.

One of which is my new food soul mate, the butter mochi.

For all my trips to Hawaii, I’ve never eaten it before, and have I been missing out. It’s a local treat made with coconut milk and mochiko. Trust me when I say it took all my strength not to eat a second one!

GMC Denali Terrain Features

After breakfast, we said goodbye to our friends, canine and human alike, and headed back to LAX in our GMC Denali Terrain. Because of the Woolsey Fire, we had to circumnavigate the freeways that were shut down. We went through a lot more suburban areas with lots of school zones it was really cool to get an alert that notified us when we’re entering a 25 mph zone. I also liked the Rear Seat Reminder. It gets so incredibly hot in Phoenix that leaving anything living, or heck even groceries in the car for more than a minute can be dangerous. The Terrain, along with the Acadia, Yukon, Canyon, and Sierra will sound five audible chimes and display a visual message that reminds the driver to take a look at the rear seat before departing.

Besides the incredibly smooth effort-free driving, the last thing I loved about the Terrain (besides its roominess!) was the vibrations on the lower part of the driver's seat that pulsed whenever I was approaching an object or an object was approaching me. By using my rearview mirror, the camera, and the vibrational guides, I feel like it is nearly impossible to back into something! That's not a safety promise, just the observation of someone who is prone to misadventures!

I know for many people a car is just a tool, a utility from getting from point A to point B, but for me, it is so much more than that. It’s a place to laugh, to cry, to argue, to explore, to adventure and to be happy. GMC are people who know how to create exceptional experiences because their product is all about the experience and once again they came through with Denali & Dogs!

The Bonus

I can't share the story of these 2 days without mentioning one person. I got to meet someone who I have been a fan of for a decade. As I sat by the fire pit on the first night, I kept looking across at a beautiful blonde thinking, “man she looks familiar!” As a group, we were waiting for the remaining bloggers/media to arrive, so formal introductions hadn't been made. I couldn't stand it anymore so I introduced myself. Turns out it was Jenny Ingram of Jenny on the Spot, someone I have truly adored for a decade!

I really enjoyed getting to meet her and her husband Paul. Paul coaches high school football and was likely going to run into my alma mater, Steilacoom High School in the Washington state championships. They could not have been more down-to-earth and funny (that I already knew) and I have to thank GMC for inviting her to the event, I just wish we had gotten to spend more time together or even get a photo together! The best I got was Bobbi visiting Jenny during yoga!

The Other Thank Yous

Thanks to Shelby Barone of OC Mom Blog who I met at a blogging conference many moons ago who was still as lovely as ever! Thanks to Becca Blonde and her adorable rescue dog Bobbi, one of the friendliest dogs I've ever met, dedicated to her craft of service and Instagram posing. And to Brandon Schultz (of Outdoor Magazine and more), who brought Leo, the most adorable basket case of a dog (also a rescue). Leo is totally lovable and will one day return that love. It was a pleasure to meet all of you – thanks for making it a great event and once again, thanks to GMC for putting together really great people! (GMC companies are really good at doing that!)

Weekend in Ojai

I highly recommend a visit to Ojai. It is a 90-minute drive from LAX; an hour and 20-minutes from the Burbank airport and 45-minutes from Santa Barbara. If you are going for a 2-day or 3-day stay or a weekend in Ojai, here’s what I suggest as an itinerary:

Ojai Hotels

In terms of Ojai hotels, grab an Airstream at the Caravan Outpost. If you don’t stay there, definitely still stop by and shop in their store otherwise you’re going to miss some cool finds. Located at 317 Bryant St.

Otherwise, there is the gorgeous Ojai Valley Inn, an award-winning luxury resort with all the amenities just outside the Los Padres National Forest. Located at 905 Country Club Rd.

Ojai Restaurants

Breakfast:
Get the most delectable sweet or savory pastries and ethically sourced coffee at Beacon Coffee. I’m considering a move to Ojai just for their butter mocha alone. Go every morning as there are too many pastries to choose from! Located at 211 W Ojai Ave.

Lunch and Dinner:
Check out The Nest. They have a delicious poke bowl. Located at 401 E Ojai Ave.

Dine at the intimate Azu and be blown away by their Mediterranean menu. I did lunch and had some of the best olives I've ever tasted along with braised short ribs. I have to go back for their Portuguese Chicken Soup! Located at 457 E Ojai Ave.

Don't miss amazing flatbreads and regional farm-to-table dishes from Full of Life Foods or just grab some of their bread for your own sandwiches. Located at 225 Bell St. in Los Alamos.

Other recommended spots: Ca' Marco Ristorante Italiano (1002 E Ojai Ave); Osteria Monte Grappa (242 E Ojai Ave); and Agave Maria's Restaurant & Cantina (106 S Montgomery St).

Things to do in Ojai

Drop in on Ellen Bain and her team at Peak Power Yoga & Wellness for a yoga class.

Visit Ojai Olive Oil (1811 Ladera Rd) to learn more about the 150-year-old heritage olive trees. You can learn how extra virgin olive oil is created, pick up some tips and tricks on cooking with olive oil and of course do some tasting!

Do some wine tasting at the Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room (109 S Montgomery St); Casa Barranca Organic Winery & Tasting Room (208 E Ojai Ave); or find some of your own wines (picnic, anyone?) at The Ojai Beverage Co. (655 E Ojai Ave).

If you want to see the ocean while visiting Ojai, check out Summerland Beach (park at 2297 Finney St, Summerland) and continue down the famous Highway 1 and enjoy the scenery, it makes for a lovely drive!

That's a wrap! Thanks again to GMC for the event invite and travel accommodations, thanks to our hosts at Caravan Outpost and all the people that came and spent time with us and fed us! I fell head over heels in love with Ojai and enjoyed learning more about the GMC Denali features and driving the Denali Terrain.

How about you? Do you have a dog that you travel with? Does he or she hop in the car and seek adventure? Have you been to Ojai, California? What do you think of the GMC Denali line-up? Do share!

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I was helping her out on a few blog things and invited her to share some of her Cali knowledge as I'm missing that part of the world. I loved my own trips to Joshua Tree and Borrego Springs and hunger for more! Enter Chrissi!

P.S. She is a great photographer too, all photos in this post are hers!

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to hike and rock climb. There is a ton of things to do and you can visit Joshua Tree in one day.

But there is also lots to explore outside of the national park. Like Joshua Tree city. Joshua Tree city is a great place to explore art. Here are five unique destinations to stop in while you’re visiting the California high desert.

1. Crochet Museum

The World Famous Crochet Museum is a cute and quirky destination in downtown Joshua Tree. It’s bright green converted drive-thru photo stand that contains An eclectic assortment of crocheted animals & other creations. It's a wonderful place to explore and the outdoor experience is just as wonderfully whimsical as the museum itself. Shari Elf, a local artist, has created a whimsical world of crochet, screen printed clothing, patches, and other forms of art.

Note: Shari doesn't actually make the crocheted creations, but is a collector of them.

Address: 61855 CA-62, Joshua Tree, California 92252.

2. Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum

The Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum in Joshua Tree, CA is open to the public every day of the year from sunup until sundown and is free of charge. For the last 15 years of his life, Noah created ten acres full of art installations in the desert.

It’s a place where worn tires, box TVs, and metal chairs are repurposed and given a new life as art. Everything is constructed from junked objects and materials. It’s a wonderland of waste!

Address: 62975 Blair Ln, Joshua Tree, California 92252

3. Dinosaurs of 29 Palms

These cute metal dinosaurs are on the side of the road on Highway 62. There's a gold mom and baby Brontosaurus, and two toothy meat-eaters. These dinosaurs were added in front of Desert View Homes business to attract attention, but I love the fun aesthetic of the artwork as your driving by, and they make for a fun roadside photo shoot.

Address: 62842 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, CA 92252.

4. Desert Christ Park

Desert Christ Park is a museum of sculptures located on the hillside of Yucca Valley. There are more than 40 large white biblical statues here sculpted by Frank Antone Martin. It's a quiet and introspective place nestled among the desert landscape.

The last supper relief above is gorgeous, and some of the statues in the park tower over 8 feet tall. This site has flown under the radar in the high desert, but it's absolutely stunning and worth visiting.

Tip: The park is open from dusk until dawn for all to come and see these works of art free of charge.

Address: 56200 Sunnyslope Dr, Yucca Valley, California 92284.

5. Junk Art in Pioneertown

Pioneertown, near Joshua Tree, looks frozen in the old cowboy days of dust and tumbleweeds. If you walk down Main street past the western facades, there’s also a junked yard filled with oddities like children’s desks with old typewriters, vintage rusted cars, and a myriad of other junked items arranged in strange ways.

Thanks, Chrissi!

How about you? Have you been to Joshua Tree? Have other suggestions to add? Do share!

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Take Pictures of the Palm Springs Signs

Looking for a photo to encapsulate your weekend? Want a good Instagram shot? There are 3 Palm Springs signs that you can hit.

First and foremost is the Palm Springs sign right near the Palm Springs Visitors Center (2901 N Palm Canyon Dr).

It was super windy when we were there and just after we showed up we were joined by a couple trying to do their wedding photos there, but the poor bride's veil (and dress) was getting whipped all over! After you take your shots, stop by the visitor center. The building's retro style is very fun. The Visitor Center also is right on the corner of Tram Road where you turn for the entrance to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Next is the Palm Springs sign by Gateway Park at the corner of Vista Chino and Gene Autry Trail. We turned into the housing area on E Chia Road and scoped out some of the houses there. We parked on E Avenida Fey Norte (it's a court) but could have also done the same on E Paseo Barbara (another court) and walked to the sign. Just checking out the houses on the way to the sign is part of the fun of taking this shot.

There is another “less official” Palm Springs sign on West Mesquite Avenue where it meets S. Palm Canyon Drive.

A little cruder, but fun all the same, and I definitely felt “good vibes” over my weekend!

Palm Springs home tours

My absolute favorite thing to do in Palm Springs is gawking at houses! I love the mid-century modern minimalist homes in this area and there is nothing better than checking out the adorable neighborhoods including Las Palmas Estates, Desert Park, Indian Wells, and many, many more! We are hoping to get tickets to Modernism Week in February when many of these houses are open for tours. (There is a Fall Sneak Peek in October we will try to get tickets for as well!).

Of course, everyone takes photos of #ThatPinkDoor at 1100 Sierra Way…

But there are SO many gorgeous homes it is a great way to spend a few hours! Trust me, you don't have to be an architecture geek to enjoy yourself.

It's also a good place to get out of your car and walk, you can see the homes closer and get some steps in. On the weekend, you might even get to peek into an Open House going on!

Pam Springs Hotel Pools

Like any other resort town, there are lots of great resorts. But in judging a hotel in Palm Springs, the end all be all of a great accommodation is its pool. The hotel pool scene is competitive here and the competition for your spot on the lounge chair is fierce. Good news. Some of these spots are open to the public without a room reservation!

The pool was in full-on party mode (hence the borrowed photo above, I think you have to be there at 6 in the morning when everyone has a hangover to get a shot of it empty!), so we walked around it checking out the rest of the grounds.

One such spot (at least Monday through Friday) is the colorful Saguaro Hotel. We went for a drink and checked out the grounds. It's wild with pops and flashes of pigmentation everywhere and the pool was jam-packed. It's an old Holiday Inn that got quite the makeover and it is seriously hard to be anything but cheerful when visiting this Candyland.

I wanted to sit in one of those hammocks and read a book, but alas we other stops on our agenda.

Other iconic pools in Palm Springs:

• Ace Hotel – live DJ, cool cocktails.
• Parker Meridien with its awesome lemonade stand (otherwise known as a bar, but they are known for darn good martinis.
• ARRIVE Palm Springs – fun pool toys! (Open to the public)
• Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs – the only rooftop pool in town. Not free, but you can buy a day pass.

Palm Springs Art Museum

If you are visiting when it is on the hot side (although the high 80's and low 90's we experienced were 20 degrees color than what we were getting in Phoenix at the time) then cooling off for a bit by visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum will be right up your alley. We actually started at the annex which is known as the Architecture and Design Center. It's downtown housed in a former bank, a 1961 savings-and-loan building designed by desert architect E. Stewart Williams. We took in an exhibition and shopped the museum store that is the bank's old vault!

From the center, we walked through downtown towards the main art museum. We checked out the Andy Warhol exhibit and the sculpture garden and felt refreshed with our respite from the sun.

Other Museums in Palm Springs:

• Palm Springs Air Museum – the space geek in me loves this spot (we visited on a previous trip).
• Art Pop Gallery promotes local artists, pop-up style.

Art Installations & Murals

There are a few spots in town where you can see art installations either as part of commercial space, like this Orange Twist by Delos Van Earl which is located at 1492 N. Palm Canyon Drive, a small mid-century building designed by William Krisel. Or in shopping areas like the #pspinkwall at The Shops at Thirteen Forty-Five, 1345 N. Palm Canyon Drive.

A few of the hotels (Parker Meridien, Ace, ARRIVE) and the Art Pop Gallery have murals. There is a fun one next to the Palm Greens Café, 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive. If you are willing to drive a little to Coachella there are quite a few murals (1604 6th Street and Shady Lane Mural across from Dateland Park).

Palm Springs Life has a great list of murals in the area and where you can find them.

Other Spots to Visit in Palm Springs

We didn't get to these 2 spots, but they are totally on my radar for our next trip to Palm Springs!

Moorten Botanical Garden

I keep hearing about their amazing “world's first” Cactarium with over 3,000 species of cacti. Apparently, the golden light inside is said to be absolute perfection. I'm intrigued!

Sunnylands

This is the former home of some famous mucky-mucks. Tours have to be booked in advance and you can't take photos outside, but there is supposed to be a plethora of pink walls (dating back to the 1960s) that make awesome photos. The grounds are supposed to be quite nice as well.

A Word on Food & Drink

Palm Springs has a fabulous restaurant and bar scene, however, for this trip, we were staying in an Airbnb and did our own meals. After all, we had just come back from a decadent 2 weeks in Paris! The only time we stopped anywhere was for a caffeine stop at Koffi Coffee near the Ace Hotel.

How about you? Have you been to Palm Springs? Do you have other suggestions of things to do?

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Today I'd like to introduce you to Paroma of Year of the Monkey, a travel blogger and San Francisco resident passionate about food and pets. She lives in the Western Addition section of the city which is largely residential but also adopts the Japantown area, which is not technically a neighborhood. So we get a bonus today, Western Addition AND Japantown!

Let's meet Paroma and tour Western Addition and Japantown.

[1] Favorite thing about Western Addition/Japantown.

The beautiful Japan Town Mall featuring Japanese stores, the famous Kinokuniya book store, and the nearby Japanese Nijiya Market.

[2] Least favorite thing about Western Addition/Japantown.

Being an indoor mall, Japan Town mall is not dog-friendly and I so wish it were. Western Addition is not as safe as the more affluent neighborhoods of Lower Pacific Heights and Hayes Valley and this is something that I am not super proud of as a resident.

[3] What differentiates your neighborhood from all the other parts of the city?

Western Addition, my neighborhood has the only other Japantown in Northern California (the other being in San Jose). Plus, the super famous Fillmore Theatre is right here and we have our own farmer's market every Saturday, with a live jazz band to accompany it!

Finally, this used to be the erstwhile jazz district of San Francisco and although almost all the jazz clubs are long gone, the neighborhood springs to life during the Fillmore Jazz Festival or any Japantown street fairs such as the Nihon Machi or the Cherry blossom festival.

[4] Favorite coffee spot in Western Addition/Japantown.

YakiniQ cafe on Post Street. Their sweet potato latte is unique and a must-have!

[5] Favorite spot for drinks in Western Addition/Japantown.

Dosa on Fillmore. They have a pretty good happy hour where drinks and bar bites are 50% off.

[6] Favorite local hangout in Western Addition/Japantown.

The peace plaza and the Buchanan Mall in Japan Town are two good places for people watching and hanging out. The nearby Jefferson Park is our little patch of green to walk our dog. The Sundance Kabuki theatre is also another favorite theatre to watch movies.

[7] Favorite breakfast spot in Western Addition/Japantown.

For breakfast, I simply grab a bagel from Wise Sons Deli which is absolutely delicious. Dosa on Fillmore and 1300 are two other favorites for getting Indian or Southern-inspired brunch.

[8] Favorite lunch spot in Western Addition/Japantown.

My vote goes to NOPA, on Divisadero street (the westernmost border of Western Addition). Although tough to get a seat, their Californian-American brunch/lunch is my favorite. (MWA Note: One of the best cheeseburgers in San Francisco!)

[9] Favorite dinner spot in Western Addition/Japantown.

That will be either Progress or it's sister restaurant State Bird Provisions, which was voted the best new restaurant in North America in 2013. Again, super difficult to snag a reservation at the latter, but if you do manage to get in, then be prepared to be blown away by their food served in dim-sum style carts.

[10] One thing you always do/spot you always take friends from out of town to do/see.

Give them a tour of the Japan town mall, have crepes at Belly Good Cafe and Crepes (inside the mall) and take them to YakiniQ for some sweet potato latte!

Thanks Paroma!

Check out Paroma's blog Year of the Monkey and keep up with her adventures on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest!

Here are other great spots in San Francisco's Western Addition/Japantown:

EAT – Breakfast/Brunch:

> Herbivore 9531 Divisadero St, b/t Fell St & Hayes St) Vegetarian resto with a nice patio.
> 1300 on Filmore (1300 Fillmore St b/t Ellis St & Eddy St) $12 unlimited pomosas (sparkling wine, PAMA liqueur, and a splash of juice).
> YakiniQ Cafe (1640 Post St, b/t Laguna St & Buchanan St) As Paroma mentioned, sweet potato latte!

EAT – Lunch:

> Marufuku Ramen (1581 Webster St, b/t Post St & Geary Blvd) Good ramen shop, get the chicken paitan with sweet corn.
> Tanpopo (1740 Buchanan St, b/t Post St & Sutter St) Old school Yakisoba.
> Waraku (1638 Post St, b/t Laguna St & Buchanan St) Get the pork tonkatsu or Tsukemen ramen.
> Nijiya Market ( 1737 Post St, b/t Webster St & Buchanan St) THE place for bento boxes.

EAT – Dinner:

> State Bird Provisions (1529 Fillmore St, b/t Ofarrell St & Geary Blvd). Make a reservation as soon as you think you are coming to SF! Award-winning dimsum style small plates.
> The Progress (1525 Fillmore St, b/t Ofarrell St & Geary Blvd). Same owners as State Bird, family-style meals.
> Udon Mugizo (1581 Webster St, b/t Post St & Geary Blvd) Kobe beef udon.
> Pizza Inferno (1800 Fillmore St, b/t Bush St & Sutter St) Don't miss the inferno special with ground beef, basil, mozzarella, and tomato sauce. Simply perfect.

EAT – Dessert:

> Benkyodo Co. (1747 Buchanan St, b/t Post St & Sutter St) Japanese bakery with delicious mochi and other treats.
> Miyako Old Fashioned Ice Cream (1470 Fillmore St) cash only scooped by the beloved Tom, Japanese flavors.

DRINK – Bars:

> Fat Angel (1740 O'Farrell St, b/t Fillmore St & Steiner St) They've got food, but go for the massive beer menu.
> Festa (1825A Post St, Kinokuniya Building, b/t Webster St & Fillmore St) Karaoke bar! Amazing saketinis or go for the lychee martini.
> Dimples (1700 Post St, b/t Webster St & Buchanan St) Neighborhood dive bar.

DRINK – Coffee:

> Mitsu Teahouse (22 Peace Plz) Japanese teahouse with boba as well!
> Social Study (1795 Geary Blvd) Four Barrel and bar bites, a great place to work.

SHOP:

> Daiso (22 Peace Plz) All things Japanese for cheap!
> New People (1746 Post St, b/t Buchanan St & Webster St) Tea, food, art, clothing, and games
> Soko Hardware (1698 Post St, b/t Laguna St & Buchanan St) Quirky household goods.

THINGS TO DO:

> The Fillmore (1805 Geary Blvd) Great bands and free apples!
> Kabuki Springs & Spa (1750 Geary Blvd at Webster St) Spa with communal baths, steam rooms, and saunas.
> Northern California Cherry Blossom, largest in the U.S. held every April.
> J-Pop Summit – Japanese art and food festival, September every year.
> Fillmore Jazz Festival – every July.

LODGING:

> Hotel Kabuki (1625 Post Street, b/t Laguna St & Buchanan St) Eastern-influenced boutique hotel.
> Kimpton Buchanan Hotel (1800 Sutter St, b/t Webster St & Buchanan St) Trendy Japanese style rooms, some with anime!
> Both Western Addition and Japantown are mainly residential areas with limited commercial lodging however there are a couple of properties available for rent on Airbnb.

How about you? Do you have any Western Addition/Japantown additions? Have you been to this area of San Francisco? Did you find this post helpful for a future trip?

If you live in San Francisco and would like to share your favorite spots in your neighborhood, reach out to me, I'd love to have you!

See my entire collection of San Francisco post in my San Francisco Guide. Also, you can save 42% off admission to the best San Francisco attractions with a San Francisco CityPASS. PLUS, skip most tickets lines!

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San Francisco is small but mighty. 7 miles by 7 miles but packed with great things to eat, drink and do. It is an awesome place to come for the weekend and this post is intended to convince you!

San Francisco Weekend – Your Friday Night

Start your weekend by flying in Friday afternoon, either SFO or OAK will work, both now have BART (the subway) directly from the airport so you can get into the city fairly quickly. If you rent a car be prepared to sit in a little Friday night traffic, but don’t worry you will be rewarded, just think of it as building up your appetite for the evening!

When you get in the city, head directly to Fort Mason in the Marina/Presidio area for the Friday night version of Off the Grid. Food trucks are a big deal in San Francisco and there is no better way to test them out than at this massive weekly food truck event. There are over 30 trucks; pace yourself there are way too many delicious dishes out there!

Work off your dinner (it is impossible not to overeat) by walking back through the Marina, Fisherman’s Wharf to the Embarcadero and stop for a nightcap at any one of the restaurants along the water. Or head into the city a couple of blocks and check out one of the bourbon bars in the Financial District.

Warning, don’t drink too many, you’ve got an early morning – you can sleep in a bit on Sunday!

San Francisco Weekend – All Day Saturday

Wake up bright and early and head to the farmer's market at the Ferry Building. There are close to 100 food stalls. You can grab breakfast at Acme, Craftsman & Wolves, or Della Fattoria while you do some picnic shopping for lunch.

Alternatively, also waking up bright and early, get yourself in line at Bar Tartine, the best bakery in the city for amazing pastries, coffee, and sandwiches made with bread that tastes as if came straight from heaven.

Whichever spot you choose, once you’ve got all your lunch goodies packed, you’ve digested your breakfast and finished your Blue Bottle coffee, head over to Dolores Park for a picnic with an amazing view of the city. This park embodies San Francisco's spirit, people-watching is the best activity you can do here, and there is not a shortage of interesting.

For dessert while leaving the park head to Bi-Rite Creamery. Rich, creamy, cold ice cream in unique flavors, it is a San Francisco institution.

You’ve been outside all day, take a load off at any one of the amazing restaurants that the city has to offer. You can literally throw a rock (please don’t) in any direction and find a great place. You cannot go wrong, trust me! Here are some of my posts that include San Francisco restaurants to help you out.

San Francisco Weekend – Sunday Morning

You had a big food day yesterday! Sleep in because for breakfast I am recommending dimsum and that starts at 10:00. My favorite spot is Yank Sing, but there are many great options in the Richmond or Sunset Districts. My San Francisco Bay Area Dimsum Guide will give you the highlights.

If dimsum is not your thing, head back to the Marina. I swear they have more brunch spots than any other neighborhood in the city! You’ll have a leisurely meal with a great view, which is perfect for saying farewell before you have to catch your flight home.

See. Wasn’t that fun? That is *just* one weekend, I could create dozens around food!

If you are visiting in the winter, don't miss crab and oyster season. And if you are visiting the city by the bay solo, don't fret! Here are some awesome solo travel experiences you can have in San Francisco!

How about you? Do you have a recommendation for this foodie itinerary?

More of my San Francisco food stories and guides:

Not everyone's taste buds are the same, so I've got a whole bunch more San Francisco food options for you!

• Where to go for Coffee in San Francisco
• Great Mexican Restaurants in San Francisco
• 5 Places to Eat Oysters in San Francisco
• Best Burmese Food in San Francisco
• Burgers in San Francisco
• San Francisco’s Best Cheeseburgers
• Hawaiian in San Francisco
• Great Grilled Cheese in San Francisco
• San Francisco Bay Area Dimsum Guide
• San Francisco for Vegetarians
• Baked Bear in San Francisco – Custom-made Ice Cream Sandwiches
• Classic San Francisco Food Treats
• Eating in San Francisco’s Financial District – Around the World in 24 Hours

Highlighted Restaurants in San Francisco

• San Francisco’s Sushirrito
• Liba San Francisco
• Bacon Bacon San Francisco
• Fried Chicken and Waffles in San Francisco
• Water Bar San Francisco

See my entire collection of San Francisco post in my San Francisco Guide. Also, you can save 42% off admission to the best San Francisco attractions with a San Francisco CityPASS. PLUS, skip most tickets lines!

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San Francisco Neighborhood Guides

In my San Francisco Profile series, I interviewed locals from some of the most famous neighborhoods. At the bottom of each interview is my little black book of spots to eat, drink, stay and visit.
Financial District
Hayes Valley
Lower Haight
Marina District
Miraloma Park
Mission District
Nob Hill
North Beach
Pacific Heights
Portola
Portrero Hill
Richmond District
Sunset District
SoMa (South of Market)
Western Addition/Japantown

For a guide on living in San Francisco that brings all the neighborhoods together, check out this City Guide to Living in San Francisco and Its Neighborhoods. An all-in-one spot to find the neighborhood you are interested in exploring further.

San Francisco Food Guides

San Franciso is one of the BEST cities in the world to eat and I put in a lot of (ahem) researching so that I could bring you my guides on the best food in the city.
A San Francisco Weekend for Foodies
San Francisco Bay Area Dimsum Guide
Burgers in San Francisco
San Francisco’s Best Cheeseburgers
A Sampling of Some of SF's Best Burgers (writing on the Groupon blog)
Great Mexican Restaurants in San Francisco
Best Burmese Food in San Francisco
Hawaiian in San Francisco
San Francisco for Vegetarians
5 Places to Eat Oysters in San Francisco
Where to go for Coffee in San Francisco
A San Francisco Weekend for Foodies
Baked Bear in San Francisco – Custom-made Ice Cream Sandwiches
San Francisco's Primo Patio – A Caribbean Escape with Great Food
Fried Chicken and Waffles in San Francisco
San Francisco's Top Salted Caramel Treats (writing on the Groupon blog)
Landmark Dishes From San Francisco Legends (writing on the Groupon blog)
San Francisco's Ultimate Juice Guide (writing on the Groupon blog)
Eating in San Francisco’s Financial District – Around the World in 24 Hours
Liba San Francisco
San Francisco's Sushirrito
Classic San Francisco Food Treats

Things to do in San Francisco

No matter what time of the year, or what the weather is, there is always something to do in San Francisco.
San Francisco Coastal Trail
Great Spots to Photograph the City
4 Fun, Funky, and Freaky Places to See in San Francisco
San Francisco Cable Cars
Things To Do on a Cold Day in the City (writing on the Groupon blog)
Nighttime Photography Spots in the City (writing on the Groupon blog)
Wine Tasting in San Francisco (writing on the Groupon blog)
San Francisco’s Chinatown Part 1
San Francisco’s Chinatown Part 2
San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury
Four Activities for Out-of-Town Guests that Are Better than Sending Them to Fisherman’s Wharf
Things To Do in San Francisco in the Winter
San Francisco for the Holidays
New to SF Bay – First Day Things to Do and See
See 3 Stunning Mosaic Steps of San Francisco in One Day

Miscellaneous San Francisco Stories

And because I truly love Sa Francisco, I've written lots of posts on various aspects of the City by the Bay.
My It’s-IT Story
San Francisco’s Coffee Cultures
San Francisco Bites – Roli Roti Porchetta Sandwich and Happy Birthday Ferry Building
San Francisco Ferry Building Attraction – Biscuit Bender
Kara of Kara’s Cupcakes Isn’t Afraid to Think Bigger (writing on the Groupon blog)
An Interview with Cotogna Chef Michael Tusk – Taste of the Nation San Francisco
Dine on Time App at Westfield San Francisco Centre
Westfield Food Tastemaker
How to be Parisian in San Francisco Part 1
How to be Parisian in San Francisco Part 2

Hopefully, on your next trip to San Francisco, you'll be able to enjoy this guide and the fruits of my labor!

How about you? Have you been to San Francisco? Do you have a favorite spot? Do tell!

You can save 42% off of admission to the best San Francisco attractions with a San Francisco CityPASS. PLUS, skip most ticket lines!

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And while there is a large abundance of Mexican restaurants in San Francisco, especially in the Mission District, you can find really great Mexican food anywhere in the city! Even for vegetarians!

You will definitely have food coma after eating at any of these places! I've broken them into three categories: General Mexican, The Mission (because hey, it deserves its own category!) and Breakfast Burritos (because in San Francisco the breakfast burrito it's its own food group!):

General Mexican:

Arguello (50 Moraga Ave in the Presidio Officers Club, Presidio) Traci des Jardins is a fixture on San Francisco's restaurant scene (plus I really love her restaurant in the Ritz Carlton in Lake Tahoe!). Her restaurant Mijita in the Ferry Building has one of my favorite burritos – chile verde that in my opinion, is to die for! Now she has added Arguello, an upscale Mexican with a nice heated patio (it can get cold in San Francisco) where you can also watch tortillas being made!

Nopalito (1224 9th Ave, b/t Lincoln Way & Irving St) Where to start? One of my absolute favorites. I like the Panucho de Pollo al Pibil which is a masa/black bean cake with chicken on top; the pork belly quesadilla, the grass-fed shredded beef Empanada the carne asada with nopales and delicious pork carnitas braised in orange, bay leaf, milk, cinnamon, and beer!

Colibri Mexican Bistro (438 Geary St at Mason St., Nob Hill) Great regional dishes and made-to-order guacamole plus creative cocktails from an extensive tequila collection, my favorite is the jalapeño margarita. The carnitas are a big hit here, but I am a sucker for sopes, check out the Sopes Surtidos (an assortment of meats with beans and sautéed vegetables with crumbled queso fresco.

Mamacita (2317 Chestnut St, b/t Divisadero St & Scott St)
I know it is weird, but they've got the creamiest guacamole in the city! I like their short rib flautas, but they also have delicious beef gorditas, and pork meatball enchiladas, something I haven't seen anywhere else! If they have lamb tacos on the menu…get them!

Azucar Lounge (299 9th St, b/t Folsom St & Clementina St) This is the place for Taco Tuesday for vegetarians and carnivores alike! But also check out the queso blanco and cactus fries and get a tamarind margarita.

Padrecito (901 Cole St, b/t Parnassus Ave & Carl St) Duck chilaquiles? Yes, please! Duck tacos too! Their pork-belly chilaquiles are equally good. A good place to try goat barbacoa.

Mission District

El Metate (2406 Bryant St, b/t 22nd St & 23rd)  I ate at this spot a lot when I worked at Dolby and besides their awesome aqua frescas, they have some pretty amazing burritos including a veggie burrito that will knock your socks off. I am also a sucker for homemade tortilla chips and salsa bar!

La Torta Gorda (2833 24th St, b/t York St & Bryant St)
It is all about the torta here. If you aren't familiar, it is a Mexican sandwich. At La Torta Gorda, theirs features meat and queso fresco, refried beans, accompanied by avocado, onions, mayo, and jalapeño on a torta roll. Great vegetarian option as well. If you don't think you are up for a sandwich, check out the pierna enchilada torta with pork in enchilada sauce served on a crispy bun – trust me!

El Techo de Lolinda (2518 Mission St, b/t 21st St & 22nd St) Besides the cool rooftop bar make sure to get the skewers. Whether it's the chorizo, steak or veggie one, it will be enjoyable.

Gracias Madre (2211 Mission St, b/t 19th St & 18th St) Mentioned in my San Francisco for Vegetarians post, this is a great spot for vegetarians and vegans alike. Their menu is sustainable and packed full of flavor which you will enjoy even if you are a meat lover!

La Palma (2884 24th St, b/t Florida St & Bryant St)  It is all about the tortillas here. Made fresh all day for themselves and for other Mexican restaurants all over the city, don't miss their carne asada burrito.

Breakfast Burritos

There are a TON of spots with really good breakfast burritos (especially in the Financial District where I work) but I stuck with restaurants that are Mexican as opposed to the many other types of restaurants that serve great burritos but aren't technically Mexican restaurants.

Green Chile Kitchen (1801 McAllister St) an excellent burrito with roasted potatoes, pico de gallo, cheese, chile, and eggs of course. You can also add steak which will really get your morning off to a good start.

El Faro (82 1st St, b/t Elim St & Mission St ) A popular FiDi spot (so it's only open during the week) that is favorite amongst young professionals who need a cheap, fully loaded breakfast burrito, perfect for those who are recovery from the previous evening. Not known for their service, but praised for the fact that the burrito has bacon, ham, and chorizo!

Don Pisto (510 Union St, b/t Bannam Pl & Grant Ave, North Beach) The breakfast burrito is dynamite with eggs, housemade chorizo, queso oaxaca, sliced avocado, salsa fresco, and pickled jalapeno. [At lunch check out the tacos, both carne asada, and carnitas, as well as the tamales. If the lobster special is going on, don't pass it up!]

Little Chihuahua (292 Divisadero Street, b/t Haight St & Page St) They serve a wet-style breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs, jack cheese, salsa, beans, Mexican potatoes, roasted poblano chiles, cilantro and onions, and choice of meat (bacon or chorizo or mushrooms).

Bonus: Mexican Food Trucks

San Francisco is a great food truck town there are lots of new trucks and parks popping up all over the city. But the OG of food trucks in San Francisco has got to be the taco trucks! And I wanted to mention my two favorites, which get listed as the best in write-ups all the time.

The first is El Tonyaense truck on Carrol Street (at the Best Buy parking lot). They have amazing $1 tacos that I ate at least once a week when I was working in Potrero Hill. They are known for their offal tacos, I love the beef tongue. If that gives you the heebie-jeebies, their barbacoa tacos are the best!

The other truck is El Norteno at 801 Bryant. Their shrimp burritos and tacos are the bomb!

Well, that's a few of my favorite Mexican restaurants in San Francisco (as you can tell, I am a BIG fan of Mexican food!) where are some of your favorites? What's your favorite Mexican dish?

See my entire collection of San Francisco post in my San Francisco Guide. Also, you can save 42% off admission to the best San Francisco attractions with a San Francisco CityPASS. PLUS, skip most tickets lines!

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Joshua Tree had seemed to elude my hubby, we had thought to visit when we were staying at Borrego Springs but it was just too far a drive. We were glad when we were planning our return trip West and North to get to Portland that we could schedule two weeks in the park.

We captured sunrises, sunsets, and one evening of star photography. The weather wasn't exactly cooperative during our time at Joshua Tree, but we made the best of it. There were also a ton of people there over the holiday but we were alone for sunrises, just the way we like it!

We did two of those sunrises at Barker Dam. It's a hiking trail, and as you can probably guess by the name, it leads to a man-made dam built by a rancher named Barker. In the winter water collects and the reflection of the rocks in the water is pretty.

The first sunrise we did was windy and stormy so the hubby didn't like his photos. But when we finished the hike I loved the drama the weather provided as a backdrop to the Joshua trees.

We returned a few days later and were rewarded with this.

A few nights later we did sunset again. A seven-minute sunset(!) in the Jumbo Rocks campground to get this guy. A bowling ball nuzzled into other rocks which we took from the amphitheater.

The previous afternoon we'd come to photograph a juniper/rock combo that Mr. Misadventures had spotted in another photographer's blog post. He was enamored and would not rest until he found this tree! We went searching for it in the pouring rain but could not find it. Turns out the GPS coordinates were incorrect.

After more research, he got new coordinates, and off we went. There is no cell service in the park so we used offline maps and a GPS app to locate it. Once you know where it is, it's super easy, but finding it without help sucks!

So if you ever want to take a similar photo, go to the Jumbo Rocks Campgrounds and find sites 19 and 20. When you get there, look up and there you are! Duh!

Finding the arch nature trail at the back of White Tank Campgrounds, however, is easy. We visited for a couple of days and walked the short trail. We also wandered off-trail into the canyons and had fun climbing around the canyons and rocks. When we finally circled back round to the arch trail the only way to access it was getting through this crack. It was tight but we made it!

On our last morning we headed further south into the park to do sunrise at the Cholla Cactus Garden. If you enter the Cottonwood Springs park entrance from the I-10 freeway it's the first “main attraction” you'll see, but there isn't much else except the entrances to off-road 4×4 trails.

However, the gardens are worth the trip out there. If you are a photographer or have a photographer in your life just be very careful as everywhere you step or turn there is a cactus to run into or step on!

We returned to the arch for our last night in the park to do star photography. It was pretty fun to climb onto the shelf across from the arch and make camp. I had my handy-dandy REI chair, hot miso, and the stars to entertain me while the hubby clicked away.

There are plenty of trails and climbs, campgrounds, and picnic areas to keep you well entertained for any length of stay. And with its close proximity to San Diego, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs, I'm not surprised that Joshua Tree National Park is so popular. I feel blessed to have been able to explore so much.

How about you? Have you visited Joshua Tree National Park? What was your favorite part? If not, have I inspired you to think about it?

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