California Travelers Recommend - page 5

In this age of seat belts and air bags, a rickety ride on a much-loved San Francisco cable car is an anachronistic thrill. Indeed, cable cars may not be the most practical means of transportation, but in San Francisco, a cable car ride is a must-do experience when visiting the city. They clank up and down the city’s steep hills, carrying locals and visitors alike, some seated, some hanging onto leather straps or standing on the outer running boards. You catch a cable car two ways: at the turnaround stops at the beginning and end of the lines, or as the locals do - by following the tracks up a few blocks and hopping on when the car stops. Once on board, hang on to the pole, and have your $6 fare ready to hand to the brakeman. It’s from out here that the best views of San Francisco unfold.

Marvel at the majestic profile of Half Dome, climb the mighty mecca that is El Capitan, or hike into Tuolumne Grove, where gigantic, stunning Sequoia’s surround you. Immerse yourself in the drenching mists of Yosemite Falls, the gemstone lakes of the high country’s subalpine wilderness, and Hetch Hetchy’s pristine pathways. There are walking trails everywhere, flat and steep, short and long, waterfalls to see, and beautiful swimming spots on the river. There are bike trails throughout the valley, dead flat, and on a hot day mainly off the roads and under the forest cover; the coolest spot to be. Clearly there's a lot to do and see in this expansive park. Enjoy the sights at a leisurely pace and extend your stay with an overnight trip, or even longer with 2 nights. This can be spent in the luxury of the Ahwahnee Hotel, or roughing it on a camping trip. The choice is yours just be sure to make the most of your time!

Nowhere in the world will you find such a wealth of great theme parks as in Southern California. And the good news is there’s fun for everyone, from toddlers to seniors. Want to see the best the region has to offer without worrying about transport? No problem! Get picked up at your hotel and whisked away with, of course, a return journey after your day of carefree fun. Starting at the top, in every sense, is Disneyland. Luckily you won't have to travel far to get to experience this world-famous theme park. What's more, you have numerous options to make sure you get the most out of your visit. From day passes to 5-day tickets, you'll be able to schedule as little or as much time at the park as you want!

Kick start your heart at Knott’s Berry Farm, with adrenaline-pumping rides like Silver Bullet and Supreme Scream. And get a mini-tour of Southern California thrown in, with themed areas like Ghost Towns and Indian Trails. Cool off across the road at Knott’s Soak City, inspired by 1950’s surfing culture, then in the evening go much further back in history at the Medieval Times Dinner, where jousting, sorcery, and swordplay are all on the menu. Daytime comes down to an either/or decision. If you’re entertaining younger kids, head south to seaside Carlsbad and Legoland California, where the fun builds up brick-by-brick. Even toddlers will feel like giants walking through the amazingly detailed city scenes, and with over 40 twisting, turning rides this is pint-sized paradise. You may perhaps be interested in something called Disneyland? Today is all about the world’s most visited theme park, which has been delighting the young and the young at heart since 1955.

San Diego, sits on the borderline of California and the Mexican city of Tijuana. This bustling Mexican city has a whirlwind of great food, music and culture. Rosarito Beach takes a relaxing spin on this Mexican hot-spot, and allows visitors to get a little siesta in the sun while experiencing the Mexican lifestyle. Another great option is the Baja Wine Tour, which gives participants the chance to see some of Baja's best vineyards and the often overlooked inner countryside of Baja.