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A GUIDE T0 California

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A G U I D E T 0

California

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Canada Statistics

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC

54 60 65 71 80 87 92 91 87 78 64 54

AVERAGE HIGH MONTHLY TEMPERATURES IN SACRAMENTO IN °F:

The vast and diverse U.S state ofCalifornia is a land filled with iconic

attractions, awe-inspiring views, World-famous wineries in Napa Valley or Sonoma county, first-class restaurants, breath-taking national parks and some of the planet’s best beaches.

With ample opportunity to get outdoors with activities such as hiking, cycling, surfing, swimming and rollerblading, as well as a varied and vibrant urban scene with cities that are jam-packed with culture, fun and foodie experiences, the sun-kissed Golden State has plenty to keep you entertained and leave you wanting to come back for more.

Wherever your mind wanders to when you picture California, welcome to our mini destination guide to this spectacular state.

Population

State Capital

Currency

Official language

Time zone

Flight time:

39.75 million

Sacramento

US Dollar

English

UTC -8 or -7

11 hours from Dublin

Introducing

California

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• California is the most populous state in the US, with one in eight of the country’s residents living there.

• California contains the lowest and highest points in America. The lowest is 282 feet below sea level in Death Valley, whilst the highest is 14,494 feet at the top of Mount Whitney. You can travel between the two in less than a day.

• California is a “minority-majority” state. 58%of its population are Asian, Hispanic, NativeAmerican or other groups. 26% of its peoplewere born outside the states.

• California is home to four of the world’s tenrichest people.

• California is a hub of agriculture, with the state’sfarms producing two-thirds of the nation’s fruitsand nuts.

• California is home to the world’s largest tree(General Sherman tree in Sequoia National Park)and also the tallest - a coastal redwood calledHyperion.

Interesting facts

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Death Valley

General Sherman tree

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South Lake TahoeSonoma CountyNapa Valley

San Francisco

Santa Cruz

Yosemite National Park

Santa MonicaNewport Beach

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Region breakdown

San Diego

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From the moreish delights of tangy fish tacos to freshly-caught seafood, you’ll find many

dishes in California to light up your taste buds. We’ve compiled a handful of our favourites for you to savour.

Fish tacos

Did you know California used to be part of Mexico? No wonder some of the best Mexican food in the US can be found there. Try a tasty taco with fish straight out of the Pacific Ocean…a real Californian favourite.

Pho

California is one of the closest states to Asia and its influence can be seen throughout its culture and cuisine. This Vietnamese noodle soup became popular a few years ago, and aside from being totally delicious, is often used as a recovery tool after a late night.

Burritos

The Cali burrito (a San Diego speciality) may not be the most authentic of Mexican cuisine. However, this flour tortilla stuffed with sliced beef, cheese, salsa, guacamole and a handful of French fries is the perfect way to refuel after sightseeing or surfing in the ocean.

A Taste of CaliforniaSeafood

With so much Pacific coastline, California is heaven for seafood lovers. Stand out San Francisco specialities include fresh Dungeness crab and the Italian-American rustic fish stew, Cioppino.

Avocado toast

Versatile, healthy and delicious, no wonder avocado toast is one of the decade’s most popular food trends. Keep it simple or experiment with your favourite extras. Why not try it for breakfast or a tasty snack?

BurritosAvocado toast

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Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

The film industry helped put Los Angeles on the map and no trip to the City of Angels would be complete without a visit to Hollywood. Go behind the scenes to see how the movies are made on the world-famous studio tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, and enjoy a wide variety of thrilling rides and exciting attractions, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Explore Yosemite National Park

Although Death Valley is California’s largest national park, Yosemite is one of the state’s most recognisable. Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore all that this breath-taking place has to offer. Tour Yosemite Valley’s spectacular canyon, prepare to be amazed by Glacier Point’s picture-perfect vista, and for real adrenaline junkies, scale the magnificent El Capitan - an imposing granite rock formation that rises 2,300 metres vertically into the sky. Yosemite is also home to the stunning Yosemite Falls - the highest waterfall in all of North America at 739 metres.

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge

Whichever way you choose to do it, crossing San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge is a quintessential Californian experience. Cycle, stroll, drive or cruise underneath - this beautiful bridge is a complete showstopper that’s not to be missed.

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Feel the wind in your hair as you drive the world-famous Pacific Coast Highway in a convertible. Running from the north of San Francisco to San Diego, and sprinkled with vibrant cities and glorious beaches, if you only choose to drive one American road, then the PCH should definitely be it.

Catch a wave

If you’re a surf bunny, there are plenty of fantastic places to catch a wave in California, especially in SoCal. Don’t miss chilled out Santa Cruz, beautiful Santa Monica, laidback San Diego and Huntington Beach, known fondly as ‘Surf City USA’.

Must-dos in

California

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Relive the California Gold Rush at Eldorado County

Located in the historic Gold Country of the Sierra Nevada, Eldorado County was the site of the 1848 gold discovery that led to the legendary California Gold Rush. Relive these exciting times and pan for gold at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park or pull on your walking boots and explore the glorious Eldorado National Forest.

Enjoy some peace and tranquillity at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Located just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, along the north end of Big Sur, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve was purchased privately back in 1933 to prevent its development, allowing the area’s wildlife and seascape to remain perfectly preserved. Inhale the fresh, salty, pine scented air as you explore the trails that follow the ocean, relax on the peaceful beaches, visit the whaling museum or go kayaking and look out for the cute sea otters floating by.

Soak in a natural spa at Mammoth Lakes Hot Springs

Situated on the edge of an ancient volcanic caldera, magnificent Mammoth Lakes is home to a network of natural hot springs – all filled with pure spring water and many of which are completely safe for you to soak in. Relax in your natural Jacuzzi and soak up the jaw-dropping views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada.

Discover the lowest point in North America at the Badwater Basin in Death Valley

Located at approximately 282 feet below sea level, the Badwater Basin sinkhole is located right in the heart of the Death Valley National Park. Stretching out before you as far as the eye can see, these eerie salt flats make for a truly unique experience, leaving you with a feeling that you’ve been transported to another planet.

Taste the sea at Pismo Beach

Located on the Central Coastline, in the heart of San Luis Obispo County, Pismo Beach - affectionately known as the ‘clam capital of the world’ - is often overlooked by travellers who are touring in the San Francisco or LA areas. However, venture a little further afield and you’ll be rewarded by this beautiful hidden gem. With a long swathe of sandy beach that’s surrounded by magnificent cliffs and the shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean, together with a laidback atmosphere, Pismo Beach exudes Californian charm. Don’t miss the chance to taste the sea with a mouth-watering clam chowder at one of the traditional beach bars.

Try something

Different

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The stunning Californian coastline stretches for 840 miles, so it’s hardly surprising

that it has a varying landscape depending on whereabouts in the state you are. Whether you want to catch the perfect wave in Newport Beach, stroll along the rugged clifftops in San Diego or simply soak up the sunshine on dreamy swathes of golden sands in Santa Monica, there are endless ways to experience beach life in California.

Here are five gorgeous beaches that you won’t want to miss:

Santa Monica State Beach

This huge beach can accommodate thousands daily. With abundant parking, restaurants and hotels nearby, it’s an easy stay for a weekend or longer. Kids and the young at heart will love the amazing pier with its fun-filled amusements and shops.

La Jolla Shores Beach

One of San Diego’s best, this mile-long, crescent shaped beach is a firm favourite with families, runners and dog lovers. Located on the southern end of the La Jolla underwater marine park, sea life and water sports, such as kayaking and surfing are easily accessible. Add in nearby shops, cafes, toilets/showers and a playground and you can see why many spend a whole day here.

Zuma Beach

This long, wide, sandy beach is one of the largest and most popular in Los Angeles county. Located close to the fabled town of Malibu, it’s great for surfing, swimming and spotting dolphins and sea lions. Altogether, it is a quintessential southern Californian hangout.

Newport Beach

Newport Beach prides itself on pristine California beaches with 10 miles of coastline for surfing, swimming, or sunbathing that easily rank among the best California beaches. Millions of people visit Newport Beach annually and enjoy the sand, pier, ocean, and boardwalk. For surfers, The Wedge is a famous spot to catch amazing waves.

Coronado Beach

Another popular San Diego beach, Coronado is loved by families, swimmers, surfers, walkers and dog lovers. The 1.5-mile-long stretch of wide sandy beach is very flat making it great for skimboarding too. The famous Hotel Del Coronado, with its peaked red roof and Victorian architecture, and various restaurants are also nearby.

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Five of California’sBest Beaches

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Spending Money

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Combo meal in fast food restaurant $8 Two tickets

to the movies $30

Three-course meal for two $70-80 Rental car per day $50-80

Single-day at Disneyland $100-135

Wondering how many US Dollars you’ll need for your Californian adventure? Here’s a little look at some of the things you might buy whilst you’re there.

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CaliforniaRoad trips

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An incredible choice of exciting itineraries

Tick off bucket-list landmarks, secluded beaches, stunning cities and much more besides on a California road trip. Discover the open road, taking in the best of the Bay Area - a beautiful region with lively cities, celebrated wine country such as Napa Valley and Sonoma County and outstanding natural wonders. Or take a trip through the country roads of the Central Valley, savouring just-picked produce and unforgettable meals as you go. For a spectacular coast-hugging adventure, drive around breath-taking places such as Newport Beach, Santa Barbara and Monterey. With so many exhilarating itineraries to choose from, you’ll be well and truly spoilt for choice.

Tick off plenty of stunning sights along the way

Roof down on your convertible, sunglasses on, your favourite tunes playing, the gentle breeze in your hair – a California road trip offers the perfect way to see the state’s breadth of amazing destinations, including those iconic urban hubs, legendary tourist hotspots and undiscovered hidden gems. From dazzling beaches to soaring forests, see it all and so much more on a legendary California road trip.

Home of the ultimate road trip, one of the best ways to explore California’s wealth of iconicdestinations and hidden gems is from behind the wheel. Head off the beaten track to discover

magical national and state parks, exquisite beaches, sparkling cities and glorious wine regions; all accompanied by jaw-dropping views each and every step of the way.

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Luxury Experiences

Renowned throughout the world for its glitz and glamour, California will not disappoint if it’s luxury experiences that you’re looking for. Indulge in some extravagant window-shopping as you rub shoulders with the rich and famous on Beverley Hills’ prestigious Rodeo Drive, enjoy some celeb spotting in Malibu, spoil yourself at one of Orange County’s unbelievable luxury resorts or take a VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood, with private access to an exclusive lounge.

Outdoor Adventures

With crystal-clear lakes, an immense 840-mile stretch of shimmering ocean, leafy city gardens, towering forests and spectacular national and state parks, California is a nature lover’s idea of heaven. There are so many ways to explore the wealth of amazing sights and astounding views as well, whether that be by bike, on a leisurely hike, riding a surfboard or roller skating.

Fun for all the family

California is the perfect place for a family-friendly adventure, with plenty of amazing opportunities for some action-packed fun in the sun. Exciting theme parks, glorious sandy beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, legendary attractions, fascinating museums and galleries, together with the warm and sunny climate, California has all the right ingredients for an unforgettable family holiday.

Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is home to the original Disneyland Park, which now features the all-new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, as well as the Disney California Adventure Park. Elsewhere in the state, you’ll find plenty of other options, including Six Flags Magic Mountain, Knott’s Berry Farm and Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park - a non-profit agriculture-themed park dedicated to educating children about plants and gardens.

The Golden State is also home to a huge variety of world-famous attractions. See a wealth of wonderful wildlife at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, meet the sea otters and harbour seals at the Monterey Bay Aquarium on historic Cannery Row, and enjoy some retro fun on the famous Ferris wheel on the Santa Monica Pier.

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California has to offerEverything

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Enthralling entertainment

California is bursting with exciting entertainment options to suit all tastes. Visit legendary landmarks such as the TCL Chinese Theatre or go behind the scenes to see how the movies were made at Warner Bros. Studios. Together with thrilling performing arts, world-famous musicals and captivating theatre productions, there are so many exciting entertainment options to delight all types of traveller.

Discover the magic of California’s parks

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and take the drive to one of California’s many majestic parks. Gaze in awe at the largest tree in the world - General Sherman - at Sequoia National Park, uncover a bounty of granite domes and cascading waterfalls at Yosemite National Park or check out the unique desert landscapes at the Joshua Tree National Park. California is also home to over 280 state parks, ranging from lush forests and crystal-clear waters to expansive deserts and spectacular coastal hills.

A food lover’s heaven

As one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions, California offers a true mix of food and drink for all. An epicurean wonderland with plenty of diverse flavours and specialities to choose from, California well deserves its reputation as one of the world’s foremost culinary destinations. Whether it’s a tasty tipple in a local craft brewery, dinner on a city rooftop, a casual meal on the waterfront or a visit to an on-trend farmers’ market, California offers a true mix of food and drink to tantalise your taste buds.

In Los Angeles, don’t miss the opportunity to dine at the award-winning Osteria Mozza, which serves upscale Italian cuisine in exquisite surroundings. For a taste of Mexico, La Taqueria in the Mission District of San Francisco serves some of the best burritos that you’re ever likely to eat, whilst San Diego is the place to be for sumptuous seafood delights, where the mouth-watering fish tacos are a definite must-try. The French Laundry in the Napa Valley regularly features in the annual Restaurant Magazine list of the Top 50 Restaurants of the World and offers a unique five-star dining experience like no other. Plus, with the launch of Michelin’s first ever state-wide guide, visitors to the Golden State can now choose from no fewer than 90 starred establishments.

California has to offer

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Three best things to see and do in Santa Monica:

• Soak up the sights as you stroll or cycle the three-mile route fromSanta Monica to bohemian Venice Beach

• Visit the Original Muscle Beach

• Have your photo taken at the iconic Route 66 ‘End of the Trail’ sign onthe Santa Monica Pier

Where to visitSanta Monica

Just moments away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Los Angeles, the beautiful beach community of Santa Monica offers the perfect base to explore the delights of Southern California. With its iconic pier, famous Ferris wheel, twinkly carousels and mile upon mile of soft sands, Santa Monica effortlessly combines seaside charm with some big city sophistication.

A laidback beach town at a walkable 8.3 square miles, hip Santa Monica is made up of eight neighbourhoods; each one offering a wide variety of shopping, dining and entertainment options.

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Three best things to see and do in South Lake Tahoe:

• Hike up to Inspiration Point for breath-taking panoramic vistas ofEmerald Bay State Park

• Hire a speedboat or take a kayak out across the crystal-clearwaters

• Try your luck at one of the world-class casinos

South Lake Tahoe

Perfectly positioned in the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains on the border of California and Nevada, South Lake Tahoe is a little busier than the northern shore and will delight lovers of the great outdoors.

Steeped in indigenous Native American history and with plenty of exhilarating activities ranging from cross-country skiing and snowboarding, through to hiking and cycling, there’s so much to see and do here to entice all types of traveller.

With its spectacular landscape of snow-capped mountains, cobalt blue waters and gorgeous white-sand beaches, together with a huge variety of exciting outdoor activities to enjoy, you’ll soon understand why Lake Tahoe is undoubtedly one of the greatest mountain destinations in the world.

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Three best things to see and do in Yosemite Mariposa County:

• Visit Yosemite Falls - the highest waterfall in all of North America

• Pan for gold or go rafting in the Merced River

• Don your walking boots for the Half Dome Cable Hike - Yosemite’smost prestigious trek

Yosemite Mariposa County

With its giant sequoia trees, vast meadows, amazing waterfalls, shimmering lakes and deep valleys, Yosemite Mariposa County epitomises peace and tranquillity, and is a far cry from California’s bustling cities and buzzing beach resorts. Covering almost 1,200 square miles of jaw-dropping scenery, you’ll find an abundance of activities to enjoy here, all within the stunning setting of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

From fishing, hiking, rafting and climbing, through to gold panning, arts and culture, spas, shopping and much more besides, Yosemite is the place to experience nature at its finest and is an absolute must place to visit during your time in California.

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Three best things to see and do in San Diego:

• Take a stroll through the lively and historic Gaslamp Quarter

• Meet the friendly animals at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo

• Visit the USS Midway Museum on the Navy Pier, where navalenthusiasts can explore this well-known aircraft carrier

San Diego

A surfing mecca and military outpost, stylish San Diego is a border city that boasts year-round sunny weather, 70 miles of beautiful golden beaches, a vibrant shopping and nightlife scene, a historic downtown quarter and a world-famous zoo.

Situated towards the southern end of California’s gorgeous west coast on the border with Mexico and perched above the shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean, sun-kissed San Diego is constantly regarded as one of the USA’s finest cities. A charming, friendly and laidback destination, there’s so much to see and do at any time of the year; whatever your interests may be.

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Three best things to see and do in Santa Cruz:

• Unfurl over 120 years of surfing history at the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, which is housed inside the Mark Abbott MemorialLighthouse

• Soak up one of the best views in town on a bluff overlookingDowntown Santa Cruz, where the last original building of the Santa Cruz Mission stands

• Enjoy some retro-style fun with a ride on the vintage Giant Dipperon the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Santa Cruz County

A super-friendly beach town, complete with a university, an iconic seaside amusement park, a legendary boardwalk, gorgeous redwood forested mountains and waves that surfers from all over the world flock to ride, Santa Cruz offers the quintessential Californian beach holiday. Located on California’s Central Coast, 65 miles south of San Francisco and 35 miles north of Monterey, Santa Cruz County is home to 29 glorious miles of sun-kissed coastline and an extraordinary number of state parks and beaches.

Whether you want to dig your toes into the warm sand and soak up the glorious sunshine, learn to surf like a true Californian, visit one of the thriving wineries or head out to explore one of the rugged State Park trails, you can do all this and so much more besides in spectacular Santa Cruz.

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Three best things to see and do in Sonoma County:

• Savour a wine and food pairing accompanied by stunning valleyviews at one of the local wineries

• Enjoy a tipple at one of the region’s craft breweries

• Browse the delicious local produce and artisan crafts at one of the year-round farmers’ markets

Sonoma County

Renowned for being a wine lovers’ paradise and the birthplace of the Californian wine industry, you’ll find amazing pours all year round, and the temperate climate and glorious rolling vineyards tucked between two mountain ranges make for a multitude of indoor and outdoor attractions for visitors to enjoy. With over 425 wineries, an amazing variety of restaurants serving everything from Michelin-starred cuisine to locally-grown wine country favourites, miles of rugged Pacific coastline to explore, fantastic spas and towering redwood forests, Sonoma County is quite simply breath-taking.

The rocky coastline is perfect for hikers, and a great place for crabbing and rockpooling, whilst The Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve is also a magnificent sight to behold. Combined with its close proximity to San Francisco at just 45 minutes to the north, Sonoma County is the perfect place to add onto your Northern Californian adventure.

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Three best things to see and do in Newport Beach:

• Be a captain for the day and chartera Duffy boat to explore the stretch ofstunning coastline

• Learn to surf, kayak or paddleboard at the Wedge – regarded as one of thebest bodysurfing sites in the world

• Indulge in a delicious local chocolateytreat on Balboa Island

Newport Beach

Home to radiant sunshine, glorious sandy beaches and amazing surf, upscale Newport Beach is the epitome of sophisticated Californian coastal charm. An intimate seaside oasis in world-famous Orange County, prepare to be enchanted by this picture-perfect holiday destination.

Made up of ten distinct neighbourhoods, each one with its own unique personality and natural beauty, you’ll certainly find plenty of ways to occupy your time in Newport Beach.

With the largest recreational harbour on the U.S west coast, make the most of the ten miles of extraordinary fishing, swimming, surfing and aquatic sports activities that are on offer on some of the cleanest beaches and harbours in the country. Be sure to watch bodysurfers at The Wedge too, where you’ll find some of Newport Beach’s best waves. Add to the mix, luxury shopping, soothing spa treatments, championship golf, art walks and wine tasting, and you have all the right ingredients for an idyllic holiday that can be as relaxed or as active as you please.

From stunning sunset cruises to exciting surf lessons, delicious wine tastings to modern shopping along the beautiful harbour-front promenades, this Californian gem will keep you coming back for more.

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Three best things to see and do in San Francisco:

• Cycle across the city’s most iconiclandmark - the Golden Gate Bridge

• Take a boat trip from Pier 33 andimagine life as a prisoner at theformidable island-fortress of Alcatraz

• Ride the famous cable cars up anddown the hilly streets

San Francisco

If you’re looking for a more cultural way to explore California, then you can’t go wrong with San Francisco. An eccentric and bohemian city, San Francisco really does have something for all types of traveller; whatever your interests may be.

Instantly recognisable from almost every vantage point, San Francisco’s appeal has never been fixed on mere landmarks. It’s in the style of its eclectic architecture and the irrepressible energy of its friendly locals that keep people coming back for more. From its diverse neighbourhoods to its bayfront pleasure land and the offshore fortress of the Alcatraz prison.

The City by the Bay has a unique charm and character that you simply won’t find elsewhere. There are so many facets to a holiday in San Francisco, from history to hippies, prisons to parks, seafood to shopping, and art to architecture, the city really does have to be seen to be believed.

The locals are warm and welcoming, and the dining and entertainment scene is second-to-none. Explore the beautiful Victorian buildings, stroll through the crooked streets and prepare to lose your heart to stunning San Francisco.

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Three best things to see and do in Napa Valley:

• Speed along a well-worn mountain trail onthe seat of a bicycle or go hiking

• Discover perfectly smoked charcuterie orwedges of handcrafted cheese

• Revel in world-class wine with a guided winetasting tour

Napa Valley

More than 400 wineries dot the fertile soils of Napa Valley, one of the world’s premier wine regions and famous for its prized Cabernet Sauvignon. Stroll through the vineyards, talk with the winemaker, or sip award-winning wines with dramatic views of the valley floor. Discover tasting experiences that go beyond the norm when you visit the wineries of Napa Valley.

Healthy living is part of the Napa Valley lifestyle. There are endless opportunities to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors: hike in a state park, bike on the Vine Trail, boat on Lake Berryessa and paddle on the Napa River. Napa Valley is also home to a vibrant arts community, from gallery openings to music festival to historic exhibitions. You’re sure to find the latest art, film, music and architectural experiences when you visit.

Be sure your Napa vacation includes reclining poolside at a lavish resort, eating at Michelin-starred restaurants, or taking to the skies with a balloon ride. Whatever you choose, the result is sure to be something exceptional.

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Yosemite itself is spectacular. We were glad we chose to go on an organised tour on our first day as we got to see all the major attractions - El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls…. Our guide was extremely informative and brought along his telescope, so we could see the climbers on El Capitan and the people who had hiked to the top of Half Dome.

Joanne, Travel Counsellor

The hop-on hop-off tour bus is a great way to see the city. Not only did we get to take in all the sights, but also the famous Rodeo Drive and hotel featured in Pretty Woman - one of my favourite films. We also saw the Hollywood sign from a distance and we chose to do the longest route, dropping by Santa Monica Pier, well worth a visit.

Vicky, Travel Counsellor

Our recommendations

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Yosemite National Park

Los Angeles

Our Travel Counsellors know the world better than anyone else. Check out their recommendations for the quintessential Californian experience.

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During our three days there we took the trolley bus tour that took us to Old San Diego. There is a layout of museums showing all memorabilia from the Wild West days. The bus goes down to the harbour and through the main town and then across the amazing high bridge to a place called Coronado Island, this offers a great beach resort and very cosmopolitan. It has the largest US Navy airbase. Back on the mainland, there is the largest US naval dockyard, which is home to the USS Midway, which is now a floating museum and well worth a visit, we spent four hours on board.

Carol, Travel Counsellor

I spent three weeks in California and I loved it. We drove along the beautiful Highway 1 and enjoyed everything California has to offer. From cities to little villages, national parks to vineyards and deserts, there is something for everyone.

Caroline, Travel Counsellor

29

San Diego

Highway 1 road trip

Page 28: Californiamediaserver.travelcounsellors.co.uk/Product-IE/...real adrenaline junkies, scale the magnificent El Capitan - an imposing granite rock formation that rises 2,300 metres vertically

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