cali road trip, part 1: San Fran

Let me start by saying that we did not leave our hearts in San Francisco.

I was actually kind of shocked. All this time, this city has beckoned me. So when we planned a week-long beach vacation to Carmel, I begged Lewis for an SF pitstop. We had a great 40 hours there, including a fun reunion with my college friend Karen, whom I hadn't seen in like 15 years. We ate well and saw a lot of beautiful murals, incredible bridges, huge hills, cute houses and the most uplifting and energetic church service I have ever been to (Glide Church).

So how on earth did we not feel the love? It had a lot to do with its size. San Francisco is a city's city. A real city. I thought Portland was a real city, especially compared to Älmhult or even Denver. But if Portland was a tugboat, San Fran would be a tanker. We were simply overwhelmed. I think it has a lot to do with its geography. As an island, it has nowhere else to go. It's a densely packed concrete jungle. The Pacific's New York. But, I say, if you are looking for a New York experience, just go to New York.

On a related note, what's the big deal with In-n-Out? We didn't get it — and that includes Lewis, who had his first burger in 20 years there.

For the time being, our hearts remain in Portland, and that's a nice way to feel after visiting one of the world's top cities.

But, Carmel ... oh Carmel, we'd come back to visit you any day. Trip details to come ...

 

Comments

[Liz]

I can't believe Lewis ate a burger!!!

[Vanessa]

What, no raves for In-N-Out?!? I've never had one of their burgers, but so many people seem obsessed with them. I was planning on having my mind blown this summer, but...

[ginny]

I know, V ... I even ordered off the secret menu and everything. I don't really know what the obsession is. Compared to McDonald's, it rocks. But I much preferred the burger I had at Deschutes here in Portland. Lewis was severely let down.

[Wink]

I adore what little I've seen of SF on the few short trips I've made there, but I wholeheartedly agree about In-n-Out. I couldn't even finish my "animal style" burger last time, not for being full but because it was too flavorless. For all of the hype, I know a bunch of Californians who secretly confess to preferring Carl's Jr. The hand-cut fries ARE nice, but here in CO we can get those at Good Times and Smashburger. No plane ticket required!

[Sue from Minneapolis]

Let the booing begin: I'm no fan of California. I think the whole state is over-hyped. I thought being as crunchy and hippie dippy as I am, I would love it. I just didn't. La, SanFran, Sacarmento, Bleh. Though San Diego is beautiful. That's the real gem in Cali. Not mention, before I became a vegetarian, I tried In-&-Out. I honestly didn't see what the big deal was. Whataburger in Texas is better.