"My new favorite City" San Francisco by shohman

San Francisco Travel Guide: 9,094 reviews and 19,127 photos

lanterns in Chinatown - San Francisco
lanterns in Chinatown
San Francisco

San Francisco may be the coolest city in the world. I stayed in Chinatown during my time there, but walked most of the city through all the neighborhoods.
People hold onto their roots here. In Chinatwon, they still speak Chinese. In North Beach, many speak Italian. But everybody makes you feel welcome. There is also a real sense of community here. People gather in coffee shops or pubs, or public parks to talk about current events, play chess, or just hang out. Strangers are welcome to join in. I was in a crowded coffee shop when an older woman asked if she could sit with me. We both read the paper but also shared the most pleasant conversation.

There is very little pretension here. The opinion of a hippie is just as valuable as a man in a suit. People here have their own style and have a general respect for everyone elses.
This was my first trip, but certainly not my last.

Murals
Murals - San Francisco

Throughout the city, there are murals everywhere. I understand many change constantly. Where other cities have ugly, dirty alleys to be avoided, many of the alleys in San Fran are worth a look, as that's where some of the best murals are located.

funky homes
funky homes - San Francisco

Maybe it's because homes are so close together, but residents here paint their homes beautiful colors to distinguish themselves.
where other cities have strict codes allowing 2-3 color choices, San Fran allows the residents to express themselves. This makes a simple walk so much more enjoyable.

Pros and Cons
  • Pros:One of the great cities of the world
  • Cons:The drugs in Golden Gate park.
  • In a nutshell:My New Favorite City
  • Last visit to San Francisco: Jan 2008
  • Intro Updated Jan 16, 2008
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Reviews (34)

PHO! - San Francisco PHO! Restaurants (5)

Like many Vietnamese restaurants, they don't bother much here with decor, but this is some of the best Pho I've ever... more travel advice

the city below - San Francisco View the entire city Things to Do (7)

Coit tower on Telegraph Hill gives you a fantastic view of the entire city. To go to the top, it costs $4.50, you can... more travel advice

O'Reilly's Pub - San Francisco O'Reilly's Pub Nightlife (4)

Great pub that pulls a fine pint of Guinness and has a friendly staff with a loyal following. I stopped in for lunch and... more travel advice

playing cards in Portsmouth Square - San Francisco Portsmouth Square Local Customs (2)

Portsmouth Square in Chinatown is a gathering place for people to play cards, checkers, chess, practice Tai Chi, or... more travel advice

Comments (8)

  • Reply
    rcsparty's Profile Photo
    Jul 24, 2008 at 9:19 AM

    Heading to SF in Nov and can't wait...have a great birthday

  • Reply
    SullyBiz's Profile Photo
    Apr 4, 2008 at 11:21 AM

    Hey Scott, how ya been? Love the murals page. I can't wait to go back to San Fran (September). Think I'm gonna have to check out Vesuvio and that Giant Coffee place!

  • Reply
    poetjo's Profile Photo
    Mar 30, 2008 at 4:30 PM

    Love your pic of the bridge with the seagull, very nice. I think they came out great.

  • Reply
    Mar 29, 2008 at 8:29 AM

    San Francisco is a great city!

  • Reply
    Carmanah's Profile Photo
    Feb 20, 2008 at 4:46 PM

    I really got a feel for your time spent in SF - thanks for sharing! :) I'm going a little research as there's a good chance I'll be visiting in the near future for work!

  • Reply
    hotsauce28's Profile Photo
    Feb 8, 2008 at 9:36 AM

    i'm in mexico next weekend!!

  • Reply
    mircaskirca's Profile Photo
    Jan 26, 2008 at 2:36 PM

    City Lights Books and Vesuvio Cafe seem to be the winners! And murals are one of my favourite art expressions. Liked the old juke box as well :)

  • Reply
    garridogal's Profile Photo
    Jan 22, 2008 at 5:30 PM

    I love San Francisco. Hope to go back someday...!

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