Category Archives: San Francisco

March is the Month to Enjoy Flower Shows and Garden Events in USA

March marks the start of the pleasant spring season in the US. During this season, the country hosts several events and festivals to celebrate the colourful character of nature. Like every year, during 2016, the US is hosting an array of garden events and flower shows.

flower-fest

If you happen to visit this vast nation during March, you can easily find a show or two in almost every major city. We have compiled a list of three highly popular flower shows to be held in March 2016. Check them out!

San Francisco Flower and Garden Show

This is one of the most popular flower shows in the USA and like always, the San Mateo Event Center is all set to host San Francisco Flower and Garden Show from 16th to 20th March. In this Bay Area show, you would come across full-sized designer showcased gardens spread over an area of five acres. In these gardens, you get an opportunity to take a closer look at floral designs, flowers and learn how to prepare and preserve organic food. Besides, you can also participate in a range of free workshops and seminars that are available for all age groups.

Dallas Blossoms

Already voted as one of the Best Spring Floral Festivals in America by Fodor’s Travel, Dallas Blossom is the largest floral festival in the Southwest. In 2016, this floral festival will start on 27th February at Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and you can enjoy the shows, seminars, and a variety of activities till 10th April. This year, the theme of the festival is The Artistry in Nature and its most prominent highlight will be the exhibits of well-known sculptor Gary Lee Price.

Philadelphia Flower Show

Organised by Pennsylvania Horticulture Society (PHS), Philadelphia Flower Show is the largest indoor flower show in the US. When you visit the Pennsylvania Convention Center between 04th and 13th March, you will be delighted to see that the Philadelphia Flower Show is not just limited to flowers and horticulture. This grand event also features themes such as mountains, hiking trails, Train Garden, and the Butterfly Experience. Visit the Grand Hall at the Convention Centre to enjoy shopping, dining and live music besides participating in wine tasting sessions.

Top 5 Beaches of San Francisco that Best Reflect the City’s Refreshing Splendour

san-franciscoBeaches of San Francisco are among the best places to enjoy the summer time in the Bay City. Often covered by fog, the beaches offer a cool retreat away from the chaotic metropolitan ambience of the city. Spending a day at these beaches ensures a memorable experience of one’s trip to San Francisco. Check out five must-visit beaches in this endearing Californian city.

Ocean Beach

This is perhaps the most popular beach in San Francisco. During summers, Ocean Beach becomes a hot spot among locals and tourists alike. Visit in the morning for a jog here and to watch anglers fish in the Pacific waters.  Generally, the water here is quite cold and not apt for swimming, but the occasional sunny day promises a great sunbathing experience.

Stinson Beach

If you are looking for recreational opportunities by a beach, Stinson should be on your list. You can visit this beach anytime of the year but when it comes to swimming, hit the waters between May and September. During these months lifeguards are present at the beach.

China Beach

China-BeachChina Beach is a small cove but quite popular for providing staggering views of the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most iconic attractions in San Francisco. It is among the quietest beaches in the city and has emerged as a prime choice amongst honeymooners. Swimming is not too safe due to currents and rip tides.

Muir Beach

Its pristine surrounds and spellbinding scenery make for a relaxed paradise in San Francisco.  Besides beachcombers, a large number of hikers also visit Muir Beach to enjoy a hike to Tennessee Cove via Coyote Ridge Trail or Coastal Trail.  After your hiking session, find a spot on the beach to admire spectacular sunsets while sipping your drink.

Rodeo Beach

For nature lovers, a trip to San Francisco is incomplete without visiting Rodeo Beach. Besides boasting azure waters, powdery sands, and soothing ambience, the beach is also a home to a range of birds; pelicans, gulls and cormorants are a few species you can find here. Surfing and hiking are also quite popular. On weekends, it becomes a popular place for family picnics.

Chinese New Year – an Integral Part of San Francisco’s Cultural Calendar

If you ever wished to explore the Chinese-influenced culture of the USA, start your excursion from the Californian city, San Francisco! And February is perhaps the best time to immerse into the Chinese splendour in the USA. This is the month when China celebrates its New Year and San Francisco’s Chinese society does the same with great gusto. This is the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside China. Hence, locals as well as tourists also get an opportunity to explore the magnificence of the Bay City clad in colourful Chinese spirit at Chinatown. In 2015, the 19th February will mark the commencement of Chinese New Year. Read on to know about the major highlights of this spectacular annual festivity.

Chinese New Year Parade

Arguably, this is the most prominent highlight of this gala event. Scores of holidaymakers have already booked flights to San Francisco to catch the action of this parade, one of the very few night-time, illuminated parades in the USA. The parade boasts numerous floats, traditional bands, school marching bands and lion dancers. All these performances are highlighted by colourful show of firecrackers. To get the best view of the parade, buy tickets for grandstand seating.

Flower Fair

The New Year celebrations in Chinatown are complemented by numerous fairs and events. One such example is Flower Fair which is held a weekend before the first day of the year as per the Chinese calendar. The fair is peppered with stalls and shops dealing in flowers, traditional plants, fruits and candies. Chinese people flock here in large numbers to buy necessary items for traditional celebrations. Culture vultures boarding flights to visit San Francisco in February must visit this Flower Fair to experience a captivating oriental feel of the USA.

Community Street Fair

This street fair takes place on the weekend that falls just after the Chinese New Parade. Main highlight of the fair is cultural arts of China such as folk dances, puppet shows, fine arts demonstrations and kite and lantern making. Numerous travellers enjoy the extended version of Chinese New Year celebrations during this street fair.

Two Coolest San Francisco Neighbourhoods that Promise a Fun Filled Holiday!!

San Francisco is a perfect holiday destination, owing to its modern culture, different ethnicities and lifestyle which goes hand in hand with the artistic aura, sparkling out of magnificent wonders that glow amid its scenic landscape! However, it’s the amazing string of gorgeous neighbourhoods, surrounding this city, that steal most of the time of travellers grabbing flights tickets to the USA. As diverse as they are enthralling, all these regions outline the most notable hotspots which are highly unique from each other. Below is a quick rundown of the two most colourful neighbourhoods of San Francisco that impress visitors.

Cole Valley

Cole-Valley

Cole Valley by Paul Churcher/ CC BY

Cole Valley is one of the hottest neighbourhoods of San Francisco and it has attained a prominent position in travel itineraries of global travellers. This colourful and charming neighbourhood promises a distinct community feel. Unlike other neighbourhoods in the region, businesses and shopping make up the most interesting opportunities here. Spectacular city views are special perks of wandering around in Cole Valley as the nearby Tank Hill allows the visitors to enjoy one-of-its-kind panoramic vistas, hard to find anywhere else. Moreover, there are dozens of high-end cafes and restaurants which give the epicureans another reason to relish their visit to Cole Valley.

Pacific Heights

Pacific-Heights

Pacific Heights by Angelo DeSantis/ CC BY

One of San Francisco’s premier neighbourhoods, Pacific Heights is indeed one of the best places that rewards you the most for monies spent for tickets to San Francisco. The region is crammed full of lavish mansions and gorgeous parks that offer spellbinding views of Marina and Bay. Vacationers may find some popular upmarket shops and boutiques including Betsey Johnson, Rachel Ashwell’s Shabby Chic and Kiehl’s on the much celebrated Fillmore Street. To treat the taste buds with delicious meals or snacks, travellers have choices like Jackson Fillmore, Vivandi Porta Via and Elite Café, all serving both local and international cuisine. Fishbowl and Godzilla Sushi are two other hotspots of the region which are equally famous amongst holidaymakers disembarking flights in San Francisco.

A Quick Look at Fascinating Facilities at San Francisco International Airport

Ultra-modern infrastructure, smooth connectivity, comfy transfers and an attractive array of modern amenities are just a few components that make San Francisco International Airport (IATA: SFO) a world-class aviation hub. About 16kms south of San Francisco city centre, the airport offers almost everything a modern traveller may ask for. After all, it is one of the largest airports in the USA, both in terms of size and connectivity. Here is a sneak preview of the amenities and services offered at this prominent international gateway to the city of San Francisco as well as the rest of California State.

Places to Eat & Drink

With a broad choice of trendy bars, chic cafes and inviting bistros at both transfer and passenger zones, SFO spoils epicureans between choices of the famous authentic cuisines and various intercontinental delicacies. Whether you seek a quick snack or a leisure meal with family and friends; there is something for all at this state-of-the-art aviation hub. Amoura Café near Gate A3, Andalé Mexican Restaurant at Terminal 3 Boarding Area and Burger joint near Boarding Area A are some popular eateries where people booking tickets for flights to and from SFO can enjoy delectable meals. Coffee-lovers would have a gala time at several cafés like Buena Vista Cafe and Emporio Rulli Gran Caffe.

sanfrancisco

San Francisco

Tax-free Shopping

San Francisco International Airport boasts various retail stores that offer everything from gifts to books and designer brands to luxury boutiques. Most of these goods are available at duty-free rates, allowing passengers to enjoy shopping before or after their scheduled flights. Outlets are located mainly at Terminal 1, 2 and 3 as well as in baggage claim hall. Many local retailers in main shopping area sell authentic San Francisco souvenirs and that to at reasonable rates. Art enthusiasts should visit the SFO Museum and the San Francisco Art Commission for a peek into region’s interesting art and history.

Easy transfers

Getting to and from SFO is easy and hassle-free, thanks to the excellent transport system that connects it with San Francisco and the surrounding areas. BART rapid rail is perhaps the most convenient and fastest mode that links the airport with San Mateo County, San Francisco and the East Bay. SanTrans buses also offer frequent services to and from this swanky aviation hub in the USA. People looking for comfy ride can hire a car from SFO’s Rental Car Centre.

Most Popular Restaurants in San Francisco that you will Fall in Love with!!

Most Popular Restaurants in San Francisco

If you are heading to San Francisco and have no clue where to eat out in the city, read on as we give you a quick peek into some of the best eateries that the city takes pride in having.

Nopa

Specializing in organic wood-fired cuisine, Nopa manages to stay perfect while serving the customers the best of everything. The food is urban rustic and created with seasonal ingredients sourced from local suppliers; no matter what time of the day you visit, a delicious treat is guaranteed. People who are booking tickets on flights to San Francisco should know that this restaurant’s reservation is hard to get and therefore a prior booking is a must.
Where: 560 Divisadero Street

Bar Tartine

With its irresistible dishes and peerless service, Bar Tartine is a hot favourite among the locals as well as the tourists. One visit is enough for you to fall in the love with the dishes that they serve. That is the reason why it is always packed with frequent customers. Chef Nicolaus Balla takes the conventional cuisines to a next level; you will find the flavours of Hungary, Japan and Denmark, as well as California into the menu of this restaurant. Try the fried langos potato bread and daytime Smørrebrød sandwiches; they are wonderful!
Where: 561 Valencia Street

Gary Danko

The award winning chef Gary Danko’s ambitious venture has resulted in this fabulous spot for fine dining. From soul stirring dishes to legendary service, Gary Danko’s meticulousness is visible in everything. The restaurant serves sophisticated contemporary cuisine and it is served in a classy ambience. Holidaymakers who are blocking tickets aboard flights to San Francisco and are wondering if there is a good place for fine dining, Gary Danko is their spot.
Where: 800 North Point Street

SPQR

SPQR is, in case you want to know, short for Senatus Populesque Romanus which means ‘People and Senate of Rome’. Passionate about Italian cuisine and wines, the restaurant is one of the finest Italian restaurants in the city. Chef Matthew Accarrino, winner of ‘Best New Chef’ in 2014, is leading the place and has an incredible enthusiasm for keeping the restaurant among the best. Highest quality of food, delicious wines, and great service – SPQR has it all.
Where: 1911 Fillmore Street

Stern Grove Festival 2014: A Staple for Music Lovers Flying to San Francisco

The city of San Francisco is one of the most happening and lively destinations of the USA and hardly gives the people here a reason to stay calm! However, one of the many excuses currently, which are keeping people here on their toes, is the much renowned ongoing musical festival, Stern Grove. Celebrated during the months of June, July and August, this gala event sets countless merrymakers on a mad quest to grab flights tickets to San Francisco.

This magical music event hosts an incredible series of admission-free concerts and strives to provide talented performers a distinct opportunity to showcase their talent in front of the world audience. Moreover, the carnival aims to cater all forms of diverse audiences by arranging live performances and shows by a different class of artists across varied genres on select Sunday afternoons. Stern Grove is currently in progress and attempts to enhance and promote San Francisco’s rich culture and heritage by presenting to the world a wide selection of musical charms.
Holidaymakers already vacationing in San Francisco or those who have booked air tickets to the city to board their flights in the coming weeks must not forget to include this gala celebration in their travel itineraries. The event is being held at Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove, popularly known as Stern Grove. The centre is a eucalyptus-wooded natural amphitheatre with trees forming the walls for the exquisite outdoor concert venue.

Each Sunday afternoon, right from the start until the end of the festival, is reserved for some world class act, concert or show to treat both local and global visitors to some of the finest performances. While June saw many finer events concluding, several more prominent performances are still in the pipeline to ensure a whale of a time to the arriving guests. Below are the scheduled events of Stern

Grove Festival:

July 27: Rufus Wainwright and Quartet San Francisco
August 3: Andrew Bird and the Hands of Glory and Todd Sickafoose’s Tiny Resistors
August 10: Darlene Love and Monophonics
August 17: Sergio Mendes and LoCura
August 24: The Zombies and Vetiver

Top 3 Haunted Sites for Ghost Hunters Booking Flights to San Francisco

Top-3-Haunted-Sites-for-Ghost-Hunters-Booking-Flights-to-San-Francisco

USA’s City by the Bay, San Francisco packs in scores of attractions and activities to ensure its visitors are entertained and engaged. But what makes this city such a hotspot with ghost hunters from across the globe is the prolific availability of spooky sites in the city. It is the city’s fair share of haunted attractions that make it a stamping ground for ghost hunters booking tickets on flights arriving in the USA. Here are just three of the most popular haunted attractions in the city of San Francisco for those booking their seats aboard flights bound for the USA.

Winchester Mystery House

Ranking alongside some of the world’s scariest places, Winchester Mystery House remains the star attraction for every visitor who books flights to the city of San Francisco to chase the paranormal. There is a long list of tales and legends attached to this place and locals believe that the house was cursed, haunted by ghosts and spirits both famous and infamous. There have been several reports of sightings of ghostly apparitions and paranormal activities in the house.

Stow Lake

Arguably one of the most infamous and haunted sites in San Francisco, Stow Lake is reportedly home to many ghostly occurrences. Over the years, people have reported several ghost-sighting at this place after dark. As per a legend, an infant slipped from the stroller and crashed into the murky water and her mother jumped in the water to save the baby. But both the mother and child drowned and people believe that at night the lady’s ghost pleads with passers-by to help her find her baby that drowned. With its creepy ambiance, this Golden Gate Park’s Stow Lake tops the popularity charts alongside other attractions in San Francisco tempting many paranormal hunters to book direct/indirect flights to the destination.

Alcatraz

This is one of the top attractions in San Francisco and tempts a fair share of sightseers who book flights arriving in the USA. There is a long list of eerie tales attached to this place that are sure to scare the wits out of even the lion of hearts. There have been several reports of spirits inhabiting the halls of Alcatraz and different sounds coming out from the old shower room. Many daredevils are often found looking for flights bound for San Francisco to find out the truth behind the legends attached to this building. Certainly not for the faint of hearts, Alcatraz is one attraction that tempts spirit chasers into booking seats on flights arriving in Canada’s popular city for a perfect spooky adventure.