In Europe there are so many places to see that I never wanted to go anywhere more than once. Paris was the exception at five visits. Okay, I went a bit overboard.
So, when I find myself somewhere for a second time, I start to feel a bit strange. Almost like a local? Even if it’s only your second time, there’s something to be said for understanding the subway and knowing where most things are located.
This was the case as I touched down in sunny San Francisco to meet Charlie for my last weekend before returning to Canada. I hopped on the train into town and met him right in the centre. Luckily he guessed the correct of three station exits because we didn’t have working phones!
With only a weekend to hang out and see the city, we were selective with our plans. Both days included amazing ‘real American’ breakfasts at local diners. By this I mean greasy bacon and thick flapjacks. It wasn’t a necessity for me, but he’s English. It’s still a novelty. In any case, I thoroughly enjoyed my breakfasts at Lori’s Diner on Mason Street and Pinecrest Diner on Geary Street.
We also had a few drinks one evening in the Library of Bourbon & Branch, a speakeasy bar hidden behind the doors of a detective agency. This is a must visit if you get the chance.
Saturday we did something we’d both always wanted to do. We walked from our hotel, The Clift on Geary Street, up and over the hills of the city until we reached the famous Pier 39. It was a gorgeous day and the pier was buzzing.
From there, we rented bikes and took them all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge. It was a spectacular view, despite the low clouds that covered the top of the bridge. Pretty sure I didn’t get a good view of it on my last visit either! I’ll have to come back until I do.
I was pretty tired by the end of that bike ride; I guess walking around London for two years doesn’t make me a super athlete like I’d hoped. But, I’d do it again. It was a perfect way to pass the afternoon.
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