One of my biggest dreams in life has always been to see the Golden Gate Bridge, which is what made this year’s trip to San Francisco so special. It still comes as a surprise to me that it was my first time on the west coast – after seemingly been around the world already. I’ve been itching to visit San Fran for the past four years, so to finally arrive in this dreamy city felt like a major accomplishment. Are things better on the west coast? I was about to find out.

 

For my five and a half hour plane ride there, I made sure to dress comfy yet still stylish. I heard that the weather in San Francisco can be quite chilly in the summer but also, it’s supposedly the warmest from September to October. Arriving mid September, I took a gamble and packed a couple light jackets, turtlenecks and a sweater with a suitcase predominately of summer clothes. Pictured above, I’m wearing my light blue trench overtop my sheer turtleneck with ripped jeans. I finished the look with my white platform Keds, which I basically wore everyday to walk in. Knowing that San Fran is a walking city, a good pair of comfy shoes is a must when exploring on foot.

 

Ironically, when I arrived I was sweating bullets. The weather in San Fran was perfect – with sunny blue skies reigning over – I figured I’d just gotten lucky this time of the year. Little did I know that was quickly about to change as soon as the sun went down. Because San Francisco is situated in Northern California, the climate is much cooler than their southern neighbours. Take a peak into my closet pictured above (walk-in closet via Airbnb) to see my attempt at bringing warmer layers. Nevertheless, I still left loving this city and here’s 11 reasons why you would too!

 

1. The seafood is unreal.

On my first night in town, dressed weather-inappropriately in leather shorts and sandals, I rode the metro car to the infamous Fisherman’s Wharf to get a feel of tourist life in San Fran. Known as one of their biggest tourist spots, I was awaiting some cheesy tiki bars and a multitude of street vendors to sell me souvenirs. It was definitely crawling with tourists but inside Fisherman’s Wharf, you can find some of the best seafood in town. I had the blackened cod (pictured above) at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant and it was honestly divine. I’m not usually big on fish but when in San Fran, you better eat as much seafood as you can. They have displays of fresh crab and fish in the storefronts of everywhere you turn that you really can’t resist. A must-try is definitely their clam chowder. I’m still dreaming about it to this day. 

 

2. Home to one of the most charming Chinatowns.

Whenever I visit any city, the Asian in me will firstly wonder if they have a Chinatown. San Francisco boasts one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, which got me really excited. After heading straight there as soon as I got off the plane, I’d say that’s doubtful (NYC takes the cake for the largest one) but it’s definitely the most charming one I’ve ever been to. Sitting on a stretch of slopey narrow streets, there were an array of Chinese eateries, quaint bakeries and street musicians playing one of my favourite Chinese folk songs. It had a steady flow of traffic but somehow, it felt very peaceful there. I enjoyed a crispy hot pineapple bun with a cup of milk tea (an HK favourite) in a random cafe as I waited for check-in time for my Airbnb. It felt like a taste of home. San Fran Chinatown is definitely a treat for the eyes amongst a great place for some tasty Chinese food.

 

3. The pho is next level.

I woke up the first morning with an intense craving for pho of all things, which led me back to Chinatown. There were many decently rated pho joints in the area but I decided on Golden Star Restaurant off the main strip. When my rare beef noodles came, my mouth was literally watering at the sight of it. The good portion of beef was super tender and the soup mixed in with the basil leaves was extremely flavourful. It was a very comforting meal to start my first day adventures in San Francisco. Definitely hit up Chinatown San Fran for some southern Vietnam style pho if you’re looking for a warm and simple meal.

 

4. The slopey streets are both frightening and breathtaking.

One of the things that struck me the most about San Fran was how intensely slanted the streets are. I travelled mainly by Muni and BART – their metro lines running throughout San Fran and the Bay Area – but took many Ubers as well. When I did travel by car, I got to experience the near 90 degrees angled streets as we ascended higher and higher. It was scary to say the least but also made me wonder how anyone could possibly walk uphill in San Fran and not collapse in exhaustion. I’d never seen anything like it; even more exhilarating when you ride down the slopey roads like a drop in a rollercoaster. During these intense Uber rides, what was more interesting to see were the houses lining up and down these 55 degree angled streets. I loved it. San Francisco’s definitely the most uniquely situated coastal city geographically I’ve ever been to. No more leg days after a day in San Fran, that’s for sure.

 

5. Forget observation towers, Twin Peaks is where the view’s at.

I was initially unsure if I could make it up to the infamous Twin Peaks for the best view of San Fran without driving. However, Uber to the rescue, I embarked on my journey all the way to the top of San Fran with a short ride from the city. This was probably one of the most exciting rides I took by car as we were driving on such intensely steep roads the entire time. After I got out of the Uber, there was a short hiker’s path to climb up until reaching the landing. Once I got on top, it was the windiest conditions I’d ever experienced. I got there right at sunset so the sky was quickly turning dark. At that point, San Francisco looked like a sea of glimmering lights. Thank god I bought a sweater beforehand though; I would’ve surely froze to death without it. Dress warmly when you venture up there people!

 

Twin Peaks was way better than I’d imagined. The city was coming to life and I was standing at the very top of it. Pictured above is one of the peaks which – confession time – I didn’t actually climb up. I attempted at first but the wind was so strong that I was deathly afraid I might be blown over if going all the way up. I also already felt that the view from the landing was spectacular enough. I didn’t need to risk my life for a slightly higher view but of course, I would’ve if I could. I would’ve loved to climb the peaks if not for my fear of falling over hills and cliffs. For those who don’t have that fear, please tell me how it compares to being down below! As for me, Christmas Tree Point (situated right below the North Peak) was already a beauty. I would suggest coming earlier to have more time to anticipate sunset though. And yes, the view is worth the climb.

 

Truth be told, I didn’t get to experience much nightlife here unfortunately. The one night I did go out was on a Sunday and it was pretty quiet even in the bars. Pictured above in the Fairmont Hotel, I’m dressed in my causal nighttime outfit. I styled my all black outfit with a denim jacket and a pair of booties to look cute at the bar in but comfy enough to bar hop. I actually only ended going to one bar that night and just spent the rest of the night strolling – or working out my legs so to speak – on their slopey streets. The only thing I didn’t like about downtown San Fran was how sketchy it can get at night. Go check out that bar but safely first! It’s in times like these that make me wonder how we ever lived without Uber.

 

An honourable mention on this list goes to Tongo Room & Hurricane Room, a tiki-style bar situated on the ground floor of the Fairmont Hotel (pictured above). When I saw pictures of this place via Yelp, I knew I had to go. I love live music for one, even better when it’s in the middle of a rainstorm. They have a thunderstorm striking every half hour with rain falling from the ceiling into the pool with flashing lights. The boat eventually moves into the center of the pool and the crowd loves it of course.  The only reason why I didn’t love my experience here, in spite of the amazing setting, was the weak act that night and how vacant it felt. Again, I went on a Sunday. You’d probably have better luck on a Friday or Saturday so I’d still give it a try if you’re in town. I’d also recommend making a reservation beforehand for dining room seats if you want a good view of the band. As for me, I just walked in and grabbed a quick drink by the bar as I watched on.

 

Although San Fran is a part of California, it didn’t exactly feel like it. Let me explain. You get the blessed palm trees that you would in any tropical climate and enough sunshine to last you for days. However, the weather was quite temperamental; one moment it’s hot, the next you’re regretting not bringing an extra sweater. The city in general also seemed to dance to the beat of its own drum. When I picture California, it wouldn’t look like San Fran. San Francisco’s in their own unique category of cool with an offbeat west coast vibe. Although I didn’t have time to visit all districts, you could tell right away it’s an artsy city populated by lots of unique personalities – the weirder the better IMHO. Read on to see the rest of the list!

 

6. Only in San Fran is visiting a prison also a sightseeing cruise.

To tell you the truth, visiting a prison has never been at the top of my to-do list. Just the thought of witnessing where hundreds of prisoners got locked up already made me feel uneasy. However, when everyone I asked suggested I go to Alcatraz while in town, my curiosity got the best of me. That and learning that it was not only any prison but one to house some of the world’s worst criminals in the middle of an island? I was down. I purchased my tour ticket two days in advance online and boarded the infamous Alcatraz cruise late afternoon. It was a short ride to Alcatraz Island but on the boat, you got scenic views of San Fran with the Bay Bridge looking so majestic in the distance. It was a beautiful sunny day to visit Alcatraz and what better way than to kill two birds with one stone by visiting the infamous prison along with a scenic cruise of San Francisco?

 

Although the sights on the cruise were nice, it was even more scenic when I arrived on the island. Alcatraz is technically not a part of San Francisco, I came to learn, so it was cool to know that I’d entered into newfound territory. The irony of this island is that within the prison walls, you can always see freedom through the windows. The water sparkling and the city illuminated was beautiful to say the least. Through the gated bars laid everything you ever wanted but to get to it, you’d just have to swim through a large body of water first. It was strange to know this space had been once used as prison – it was such a breathtaking sight that the views would’ve at least been an upside of being held prisoner here.

 

The maximum prison itself wasn’t as big as I’d imagined. The cells were quite tiny, just like in the movies with only enough room for a small bed, table and toilet. There were only a lucky few who got the cells facing the windows where sunlight would stream in. The rest were just like the other. We were all given guided audio tours of the entire facility including the cafeteria, recreational yard, the warden’s office and the much dreaded “D Block”. I spent most of my day there but the audio tour probably took around 2 hours to finish. They also have tour boats running throughout the night for the adventurous ones wishing to do the nighttime tour. However, I wasn’t one of those who intentionally wanted to creep myself out at a prison on a deserted island. I also didn’t want to miss out on the daytime views either. When I was finally ready to travel back to San Fran, the sun was just setting, which gave me a nice sunset cruise to write home about.

 

7. Nothing beats a stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf.

Located on the city’s northern waterfront, the wharf is definitely one of the busiest parts of San Fran. Like I mentioned earlier, this neighborhood is known for their seafood and scenic views of the bay, Alcatraz and of course, the Golden Gate Bridge. I spent my time mainly at Pier 39 on the first night – clustered with boutiques, souvenir shops and seafood restaurants. However, when I got off the boat from Alcatraz, I went in search of In-N-Out Burger, a short walk from the wharf. That’s when I discovered how much more there was to discover in Fisherman’s Wharf beyond Pier 39. It’s basically tourist central over there with a long strip of shops and dining options that any typical tourist would love. However, what I loved most about Fisherman’s Wharf was although it was highly populated, it felt so peaceful to talk a walk along the pier during sunset. With the multiple boat cruises lining the waterfront and the mountain views in the distance, I was soaking in every minute of it.

 

8. I’m still dreaming of the Biscoff Coffee Corner.

Speaking of the wharf, when you do visit, a MUST is getting the cookie butter latte at the Biscoff Coffee Corner. Located right at the entrance of Pier 39, you’re welcomed to the enticing display of Biscoff cookies that everyone in the world loves (unless you’re some cookie snob). Each cup of coffee comes with a complimentary cookie that just makes every beverage taste that much better. I’d suggest buying the cookies in bulk as it’s not everyday you get a Biscoff coffee shop wherever you go. Learn from my mistakes, people. I regret not buying multiple packs of those cookies everyday. The perfectly crispy texture coupled with the buttery sweetness, I won’t soon forget. They’re really they good.

 

9. Everyone needs to indulge in a meal in the Ferry Building at least once.

Aside from the wharf, you can also find amazing local foods in the San Fran Ferry Building Marketplace located right at Embarcadero station. Used as a terminal for ferries travelling across the Bay, it’s also a marketplace with freshly baked goods, artisan coffee and various handcrafted foods. On Saturdays, they also have a farmer’s market outside if you’re looking for fresh produce and one of a kind trinkets to take home with you. As for me, my big takeaway was enjoying a stress-free meal on the harbour with a lovely view of the Bay Bridge right in front of me. I sat right on the patio that beautiful September’s afternoon, feasting on as much seafood as I possibly could, while I still had the chance.

 

I’ll admit I balled out and dined like a queen at Hog Island Oyster Co. that day. I got half a dozen of their assorted oysters, a bowl of their famous clam chowder and a side of fries paired with a glass of their rose wine. Everything tasted delicious with the oysters being the standout. They were not only super fresh but massive in size compared to what I usually get back at home. I wanted to savour everything. The best part? I didn’t have to share anything – they were all for me. The many perks of traveling solo 🙂 Definitely get a patio seat when dining at the Ferry Building! I felt like I was living a page right out of Eat Pray Love TBH.

 

10. If for nothing else, the Golden Gate Bridge is reason enough to visit.

Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without a whole gushing section for the Golden Gate Bridge. I actually ended up visiting twice during my visit. The first time, the weather was super gloomy and the clouds covered half of the bridge. I was also not dressed for the chilly weather so I wasn’t prepared to make the 40 minute walk across the bridge. When I came back a few days later, the sun was shining and I had to shed some layers instead. Guess it was fate that I was meant to see it twice. Needless to say, I was ready to cross over this time. I’d heard the best view of the bridge was from Battery Spencer lookout point on the other side and you know I wasn’t going to miss out an amazing view now.

 

To be honest, the walk across the bridge wasn’t as great as I’d imagined. You have to share the narrow walkway with other bikers, which would’ve been fine if not for the heavy traffic of cars passing right beside us. Although the view of the city down below was nice, the noise coming from the road was distracting and not the experience I’d hoped for. When I did make it across, there was a visitor centre where you can take some more photos but the view wasn’t as nice as on the San Fran side. I almost didn’t even venture up to Battery Spencer after that because I’d have to take an Uber up there and wasn’t sure if it was worth it. Well, I found out later on that there’s an underpass that easily takes you right to the other side of the freeway and then a 10 minute hike up to the lookout. When I did finally get there, the view was honestly the most glorious sight I’d ever seen.

 

You know when you have one of those jaw dropping moments where the world seems to stand still for a split second? That was how I felt when I made it up to the landing and saw the Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory. Not to sound cheesy but it felt like I was seeing the bridge in its truest form and in the way it was meant to be seen. From high up above ground, the bridge looked bigger than life. I ended up staying three whole hours because truth be told, I couldn’t bear to leave this spectacular sight. Also, I figured since it wasn’t everyday I’d be there, I might as well stay for golden hour.

 

The wind was as strong as ever and I was starting to regret not wearing more (once again) but to witness the changing sky against that backdrop, I’d freeze my ass off all over again. Pictured above, I’m wearing my signature double denim outfit with a black v-neck bodysuit. I wanted to dress as comfortable as possible because I knew I’d be doing a lot of walking that day. I’d skip the heels at Battery Spencer, if you’re planning to take pictures for hours like I did. There was also a short downhill dirt path to see the bridge even closer for more epic shots but my fear of falling over the ledge was too strong. I was already in awe where I was standing – why ruin a good thing?

 

11. You will fall in love at the Japanese Tea Garden.

Although seeing the Golden Gate Bridge was the highlight of my trip, spending a couple hours inside the Japanese Tea Garden was actually my favourite part of the entire trip. Located inside of the Golden Gate Park is the most serene and secluded part of San Fran you could find. It’s sad that I was only able to stay a couple hours before I had to jump on my plane back home but so glad that I made the visit. As soon as I stepped through the big gated doors, I entered into a completely different world of complete peace and tranquillity. The garden was extremely well-kept and perfect for a day of meditation. I honestly couldn’t tell if I was still in San Francisco at that point.

 

I was blessed with beautiful weather on my last day in San Fran. The clear blue skies were a godsend with the sun beating down at me. My favourite part of the garden was the small tea house that overlooked the koi pond. The view from the tea house was exactly what I needed. I enjoyed a very simple and peaceful last meal there, consisting of a bowl of udon and a pot of sencha tea. I ended my trip to San Fran with a relaxed mind and got some Japanese healing stones from the souvenir shop to bring home with me. I gave them all away except for one; I kept the one that said ‘courage’ on it. It’s the one word that resonates with me the most. I wanted to remind myself daily to always find courage wherever I go. To travel to San Francisco solo after all these years took some courage; even more so to accomplish your goals in the presence of self-doubt. Take that trip, sis.

 

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