California’s diverse geography gives people the opportunity to travel the coast along the Pacific Ocean or venture east towards the Sierra Nevada mountains. Visit the famous city of Hollywood or take a deep breath and slow down in the mountainous areas of Lake Tahoe. California has a place for everyone!
Enjoy the magnificent blends of San Francisco’s wine country and cruise along the beautiful Bay on your guided tour to one of America’s most favored cities. You will not be disappointed when you spend time getting to know the celebrated wine regions of Napa and Sonoma or spend a relaxing day playing a round of golf while you take in the unforgettable scenery of San Francisco.
The famous HOLLYWOOD sign has a less glamorous origin than most people think. It was actually built as a publicity stunt. In 1923, some Californian real estate developers wanted to promote a housing project in the district known as Hollywood, which was named after the number of holly trees, and was then quite empty. They erected its name in fifty-foot-high white letters, each of which blazed with hundreds of electric bulbs: HOLLYWOODLAND. The letters were only meant to stay standing for 18 months. But the sign also happened to coincide with the surge of film studios in this part of Los Angeles, which made the name Hollywood famous around the world. The giant sign soon became an icon of the American movie industry – so much so that in 1932 an unhappy actress named Peg Entwistle committed suicide by climbing the letter “H” and throwing herself off. Still, over the years, the sign had to battled the weather, vandalism and neglect. In 1949, after a drunken caretaker drove his truck into the letter H and knocked it down, a restoration effort began. City officials ordered that the last four letters, LAND, be removed. But without steady funds for upkeep, the sign continued to deteriorate until the first O cracked in half and the third O collapsed – a sorry sight. Finally, in the 1970s, the Playboy magnate Hugh Heffner galvanized LA celebrities to finance a completely new version of the sign. In 1978, the slightly shorter letters, measuring 45 feet, were unveiled. With the occasional touch of cosmetic surgery, they are still going strong today.
The Nobel Prize-winning author set three of his most popular novels here, including the whimsical Cannery Row, which he wrote after moving back from New York to California in 1944. The title setting for the book was a colorful waterfront lane officially called Ocean View Avenue, whose inhabitants had long included Spanish, Japanese, and Italian fishermen.
Few cities have been so entirely linked to a literary figure as Monterey is with John Steinbeck. The Nobel Prize-winning author set three of his most popular novels here, including the whimsical Cannery Row, which he wrote after moving back from New York to California in 1944. The title setting for the book was a colorful waterfront lane officially called Ocean View Avenue, whose inhabitants had long included Spanish, Japanese, and Italian fishermen.
In 1958, Ocean View Avenue was officially renamed Cannery Row after the bestselling book, and many of the rusting canneries were saved and restored, starting with the Sardine Factory Restaurant in the 1960s. Today, the waterfront is one of the most beloved attractions in California. Steinbeck’s character, Doc, would no doubt have approved that the ocean offshore is now a marine reserve—and also that, if he so chose, he would have little difficulty in finding the ingredients for his beloved Beer Milkshake in the Monterey waterfront bars.
It’s hard to recall today that the gracious harbor city of San Francisco was actually born out of chaos, sin and violence. After the discovery of gold in 1849, the sleepy port was invaded by miners, criminal, prostitutes and desperados, making the town as wild as Deadwood or Dodge City. One district in particular became notorious for its dangerous street life: the Barbary Coast. Named after the pirate-filled shores of Africa, it was located just east of today’s Chinatown. In the words of historian Herbert Asbury, this corner of San Francisco was a colorful combination of viciousness, depravity and glamour. Today, only a few relics of the grimy saloons and brothels of the time remain. But several bars do still have the trapdoors in the floor, relics of the practice of Shanghaiing sailors. Unwary drinkers would be lured to bars and slipped liquor laced with opium. As they reeled from the drugs, owners such as the notorious Miss Piggott, whose fists were said to be the size of smoked hams, would thump them over the head. The trapdoor would be opened, and the unconscious victim would fall below, only to awaken on a ship far at sea. The regular drinkers would apparently ignore such illegal activities, no doubt wary that they themselves might be tossed “down the hatch”.
Maybe because so many of its landmarks and regions have become bigger than life— pop culture postcards that represent places that millions dream of visiting. How many visitors every day ask, “Am I really standing on the Golden Gate Bridge? Am I gazing up at half dome in Yosemite? Is that the actual Hollywood sign? Am I really here?”
Just the mention of the word “California” conjures up dreams. Of mountains, movie stars, and dramatic coastlines. Of spectacular cities, lush valleys, countrysides and tucked away Shangri-las.
As a dreamer’s paradise, California does more than just call out to the dreamer. It implores them to take the journey…
To San Francisco, where rippled layers of fog tease the visitor, offering glimpses of one of the world’s most beguiling cities. Then the veil gives way, revealing the jewel by the bay where so many dreamers found inspiration. Here walked Mark Twain, Jack London, Joe DiMaggio, Alfred Hitchcock, the Grateful Dead and so many others.
You may be familiar with the wonderfully winding Lombard Street. It’s called “The crookedest street in the world” and was designed with eight sharp “switchback” curves to help offset the hill’s natural 27 percent grade. Or Union Square, designed in 1850 and named for the many pro-Union demonstrations that happened there during the Civil War. Or the art deco Coit Tower, built in 1925 and featuring more than two dozen murals by various artists and Chinatown. But did you know San Francisco is also where the fortune cookie was invented? Not to mention denim jeans (for gold rush miners who needed tough clothing), Irish coffee and even the Popsicle!
Then there’s the island in the bay that has served as a lighthouse, a military fortification, military prison and a federal penitentiary. Currently, it’s a popular national recreation area, know to all as “Alcatraz.” In San Francisco you’ll also find the only mobile National Historic Landmark (the venerable San Francisco Cable Car), Angel Island (Ellis Island of the west) and a certain bridge that has become one of America’s most definitive icons.
The Golden Gate Bridge was opened when President Franklin Roosevelt pressed the button on May 27, 1937. It was the longest suspension bridge in the world back then, and incredibly, its vibrant orange color almost didn’t happen. Orange was the color of the sealant used on the bridge, and locals loved it so much they persuaded architect Irving Morrow to forgo the standard silver and stick with the distinctive orange, which it still is today. Still one of the world’s most breath taking man-made structures, a walk across the bridge is a dream unto itself. (So you know, the “Golden Gate” that the bridge spans is named as such because it resembles Istanbul’s Golden Horn.)
Just north is Napa Valley. Robert Louis Stevenson lived here and wrote about this intoxicating area, today a wine region that ranks with France, Italy and Spain. The climate, geography and geology all combine to create a fertile grape-growing region, and the first commercial vineyard here was established all the way back in 1858 by John Patchett. Today, more than four million people visit Napa Valley each year, so Mr. Patchett’s dream for the area certainly became realized.
Head slightly east and the clock spins back in time when you hit Old Sacramento, where dreams of gold lured many a miner in the mid 1800s. History reveals itself on every corner, from the building that served as the western terminal of the Pony Express, a railroad museum, a military museum—it’s a rush—a gold rush.
Nearby is idyllic Lake Tahoe. You may recognize it from the TV series Bonanza or in the film The Godfather Part II. It’s the highest alpine lake in the United States and the second largest alpine lake in the world. Mark Twain, not known for being easily impressed or given to superlatives, called his view of Lake Tahoe “The fairest picture the whole earth affords.”
Heading south to Yosemite National Park, you’ll be able to experience the world’s third largest waterfall and North America’s highest (a drop of 2425 feet). And, oh the dreamers that walked these woods in the shadow of granite domes, towering water falls and pristine forests: Famed naturalist John Muir, photographer Ansel Adams and Teddy Roosevelt who, upon visiting Yosemite in 1903, called it “The most beautiful place in the world.” And as vivid and rewarding as your color photographs will be here, if you can, perhaps shoot some black and white as well. After all, with the muse of Ansel Adams surrounding you (he lived here), you’re bound to capture something extra special. Heading back west across the state, to the ocean, the enchanting places known as Carmel and Monterrey await. Both are havens for artists of all breeds, and while on the scenic 17-mile drive, Lone Cypress and John Steinbeck landmarks are all must-considers. The magic of both places is not just found in the spectacular landmarks, but hidden on secluded beach trails and historic alleyways.
Continuing south, hugging Highway 1 along the picturesque Pacific coastline, you soon arrive at San Simeon. You may encounter plump sea lions basking on the sand near the roadway. But you will certainly see the house high on the hill, Hearst Castle, the dream home of dream homes. 165 rooms, 38 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 14 sitting rooms, a kitchen, a movie theater, 127 acres of gardens—it’s not a dream, it is real, as are 1,000,000 tiles covering the pool room—each inlayed in real gold. The entire complex is a monument to the power of the dream. But what few people know is that originally, Hearst’s idea was to build a small, simple bungalow up on the hill—because he was tired of camping in the area. The house sits on the spot where he tent-camped as a child over the course of many family trips.
Motoring south, the Denmark inspired city of Solvang and coastal community of Santa Barbara will soon beckon. The dream of Danish settlers in 1911, Solvang features traditional Danish life in a setting that becomes the definition of “quaint.” Santa Barbara “The American Riviera”, in addition to being one of the most scenic places in California (if not the world), is also where some popular products and concepts were dreamed up: Kinko’s, Motel 6, the Egg McMuffin and even the Oscar Weinermobile!
And how fitting that “California Dreaming” winds up in Los Angeles. It’s the perfect Hollywood-ending that a journey like this deserves. Writer Quentin Crisp called Los Angeles “New York lying down” and it’s an apt description. The city’s sprawl pulls you in a thousand directions, each path promising something provocative. The grandeur of Beverly Hills? The history of Olvera Street? The funky charm of Melrose, West Hollywood, Santa Monica or Los Feliz? The beaches of Malibu, Westwood Village, the Miracle Mile—which direction to take? Which street of dreams will you follow?
If you’re like many, then perhaps you’ll choose the one that runs through the original dream factory, Hollywood. This is where wide-eyed millions have come in search of dreams; of fame, fortune and celebrity. It’s been that way since the early 1900s, when east coast producers figured it was easier to make their dream films come true out where the weather was better. After all, back then, natural light was easier to harness than electricity. Interesting as well is the fact that the farther away producers got from New Jersey, the easier it was to make movies because it was harder for Thomas Edison to enforce his many motion picture patents from 3,000 miles away!
Dream chasing took place when the first films were shot in California and it has continued though the evolution of Hollywood not just as a place but also as a state of mind. The ghosts linger in the stardust, from James Dean to Marilyn Monroe, on the streets where you’ll be walking.
From the cities to the mountains to the beaches—this is California, in all its majestic, historic and dreamlike glory. It’s a journey that touches the heart and soul of many remarkable places, immersing the fortunate traveler in a lifetime’s worth of experiences.
California is a dreamer’s paradise.
So go ahead, pinch yourself if you’d like. It might help remind you that yes, these places do exist.
They’re not just a dream. And they are waiting for you on this most unforgettable journey.
If you are looking for a vacation filled with excitement and adventure, you will get all of that and more when you travel to California with Globus. Between the faster paced cities of San Francisco and Los Angeles, to the relaxing and beautiful mountain scenes of Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, this beautiful state has everything you are looking for in an unforgettable vacation.
California is home to some of the world’s most diverse geography, ranging from the Pacific Coast in the West, to the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the East. It is home to the third longest coastline in the United States and has some of the most beautiful sites in the country. You will be amazed as you tour from along the coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles where you can journey through the famous city, home to famous movie stars, and go behind the scenes to experience the Tournament of Roses. This festival offers visitors an unforgettable dance gala filled with live music, hats, party favors, and plenty of champagne. While you’re in Los Angeles, don’t forget to visit the Getty Museum and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, both filled with monumental legacies you won’t want to miss.
If you are looking for an opportunity to try some of the world’s greatest wine, venture north to San Francisco for guided sightseeing tours through famous wineries and take a cruise across the Bay. As you spend your time getting to know the wine regions of Napa and Sonoma, indulge yourself in a relaxing day at the spa or play a round of golf on world renowned courses.
The adventures you will experience on your vacation to California offer amazing and unforgettable adventures for anyone who desires to go. The breathtaking views, beautiful coastline, and fun activities make this state one of America’s most famous hot spots. You can plan on California being a vacation to remember forever, so start planning now!
We start our driving vacation by checking out some designer wheels in California. On the third Sunday in June, Rodeo Drive is closed off from Wilshire Blvd to Santa Monica Blvd for the Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance. The Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance is a fashionable exhibit of lavishness automobiles set against the backdrop of world class Rodeo Drive designer boutiques and palm trees.
While attending this free annual event you are sure to spot a few celebrities, as well as your own reflection in the gleaming turquoise bonnet of an antique Chevrolet. The event has also been named one of Frommer’s “300 Unmissable Events & Festivals Around the World.”
Once you’ve toured Beverly Hills and taken a “stars’ homes” tour, make sure to take in these this California highlights:
San Diego Zoo
Since opening in 1915, the San Diego Zoo has been one of the world’s largest zoos. Its more than 4,000 species are only part of the story now, however—the zoo is also one of the most progressive, with extensive conservation and species-preservation policies, and a pioneering “cageless” exhibit effort. Still, the vast number of animals—many seen rarely in zoos or in the wild—is the draw. Be sure to visit Polar Bear Plunge and Ituri Forest.
Rodeo Drive
Los Angeles is one of the best places in the world to people-watch, and you might as well choose the most famous street in Beverly Hills to do so. The latest and most expensive fashions line the windows of shops, and there are gawkers a-plenty walking past them. Buy an exorbitant handbag or scarf, or just kick back with a drink and watch the scene.
Whether you are touring “City of Angels,” or venturing into the Hollywood Hills here are some must see sights of Los Angeles & Hollywood to make your California vacation more memorable.
Visit the Griffith Park Observatory, where you can see the stars, planets, and the Hollywood sign. Also see the statue of James Dean in the location where a scene from Rebel Without a Cause was filmed.
Visit the Hollywood Forever Cemetery and see the mausoleums and gravesite of the famous stars from the black and white era of motion pictures. Famous celebrities like Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Cecil B. DeMille, and Jayne Mansfield have made this their final resting place.
Enjoy a meal at Café Aroma (Studio City). Originally a charming home, it was transformed into a full-service café with several outdoor dining areas in a tranquil backyard setting. Serving all-day breakfast, a must for a hip L.A. hangout, Aroma is popular with celebrities stopping in from nearby studios. All the home-cooked dishes are prepared with the finest local ingredients. Aroma also offers gourmet coffee and fresh-baked cakes, pastries, and sweets.
Runyon Canyon Park (Hollywood) is a 160-acre park in Los Angeles with many hiking trails. The highest point in the park, at an elevation of 1,320 feet (402 meters), has some of the most spectacular views of the city, including the Hollywood sign, Griffith Park Observatory, the downtown skyline, and west to Santa Monica and the Pacific Ocean. Because of its proximity to residential areas of Hollywood and Hollywood Hills, celebrity sightings are not uncommon.
Paradise Cove (Malibu) is a private beach that makes for a fine walk with superb views of the “diamond necklace” coastline, stretching from Malibu down to the South Bay area of Los Angeles and even Catalina Island. Stand on the old pier that flanks the south end of the beach and take in the idyllic ocean view. The spectacular sunsets are priceless. The Cove’s owner requires visitors to pay $25 to park at his beach, but the ticket is validated when you eat at the Paradise Cove Restaurant.
Join the fun as part of a TV studio audience. You’ll have the chance to spend some time in the studio with the stars and see what really goes on behind the scenes during the filming of a television show. Tickets are free, and taping schedules vary.
