In This Issue:
San Francisco

A Short List of 'Must Experiences'

One of the nicest things about visiting San Francisco is that although the city is 'big' in terms of attractions and amenities, it is geographically small - less than 130km2.

Consequently, it is very easy to see and do a great many things in a short period of time. It is also easy to spend weeks in San Francisco and still not experience everything the city has to offer. Below is a suggested list of what not to miss in San Francisco according to the San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge

The most famous bridge in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge manages to impress even the most experienced travellers with its stunning 2.7km span. Approximately 120,000 automobiles drive across it every day. A pedestrian walkway also allows the crossing on foot, and bikes are allowed on the western side. The Golden Gate Bridge is said to be one of the most photographed things on Earth.

Ride a cable car

Cable cars have been transporting people around San Francisco since the late 19th century. The cars run on tracks and are moved by an underground cable on three routes. Their familiar bells can be heard ringing from blocks away. Tickets ($5 USD) may be purchased at the cable car turnarounds at the ends of each route. Each one-way ride will provide spectacular views of the city's celebrated hills as well as exhilarating transportation.

Ferry to Alcatraz

The notorious former prison, located on an island of the same name in the middle of San Francisco Bay, is where some of the United States' most notorious criminals were incarcerated. Though several tried, no inmate ever made a successful escape from 'The Rock'. The prison was closed in the 1960s and stories about Alcatraz are legendary. Recorded cell house tours are available, allowing visitors to learn about the prison as they explore the buildings and grounds. Take an Alcatraz Cruises ferry from Pier 33; advance reservations are recommended.

Dine About Town

San Francisco's twice-yearly 'Dine About Town' restaurant promotion (January 15-31 and June 1-15) showcases more than 100 participating chefs and restaurants who provide diners with a 'culinary stimulus package' by offering a two-course lunch menu for $17.95 USD and/or a three-course dinner menu for $34.95 USD. A party to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Dine About Town will be on January 12 at Cityview at the Metreon, 101 4th Street. More than twenty restaurants will provide tastes from their Dine About Town to complement wine tastings and live entertainment. All proceeds will benefit San Francisco Meals on Wheels.

Explore San Francisco Neighbourhoods

San Francisco offers more than 40 neighbourhoods, each with a distinct history, atmosphere and personality. The city's 15 major areas provide plenty for visitors to discover and explore: Fisherman's Wharf, North Beach, Chinatown, Embarcadero/Financial District, Union Square, SOMA/ Yerba Buena, Mission District, Castro/Upper Market, Haight-Ashbury, Japantown/Fillmore, Civic Center, Nob Hill, Marina/Presidio, Golden Gate Park/Sunset and Bayview/Candlestick Point.

Speak with a Flight Centre travel consultant at 1-866-317-4794 to take advantage of the great special offers on hotels and packages to San Francisco this Fall.

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