Betsy's California Travel Blog

When I think of things I like best about San Francisco, the Ferry Building immediately springs to mind. When I sublet an apartment in the city, it was the destination ... Read More

Since 1917, there's been an open air market in this location which is now smack in the middle of downtown LA. You'll find lots of inexpensive (and yummy-smelling) food at ... Read More

Yosemite's venerable Ahwahnee Hotel hosts three signature events each year: Vintners' Holidays (wine tasting), Bracebridge Dinner (Old-fashioned Christmas celebration) and Chefs' Holidays (cooking demonstrations and dinner). Dates for 2008/2009 have been ... Read More

If you're a jazz music lover, it's not too early to start thinking about the Monterey Jazz Festival, either. It's held on the third weekend of September, but tickets are ... Read More

If you want to get seats for this summer's Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach, act fast. The best seats are already sold out for performances starting in July ... Read More

For the baby boomer generation, American Graffiti may be the classic coming-of-age film, as its tag line: "Where were you in '62?" attests. It's a California product all the way, ... Read More

If you're looking for wildflowers or just a pretty hike, Hite Cove Trail. is one of the most spectacular places in the Sierras this time of year. Our Hite Cove Trail ... Read More

If you're looking for the showiest rhodendron blooms, the beauties at Mendocino's Coast Botanical Garden are ready for their closeups in April and May. It's well worth a trip.

You don't have to head for the countryside to find nice flowers this spring. We captured a few of the blossoms at the San Francisco's Strybing Aboretum for you to ... Read More

Just in time for planning your California summer vacation, we've just finished a new, seven-part California Vacation Planner. Sign up to receive it by e-mail or read it online to ... Read More

Splash Zone at Monterey Bay Aquarium has always been an enjoyable place for the whole family, but especially for the kids. After their recent renovation, it's more fun than ever, ... Read More

One of California's great summer pleasures is a night spent under the stars (or an afternoon in the sunshine), watching a great performance unfold on stage. We like it so ... Read More

If you're looking for the best best beach to build a bonfire, watch the people, surf or play volleyball, California's best beaches offer plenty of places to do it.

There's a lot more to California beaches than the ubiquitous volleyball games, beach bonfires and surfers. This bunch of beaches all offer something unusual for you to see. California's most ... Read More