5 Must See Places for First Time Visitors to California

On many occasions, my relatives or friends would ask me for recommendations on places to visit in California.  Before making my determination, I would determine if they have children, the age of children, the average age of the group, and their interest.  Over the years, I have developed a list of places and now I thought I include it in my blog.



View Top 5 Exciting Places in California in a larger map

1.  San Francisco

Photo Credit: www.chuscadesietesuelas.blogspot.com

In my opinion, San Francisco  is by far  the most diverse city in California.  The city has everything for everybody regardless of your background, ethnicity, age, interest, and beliefs. The city is rich with culture and diversity all within minutes by car.  Of course, there is the usual landmarks, the Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill, the Presidio,  Lombard, and the cable car rides.  But you would feel cheated if you do not some of the jewels of the city.  Instead of listing the sights, I would refer you several sites that do a nice job of describing the sights of the city.

Trip Advisor: Things to Do in San Francisco (provides a ranking of each place)

California Travel:  Things to Do in San Francisco: Top Sights and Attractions (includes pros and cons for each area of interest.)

2. Lake Tahoe

Photo Credit: www.openwalls.com

 

 

 

 

About 310 miles from San Francisco is an oasis that is enjoyed by many.  With its pristine lake and snow cap mountains, the Lake Tahoe area leaves you breathless.  I would highly recommend making a trip around the lake stopping at some of the look-ups and rest stops to relax and capture the beauty. Make to visit booth North and South Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe Summer Fun (Jo Fitzsimons)
http://trekity.com/summertime-fun-lake-tahoe-california/

How to Be a Smart Lake Tahoe Visitor
http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/calaketahoe/a/lake-tahoe-tips.htm

Lake Tahoe Travel Guide
http://www.fodors.com/world/north-america/usa/california/lake-tahoe/

 

3.  Disneyland

Photo Credit: www.Disneyland.com

A must see place if you are visiting California with children.  It is labeled as the happiest place on earth.  The crowds and long lines can turn your experience to a nightmare.  To make it more enjoyable, here are a few sites to provide excellent tips to make your trip enjoyable and memorable:

How to Avoid Standing in Line at Disneyland
http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/cadisneyland/a/lines.htm

101 Great Disneyland Tips
http://www.disneytouristblog.com/101-best-disneyland-tips/

 

4.  LEGOLAND - California Resort

Photo Credit: www.legoland.com

The nice thing about LEGOLAND is that the part is tailored for kids 14 years or younger and it is a hit for toddlers as wells as children that are 9 years and younger.  The older kids will not appreciate this park as there are no large roller coasters or death defying rides.

The LEGOLAND includes all the fun rides, a water park, and a hotel.  The themed hotel is conveniently nestled inside the park so makes it convenient for those young ones (or adults) that need to take naps or are just fussy.  I would highly recommend booking early to beat the holiday crowds.  Overall, I felt that was less crowded and less stressful compared to the other themed parks.

For the adults and/or parents that want to break away, there is the Carlsbad Premium Outlets which is the home of over 30 designer and brand name stores.  The outlets are located between HWY5 and LEGOLAND.

Additional tips can be found at:

10 Tips for Visiting LEGOLAND California Resort (Allison Laypath)
http://tipsforfamilytrips.com/california/legoland-tips/

Travel Tips for LEGOLAND California (USA Today)
http://traveltips.usatoday.com/travel-tips-legoland-california-14659.html

10 Tips I Wish I had known for LEGOLAND Carlsbad (Brenda C)
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g32171-d103404-r47889110-LEGOLAND_California-Carlsbad_California.html

5. Yosemite National Park

Photo Credit: www.photograpereric.blogspot.com

I am always amazed with the scenery here at this national park.  There is always something to see with its perfect picturesque landscape.  Of course behind the beauty of this place there are dangers.  The National Park Service has published important safety tips for those planning their first trip. 

Also, there several excellent tips and planners to make your trip more enjoyable. 

16 Ways to Be a Smart Yosemite California Trip Planner (Betsy Malloy)http://gocalifornia.about.com/od/cayosemite/a/smart_yosemite.htm

Travel Tips (Marilyn Miller)
http://www.suntomoon.com/pages/travel_yosemite.html

Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park in One Day (Amanda)http://www.dangerous-business.com/2012/05/tips-for-visiting-yosemite-national-park-in-one-day/

Top 3 Places to get Dim Sum in Silicon Valley

Top 3 Places to get Dim Sum in Silicon Valley

If you are like me, I would occasionally have cravens for dim sum.  At times it would be in the mornings.  Of course, I could drive up to San Fran for the best dim sum in Northern California.  However, by the time I have changed and put on my make-up, the desire for those irresistible dumplings are diminished. 

To fulfill some those temporary urges, I have discovered a few dim sum places located in Silicon Valley that serve the 'meanest' dim sums.

Dynasty Chinese Seafood Restaurant

10123 N Wolfe Rd
Cupertino, CA 95014
Website: http://dynastyseafoodrestaurants.com/ (as of 4/5, website is under construction)

My Ratings (out of 5 starts)
Food:  ***
Parking: *****
Pricing: ***
Overall: ***




Photo Credit: www.foodnut.com

My Comments
This place is egNORMOUS!!! Dinner and Dim sum here is always consistent and excellent. We enjoy coming here with family and friends. We usually work-off our meal by going shopping in the mall.

Jade Cathay

1339 N 1st St
San Jose, CA 95112
Website: http://www.jadecathay.com/

My Ratings (out of 5 starts)
Food:  ****
Parking: ***
Pricing: ***
Overall: ***

 

Photo Credit: Yelp User Blue B.

My Comments
There is nothing fancy about this place....the usual restaurant chairs/tables.  However, the dim sum is authentic and AMAZING!  It is nestled with two other restaurants.  So, parking can be a bit challenging.  I do recommend coming early 10:30 a.m. to get a table and to beat the crowd.  It is great to know they are open 365 days a year!

Dim Sum King

 824 W El Camino Real
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Website: http://www.dimsumkingnow.com/

My Ratings (out of 5 stars)
Food:  ****
Parking: ***
Pricing: ***
Overall: ***




Photo Credit: Yelp User Anya R

My Comments
This is place is more of a take-out place...so, don't expect any carts going up and down the aisles (there are only 3 tables in this place).  Their menu selection is somewhat limited.  However, they do have my favorites....BBQ Pork Buns and Egg Tarts.  I can now order great dim sum if I am ever on the go!