California (part 2): San Francisco | Kind Uber Drivers, Peculiar Ride-sharers, and Daring Tourists

Concluding our trip in L.A, we took the 10-hour Greyhound bus to San Francisco. Having stayed up pretty late the last night, we didn't leave our AirBnb until 15 minutes before the departure time. It was an intense time battle, especially when our Uber guy was such a calm driver who never raced against the red light lol. Lucky us Greyhound in Los Angeles was not that big, so we found the gate easily just 1 minute before the bus left. First lesson learned, but it's not a big deal compared to how San Francisco's vibes and its people got me in love!

Our friend picked us up at the bus station and took us to dinner at Chinatown. We decided to walk to the area. Worst decision ever! I totally forgot the rumor (which is a certified fact) about San Francisco's hilly streets. So, with 1 carry-on, a full-size luggage, and two backpacks on the shoulders, we "hiked" through the city.

There was hardly anybody on the street. No Christmas decor as well! For such a big city, I thought it should've been more vibrant and noisy outside, especially during holiday season. However, once we reached Chinatown, mostly every good store was at full capacity or closed. Since it was already late at night, we gave up on the popular dim sum restaurant and had a quick dinner somewhere else before heading home in Mission District.

Unlike other popular touristy places, Mission District is a pretty unique area. It doesn't look fancy, busy, or expensive at all. Instead, everything seems a little aged and messy. A motorbike parked in front of an old, dusty gold-painted house. Flags from South and Central American countries hung along the street. At Clarion Alley, a narrow backstreet with full of political murals, pairs of sneakers are suspended from the power lines. There are a lot of myths surrounding this act, from marking a drug dealing spot to showing political protest. Some said it's merely a celebratory ritual, when someone graduates, leaves military, or loses their virginity.

(My favorite mural at Clarion Alley)

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We spent our first day exploring the popular attractions, starting from the Golden Gate Bridge. The first time I knew of the Red Bridge was 10 years ago, when Dad bought me a souvenir during his business trip in SF. 10 years later, as I walked under the white clouds, on the red bridge, and above the grey waves, a sense of achievement ran through my nerve. Finally, the photo I used to ooh and aah at transforms into reality.

Another interesting place was Sutro Bath/Lands End Trail. According to our friend, Sutro Bath used to be the public saltwater swimming pool for the wealthy, until it was burnt down by a fire in 1966. From one side of the area, there were these thin edges that can lead you closer to the ocean. From another side is the hiking trail, which offers a higher, more gigantic view of the powerful waves, rough cliffs, and the Bridge.

(People walking on Sutro Bath ruins)

( A very steep and rough cliff)

Photo credits: our friend Hoan

We couldn't capture the moment in time when two young ladies were sitting at the edge of the protruding cliff (left corner of the picture), legs hanging in the air. When they stood up, because of the narrow space, they balanced by sticking only half a feet on the ground, while the toes were facing the water. Just a push or a slight trip would swirl them into the strong currents; surprisingly, they were never hesitant when climbing back to the trail. Precise movements hijabs and long dresses. Respect!

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Since we were only in San Francisco for 4 nights, I and my boyfriend had to take Uber a lot for the sake of time. Despite costing more money, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise thanks to the kind drivers and interesting ride-sharers. I'm not sure if I am biased, but these people were a complete contrast from a big city's hustles and bustles!

One night, we booked an Express Pool as usual, and went to the located pick-up point in the app. It was Macy's parking lot. However, after 15 minutes and tons of phone calls, we couldn't figure out each other's location! For a usual Express Pool, the trip would've been cancelled already. To our surprise, my phone rang; a different voice from the other side asked us where we were at, so I described the area. A minute later, a Macy's security guard emerged from the parking lot and led us to the car. Turned out the driver asked the guard for help, since he didn't know the lot had two different gates. 15 minutes and the Express Pool driver didn't give up looking for us. It's such a rare act of kindness. Much appreciated!

When we ordered an Express Pool from City Hall to Grand View Park, we shared it with two other guests. At first glance, I was a little uncomfortable sitting next to them. They had tattoos all over their arms and necks. Their noses, tongues, and ears were pierced, while their hair was dyed pinkish purple. They conversed a lot with the Burmese driver, telling him about their travels across Asia. As we were driving on the street, they suddenly screamed as they noticed a fight. The homeless man smashed his skateboard against the other guy, while his dog also threatened to bite the victim. They started to discuss philosophical questions about the ethics of petting: whether a homeless and aggressive man should raise a dog and bring misfortune into its life. At the moment, I suddenly felt connected with these people through the depth of their thoughts.

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We spent the last day commuting to San Jose. Since we only had half a day here, we didn't get to see a lot except visiting Google Headquarter and catching up with some friends (and discovering Happy Lemon's Black Tea Salted Cheese then knowing it has no branches in Chicago!!!).

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Looking at the city from Grand View Park and reflecting upon what we encountered in SF, I realized this city was more than just an expensive place to live. Compared to NYC, Chicago, Washington DC, and other big cities, SF offered me many more stories to tell. From extra kindness to the hospitality and an insightful mind, they took me from one surprise to another. From the height of the observation point, the city blinked in sparkling beauty, brighter than ever! Promise I will come back for more of Cali ocean, warmth, and breezes!

(16th tiled steps that leads to the Park)

(Grand View Park City View)

My suggested destinations: Golden Gate Bridge, Sutro Bath, Union Square, Mission District, City Hall, Grand View Park, 16th tiled steps & Hidden Garden Steps, Pier 39, Google.