California: Do It Right
California. The Golden State. A place on many a travel list but one that needs to be planned out well if you’re only there for a short amount of time. Even if you’re there for a more extended trip, you need to be careful if you want to see everything. People from outside the United States don’t realise how huge it is. It’s bigger than the UK.
Imagine trying to cram in the main sites in the UK into a short trip. It won’t happen. With that in mind, it’s good to go with at least a strong idea about what you want to do or better still a fully booked out itinerary. This way, you don’t need to worry about anything and can enjoy your trip knowing everything has already been taken care of.
Here are three of the best things California has on offer to help boost your trip full of ideas. If you’re going to do it, you might as well do it right.
Theme Parks
These can be a great hit with the kids and even the adults. California has a myriad of theme parks out there. You don’t have to visit them all, but a trip to one of these parks can be a nice break from sunbathing, shopping, or the great outdoors.
There’s Six Flags for some of the adrenaline seekers out there or the more leisurely DisneyLand, a better option if you’re going with young kids. It’s not all rides. You can stop and watch a show or get some food. Remember, if you are going with children, check out the height restrictions first. No point going to a park if the kids can’t have fun too.
If you wanted to make staying at a theme park the more central part of your trip, then there are plenty of on-site hotels to choose from at both DisneyWorld and Universal, among the other parks. Universal is home to the wondrous world of Harry Potter, so if you’ve got any fans in the family, this can be a great hit.
Whereas Disney is always expanding its repertoire of attractions, just look at the new Star Wars themed land, Galaxy’s edge. You can get some great deals if you book far in advance
Napa
If you like you drink, especially wine, then Napa is the place for you. You can taste your way through some of the finest wines California, and indeed America has to offer.
The beautiful country can be appreciated by a one day tasting at a winery or a longer stay at one of the luxury vacation villas Napa has to offer. The wine can play whatever part you wish. If you’re not big on wine, don’t let it put you off too much.
There are beer breweries too so there’s something to taste for everything. Not into alcohol at all? It isn’t a problem. Napa has a varying amount of activities to choose from. You can play a few rounds of gold, or if you’re into more active sports you can get some mountain biking.
Maybe even a leisurely hike for something a little less intense. You can go up into the hills or deep into the redwood forests. This coupled with the beautiful location can really make for a wonderful holiday, whether you’re staying in Napa the whole time or just visiting as part of your grand California adventure. There is something for everyone, where at first glance it may seem like there’s not.
Los Angeles
A must for the film buffs out there. LA is one of the most populous cities in the entire USA. Home of the famed Hollywood sign. You can get sucked right into the tourist zone and embark on a Hollywood tour through Beverly Hills, or if your one for more traditional culture, look to the museums and art galleries LA has to offer.
The battleship Iowa is a must if you’ve got young boys or maybe a history buff in the family. There are some great shopping centres too, and to cater to all tastes whether you’re looking for designer brands at the Beverly Centre or something more affordable at Santa Monica Place.
Like all cities, there is good and bad. LA suffers from a booming drug trade and gang violence so ensure you know your way around the city before going for a wander. It can pay to ensure safety tops your list. If you ever get a little tired of the hustle and bustle of city life there are some beautiful beaches at Santa Monica.
