A Vacation in My Own Neighborhood

For example, I love taking a walk in a park and finding hidden paths that many people don’t bother to notice. Or having a barbeque at a park, complete with delicious hamburgers and hot dogs. I’ve spent hours in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park exploring the multifaceted and beautiful scenery that it encompasses. It often feels very much like another part of the world, with its wild buffalo roaming and gorgeous botanical gardens. The more I explore the hidden paths I find, the more I appreciate the value parks bring to my city.

Many cities have botanical gardens that make for the perfect way to escape life on the streets. I find that noticing and learning about the different plant and flower species in my area makes for a very calming and refreshing experience.

I always visit the museums while visiting a new city. When in Paris, it’s the Louvre. In Madrid I go to the Prado. In New York, the Metropolitan. But even when I’m not traveling, I love feeding my creativity and getting inspiration from local exhibits. Museums change their shows frequently so even when I’m at home in San Francisco, I almost always have the chance to see something new.

I often exhaust myself in the Museum of Modern Art in San Francisco soaking up creative inspiration. I can view work by famous artists like Picasso and Miro from the comfort of my own city. For me, visiting museums makes for an enlightening and uplifting day. They’re a calming haven where I can be transported anywhere in the world, any time in History. To 1920s Spain, where Dali’s genius was fostered—then on to 1833 Japan where Hiroshige created his masterpieces!

The same goes for art galleries. In San Francisco, there are hundreds of galleries that can be explored in almost any neighborhood, and they are free! Another great option for art lovers is to visit your local university’s art galleries. They often have wonderful exhibits and installations to nurture the creativity of students and the community.

I often frequent Chinatown to get a bite of the best, cheapest dim sum in town, and to Japantown to eat Shabu Shabu, which is a rare and very delicious find. I like contributing to helping the communities thrive by strolling the busy streets, exploring the businesses and restaurants, and discovering unique imported goods to buy. It’s an experience that takes me miles away from home.