San Francisco

As a globally renowned single-span suspension bridge, Golden Gate Bridge is the symbol and landmark of San Francisco. The Bridge spans the entire San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate strait of the Pacific Ocean, making it an important transportation hub linking San Francisco and cities to the north. Many US movies and TV shows have been filmed here. The north of the Bridge is an ideal site to take a panoramic picture of the structure; and its bright orange arch seems shrouded in mystery in foggy days; the Bridge's southern side is more suitable for a close-up snapshot of the water and the body of the Bridge. If the schedule allows, you can rent a bicycle and experience a more unique view while riding the length of the Bridge.

A landmark of San Francisco, Fisherman's Wharf is a strip extending from Ghirardelli Square all the way to Pier 35 and close to popular destinations such as Chinatown and the Lombard Street. This is home to a wealth of shops and restaurants and lively street shows can be seen everywhere. Famous sites such as Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge can also be sighted in the distance. The Fisherman's Wharf is close the the bay, so do not miss out on the fresh and delicious seafood. At Pier 39, sea lions can also be seen lying idly on rafts for a bit of sunbathing, making a most adorable scene.

The San Francisco Palace of Fine Arts was originally built to display works of art for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in 1915, but was mostly rebuilt in 1965. It is currently enjoyed by visitors for its beauty, as well as by locals for private and corporate events and weddings. The entrance to the Palace of Fine Arts is often lively; you can often see children running about and playing in the open space. The lake and surrounding trees are also home to wildlife, such as ducks, birds and raccoons. The Palace of Fine Arts is designed in the Parisian Beaux-Arts-style and the interior of the rotunda's dome is exquisitely decorated. On top of the dusky red stone pillars stand sculptures of nymphs, which are a favorite subject of many photographers. The theater to the rear at the Palace of Fine Arts is a venue that also regularly hosts many diverse stage performances.

Lombard Street is so named for its multiple hairpin turns. The 40 degree inclination here poses a serious challenge to driving skills. The whole street is paved with bricks and lined on either side with foliage as well as multicolored flowers, offering diverse views all around the year. A peculiar crooked way can be photographed at the lower end of the street. The distant San Francisco - Oakland Bay Bridge and the Alcatraz Island can be viewed from high up in the Lombard Street, making it an ideal spot to take a snapshot of perfect harmony of streetscape and ocean view. Heading all the way north along the Lombard Street will take one to Fisherman's Wharf, a place to savor gourmet food and splurge on shopping.