#58:A Few Quirky Coffee Shops, & Romantic Getaways
Hey Friends!
Welcome back. Another week, and another batch of things to see, do, and more in California. Enjoy your weekend, and the coming week!
Be Well! Stay Safe!
Mark & Patti
Valentine’s Day is on the way so here are a few romantic getaways for you to think about.
The Most Romantic Getaways in California
by Allie Lebos, The Observer
Craving a romantic escape in California? Whether you’re a local in need of a staycation or an East Coaster craving warmer weather, the Golden State is home to several swoon-worthy destinations. Though charming beach towns along the coast tend to get all of the attention, California’s diverse landscape also includes cozy forests, remote valleys and the rolling hills of wine country. From Santa Barbara to Big Sur, these are the most romantic getaways in California for Valentine’s Day and beyond.
There's a secret way to get an even better picture with LA's famous Hollywood sign
by Erin Rode, SF Gate
While the iconic 50-foot white HOLLYWOOD letters are visible throughout the city, millions trek into the Hollywood Hills each year, eager for a closer look (and a better picture). Most end up finding nearly nonexistent parking and constant traffic jams instead. But luckily, another option exists that offers even better views.
Top Things to Do at Capitola Pier
by California.com
Fishing off Capitola Pier is an experience like no other. Imagine standing on the historic wooden structure, feeling the gentle sea breeze, and casting a line into the sparkling waters. The pier is renowned for its abundance of fish, including the sought-after striped bass. Local bait shops, such as Capitola Boat & Bait, provide rental equipment and insider tips, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun.
The 13 Best Bakeries In San Francisco
by Sam MacKinnon, Celia Konstantellou and Pati Navalta Poblete, SF Magazine
A standout bakery in the city for its variety of croissant flavors, Thorough Bread and Pastry offers some of the most unique takes on baked goods in the market. Flavors like raspberry almond and chocolate banana are standouts on the menu; you will be hard-pressed to find flavors like these anywhere else. It also offers a wide range of breads and sandwiches, all made from scratch.
This Oakland gas station is going viral for its nonstop car burglaries
by Madilynne Medina, SF Gate
Rental car companies at Oakland International Airport have an important message for anyone returning a car: If you’re going to gas up before dropping your car, watch your belongings when doing so. And, better yet, don’t stop at one of the stations near the airport’s entrance.
15 Southern California coffee shops with creative, quirky themes
by Brock Keeling, Fielding Buck, and Richard Guzman
From ubiquitous wood accents to exceedingly tasteful subway tile walls, long gone are the days of dusty coffeehouse maximalism that allowed every neighborhood its own Central Perk-like space.
Or so it might seem: Breaking free from the shackles of the mundane are a handful of themed cafes that place emphasis on kitsch — from emo rock and Hello Kitty to ’80s horror flicks and tattoos — so that your klatch can try something truly unique.
Here are 15 themed coffee shops to try out in Southern California.
For Friends Overseas:
Haunted 14th Century Church: Clophill, England
Ancient Burial Place: Tarquinia, and Cerveteri, Italy
Longest Fence in the World: Mount Barry, Australia