Walking down North Point St., Starbucks passion tea in one hand (grande, of course), leather clutch in the other, I couldn’t help myself from smiling as I took it all in. There I was in San Francisco, home of the Tanners from Full House, Raven from That’s So Raven, and, of course, (most importantly) the location when Ben Flajnik’s season on The Bachelor was filmed. Let’s be real- who wouldn’t die from happiness? San Francisco was already beginning to exceed my expectations.
As I proceeded down to the pier, the famous Golden Gate Bridge glistened in the distance, and rays sunshine captured its scarlet-red reflections in the water. I was able to see the figures of bike-riders (after squinting for several minutes), and it wasn’t long before I decided that I wanted to join the group of silhouettes.
Anyone who knows me would probably agree that I’m not exactly the “spontaneous” type. Don’t get me wrong, I like to have fun, but I generally don’t stray too far from the norm. And even if I do decide to do something extraordinary, it requires a lot of convincing and months of mental preparation.
So that’s why swiping my debit card in the rental-bike kiosk at Fisherman’s Wharf was even a surprise to me. I was the girl with the pre-set to-do list to the moon (and back). The girl with the two-foot monthly organized calendar hanging in her closet (no exaggeration there). The girl who was afraid to break out of her comfort zone.
There I stood, defying everything that had defined me with the swipe of a plastic card.
It may not seem like a big deal to most of you Urbanette’s, but hopping on two wheels, with no route or meals planned, was a big deal for me! I started off biking along the National Park Bike Path to the Golden Gate Bridge. The pavement was smooth, and the wind felt nice against my face. Biking was much better than I thought it would be; in the hilly city, it wasn’t nearly as difficult as I’d imagined. I was actually enjoying myself! Seriously, what could be bad about touring one of the most beautiful cities in California while simultaneously completing a fat-burning workout?
After about fifty minutes, I had made it to the Golden Gate. I began to have misgivings about my biking abilities upon approaching the bridge, but nonetheless, I still peddled on (it wasn’t exactly like I had another choice at that point…) Upon reaching the center of the bridge, I was able to just make out the famous Ghirardelli Square sign through the fog; the sails of colorful sailboats were hazy in the mist. After focusing for a few more seconds, the distant outlines of antiquated cable cars transporting people down streets came into my view. I put the kickstand down on my bike so that I could observe San Francisco from a bird’s eye perspective for just a few moments longer.
Everything was so orderly, yet perfectly laid back; old-fashioned, yet astonishingly modern, but most importantly, gracefully classic, while still capricious and unexpected. How could there be so much variation in forty-seven miles? My perseverance had led me to appreciate the uniqueness of this beautiful city. Nothing was more perfect than that moment, when I realized how mellifluously provincial and contemporary had combined, to result in a truly unique travel destination.
It wasn’t long before I completed my expedition, finding myself in Sausalito. I took a ferry back to Fisherman’s Wharf, where I thanked the bike rental shop for the amazing ride I had enjoyed. The thought of leaving pained me. There was no way I would be able to get on a plane in less than twenty-four hours! How I envied those who called my vacation spot home!
As I drove on the Golden Gate to the San Francisco International Airport, I took to social media to reminisce on the wonderful time I had, and thanked San Francisco for allowing me to enjoy its pleasures. I guess the words of Rudyard Kipling really are true – “San Francisco has only one drawback—‘tis hard to leave.” You bet it is.
I love your articles, Hilary. When I’m reading your articles, I can imagine the fun you’re experiencing. I love your job so much! Traveling, and writing.
Don’t be afraid to do things that you’re unfamiliar with. It is nice to have new experiences so that in the future you can say that you’ve done that before.
I can see myself to you. I’m the type of person who is super organized in everything. I have lots of planners so that I can plan everything before I take some action.
Yay! When I go to San Francisco, I will do that. I love to ride a bicycle. I can imagine the beautiful scenery from the center of the golden gate bridge.
Oh, I’ve heard so much about San Francisco. I guess it’s all true. Every person I knew told me that San Francisco is one of the best places to visit for a vacation. I will probably tell my husband about this.
Happy to know that you’ve come out of your comfort zone. If I were you, I wouldn’t do that. But if you didn’t do that, you’ll never see the beauty of San Francisco.
I brought my girlfriend at the Golden Gate Bridge. Men, the view from the center of the bridge is breathtaking.
I’ve been to San Francisco, and I agree with you. San Francisco is an amazing place. If you’re planning to visit San Francisco, don’t forget to visit the Golden Gate Bridge.
Riding a bicycle is a big no to me. I used to have one when I was a kid. But after I got involved in an accident, I never use a bicycle again. It’s very traumatic to me. ?
It is not bad to come out of your comfort zone once in a while. If you never try, you’ll never know the feeling.