#Hyde Street Pier

[graveyardrabbit]

some afternoon Boat Sounds

[rabbitcruiser]

The Clay Street Hill Railroad began operating the first cable car in San Francisco’s famous cable car system on August 2, 1873 (or August 1, 1873).  

[cristinad61]

Living history

Workers’ tools in forward deck house, C.A. Thayer Any able seaman knows that a healthy ship needs continual care and maintenance to ensure long life. Constant exposure to the marine environment will wear away at the sturdiest vessel — even when she’s spending her retirement years docked in a safe harbor. So when I arrived at the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park at the Hyde Stree Pier…

[eltristan]

Cutest SF MUNI cable car says, "Merry Christmas! And visit San Francisco's Hyde Street Pier Maritime NHP happy New Year!"

[we-players]

In this, our 23rd season, we brought you wonder and whimsy with our Adventures with Alice as well as a return visit from our hero, Caretta Caretta, of The Keeper. We brought you music galore! Two newly-released albums: Twelfth Night and The Odyssey and a live concert of the music from Macbeth. We expanded our presenting partnerships with our debut at Cal Shakes and our return to Montalvo Arts Center.

If something we did this year brought you joy or wonder, if a line or a visual stuck with you, if we made you feel something surprising or sweet - please give what you can today. We're remarkably resourceful, so even a little means a lot!

Deep thanks for your support, we are so grateful.

Donate today: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35547/store/donations/35788

Photo by our supremely talented: Lauren Matley

[northameicanblog]

Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, United States: Fisherman's Wharf is a neighborhood and popular tourist attraction in San Francisco, California, United States. It roughly encompasses the northern waterfront area of San Francisco from Ghirardelli Square or Van Ness Avenue east to Pier 35 or Kearny Street. The F Market streetcar runs through the area, the Powell / Hyde cable car line runs to Aquatic Park, at the edge of Fisherman's Wharf, and the Powell / Mason cable car line runs a few blocks away. Wikipedia

[theleastprofessionalchef]

bay area anon and lol the matthew turner is actually the ship im gonna be on!! so thank you for the reassurance that i made the right choice and ill definitely ask them while im there what other opportunities they offer. also someone in the notes mentioned hyde street pier and ive been there before (i think on the balclutha?) on a field trip in elementary school (probably what kick started my interest in sailing in the first place) but i wasn't sure if they actually took any of the old ships there out of the docks; ill make sure to look into that more!! ty for the help 🫶

Awesome! Have fun!!!

[hero-nerd]

Here’s that Batman project I was working on a while ago that I told y’all

Just part one but this alone has taken months lmao

Part two will be about ocd for this same character

Anyway enjoy

Introduction

In Batman stories, characters are given all types of diagnoses. Some are explicitly stated within these stories, some are implied, and some are theorized by fans. I have always wondered how accurate these diagnoses are. This project will use criteria from the DSM-5 to examine specific interpretations of Batman characters and determine how accurate a given diagnosis is for them. Each section will specify the source material being used.

Harvey Dent

Harvey Dent was one of Bruce Wayne’s best friends back in the day. He was a district attorney, and a good one at that, as he was about to be the one to bring the Penguin down in court. During this case, however, Dent was sprayed in the face with acid by someone working for the Penguin. This scarred Dent’s face, and is said to have caused him to lose his mind. After this he becomes a villain in Gotham going by the name of Two Face, referring both to his scarred face and his dual personalities. This section looks at the interpretation of Harvey Dent from season one of Batman the Audio Adventures which can be found on HBO Max, Spotify, and YouTube. It is recommended to listen to this podcast before reading, but all scenes used throughout this section are listed along with their timestamps.

Timestamps

Episode One

Yin and Yang Scene 11:40-23:50

Episode Two

Ghosts of Gotham Scene 3:56- 8:13

Episode Three

Voicemail Scene 10:11-11:19

Batman's Investigation Scene 25:40-26:55

Episode Four

Doubleday Street Scene 4:25-8:30

Episode Five

Horse Racing Scene: 20:55-26:52

Episode Six

Pier Two Scene 29:09-37:08

Episode Seven

Dinner Scene 17:35-26:00

Episode Eight

Penguin and Two Face Team-Up Scene 14:53-21:45

Episode Nine

Announcement of Merger Scene 21:26-22:45

Dissociative Identity Disorder

Diagnostic Criteria

Disruption of identity characterized by two or more distinct personality states, which may be described in some cultures as an experience of possession. The disruption in identity involves marked discontinuity in sense of self and sense of agency, accompanied by related alterations in affect, behavior, consciousness, memory, perception, cognition, and or sensory-motor functioning. These signs and symptoms may be observed by others or reported by the individual.

Recurrent gaps in the recall of everyday events, important personal information, and/or traumatic events that are inconsistent with ordinary forgetting.

The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

The disturbance is not a normal part of a broadly accepted cultural or religious practice.

The symptoms are not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition.

Analysis of Diagnostic Criteria

In Dent’s introduction in the podcast during the Yin and Yang scene, he can be heard arguing with another voice that we learn is Two Face. Two Face refers to Dent with the nickname “College Boy”, implying a gap between the two of them. At the timestamp 13:02 the narrator specifically says that these two are the same person but with two voices, letting listeners who may not be familiar with the story of Harvey Dent know that these two personalities are within the same body. The narrator also refers to this as a “double occupancy” in Dent’s head, and likens them to Jekyll and Hyde. This scene shows that Dent does not have possessive type DID, as there is no “possession” of either Dent or Two Face taking over with one or the other having full control of the body. Instead, they fit the description of non possessive type DID, which details the experience of having two or more simultaneous thought streams, which is shown by the way Dent and Two Face talk between themselves as two separate consciousnesses.

The Yin and Yang scene also shows an explicit example of the distinct split between these two personalities. At the time stamp 20:11, Batman says that he needs to have a word with Dent alone. Two Face laughs at this, saying that there is no privacy between him and Dent, but then Batman recites a Latin phrase students learn in law school. Dent understands the meaning immediately, and Two Face does not understand it at all. Two Face becomes agitated, asking what it means. This shows us that while Two Face appears to have all the knowledge and memories that Dent has from the time he was formed due to the lack of amnesia (as detailed in criteria B), he does not have access to any knowledge or memories from before that time, showing that he is separate from Dent.

There are two interesting instances that show off the difference in word choice and thought process between Dent and Two Face. In the Yin and Yang scene at 14:10, Dent and Two Face both finish a sentence with their own saying. Two Face says that he has two words for the captive, and Dent jumps in saying “yes, neat and tidy”. Two Face corrects him by saying “tooth and nail”. Then again in the Horse Racing scene at 23:55, Dent is talking about how people in Gotham respond to trespassers. Two Face interrupts and says “a double barrel bloodbath, free of charge”. Dent replies with “I was gonna say inhospitality, but he’s not wrong”. This shows their distinct patterns of thinking, as well as providing an instance where Dent refers to Two Face as a separate entity from himself.

Until episode 6, there is no obvious distinction between Dent and Two Face’s sensory-motor functioning. The Pier Two scene shows Dent and Two Face going through a significantly distressing event. In this scene they are trying to save Pier Two from a bomb, and in doing so they fall into the water and begin to drown. Batman has arrived at this point, but is unable to help because he is diffusing the bomb. At 34:29, Batman is calling down to Harvey, telling him to swim. He says “you know how to swim”. Dent replies with “yes I do, but he doesn’t”. The scene then goes on to describe Dent and Two Face struggling for control while trying to keep afloat, showing the split in sensory-motor function between the two of them.

In the Penguin and Two Face Team-Up scene at 16:45, Penguin tells Dent “That’s blowfish toxin, old boys!” When talking about them teaming up at 21:00, Penguin says the team up will be “Just you, and you, and me.” This shows that the split between Dent and Two Face is distinct enough that even others on the outside see it and refer to them as such. During the Announcement of Merger scene at 21:55, Dent says that Penguin’s criminal organization will be “uniting with the august firm of Dent and Dent”, another indication of the distinctiveness of Dent’s two personalities.

Throughout all of this podcast, Dent and Two Face are referred to as separate and distinct personalities by other characters, the omniscient narrator, and Dent and Two Face themselves.

In all of the podcast, there is not an instance where Dent has any significant gap in recall of events or information inconsistent with ordinary forgetting. However, due to the nature of this podcast only showing select moments of Dent's life and our inability to gather information outside of those shown scenes, it cannot be stated with certainty that this has never happened. For the sake of this project, using what is given in the media, it will be assumed that Dent does not meet this criterion.

Due to the fact that Dent does not meet criterion B, that does not factor into any clinically significant distress or impairment that Dent might have. Instead, one must turn their attention to criterion A, the presence of Two Face, Dent’s second personality.

When it comes to the occupational aspect, there is evidence against clinically significant impairment. In the Horse Racing Scene, Dent tries to hurt the Penguin’s business and does so by destroying the Penguin’s private box at the horse races using an obscure law to protect him from legal consequences and closing the Iceberg Casino using another obscure law. While explaining what he has done, Dent talks about several legal strategies he used to pull this off. Dent then details to the Penguin how if the Penguin keeps coming after him, Dent will use the law to do more than merely inconvenience him. At 25:47 Two Face says “You know, if we was really crazy, we could bring down the entire Gotham underworld in the court of law.You want to try us? Give us a reason to burn it all down.” Then Dent says “Then give us thirty minutes with publicly available records, and we can pull together a legal strategy that will squeeze your precious criminal organization until it’s pulp, and juiced, and served on crushed ice to the federal government”. This shows that Dent still has the ability to do the work from his occupation, and do it well. So well, in fact, that in the Penguin and Two Face Team-Up Scene Penguin devises a plan to get Dent working with him. During the enactment of this plan, Penguin says to Dent that “somewhere in there is an absolutely brilliant legal mind”. It is clear that Dent has not been impaired in his occupational skills, even though he is now using those skills for crime.

Dent’s social functioning, however, has been impaired by the presence of Two Face.

This can be shown in the Voicemail Scene. Bruce Wayne leaves Dent a short but powerful voicemail during which he tells Dent that while he may not know what Dent is going through, he will always be there to help, and that he really wants to help Dent. The most telling part of this voicemail comes at the timestamp 10:57 when Wayne says “I don’t know if you get these messages, but I’m going to keep leaving them anyway”. This shows that the friendship between Wayne and Dent has fallen apart since Dent’s accident that led to the formation of his second personality. Dent’s inability to maintain that friendship is indicative of significant impairment in social functioning.

There are several indications that the presence of Two Face is not part of a broadly accepted cultural or religious practice. This is shown in the way other people talk about Dent and Two Face. In Batman’s investigation Scene, Alfred Pennyworth and Batman are discussing Dent, and the fact that the Penguin is “inflaming Harvey’s breakdown”. When Batman begins speculating on why the Penguin would be doing that, Pennyworth says at the timestamp 26:48 “If I may, sir, does a man like Oswald Cobblepot need a reason to torment the mentally ill?” Similar remarks are made by some of Dent’s fellow members of the Gotham underworld. In the Horse Racing Scene, Dent and Two Face are switching off sentences and talking together as they talk to the Penguin. At the time stamp 21:40, Penguin says “Spare me the doubletalk Harvey, I don’t speak mental patient”. This shows from two different perspectives that the presence of Two Face is not a broadly accepted cultural or religious practice.

Over the course of the podcast, Dent is shown under the influence of a substance once. This is in the Penguin and Two Face Teamup Scene when the Penguin poisons Dent using blowfish toxin. Dent’s behaviors regarding the presence of Two Face do not change when he is under that influence, instead remaining consistent to how he presents while not under the influence. This consistency of Dent’s traits show that it is not the effects of a substance or other condition causing his symptoms.

Final Thoughts

While Harvey Dent meets the majority of the criteria for Dissociative Identity Disorder, he does not meet all of it. It is very evident that Harvey has a distinct separate personality, but without the recurrent gaps in his memory it can not be confidently said that he has dissociative identity disorder, and that his symptoms are not better explained by another disorder.

[bliju]

Saturday, 16.11.2024

LONDÝN listopad 2024

Zpětně vůbec nechápu, proč mi to trvalo tak dlouho. Protože takhle nadšená a spokojená jsem od Lisabonu asi nebyla.

Letenky jsem si koupila někdy v září a namixovala Wizzair a Ryanair, abych tam měla co nejvíc času, nepřiletěla o půlnoci a nemusela vstávat ve 4 ráno.

Přiletěla jsem na Luton, kde z letiště jezdí DART na stanici Luton Airport Parkway a z ní pak vlak do města. Jelikož DART stojí 5 liber, tak jsem se rozhodla na vlak cca 20 minut dojít pěšky (taky se dá jet za cca polovinu autobusem, ale procházka byla úplně v pohodě). Vlak pak jede na St Pancras International cca 30 minut a stojí 18,4 GBP (lístek jsem si koupila v automatu). Lístky se dají koupit předem levněji, ale netroufla jsem si riskovat konkrétní spoj.

Jelikož jsem do města dorazila v poledne a check in jsem měla až v 15:00, tak jsem se rozhodla jít obhlídnout zajímavosti v blízkosti nádraží. První bylo Coal Drops Yard, pak oběd ve Five guys, městská knihovna, Kings cross, kampus SOAS a pak do hostelu, který jsem měla hned u British muzea. Po ubytování jsem se vydala ke Covent Garden, k Temži, do Chinatownu a přes Oxford street domů.

Na páteční odpoledne jsem měla koupené lístky do Warner bros studia na svět Harryho Pottera, tak jsem tomu přizpůsobila program. Prošla jsem se přes Hyde park ke Kensingtonskému paláci a do Nottig Hillu, kde zrovna byly pouliční trhy s různými rukodělnými výrobky a vintage věcmi. Z něj jsem jela metrem na Watford Junction, ze které jezdí zdarma shuttle bus do studií. Už tady začala být dost fronta a vešla jsem se až do druhého busu. Vzhledem k tomuhle, jsem vlastně přijela pozdě (měla jsem lístek na 16:00), což naštěstí není problém. Ještě před samotným vstupem vás čeká tak cca 45 minut různých videí a informací o "výstavě". Pak už začne samotná prohlídka, kde můžete strávit kolik času chcete. Spousta známých míst je ve velké hale, takže se tam lidi rozmístí. Pak jsou části (třeba vlak, skleník,..), kde se musí čekat fronta na vstup, jelikož je to průchozí kulisa. Fronty teda byly všude a dost šílený. Nakonec jsem si ani nekoupila nic v obchodě, protože na tu frontu už jsem neměla nervy :D Každopádně celá výstava byla strašně super. Člověk tam vidí strašně moc míst, scén, dekorací napříč všema filmama a já odcházela úplně nadšená. Jen teda cesta domů byla dost šílená, protože na autobus jsme čekali asi 45 minut, takže pokud tam třeba pojedete v zimě, tak bacha. Cesta metrem tam i zpět na Euston mě vyšla na 10 GBP (všude jsem používala tapování kartou).

Jelikož pátek byl docela vyčerpávající, tak jsem sobotu pojala víc "odpočinkově" a jela do Brightonu. Zpáteční jízdenka vyjde na 15, 5 GBP (kupuje se v automatu) a cesta trvá asi hodinu a půl. Tam jsem si opět prošla hromadu vintage a lokálních obchůdků, dala si fish and chips (v bistru za 10 liber, porce tak pro dva :D) a šla na Brighton Pier. I takhle v "zimě" tam vše fungovalo, takže jsem zaplatila vstup 1 libru a šla se podívat do heren, kde jsem si taky zkusila nějaký maty :D Pak jsem si dala zmrzlinu, kterou mi (úspěšně) atakoval racek :D Nakonec už jsem zas šla směrem na nádraží, kde jsem si ještě cestou dala kafíčko a pokoupila nějaké suvenýry. Po příjezdu do města jsem vystoupila z vlaku na Southwarku a ještě si prošla za tmy southbank až v Big Benu a jít se podívat na již vánočně vyzdobený Regent a Canarby street. Na večer jsem si chtěla jít ještě někam sednout, což se ukázalo jako národní sport všech Londýňanů a jak hospody, bary, tak i chodníky byly úplně narvaný lidma. Místo jsem nakonec našla, ale s pivkem za 7 liber jsem stejně víc než jedno nedala :D

V neděli už jsem měla nachozeno skoro 60 km, takže jsem důchodcovsky zvolila ježdění MHD :D Jela jsem se hezky autobusem podívat na Battersea areál - ze známé bývalé elektrárny je tam veliký obchoďák a k tomu i hezky zrevitalizované okolí. Metrem jsem pak jela do Camdenu, kde jsem si zas dala kafíčko a procházela si obchůdky a food tracky. Zpět jsem opět jela busem kousek k Oxford street a na pozdní oběd. Po jídle a troše odpočinku jsem opět nasedla na metro a vyrazila k Tate modern. Tam je vstup zdarma reálně by tam člověk mohl strávit celý víkend, jak je to obří! Já prošla jen pár sálů a pak už se přes Millennium Bridge a kolem St. Paul's Cathedral vydala procházkou domů. Za celodenní ježdění MHD v zóně 1 a 2 jsem platila 8,5 GBP. Zas jsem používala tapování, kdy v metru dáváte katru k turniketu při vstupu a vstupu a v autobuse jen u vstupu.

Poslední den jsem se sbalila a vyrazila autobusem směrem k Barbican Centre, což bylo místo, na které jsem se hrozně těšila. Pro mě to teda bylo docela bludiště, ale ty prostory jsou úplně nádherný!! Z něj jsem šla k The Garden at 120, kam je vstup zdarma a není potřeba si ho nijak zamlouvat. Tady mě velmi překvapilo, že tam nebyla žádná fronta a na vyhlídce jen pár lidí. Z terasy v 15. patře je tu krásný výhled na prakticky celé město. No a svůj výlet už jsem pak už zakončila na Brick Lane, kde jsem zas obešla různé obchody a halu Spitalfields Market, kde mají jak jídlo tak opět obchody a stánky.

Kolem 15:00 jsem už vyrazila na Liverpool Street station, kde jezdí vlak Stansted express na letiště. Lístek jsem si koupila předem online a stál 24 GBP. Lístek není na žádný čas a cesta trvá cca hodinu. Našla jsem i levnější autobusy, ale při ježdění po městě, kde běžně měly klidně i půl hodiny zpoždění jsem jim moc nevěřila. Na letišti byla (znova) kontrola lístků, která vytvořila docela frontu, tak bacha na to :D Zpětně jsem pak našla, že když si vlak koupíte dlouho předem, tak můžete mít lístek už za 10 liber.

Tady jsem si poprvý v životě k letence koupila fast track (překvapilo mě, že stal asi jen 200 korun) a bylo to strašně super. Letiště je fakt obří (zaznamenala jsem asi 98 gatů) a tady fakt nebyla ani noha a já šla hned na security check a pak si už je pohodlně sednout a čekat na odlet, který byl překvapivě na čas.

[elsie--young]

Best Activities in San Francisco: A Personal Guide!

When I first arrived in San Francisco, I felt the excitement bubbling inside me. This city, known for its steep streets and iconic landmarks, offers a unique blend of culture, history, and adventure. But with so much to do, where should you start? Here's my guide to the best activities in San Francisco that will make your visit truly memorable.

Problem: Feeling Overwhelmed by Choices

San Francisco has something for everyone—historical sites, natural wonders, and vibrant neighborhoods. The challenge is deciding where to go and what to see. I remember feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. Do I spend the day exploring museums or walking through the city’s famous parks? Should I prioritize iconic landmarks or hidden gems?

Agitation: Missing Out on the Must-Do Activities

Nobody wants to leave a city feeling like they missed out on the best experiences. When I was planning my trip, I wanted to ensure that I didn't miss any of the city's highlights. There's nothing worse than getting home and realizing you missed the must-see spots. I needed to plan carefully to make the most of my time in San Francisco.

Solution: My Top Picks for the Best Activities in San Francisco

Based on my experience, here are the best activities in San Francisco that you simply can't miss:

1. Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge

Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge was at the top of my list. This iconic bridge, completed in 1937, stretches 1.7 miles and offers stunning views of the city and bay. I suggest starting from the visitor center on the south end, where you can pick up some interesting historical tidbits before setting out. Walking the bridge is free, and if you have a couple of hours, consider walking both ways to fully appreciate the views.

2. Explore Alcatraz Island

A visit to Alcatraz Island is a must for any first-timer. The ferry ride to the island costs about $41 for adults and includes an audio tour of the infamous former prison. I spent about three hours here, wandering through the cell blocks and learning about the island's history. The views of the city from the island are also spectacular. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons.

3. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

Fisherman’s Wharf is one of those places that just feels like San Francisco. I loved the energy here—street performers, bustling shops, and the smell of fresh seafood in the air. Pier 39, in particular, is famous for its sea lions, who laze about on the docks. I recommend grabbing a bowl of clam chowder from one of the vendors and finding a spot to watch the sea lions play. It’s a great place to spend a few hours, and you only need to pay for food or souvenirs.

4. Ride a Cable Car

San Francisco’s cable cars are not just a means of transportation; they are an experience. I took the Powell-Hyde line, which costs $8 per ride. The cable car offers a fun, open-air ride up and down the city’s steep streets. You’ll pass by landmarks like Lombard Street, known as the “crookedest street in the world,” and get fantastic views of the bay. It’s a bit touristy, but sometimes you just have to embrace it.

5. Visit Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is larger than New York’s Central Park and has so much to offer. I rented a bike for $15 an hour and spent the afternoon exploring. The park is home to several attractions, including the California Academy of Sciences and the Japanese Tea Garden. I particularly enjoyed the Conservatory of Flowers, which showcases a variety of rare and exotic plants. The park is free to enter, though some attractions charge a small fee.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Your San Francisco Visit

San Francisco is a city that rewards the curious traveler. Whether you’re walking across the Golden Gate Bridge or taking a ride on a cable car, there are countless experiences to enjoy. By following this guide, you’ll hit the best activities in San Francisco and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. I promise you won’t regret any minute spent in this incredible city!

[besttimetogo2]

The Seasonal Guide: The Optimal Time to Visit Chicago

Chicago, the Windy City, is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and diverse neighborhoods. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking to enjoy a great city, choosing the best time to visit Chicago can make a significant difference in your experience. Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you plan your perfect trip.

Spring: March to May

If you enjoy nice weather and blossoming flowers, spring is one of the best time to visit Chicago. As the city shakes off its winter chill, temperatures rise, making it perfect for exploring outdoor attractions like Millennium Park and the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Summer: June to August

Summer in Chicago is the most popular time to visit, and for good reason. The city comes alive with a plethora of outdoor events, from music festivals to street fairs. Enjoy the beautiful weather at Navy Pier, take a stroll along the Lake Michigan waterfront, or attend the renowned Lollapalooza music festival. The finest times of year for beach days and boat cruises are during the summer. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so attractions can be crowded, and accommodation prices may be higher.

Fall: September to November

Fall is arguably the best time to visit Chicago if you want to experience the city’s beauty without the summer crowds. The fall foliage provides a breathtaking backdrop to your stay, and the weather is crisp and comforting. September and October are ideal for exploring neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Hyde Park. Don’t miss the Chicago Gourmet food festival in September or the spooky excitement of Halloween events in October. Fall also offers great opportunities for cultural events and theater performances.

Winter: December to February

Winter in Chicago is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, but don’t let that deter you. The city is transformed with seasonal markets and twinkling lights into a wintry wonderland. The Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza is a must-visit, offering German-style holiday treats and crafts. Ice skating at Millennium Park and visiting the Art Institute of Chicago are also fantastic winter activities. Winter may be a lovely time to view the city, provided you're dressed for the chill.

Tips for Planning Your Chicago Visit

No matter which season you choose, a little planning can go a long way in enhancing your Chicago experience. If you're visiting in summer, book your accommodations and tickets for popular attractions in advance to avoid long waits and higher prices. For spring and fall visits, check local event calendars to make the most of seasonal festivals and activities. In winter, dress warmly and plan for potential weather-related disruptions, like snow or ice. Additionally, keep in mind that Chicago's vast public transportation system might be a practical means of getting around the city, particularly during rush hour. By preparing ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Windy City, regardless of when you arrive.

The best time to visit Chicago really depends on what you’re looking to experience. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer is bustling with activity, and winter provides a festive, albeit chilly, atmosphere. When organizing your vacation, take your interests and tastes into account to make it an unforgettable experience. Chicago’s diverse offerings mean that no matter when you visit, you’re in for an incredible time.

[graveyardrabbit]

some Friends at the pier

[lyrics365]

Grace Cathedral Hill

Grace Cathedral hill All wrapped in bones of setting sun All dust and stone and moribund I paid twenty-five cents to light A little white candle For a New Year’s Day I sat and watched it burn away Then turned and weaved Through slow decay We were both a little hungry So we went to get hot dog Down to Hyde Street Pier The light was slight and disappeared The air it stunk of fish and beer We heard…

[cristinad61]

Lewis Bay Ark

I’m not sure how I managed to miss this cozy little houseboat a few years ago on my first visit to San Francisco’s Maritime National Museum. I suppose I was in a hurry to explore the vessels with tall masts just a bit farther along the Hyde Street Pier. I can’t help thinking that living aboard this type of “ark,” moored in San Francisco Bay, would be a cool and relaxing way to spend the…

[cruiseworld]

Cruising From San Francisco

Introducing San Francisco

San Francisco is situated on the west coast of California at the entrance to one of the continents's best natural harbors, San Francisco bay.

The city spreads across more than 40 hills. The two highest are Mount Davidson and Mount Suttro, both of which are over 900ft high. And the two best known are Telegraph Hill, long in favor as a haunt for artists and writers and Nob Hill, as the name suggests the neighborhood of the rich and famous.

San Francisco’s history begins in 1769, when Spaniards from Mexico sailed into the bay. When they reported back to their base about the area’s exciting potential, an expeditionary party marched to the area from the Spanish base at San Diego, and on arrival set up a military camp. This outpost was eventually ceded to the US in 1848. Strangely (was it a coincidence?) in the very same year that San Francisco changed ownership, gold was found close to the city, attracting the attention of legions of would be gold miners. San Francisco's years of being a quiet town in the middle of nowhere ended as more than 30,000 people, all heavily infected with Gold Fever, rushed in.

By the beginning of the 20th century San Francisco had enlarged into an attractive cosmopolitan center of 390,000 inhabitants, dubbed by some as the 'Paris of the West'. The city’s economy boomed as the completion of the Pacific Railroad fostered the establishment of new assembly line based industries. 

San Francisco's growth was halted in the spring of 1906 when an enormous earthquake hit the city. The earthquake was so powerful it was felt even as far away as Los Angeles. Devastating fires spread out of control burning to the ground over three quarters of downtown.  The city rose from the ashes in a frenzy of rebuilding.

After two decades of progress and consolidation, the city emerged in the 1930s and early 1940s to enjoy another economic boom. The Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge were built, and in 1940 the Golden Gate World Fair received visitors from all over the world.

Today San Francisco is a vibrant technology and financial center, a busy port, and the entrypoint to Silicon Valley, home of technology giants such as Apple, Google, HP and Oracle.

Touring San Francisco

San Francisco has long been popular with visitors, and not surprisingly so, since the city has a whole host of 'must-see' attractions.

Fisherman’s Wharf

Fisherman’s Wharf, which has served as the dock for the bay's commercial fishing fleet since the Gold Rush years, is today more tourist honeypot than fishing port. As an alternative how about following the Port Walk, an idea of the Fisherman’s Wharf Merchants Association. The walk stops at a series of signs which give information on the rich history of this waterfront.

Alcatraz

Though the last prisoners were moved away from the island more than 50 years ago, Alcatraz with its claustrophobic cells, foreboding mess hall and frightening solitary confinement holes is well preserved. Tourists can reach the island by a short boat trip from Pier 33, sailings are every half hour, but make sure to book ahead.

Cablecars

Of the twenty-three lines which operated in the city at the end of the late 19th century just three remain, Powell-Hyde, the California Street Line and Powell-Mason . A ride on a cable-car is a never forget experience, but beware - if you end up standing on a car’s running board, it takes a lot more arm muscle than you might think to hang on!

Chinatown

Despite the fact that many of the buildings in SF's Chinatown may not be truely Chinese in design, the cooking, inhabitants and culture bring an authenticity to the district. Charming globe lanterns and dazzlingly colored banners cross the avenues, which are lit at night by highly decorative streetlights in the shape of a Chinese pagoda held up by two dragons.

Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge crosses the stretch of sea which separates the Pacific and San Francisco Bay. It's a little known fact that the distinctive color was picked on account of the fact it enhances the bridge’s visibility in dense fog. To travel to the south side of the bridge board the SF Muni bus 28 at Laguna and Chestnut, a short walk from Fisherman’s Wharf. To return be sure to take route 28 towards Fort Mason, not Daly City.

Cruise Ideas

Cruises sail north following the Canadian and Alaskan coasts, a midsummer favorite on account fo Alaska’s glorious scenery, or west to islands of Hawaii, popular in winter because of the gorgeous white sand beaches

For a full calendar of cruises, see cruises from San Francisco.

San Francisco Cruise Terminals

San Francisco offers 2 cruise terminals. Before 2014, Pier 35 was used for cruises which start and end in the city, and Pier 27 a back-up facility used for day-calling cruises. Late in 2014 the terminals swapped places, as the brand new terminal on Pier 27 (The James R. Herman Cruise Terminal) became the primary cruise terminal, and Pier 35 the backup.

Pier 27 Terminal

Due to its crosswise orientation, Pier 27 is SF’s longest berth and can accommodate one ship up to 1250 feet in length. Whilst perhaps in not quite as good a position as Pier 35, the new terminal is still close to the popular Fishermen’s Wharf area. The new terminal offer states of the art facilities serving the largest cruise ships.

Pier 35 Terminal

Pier 35 was the home of the Matson Line’s famous white passenger liners until the 1970s. These ran cruise vacations and passenger services to Australia, the South Pacific and New Zealand until 1978. The pier offers two cruise ship berths pier 35 south and pier 35 north. Services include customs clearance, restrooms, taxi rank, security and information point.

For the port authority website, see Port Of San Francisco.

Transport To The Cruise Terminal

The cruise terminals may be ideally positioned as a port of call, offering easy access to all the sights for passengers, but if your cruise departs from San Franscisco, will you will to traverse the city to reach the terminals at the North East waterfront. See the 'Getting Here' page at the San Francisco port's website for instructions as to how to reach the port by car and bus.

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San Francisco, CA, weather and climate

San Francisco has a typical Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild, wet winters, commonly observed in coastal northern California cities. The western part of the city is mainly known for fog. San Francisco's unique geographical features, including its sharp hills and seaside location, create numerous microclimates, resulting in a 20% difference in rainfall in high-hill neighborhoods. The temperatures in San Francisco generally do not exceed 80°F, with only around 20 days per year being that hot. The warm season is from May to October, while the rainy season is from November to April, with an average of 73 rainy days per year and 24 inches of annual precipitation.

San Francisco apartment rentals

The Quinn is a luxurious San Francisco apartment rental designed with the residents' well-being in mind, offering a peaceful living experience through organic courtyards and rooftop retreats. The building features a captivating collection of commissioned artwork by renowned artist KFiSH, enhancing the overall ambiance. The spacious outdoor area includes a state-of-the-art grill, pizza oven, and plush seating options, perfect for hosting a weekend barbecue or enjoying a book while taking in the stunning view of the sun setting on the horizon. Residents can enjoy heightened security and convenience with a cutting-edge virtual intercom system and a state-of-the-art bicycle storage room securely controlled by fobs. For more information about the floor plans available, call (415) 237-2535.

Pier 39

The PIER 39 in San Francisco is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and San Francisco Bay views. The area has various attractions, such as the Aquarium of the Bay, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, and the San Francisco 7D Experience. There are also different shopping options, including souvenirs, clothing, and candy stores. It also houses various restaurants, including seafood, casual dining, and fast food. The lively atmosphere of Pier 39 is perfect for people-watching and enjoying the scenery. It's the home to a colony of sea lions, which can be observed sunbathing, playing, and swimming in the bay. It also hosts street performers, including magicians, musicians, and comedians, and hosts special events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations.

San Francisco coroner identified a man struck by a Muni bus.

A man, who was identified as 61-year-old Thomas Duba, was fatally struck by a Muni bus in San Francisco last week. The incident occurred near Van Ness Avenue and O'Farrell Street on Muni's 49-Van Ness/Mission line. The bus had to be raised to remove Duba, who was dead at the scene. Both directions of Van Ness were closed for hours during the investigation, but the roadway reopened at 5:20 a.m. San Francisco police are investigating the collision and have not released any details about the case. Anyone with information is asked to contact the San Francisco Police Department at 415-575-4444 or text TIP411.

Link to maps

PIER 39 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States Take Jones St to Pine St 12 min (1.6 mi) Take Hyde St to 8th St 8 min (1.4 mi) The Quinn SF 345 8th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States