# California Road Trip 2019 – Tech Icons & Natural Wonders

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/north-america/united-states-california-2019-technology-and-stunning-landscapes/
- Published: 2024-12-10T17:26:09+01:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/ameryka-polnocna/stany-zjednoczone-kalifornia-2019-technologia-i-widoki-z-bliska/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

This is the second part of our 2019 journey to the United States. After an intense
start in New York City, it was time for a change of scenery and our next destination–
[San Francisco](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=13801).
We traveled from New York to the West Coast to explore not only another side of 
America but also dive into the world of technology and culture unique to this region.

The memories I’m sharing are snapshots from 2019, so it’s worth keeping in mind 
that some things may have changed since then – whether in terms of safety or everyday
life in the U.S. Nonetheless, what remains vivid in my memory is California’s distinctive
vibe, San Francisco’s unique energy, and a lifestyle that’s entirely different from
the East Coast.

If you missed the first part of this journey, [I warmly invite you to read it](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/north-america/united-states-new-york-2019-the-city-that-never-sleeps/)–
I shared our first impressions of New York City and everyday life in the city that
never sleeps. 🗽 You’ll also find a separate article where I highlight [must-see attractions in New York](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/north-america/united-states-what-i-saw-in-new-york-city-in-2019/).

I invite you to read and travel together through this interesting place! 🌉

 [ ⌊Busy street in San Francisco, with taxis and cars driving past tall buildings⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Saint Mary’s Cathedral in San Francisco with tall gothic tower and arched facade along a city street⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## How did we get to San Francisco?

We started our journey with a flight from JFK Airport on Alaska Airlines. The flight
was smooth, which is always a pleasant touch when traveling. Since we were flying
domestically within the United States, we skipped the visa verification process 
this time – a small but appreciated convenience. After a few hours of flying, we
landed at SFO Airport in San Francisco, ready for the next chapter of our adventure.

Upon arrival, the first logistical adjustments began. A friend traveling with me
rented a Ford city SUV so we could move around the area freely. However, since our
mutual friend was arriving in San Francisco the following day, I knew I’d continue
the rest of the journey with him. For that reason, I waited until the next day to
rent a car for the two of us.

This was the point where our plans began to diverge. My friend and his wife had 
their own routes and plans, while I, along with another friend, soon set off to 
explore California on our own. This arrangement allowed each of us to focus on what
interested us most while still sharing our experiences along the way. [San Francisco](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=13801)
turned out to be an excellent starting point for this leg of the journey.

 [ ⌊People walking through San Francisco Airport terminal hallway toward signs for Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊San Francisco Airport terminal interior with a large purple hanging art installation and travelers walking⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Car rental

Renting a car also went smoothly. The next day, we picked up our friend from the
airport, who flew with Lufthansa from Warsaw to [San Francisco](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=13801).
Interestingly, he had the chance to travel on an Airbus A380—a real treat for aviation
enthusiasts. After his arrival, it was time to split up. My friend and I parted 
ways at the airport, but we met up later that evening at the motel to exchange our
first impressions.

This time, we rented a car from Enterprise, and the pick-up process was a bit different
compared to my previous experiences with car rental companies. Instead of selecting
a vehicle ourselves, a pre-assigned car was waiting for us in the airport parking
lot—a larger Ford, which turned out to be perfectly suited to our needs.

During this trip, I had my first experience using **Apple CarPlay**. For someone
who didn’t have such luxuries in their previous car, it was quite a novelty! The
interface was intuitive, and the ability to navigate and control multimedia directly
from the car’s screen was an absolute game-changer.

If you’re planning to rent a car abroad, be sure to check out our article **🚗 [How to rent a car and what to look out for.](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/guides/car-rental-what-you-need-to-know/)**
You’ll find practical tips and information to help you avoid surprises.

Don’t forget that if you plan to travel outside of California – a 🪪 **[International Driving License](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/guides/what-is-an-international-driving-permit-and-when-is-it-needed/)**
is essential. You can read more about how to get one in our separate post.

 [ ⌊International Driving Permit, Car in USA: a car driving along a winding mountain road in the US countryside⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/international-driving-permit-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Rented car parked at Sequoia National Park with hills and overcast sky in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-sequoia-national-park-car-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Credit cards

Payments also went smoothly. The rental agency accepted my card without any issues—
one debit card transaction covered the rental fee, while the credit card was used
for the deposit. In the United States, credit cards are the go-to standard, especially
for renting cars or booking hotels. While debit cards are sometimes accepted, they
can lead to complications, such as being declined or having additional funds blocked.

If you’re renting a car in the U.S., it’s worth checking the insurance terms in 
advance—especially additional options covering potential damages or theft. Rental
companies often offer various packages, but they aren’t always cost-effective. It’s
a good idea to compare options or consult your bank about travel insurance, which
may also cover rental cars.

In the U.S., credit cards are seen as more trustworthy, especially in the travel
and service industries.

### Car travel

Traveling by car in the United States, especially in California, is incredibly convenient.
A car allows you to reach places where public transportation might fall short—particularly
in a sprawling area like San Francisco and its surroundings. Of course, traffic 
jams happen, but it’s still a more comfortable option than relying on buses or trams
in this region.

In downtown San Francisco, the biggest challenge was finding a parking spot—dense
construction and limited parking spaces can be frustrating. Sometimes you really
need to put in extra effort to find a place, especially near hotspots like Union
Square or Lombard Street. However, navigating the suburbs or other parts of the 
region, such as Palo Alto or Napa Valley, was much easier—with more space and readily
available parking options.

 [ ⌊Police motorcycle parked on a San Francisco street near a traffic sign and storefronts⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Brick building and parked cars in San Francisco, USA, with Lombard and Larkin street signs visible⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊San Francisco street view with parked cars, trees, and a distant city skyline in cloudy weather⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Traffic regulations and local rules

Traveling by car in California is convenient, but it’s essential to know the local
traffic rules, which can differ significantly from those in Poland. Here are a few
key guidelines:

 * **Right Turn on Red:** In most U.S. states, including California, you are allowed
   to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop and ensuring the
   road is clear. Exceptions are marked with a “No Turn on Red” sign, where such
   a maneuver is prohibited.
 * **School Buses:** When a school bus stops and activates its flashing red lights
   and extends the “STOP” sign, all vehicles in both directions must come to a complete
   stop until the signals are turned off.
 * **Lanes: ** Some highways have HOV (High-Occupancy Vehicle) lanes, designated
   for vehicles carrying at least two or more passengers. Using these lanes without
   the required number of passengers can result in a fine.
 * **Parking: ** Parking rules are clearly marked on signs, often specifying allowed
   hours and days. Colored curbs also indicate specific parking regulations, such
   as red: no stopping or parking allowed.
 * **Exercise Caution on Steep Streets: ** San Francisco is known for its steep 
   hills – ensure your car’s brakes are in good condition, and parking on inclines
   requires special care (always turn your wheels toward the curb).
 * **Toll Roads:** Some highways and bridges, like the Golden Gate Bridge, require
   toll payments. Be sure to factor these into your travel budget.

## San Francisco

Our adventure in San Francisco was relatively short but intense. The city surprised
us with its charm, though I must admit that part of the experience was inspired 
by memories from… GTA San Andreas. Yes, I say this with a bit of a wink, but there
was something truly special about seeing in real life the places I had previously“
visited” on a game screen. I finally made it to the iconic San Andreas! 😄

 [ ⌊Traffic on the San Francisco Bay Bridge with downtown skyscrapers in the background on an overcast day⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-010-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Public transport

Public transportation in San Francisco is a topic worth mentioning, even if – like
us – you mainly rely on a rental car during your trip. The city offers a wide variety
of options, but the iconic cable cars, known worldwide, definitely take center stage.

#### Cable Car

Cable cars are a symbol of San Francisco and one of its main tourist attractions.
Currently, there are three operating lines: **Powell-Hyde**, **Powell-Mason**, and**
California Street**. I must admit, while cable cars are an iconic emblem of the 
city, they didn’t particularly impress me as a means of transportation. Let’s be
honest – crowded with tourists, cramped inside, and the vehicles, though historic,
don’t exactly shine in terms of technical condition or comfort. In Poland, for example,
during public transport days, you can see vintage trams in much better condition–
better maintained and with a bigger “wow” factor.

Of course, for someone who has never had the chance to ride something like this,
cable cars can be an interesting experience. Seeing a tram climb the steep streets
of San Francisco certainly has its charm, especially when you’re admiring the city’s
panorama. For me, however, it was more of a tourist attraction to check off the 
list rather than something that gave me a real thrill.

 [ ⌊San Francisco cable car in Powell and Hyde Sts with passengers and a “Spectacular Bay Views” ad for Bubba Gump⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-008-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊San Francisco cable car passing parked cars near Van Ness Ave and California streets⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

#### Other modes of transport

In addition to the cable cars, San Francisco offers classic [Muni](https://www.sfmta.com/muni-transit)
trams, buses, and the Bay Area Rapid Transit ([BART](https://www.bart.gov/)) system.
BART is an excellent way to quickly travel between Bay Area cities, especially if
you’re planning to visit Oakland or Berkeley. It’s also worth mentioning the ferries,
which connect destinations like Sausalito, offering breathtaking views of the Golden
Gate Bridge and the city skyline along the way.

### Accommodation

Our original accommodation plans in Sunnyvale had to change because the reserved
motel canceled our booking due to issues with credit card authorization. These things
always seem to happen at the most inconvenient times – in this case, while we were
on the plane, leaving us unable to react. Luckily, we quickly found an alternative
and ended up staying at **Days Inn by Wyndham**, a classic American roadside motel.

I must admit, it was quite an interesting experience – something I had only ever
seen in movies, now brought to life. A typical roadside motel with parking right
in front of the rooms, a neon sign, and a simple yet functional layout. It was completely
different from the hotels we’re familiar with in Europe or large international chains.

The room was decent – clean, comfortable, and perfectly suited to our needs. What
I liked most, however, was the ability to step out onto the terrace right outside
the room to enjoy a cigarette (yes, back in 2019, I was still a smoker – now it’s
just a memory 😅).

### What did we see?

During our short stay in San Francisco, we focused on the key attractions that were
on our “must-see” list.

#### Lombard Street

We started with one of the city’s most iconic spots – **Lombard Street**, the world’s
most famous crooked street. Imagine a series of sharp hairpin turns surrounded by
blooming flowers and stunning homes. It’s postcard-perfect! Walking uphill (on the
stairs running alongside the street) is quite the challenge, though. My goodness,
what a workout! 😅 But the view from the top and the sense of accomplishment definitely
make it all worthwhile.

 [ ⌊San Francisco Lombard Street view from a landscaped hillside toward the downtown skyline under cloudy skies⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-lombard-street-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Lombard Street in San Francisco, with landscaped hedges, trees, and hillside houses under an overcast sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-lombard-street-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

#### Golden Gate Bridge

Of course, at the top of our list was the iconic **Golden Gate Bridge**. Not only
did we drive across it, but we also took a moment to stop and admire its grandeur
and the breathtaking views it offers. I must admit, the bridge is even more impressive
in person than in photos or video games. Driving through the city’s hilly streets
was an attraction in itself – those steep ascents and descents truly make San Francisco
stand out from other cities.

 [ ⌊Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, USA, with a man standing on green hills in the foreground⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-golden-gate-bridge-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco with green hills in the foreground and cloudy sky overhead⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-golden-gate-bridge-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

#### Pier 39

In the evening, we headed to **Pier 39** with a friend, a lively spot no matter 
the time of day. It’s a quintessential tourist destination but has its own charm–
full of eateries, shops, and, of course, the famous sea lions lazily lounging on
floating docks. A stroll along the pier at sunset is an experience well worth having,
even if the crowds can feel a bit overwhelming.

 [ ⌊Night view of San Francisco Pier 39 walkway with lit storefronts and string lights⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-pier-39-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Illuminated lamp post displaying “PIER 39” on San Francisco Pier 39 at night⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-pier-39-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

#### Google

Our nerdy souls naturally drew us to Silicon Valley, which was just as important
a destination for us on this trip. The **Googleplex in Mountain View** left a pleasant
impression on me. Interestingly, you can borrow company-branded bikes there and 
ride around the campus buildings – and of course, we took advantage of that. There’s
nothing quite like a short ride around the campus of one of the world’s biggest 
tech giants!

 [ ⌊Colorful Android statue and oversized donut-themed props at USA’s Mountain View Googleplex outdoors⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-googplex-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊A giant gingerbread character statue at the USA, Mountain View Googleplex.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-googplex-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Red child bicycle basket at the Googleplex in Mountain View, USA, with handlebars and handlebars visible.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-googplex-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Man standing beside a colorful bike in front of the Google building at Googleplex in Mountain View, USA⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-googplex-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

#### Facebook (Meta)

We couldn’t skip a visit to [Facebook’s headquarters](https://about.meta.com/media-gallery/offices-around-the-world/)
in Menlo Park either. Apart from the giant sign with the iconic “thumbs up,” there
isn’t much for visitors to see. Still, it was pretty cool to stand in the place 
where the world’s largest social network is built. This is where the algorithms 
are created that literally transform how people communicate across the globe.

However, Facebook is also a place surrounded by controversy. While the platform 
connects people and offers incredible opportunities, it also enables scammers and
fraudsters to operate. Scam ads and fake offers that slip through moderation remain
a persistent issue. It’s ironic that the world’s largest social network, with access
to cutting-edge technology, still struggles with problems that undermine the trust
of its users.

 [ ⌊Man standing in front of the Facebook sign at 1 Hacker Way, Mountain View Meta headquarters, USA⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-meta-hq-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

#### Apple

**Apple Park**, on the other hand, amazed us with its futuristic architecture – 
the modern ring truly looks like something from another planet. Unfortunately, entry
to the interior is reserved exclusively for employees, but we visited the [Apple Visitor Center](https://www.apple.com/retail/appleparkvisitorcenter/),
where we could admire Apple Park in all its glory.

It was there that we couldn’t resist purchasing some branded T-shirts – of course,
at premium prices because, well, it’s Apple. Thankfully, the quality of the fabric
made the investment worthwhile.

 [ ⌊Hand holding a tablet showing the Apple Park Ring Building at Mountain View Apple Park, USA⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-apple-park-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊People browse displays in the Apple Park visitor area at Mountain View, USA, with shopping bags in the foreground⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-apple-park-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

#### Computer History Museum

To wrap up, we visited the **Computer History Museum**—a true haven for tech enthusiasts.
The collection showcases the evolution of computers and technology from the very
beginning to the modern era. From the earliest computing machines to the legendary
Apple I and cutting-edge gadgets of today, it’s a fascinating journey through time.
And the best part? We managed to get in with a student discount! It was a fantastic
opportunity to explore a piece of tech history that we’d only read about in books
and articles before.

👉 _For more information, visit the [museum’s official website](https://computerhistory.org/)._

 [ ⌊Displays at USA’s Mountain View Computer History Museum show Intel Button pins, including “Happy 25th Birthday, Intel”⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-apple-park-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Server rack at the USA, Mountain View Computer History Museum, with many connected cables and circuit boards⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-computer-museum-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Machinery and vintage tape drives at the USA, Mountain View Computer History Museum, with control screens in the background⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-computer-museum-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Apple-1 computer circuit board display at USA’s Mountain View Computer History Museum⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-computer-museum-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Pixar computer display at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View, USA, with a keyboard and monitor⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-mountain-view-computer-museum-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Safety

When we visited [San Francisco](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=13801)
in 2019, the overall sense of safety didn’t raise any major concerns. Of course,
we heard the usual warnings, like “don’t leave valuables visible in your car,” which
is pretty universal advice no matter where you are. At that time, we didn’t feel
like crime was a significant issue.

However, one image stuck with me vividly – tents on the streets. Many homeless people
lived in makeshift camps on sidewalks, especially in less touristy areas of the 
city. It was a shocking sight for me, as California had always been portrayed in
Polish media as a land of sunny beaches and prosperity, not a place with such stark
social contrasts. Still, in 2019, the situation didn’t seem as severe as it is today.

#### How is it now?

Since our visit, the situation in [San Francisco](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=13801)
has changed significantly—and unfortunately, for the worse. The growing number of
homeless individuals and crimes such as car break-ins have become serious issues.
Today, the city often appears in the media for alarming crime statistics. Reports
suggest that car burglaries have become so rampant that some rental companies recommend
parking vehicles with the doors unlocked and an empty trunk to discourage thieves
from smashing the windows.

The streets increasingly reflect the impacts of the housing and drug crises. Many
neighborhoods that just a few years ago were bustling with tourists have now become
areas that visitors prefer to avoid. In the city center, it’s not uncommon to encounter
individuals using drugs openly on the streets, further contributing to the sense
of disorder and chaos.

#### **Is it unsafe?**

For the average tourist, the situation might still feel relatively safe as long 
as basic precautions are taken. Avoiding less crowded areas after dark and keeping
valuables close are absolute essentials. However, if you’re planning a trip to San
Francisco in the near future, it’s important to be aware of these realities and 
to organize your visit with the city’s current situation in mind.

## We’re moving on…

Our journey through California isn’t over yet! The next stop is [Las Vegas](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=17072),
where the main purpose of our trip awaits us – NAB Show 2019. However, instead of
heading straight there, we decided to make a few stops along the way to create even
more unforgettable memories.

The plan includes passing through [Fresno](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=13602)
and [Bakersfield](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=14094),
which will serve not only as pit stops but also as chances to catch our breath. 
And since we’ll be there, why not take a moment to enjoy the surrounding areas and
soak in some beautiful views? 🚗 ✨

 [ ⌊Highway in San Francisco, USA, with a truck driving under a cloudy sky past rolling green hills⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-san-francisco-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Sequoia National Park landscape with a calm lake, green hills, and cloudy sky, viewed from a rocky shore⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-sequoia-national-park-001-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊USA, Sequoia National Park: Tunnel Rock boulder over a road with a sign and forested hills behind it⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-sequoia-national-park-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

### Sequoia National Park

We spent our night in Fresno at the familiar **[Days Inn by Wyndham Yosemite Area](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&hid=2466920)**,
though interestingly, without any plans to visit Yosemite. The next day, we headed
toward [**Sequoia National Park**](https://www.nps.gov/seki/), and I must say, it
turned out to be a truly unique experience.

Exploring the park had a completely different vibe for us – it was more of a “drive-
through” experience than a hiking one. Honestly, traversing those vast spaces on
foot would likely take forever. Still, it was absolutely worth stopping at a few
scenic viewpoints to soak in the majesty of nature. The biggest highlight? Without
a doubt, the giant sequoias. **General Sherman Tree**, the largest tree in the world
by volume, is absolutely awe-inspiring.

 [ ⌊Sequoia National Park landscape of lush green hills under cloudy skies in the USA⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-sequoia-national-park-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Sequoia National Park foggy forest road lined with towering trees and a passing car⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-sequoia-national-park-005-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Man standing with arms outstretched against a towering tree in Sequoia National Park, USA, in misty forest.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-sequoia-national-park-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊The General Sherman Tree informational sign at Sequoia National Park, USA, covered in snow⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-sequoia-national-park-006-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

We didn’t expect snow, though! At higher elevations, a white layer still covered
the ground, which completely caught us off guard – after all, we were in sunny California.
The contrast was striking: massive sequoias surrounded by a winter landscape. It
felt surreal and added an unexpected charm to the experience.

In the evening, after a day filled with stunning views and unforgettable experiences,
we hit the road toward [Bakersfield](https://www.agoda.com/partners/partnersearch.aspx?pcs=1&cid=1933139&hl=en-us&city=14094),
where our next overnight stop awaited. The next stage of our journey was already
planned – soon, we would explore even more incredible places. 🚗🌲

## The third and final part of our journey

Summing up our adventure in California, I must say that this state truly has so 
much to offer – especially when it comes to unique landscapes and the chance to 
explore national parks. On one hand, there’s the tranquility and harmony of nature;
on the other, the modernity and innovation of technology. It’s the perfect blend
for anyone seeking diverse experiences.

If I ever return here with Jadzia, we’ll definitely revisit all these places and
seek out new locations that might surprise us. For me, traveling is all about experiencing
real life – not the idealized version we often see on screens. It’s about seeing
life as it truly is, with all its highlights and shadows.

And now, it’s time for the next chapter of our journey! Ahead of us lies **Death
Valley**, **Las Vegas**, the **NAB 2019 ** convention, and a tour of the **Warner
Bros. ** film studios in Los Angeles. There’s so much to share – join me for the
final part of our adventure! 🎥✨

 [ ⌊Cattle standing by a wooden fence on a green pasture in Woodlake, USA⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/usa-woodlake-article-photo-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)