Day 1 - Golden Gate by Bike

After finishing yesterday's blog, and a quick refresh.... I decided to head out after all and introduce myself to some of the locals. The concierge suggested I try a sports bar 3 blocks from the hotel. When I arrived it was absolutely packed, after ordering a beer at the bar I eyed a table and sat down in front of one of the biggest TV's I have ever seen....

I was surrounded by screaming, yelling fans of Ice Hockey...? It was the final game of the Stanley Cup? Don't worry I had no idea either....

I started talking to a couple next me and we ended up sharing a few beers and a fairly decent meal. After tasting the majority of locally brewed beers (circa 7-8 pints) - some good some not so good I headed out to the Mission district a local hangout full of dimly lit bars & restaurants to see the rest of the night pass by......

After getting in around 3am, I wasn't surprise when I finally woke around noon... I quickly got ready and walked down to Fisherman's wharf (9 - 10 blocks). On the way I passed by "Pier 39" a tourist mecca full of souvenir shops & themed restaurants -

So after a quick walk around I decided to sit down at the bar (overlooking the bay, Alcatraz & Golden Gate Bridge) and have some lunch.

Once I reached Fisherman's Wharf I decided to hire a bike from a company called "Blazing Saddles" and headed off to ride across the Golden Gate Bridge - a leisurely 45min ride or so....

The bridge was amazing and one sight I can now tick off my must see & do list!!

Heading back I passed through the Marina district (were i will probably head later today for dinner) and Presido Park - a triathlon aptly named "Escape from Alcatraz" will be held there tomorrow so i may try to check it out...

Fisherman's Wharf is one of the main tourist destinations and given it is known for its Shrimp, Crab, Lobster & Oysters so after the 2 hours working up a sweat I found a table sat down and ordered Fisherman's Basket containing 1/2 lobster, crab, 1/2 doz oysters, calamari & shrimp (plus the staple side serving of chips overflowing the plate).

I took the cable car back to the hotel where I am now looking to head out to the Marina district one of the more upmarket areas of San Francisco. And tomorrow I will be given a guided tour by one of my cousin Barbra's greatest friends.

James.