Have you ever thought what is traveling for you? What feelings does it cause? Why people should go abroad at least once in their life? Why traveling is so popular among, basically, young people? For which reasons people go to another town, country? Why do they often tell that their biggest dream is to see the world? You know, I am one of these people who sleeps and dreams about trips around the world. When I think about being able to see other countries, cultures, to try local food and to speak to local citizens, be in places where you know anyone and anyone knows you, where there is no judgment, just curiosity, where you can walk and talk, touch and watch those ‘sick’ views… Where you can witness God’s incredible creations, learn lots of new legit things and local languages, observe others people’s life, being able to be just you, chilling, getting fun, even maybe get lost somewhere and get in trouble, come down with a flu or somethings else, and be exhausted — frankly speaking, it all sounds really rad, wonderful and inspiring for me…

I would love to have a glass of bourbon or pint of brew in New Orleans, to drive around all states of the USA to see places where they filmed ‘The Supernatural’, to go on a Rodeo Drive, to say ‘Hi’ to some showbiz actors in New-York doing a promenade around the streets, or to fly to another continent, more precisely Australia, where water flows in the opposite direction and life is completely different at all.

It sounds gorgeously good, and now we consider California as one of those stellar places where, I believe, everyone has to go and stay for a while, at least to see those mental sunsets, stunning landscapes, to visit the two main movie companies in which world-class films are being made and which change lives of millions of people — “Paramount Pictures” and “Warner Bros.” and many other things…

As Beth Anderson said, “Everything is just better in California — the wine, the food, fruits and vegetables, the comforts of living. Even the instrumentalists are generous and curious. Everything is wonderful.” I assure you, to hear about California’s magnificent places that is one thing, and to see it by yourself is completely different. But, the point is that my story is not about bomb grub in cafe or some luxury restaurants. It is about a place of dreams, alluring state that has it all: a spectacular coastline, snow-capped mountains, expansive deserts, idyllic farmlands and ancient redwood groves, along with vibrant multicultural cities.

San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge. One of the most beautiful cities in America, San Francisco should be on everyone’s must-see list. The ocean and hills provide a stunning natural setting, but the quaint neighborhoods, historic sites, green spaces, inspiring cultural institutions, and relaxed attitude are what truly make this city special. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is one of the key sights and what many people call to mind when they think of the city, and even California. The orange frame against the blue water of San Francisco Bay, or rising out of the fog that often covers the area is an unforgettable sight. You can appreciate the bridge from afar or, for a more personal experience, drive over it, walk on it, or even bike across it.

Yosemite National Park. Yosemite National Park in Northern California is one of the United States’ most scenic and most visited national parks. The mountains, valleys, rivers, and spectacular waterfalls have drawn tourists, artists, and athletes here for decades. Most of the key sights and things to do in Yosemite National Park are in Yosemite Valley. Carved by glaciers during the last ice age, the granite walls and huge waterfalls are some of the most outstanding features in the park. This is where you’ll find the big-name attractions, like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan.

Disneyland. Disneyland, located in Anaheim, is California’s premier family destination and has been for decades. This massive amusement park is home to all kinds of rides, games, shows, and entertainment, complete with restaurants and hotels. The park is a combination of theme rides and recreated worlds and cultures. You can find shows and other entertainment designed for both children and adults. Long line-ups and wait times have been reduced somewhat by the invention of passes, which give you a “return time” to various attractions. However, when kids are out of school, either for the summer, Christmas, spring break, or any other holiday, you can be sure that the park will be very busy.

Death Valley National Park. Death Valley National Park contains some of California’s most inhospitable terrain, with extreme heat that has left this desert area strangely beautiful. Salt fields, dry parched land, sand dunes, mountains, and a lake that lies below sea level create a unique landscape in this remote valley. Visitors can drive through the park and stop at lookouts, hike short trails, see the ruins of the valley’s former industry, and even paddle in the shallow Badwater Lake, if there is any water at that time.

Santa Barbara: Sandy Beaches and a Charming Downtown. Santa Barbara has a charming downtown, characterized by its traditional Spanish-style buildings, tile-adorned walkways, and palm-fringed streets. Visitors could spend hours exploring the downtown’s art galleries, open-air markets, and locally owned retail boutiques, only to stop for a snack at a sidewalk cafe or a delicious meal at one of the top-notch restaurants. The Old Mission Santa Barbara is known as the “Queen of the Missions” because of its graceful architecture and gorgeous flower gardens, with the Santa Ynez Mountains as a backdrop.

Of course, there left a lot of places in California to tell you about. But, in my opinion, I managed to highlight the main ones. You know, your whole life won’t be enough to explore our large and admirable, I dare to say out of this world Planet. But please, find at least one chance, at least five days, to go at least in one place, where you have never been before. It is worth it.

Anthony Bourdain once remarked, “Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.”