Californian Greg Critser begins this tour around the Golden State in Los Angeles, pointing out all the must-see sights-including Hollywood and the Sunset Strip-as well as some lesser-known ones (such as the latest venues to spot the stars). Southward, you visit the Orange County beaches-the epitome of the California lifestyle-and a string of affluent seaside towns, including glitzy Laguna Beach and artsy La Jolla.. The beautiful city of San Diego awaits with the world-class museums and zoo at Balboa Park, the fairy-tale Hotel Del, and the beautifully restored old town, with its Mexican flair. Moving north along the coast, you take in Father Serra's missions, the jaw-dropping Big Sur scenery, and moneyed Carmel and historic Monterey. You will discover the best of San Francisco, essentially a city of neighborhoods, each one offering something special-Chinatown, North Beach, the newly revitalized South of Market area.
