California dream'in; Great guide to get you around

June 3, 12:58 PMOrlando Florida Vacation ExaminerRochelle Paul

Previous Next

Comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Orlando Florida Vacation Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

One of many Northern California travel photos that can be seen
in this travel guide (Photo provided by Michele Bigley)

From the fun photo on the front to the feel of the ocean spray, to hiking in the vastness of its wilderness areas to the smell of unique cuisines, you'll find what you're looking for, and more, between these pages.

I have to admit it; I'm not a big fan of travel guides.  Ironic for a travel writer.  Yet, most are dry and boring.  They may tell you about the facts of a place, but don't give you the true heart, soul, or feel.  Not so with this guide; here you'll find not just what you need to know about Northern California, but you'll come away feeling like you've been along for the ride with the author.

This new offering, Northern California: An Explorer's Guide, written by Michele Bigley (June 2009, The Countryman Press), is an exceptional read, an insider's view, and a traveler's friend.

As a world traveler, Bigley knows her stuff, and can relay it with the aplomb.  Yet, it's her life as a San Franciscan, and her passion for the northern part of this vast state, that travel with you through this adventure from start to finish.  You'll get the insider's view, the passionate travelers touch, and indulge in the taste, smells, and wild ride that is Northern California.

Most folks know of Hollywood, the "big cities", and earthquakes when they think of CA.  Yet, there is so much more "north of tinsel town", and you'll experience that here.

Start by experiencing "San Fran" through the eyes of a local.  Find the Confessions of a Food Whore (page 37) and learn this is Bigley's number one spot to bring out-of-town visitors.  What more can you get than that kind of insight?

(Photo provided by Michele Bigley)

I think one of my favorite sections to the book is the What's Where in Northern California section near the front (page 16).  A quick rundown of spots, things to do, tips and tidbits make this section of California dream'in an outstanding launching pad.  At your fingertips are the things you'll need to start the decision making.  Even this small northern portion of such a large state is a lot to take in, so narrowing things down comes in handy.  This is a great way to start.

Unlike so many travel guides I've seen, many of the photos in here are taken by the author.  What a perfect way to get a feel for what lies between the pages, let alone where you'll be visiting.  "Perfect" photos by the pros are often stale and "studio-esque".  Here you get photos that tell Bigley's story, not some watered down "message" someone wishes to convey.  Yea, I'd prefer color (I'm an image snob), but these are more than doable, and bring to the table the feelings you'll have visiting these locals; like a photo album of the family trip. 

For those traveling with pets, Bigley offers locations that are welcoming.  Additional "special interest" include locations to marry or hold civil unions.  The Gay/Lesbian community of travelers will find those who "go out of their way to welcome them".  Don't forget kid friendly, handicapped accessible, and exceptional deals for the money tips.

The guide takes you to San Francisco, the Bay Area, Central Coast and San Joaquin Valley, Wine Country and the High Sierra, among others.  Walk the brisk, ocean-sprayed shores or hike through Yosemite.  Explore the history of the Gold Rush or investigate the world-class cuisines that dot these northern environs, relax in five-star hotels, or stare up at the vast sky in a back-to-nature campground.   Bigley covers them all with clarity and helpful information, along with that chit-chat fun of a buddy along for the ride.

Northern California: An Explorer's Guide is a terrific read, an eye opening introduction to new adventures, and a fresh look for those well versed in her beauty.

Bigley is also the author of Kauai: Great Destinations Hawaii (Countryman).  She writes  as the Northern California Getaways Examiner on Examiner.com.

Be sure to check out my other column, Strategies for Small Business Examiner