California Dreaming: exploring the most sunny state of the USA

California is rightfully considered not only the most populous state in the USA, but also the most visited. And there are plenty of reasons for this: world-famous beaches, breathtaking views and locations seen in Hollywood films attract millions of tourists every year. And in which other state of the USA can you go surfing and skiing in one day?

In California you can feel like you’re in a different world, a world of cinema. The streets, houses and the entire atmosphere of the state remind you of the movies that everyone has surely watched more than once.

The majority of the population lives an active lifestyle and is involved in sports. Many residents start their mornings with a jog along the ocean. And in the evening, dressed in luxurious clothes, they happily head to restaurants or take a stroll along the California coast.

The largest city in the state of California is Los Angeles. It is a city built on the dreams of prospectors and adventurers seeking untold riches, the dreams of immigrants for a new and better life and the dreams of aspiring actors for the glamor and luxury of Hollywood. But the main advantage of the city is its location on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Los Angeles stretches out on a hilly plain, surrounded by mountains on one side and reaching the ocean on the other. Here there is a hot dry summer and a mild humid winter. And 329 sunny days a year.

The main attractions of the “City of Angels” are the Universal Studios, the gigantic Hollywood sign and the breathtakingly beautiful Beachwood Canyon Drive. In Los Angeles it is definitely worth taking a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, admiring the handprints of American celebrities at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, or going shopping at one of the city’s largest shopping centers. And of course to visit the famous Disneyland, located just 45 minutes away from downtown Los Angeles.

The second largest city in California, San Diego, is located on the Pacific coast in the southwest part of the state, near the border with Mexico. The city is known for its farms, state parks and forests, desert areas and mountains, as well as miles of stunning Pacific beaches. The residents of San Diego boldly call it “America’s Finest City.” And perhaps one can understand why: San Diego has almost perfect weather and the beaches and forests are just a ten-minute drive away from the city.

To appreciate the whole beauty of San Diego is better from the water. It is highly recommended to take a cruise along the Harbor and Shelter artificial islands, passing by Point Loma and reaching the Pacific Ocean. In honor of the discovery of San Diego lands, there is a monument to Cabrillo located on Point Loma. The statue of Cabrillo, gifted by the Portuguese government, is facing the place where the captain once landed.

If you go to the modern part of the city be sure to visit Balboa Park. Here you can find the famous Elizabethan theater, which hosts a Shakespeare festival during the summer. But the real gem of Balboa Park is the San Diego Zoo, recognized as one of the best in the world. You can ride the Skyfari aerial tramway or take a bus tour around the zoo.

And, of course, do not forget to visit one of the three main beaches in San Diego. In the southern part there is Ocean Beach, where you can go fishing, play beach volleyball, have a picnic at sunset or ride the waves with the surfers. In the western part of the bay you can find Mission Beach and Pacific Beach, where skateboarders, joggers and cyclists can be seen year-round.

Not to be overlooked is the California city of San Francisco. It is one of the largest, most beautiful and interesting centers of culture, the financial world and manufacturing center of the United States. Thanks to its waterfront location, abundance of parks and hilly terrain, it can feel like you’re in a small, cozy town rather than in the center of a metropolis with a population of over 4 million people.
The main feature of the city is its frightening yet captivating steep streets. San Francisco is located on earth waves, some of which are as steep as roller coasters. Rent a car, and you’ll easily feel like a surfing hero.

It doesn’t matter what your purpose of the trip is: sightseeing, getting to know the culture and history or simply enjoying beautiful views – San Francisco will definitely appeal to you.

Fast facts about California:

California attracts people not only with its incredible beauty and wonderful climate. This state is a real treasure trove of interesting and amazing places and facts.

• California is home to the highest and lowest points in the continental United States: Mount Whitney, standing at 14,495 feet, and Death Valley, which is 282 feet below sea level.
• The hottest and driest place in the state is Death Valley. Summer temperatures here can reach a scorching 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In the center of California one can see a palm tree and a pine tree planted next to each other. This was done by the residents to mark the meeting point of Northern and Southern California.
• California is home to 9 out of the 59 national parks in the United States. There are more national parks here than in any other country in the world. Additionally, the tallest tree, the coast redwood, reaches a height of 111 meters.
• Earthquakes often occur in the state. The San Andreas Fault, a 1,300-kilometer fault line, runs through California, making the entire state located in a seismically active zone.

What you need to know before traveling to California

Hollywood, beaches and wineries are must-see attractions when visiting California. However, that is far from everything you can and should see. Abandoned gold mines, ski resorts and amusement parks are also worth attention. What should you consider to ensure that your trip to the most attractive state in the USA leaves only pleasant impressions?

• Airport transfer. Public transport in California is poorly developed, so it is better to reach your destination by taxi or arrange a transfer from the hotel where you plan to stay.
• Car rental. In California it’s easier, more interesting and more budget-friendly to travel by car. A car provides freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy exceptional views from every point of the California coast.
• Weather. The hottest weeks in California are in June, July and August. March, April and May, as well as early autumn, are the ideal time for excursions. If you plan to spend your vacation on the beach, it’s better to come in the middle or at the end of summer. By September the ocean reaches its maximum temperature in the south of the state. But even in the north, the thermometer rarely drops below +25 degrees during this time, so you’re guaranteed to be able to swim and sunbathe.
• Amusement parks. When visiting one of the famous amusement parks in California remember about the huge lines. It’s better to use the Fast Track Line service if possible. Additionally, there are apps where you can track the queue in real-time for each attraction. Another secret is the “single rider” line. If it’s not important for you to sit next to your family or friend, confidently take this line and you’ll get to ride much faster than others.
  Hotels. If you plan to travel by car with overnight stops in different places, it’s better to choose major cities with comfortable hotels. After a long and exhilarating journey such rest couldn’t be more timely.

Planning a trip to California

California is beautiful at any time of the year. And if you’re ready to take a vacation at any moment and pack your bags, why not do it in the nearest future?

Plan your route along the Pacific coast, mark points for stops and highlight places on the map that your trip definitely won’t be complete without – what could be better than preparing for an exciting journey?

But first of all, we recommend applying for a visa to the United States. And in order not to distract yourself from the pleasant anticipation of the trip, confidently entrust this matter to The Visa Services. Thanks to the experience and professionalism of the company’s specialists you will be able to obtain an American visa in the shortest possible time. And if you can’t wait to get to the California coast as soon as possible, submit an application right now.

It’s time to plan one of the most beautiful vacations this year! And don’t worry about the difficulties with the documents – the specialists of The Visa Services will definitely take care of this.

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