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Formerly a land governed by Mexico, today one of the richest state of the American bundle. (One of the) highest minimal wage, highest taxes (there's a world of difference between east and west of US), country of contrasts (picturesque seacoast, no less ravishing deserts, redwood parks, grassy plains ...). Mostly brown toned vaste surfaces get green as the rainy winter season comes and replace the long waterless summer. I did not experience it, but imagine it as the advent of spring here (in central Europe). Anyway, towns, parks and water surface surroundings remains green all the year. In urban areas, I think, verdure maintenance is required by law. |
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The drive along coastal Highway 1 from L.A. to San Francisco and further north is necessity for every romantic mind.
It winds from San Diego, but 'cause of odds and ends around L.A. the virgin scenery is enjoyable right beyond Santa Barbara. Hills on the right, ocean on the left licking jagged line of cliffs and beaches - worth dipping just feet, anything else would certainly lead to freeze -, seabird community /mostly gulls/, here and there spotable seals, crabs and whatever else you remember ... it's still a poor depiction of the whole beauty.
A bit before San Francisco there the Monterey Bay bites deep into the coastal mountain range. Despite cold water, Santa Cruz is sought-after recreation centre. Also, Montery is well known for its sea aquarium containing over 6500 animal species.
