Best 10 Free Things To Do In San Francisco

 I am off to San Francisco in December so the planning begins now and I am all about saving the cash ( dollars for on you in America or Canada ) I have managed to find a hotel that gives you free breakfast and that is a brilliant money saving start.Also I am making use of the conceriage at the hotel to help me plan where to go and what to see ) a great resource to make use of before you go on holiday.

Exploring San Francisco: A City of Contrasts and Charm

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Northern California, San Francisco stands as a beacon of diversity, innovation, and natural beauty. Known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and progressive spirit, this city captures the hearts of millions of visitors each year. Let's delve into what makes San Francisco a truly unique destination.

Rich History and Cultural Tapestry

San Francisco's history is as rich and diverse as its population. From its early days as a Spanish mission and Gold Rush boomtown to becoming a hub of counterculture and technology, the city has continuously reinvented itself while preserving its heritage. The Mission District's murals, Chinatown's bustling streets, and the Victorian houses of Alamo Square are testaments to its varied past.

Iconic Landmarks

No visit to San Francisco is complete without seeing its world-renowned landmarks. The majestic Golden Gate Bridge, an engineering marvel spanning the entrance to San Francisco Bay, offers breathtaking views whether shrouded in fog or bathed in sunlight. Nearby, the notorious Alcatraz Island invites visitors to explore its infamous prison and learn about its intriguing history.

Cultural Mecca

San Francisco is a cultural melting pot, celebrated for its thriving arts scene, diverse cuisine, and inclusive atmosphere. The city's numerous museums, such as the de Young Museum and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA), showcase everything from classical to contemporary art. Neighborhoods like the Castro District and Haight-Ashbury epitomize the city's progressive values and LGBTQ+ history.

Gastronomic Delights

Food enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise in San Francisco. The city's culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to beloved local eateries. Indulge in fresh seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, savor dim sum in Chinatown, or enjoy a gourmet meal in the trendy Mission District—each bite tells a story of the city's cultural tapestry.

Natural Beauty

Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and rolling hills, San Francisco boasts natural beauty at every turn. The Presidio, a former military base turned national park, offers hiking trails and scenic overlooks of the Golden Gate Bridge. Nearby Muir Woods beckons with its ancient redwood trees, while Twin Peaks provides panoramic views of the entire cityscape.

Innovation and Technology

As the global hub of technology and innovation, San Francisco is home to Silicon Valley's pioneering companies. Visitors can explore the headquarters of tech giants like Google and Apple, or stroll through the startup incubators of SoMa (South of Market). The city's entrepreneurial spirit permeates its culture, fostering creativity and cutting-edge developments.

San Francisco's allure lies in its ability to blend history with modernity, diversity with unity, and natural beauty with urban sophistication. Whether you're exploring its iconic landmarks, savoring its culinary delights, or immersing yourself in its cultural vibrancy, the City by the Bay promises an unforgettable experience. Come discover why San Francisco continues to captivate the hearts and minds of travelers from around the globe.

1. Take a walk down Lombard street

This is one of the most unique streets in San Francisco which is full of twist and turns just like a rollercoaster , this street can be driven but I'll be walking it !

2. See the sea lions at Pier 39

Pier 39 is at Fisherman's wharf  and these beautiful entertaining mammals have chosen Pier 39 as their favourite lounging spot.

3.Walk across Golden Gate Bridge

This is the iconic bridge that you see on many a movie and going to visit it will make you feel like you're in a movie yourself.

4. Go to Golden Gate Park

This is south of the bridge and there you can see the Conservatory of Flowers ( charge for non residents but it is free for all on the first Tuesday of the month ) and San Francisco Botanical garden. Also here is the De Young Museum(Additional cost is involved here ) known for its Fine arts and sculpture garden.Also in the park is the Californian Academy of Sciences ( Additional cost is involved here )which is a wonderful natural history museum which has a planetarium, aquarium and even an indoor rainforest.

5. Japanese Tea Garden

It is free to enter on Monday, Wednesday on Friday if you enter before 10 am . It is the oldest public Japanese tea garden in the USA.

6. Maritime Historical Park

This is located in the area of Fisherman's Wharf, visitors can find historic ships docked at Hyde Street Pier.

7. Asian Art Museum 

This is free on Sunday and is a pretty cool museum.

8. Cable Car Museum

This is a free museum situated in Nob hill area of San Francisco.

Think it ,See it,Say It

My thought process is one of an endless stream and finding that off switch is a a hard one as ooh just ind more thing pipes into your head . That is the joy of being autistic as it’s like having an endless stream of thoughts in your head. Think of it as if you’re rehearsing a play in your head but that play is going on through out your life.

The Autistic Way Is the Best Way For Me

 When I was diagnosed a few years ago it finally put pay to me feeling like an alien in my own thoughts in some sort of way , being diagnosed has come a long way but it still has a while to go for it to be uniformed and not a postcode lottery to where you live.Children are facing at least a 2 year delay if not longer in being diagnosed and adults are facing even longer , the support after you are 25 very much varies where you live.It shouldn't be this way but you have to fight for what you want or least an an advocate on your side . Life for me now is much easier but still I have to battle on getting an ADHD diagnosis which I have just had to join yet another waiting list.

Honestly choosing a coat this morning was easier but frustrating I picked out what I thought was a suitable coat at M & S and purchased this along with one onion and a packet of mushrooms. But alas I had forgot my purse and I backed up the queue with pensioners chomping on their false teeth ) probably) wanting to get their fix of egg custards of which M & S do some very nice ones. I came home got my purse and then went and bought a completely different coat from Trespass.

I see the world very differently and honestly it it a joy through my eyes and I particularly love captioning art with captions , I am like that Nun who used to be on the BBC talking about the art . Well except I am not a Nun I think I would make a Nun blush. Anyway hello and I am back !

Garden Tips And Chance to Win Gardeners World Tickets at the NEC

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Gardening is a wonderful hobby that brings joy, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment to many people. Whether you have a large garden or just a small balcony, gardening can be a great way to connect with nature and create a beautiful and productive space. In this blog post, we'll explore some tips and ideas for getting started with gardening and the chance to win some tickets to Gardners world on the 18th June for two people.

1. Getting started 

If you're new to gardening it is important to start small don't take on too much at once, whilst I am not new to gardening I have had to start again due to me ignoring the garden last year whilst I had a new kitchen fitted .Though the kitchen fitting did extend into the new year but that is a whole new story which I haven't got tie for today !. Start with a a few small containers or a raised bed and gradually add more as you gain in confidence. 

2 Choose the right plants 

When selecting plants for your garden, it's important to consider the amount of sunlight and water they require, as well as the soil conditions in your area. Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil type, and make sure to provide them with the right amount of care and attention.

3 Good drainage.

Good drainage is essential for healthy plants so make sure your soil is well draining by adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss. Additionally make sure your posts or containers have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

4. Water Properly 

Proper watering is crucial for plant growth and health . Be sure to water your plants deeply and throughly, rather than just sprinkling the surface. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

5. Use Organic Fertilisers 

Chemical fertilisers can be harmful to the environment and may damage beneficial organisms in your soil. Instead use organic fertilisers such as compost or manure to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive.

6. Keep Pests at Bay

Pests can be a major problem in any garden. To keep them at bay, consider using natural pest control methods such as companion planting, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Additionally, be sure to keep your garden clean and tidy to discourage pests from taking up residence.Pests can be a major problem in any garden. To keep them at bay, consider using natural pest control methods such as companion planting, insecticidal soap, or neem oil. Additionally, be sure to keep your garden clean and tidy to discourage pests from taking up residence.

7 Enjoy the Process

Finally, remember that gardening is a process, and it takes time anpatience to achieve the results you want. Enjoy the process of planting, tending, and watching your garden grow. Take time to appreciate the beauty and productivity of your plants, and don't be afraid to experiment and try new things.

In conclusion, gardening can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby that provides countless benefits to your health and well-being. By starting small, choosing the right plants, providing good drainage and water, using organic fertilizers, keeping pests at bay, and enjoying the process, you can create a beautiful and productive garden that brings you joy and satisfaction for years to come.Finally, remember that gardening is a process, and it takes time anpatience to achieve the results you want. Enjoy the process of planting, tending, and watching your garden grow. Take time to appreciate the beauty and productivity of your plants, and don't be afraid to experiment and try new things.

So I am giving you the opportunity to win 2 tickets worth £54 to go to Gardeners world at the NEC on the 18th June 

Just let me know what your favourite flower or plant is ?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

1. The promoter is Gardeners World

2. Employees of Gardeners World,Ninjakillercat blog or their family members or anyone else connected in any way with the competition or helping to set up the competition shall not be permitted to enter the competition.

3. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.

4. Route to entry for the competition and details of how to enter are via Ninjakillercat blog

5. Closing date for entry will be 31 st May 2023 After this date the no further entries to the competition will be permitted.

6. No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.

7. The promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in the event of a catastrophe, war, civil or military disturbance, act of God or any actual or anticipated breach of any applicable law or regulation or any other event outside of the promoter’s control. Any changes to the competition will be notified to entrants as soon as possible by the promoter.

8. The promoter is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied to any entrant by any third party connected with this competition.

9. No cash alternative to the prizes will be offered. The prizes are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice.

10. Winners will be chosen by the use of Rafflecopter

11. The winner will be notified by email within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner.

12. The promoter will notify the winner when the prize will be sent.

13. The promoter’s decision in respect of all matters to do with the competition will be final and no correspondence will be entered into.

14. By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.

15. The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by [English] law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [England].

16. The winner agrees to the use of his/her name and image in any publicity material. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current [UK] data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party.

17. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

18. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Network. You are providing your information to Pressure King Pro who will directly send you the prize  and not to any other party.

19. Uk only.

20. You must be 18 or over to enter this competition

Do You Remember The Last Bedtime Story?

 Do you remember the last bedtime story perhaps you had as a child or perhaps the last story you read to your own child ?

Bed time stories are the most magical time as both a child and parent and nothing can beat it , the security and love you can feel from such a moment is amazing.Now sadly now everyone gets to experience this and they can start the magical love of books of reading with their own children or niece or nephews etc.Reading is one of the most magical experiences you can have and I so loved reading as a child.Reading for me gave me security from a hard family life I had growing up but neither can I remember the last bed time story I read to my son . Reading that last bed time story is one of those unspoken truths that no one can remember or those truths you push to the back of your mind much like the unspoken rule that no one says that Father Christmas doesn't because ehe does as no one ever says that out loud.

Bed times stories feel the mind not just during sleep but for the rest of your adult life, one story I love so as a child was Where the Wild things are