San Francisco

Day One: Lost in Translation



Our first day in San Francisco was bathing in sunlight. The temperature for sightseeing was just right, and early in the morning hours I had my first coffee at one of the many Starbucks in this city. Jet lagged and ready to go, I asked the hotel mangager (we stayed at Quarter Club in the Financial District) how to get to Union Square. He mumbled something about first to the right, then right,then left. Of course there was tons of people waiting to be checked out, so I just went. And of course, I got lost. Mind you, I was not scared at all. This city is much like a European city, with its trams and buses. As I walked the narrow streets upward I contemplated the beautiful architecture the old living side by side with the new buildings.

Suddenly, it was very clear that I had walked straight into Chinatown. I had actually planned to visit that part of the city another day, but since I was in no hurry I decided to check it out. As I excpected, it was a very colorful and exotic experience. The Chinese culture is represented with its rich colors, beautiful materials and exquisite jewelry.

On every street there was a new store filled with either antiques, jewelry, silk kimonos and other exciting treasures.

The jewelry is cheap, but good quality. I spent 1 hour in a store bargaining for a good deal. Expect to hassle a deal, they always aim for a higher price. I think that is part of the fun. Beautiful freshwater pearls, jade and chinese enemal bangles are just some of the jewelry you should be looking for. Remember that there is so many stores, that if you think something is to expensive and they will not give you a good deal, keep walking. Often you can see a lot of their selection out on the street, and they always have a "sale".

This green jade bangle was one of my buys. I loved the carving and the crisp green color. I have always wanted a bangle like that, and now that I am home, I regret not buying more. I also bought a long set of freshwater pearls for myself and some pearl bracelets.

Shoes, handbags, coin purses, chinese umbrella or a silk makeup cases makes for great gifts at a good price.

The antiques were beautiful and I wish I could have brought home a table or a chinese vanity desk.

I have been on the hunt for a silk kimono since I saw Carrie wearing a fabolous one in an episode of SATC, years ago. Little did I know that this was my lucky day. In one of the stores I went into to, they had a great selection and I ended up buying this blue one for myself and a turquise one for a friend as a a belated birthday present. I love the illustrations, the color and the belt. The best buy of today.

Must buys: enamel bracelets are both cheap and stylish.

After finishing up, I decided to ask some people for directions to Union Sqaure. I stopped a nice looking couple, who then looked me up and down before giving me directions. They were so sweet and when the guy told me to "go all the way down and take a right at Prada", I knew I asked the right people.

And so I did.

Union Square

After all that culture, I needed some retail therapy. Lucky for me, Forever 21 was right there. Its the biggest one I have ever seen and an amazing collection. I scored some good deals.

Then I went off to shop for shoes at DSW and Lohmans.

Fringes and suede are some of the biggest fall trends. Unfortunately, I did not find any fringe boots I liked. I also stopped by H&M to look for a faux fur jacket and a wool cardigan that I did not find back home, but they were all sold out. Oh well, you cant have them all.

When the evening came, I had to take my husband to see it all. So, on our way to dinner (he was on the golf course during the day) we walked the same route as I got lost in earlier that day.

It was great seeing this area both in daylight and at night and I recommend you doing both. At night, all the lights makes the street shiny and bright, while the days are rich and colorful. After a day filled with experiences, we went to dinner at a restaurant called Cafe de la Presse on Grant Street. We had some great Napa wine and a fantastic dinner. I recommend going here for the great food, lush atmosphere and international mood.

Vest: Vero Moda

Jeans: H&M

Cardigan: H&M
Shoes: Old Navy

Handbag: Vintage Chanel

Top: Vero Moda

Todays bargains: Jade bracelet, enemal bracelets, silk kimonos, freshwater pearl necklace, pearl bracelets and tons of christmas gifts for young and old. Top, jacket and cardigan from F21 and Steve Madden gold shoes (21 dollars!).

Tomorrow: Vintageshopping in Haight-Ashbury and Fisherman`s warf by night.