Scouting Out Travel Deals at the Bay Area Travel Show

Longing for a vacation but not big on researching destinations or seeing what’s out there? Well, if you live in the area, you may want to check out the Bay Area Travel Show where local, national, and even international travel companies are sharing the lay of the land on deals and destinations. I attended the show today to interview some travel experts and professionals for my Balitang America Travels segments.

While I’ve never been a fan of going to trade show-type events, I found that many of the exhibitors had good information to share. Not only about their services, but also about the resources available to help travelers find that perfect vacation. Speakers like European travel guru Rick Steves and Bay Area Backroads’ Doug McConnell are on hand to share their experiences and give people ideas on everything from budget travel to itineraries.



It’s a buyer’s market right now and travel agencies, outfitters, cruise lines and the like are working in cahoots trying to get your business: partnering to create packages and prices that will entice people to book that trip. And, maybe that’s not so bad because in the end the consumer wins. You name it: upgraded rooms, amenities, bundled services, discounted prices are up for grabs. All because the sluggish economy is cramping the travel industry’s style.

Oh, one more thing: it’s only $6 if you buy the ticket online ($12 at the door) and parking is free. Tomorrow (Sunday) is the last day. You can catch Rick Steves or Doug McConnell who will be giving talks starting at noon. For a full schedule, visit www.bayareatravelshow.com.

Hike, Bike or Take in Magnificent Bay Area Views on San Bruno Mountain

It was great while it lasted – the warm San Francisco Bay Area weather that is. It’s back to the usual late winter rain and gloom for the rest of January. Boy, am I glad I got to enjoy the sun. That’s just what I did on MLK day, Monday. My husband, Darren, and I decided to enjoy the great outdoors with a hike. We didn’t want to drive too far, so we were delighted to discover nearby San Bruno Mountain State and County Park.

Ever notice the radio and microwave towers between San Francisco and South San Francisco when zooming down 101? Well, they're sitting on San Bruno Mountain, an urban oasis located in the city of Brisbane about seven miles south of San Francisco. The park features 2,750 acres of rugged landscape surrounded by lush vegetation, rare species of flowers and eucalyptus trees among others; I’m not into botany, so can’t really comment on the plants, but I do appreciate being around such natural beauty.



Darren and I ventured up the mountain on the Summit Loop Trail and caught breath-taking views of the urban sprawl below. On the way up, there were several vista points where we stopped to gaze at the sights. Atop the summit at 1,314 feet is a panoramic view featuring a stretch of the Peninsula to the south, the deep blue ocean to the west, as well as views of San Francisco and even a glimpse of Mount Diablo off in the east. We also hiked a small portion of the Ridge Trail and the Bog Trail, but by far the Summit Loop was the most scenic. There are eight trails total ranging from easy to moderate with the Ridge Trail being the most strenuous.



If you’re ever looking to do a day hike, San Bruno Mountain is a great spot. There are also places in the park to ride a bike or jog. And, if you’re not big on any of those activities, you can just drive up to the summit. I promise it will be worth it.