Honie Briggs

When my loyal follower said, “meet me in San Francisco” it was all I could do to contain my excitement for the chance to capture some spectacular photos AND for us both to meet The Golden Gate Ambassador, Allan Smorra of Ohm Sweet Ohm. Seriously, the state of California owes Allan some sort of commission for the effort he put into making our visit so enjoyable. Not only did he offer lots of great suggestions before we arrived, but he also greeted us in his fair city by the bay for a behind the scenes tour of the remarkable Golden Gate Bridge. Allan’s passion for this magnificent structure and the city it serves is obvious to anyone who reads his blog. He posts amazing photos of the bridge and shares stories of its history that make you want to see it for yourself.

If you travel even for a short visit, it will not disappoint.

As you can tell from these photos, the bridge was socked in by fog when we arrived, but that did not in any way dampen the experience. With Allan as our gracious guide, we learned a great deal about the construction and maintenance of the bridge. The ongoing efforts to counter the effects of wind and moisture as well as improvements in technology are all part of what makes Allan’s work so important for the safety of those who travel the Golden Gate Bridge every day for business and pleasure.

I captured the bridge from several vantage points throughout the city, even from the rooftop restaurant, Top of the Mark, in the ever fashionable Snob Nob Hill hotel, Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco. Where, by the way, you can get the lightest, fluffiest, most expensive egg white omelet you’ll ever have in your life.

My advice, go for the view.

In addition to our tour of the bridge, we also enjoyed people watching at Fisherman’s Wharf, the sea lions at Pier 39, Chinatown, and much, much more. We filled the weekend with as much fun as we could stand. My feet have the blisters to prove it.

We did leave the city for a day trip to parts unknown. The fog came and went as we made our way around the curvy, sometimes treacherous, two lanes of coastal highway beyond Muir Woods toward Stinson Beach where we stopped to put our feet in the water and have a late breakfast at the charming Breakers Cafe. If you go, try Uncle Pete’s omelet.

Shrimp and avocado. YUM!

We were like Lewis & Clark in a rental car with no cell service, exploring the scenic coast line all the way to Point Reyes Lighthouse.

Sweeping views took our breath away all around San Francisco. We witnessed the birth of clouds and discovered where the sun goes to sleep. Our last night, we dined at Cliff House on the recommendation of a friend. The service was excellent. The food was amazing. There was no room in my skirt for dessert, but I ordered one anyway.

I did not regret it one bit!

The entire trip was incredible. Thanks Allan, for sharing your city with us.