I traveled with my husband on Trafalgar’s 8-day escorted tour, The Californian. We absolutely loved this trip that covered a lot of ground – but no driving for us! We just sat back in a clean, air-conditioned coach and enjoyed the trip.

There were so many highlights, from walking along the wharf in San Diego and spotting celebrities’ names on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, to hiking nature trails in Yosemite and wine tasting in Napa. San Francisco definitely had a “wow” factor with its great shopping and restaurants at Pier 21, famous cable cars, tasting delicious clam chowder and a full free day to explore the city at our own pace.

Our tour director was really knowledgeable and friendly. Since Trafalgar typically hires guides who live in the area, the tour directors are always full of insider information. If you go, be sure to bring a jacket or sweater – even in the summer – for the cool California evenings after the sun goes down.