OldhamA's Great American Adventure
by OldhamA on Aug 19, 2010 5:24 AM PDT
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PrintH'ok, so I've finally booked this trip I promised you guys I was taking.
The only things set in stone are:
- I'm flying into L.A. on the 29th of August and flying home on 10th of September from San Francisco.
- We'll be driving from L.A. to San Francisco/Oakland along this coastal route.
- Apparently I'm going to have to endure a day at Six Flags.
- I'm going to be in and around Oakland for the Angels series and the Mariners series.
- Alcatraz (thanks to Daniel777's suggestion)
So I'm using this fanpost to ask you lovely people where I should go and what I should get up to on this trip. Not just when I get to the Bay Area, but also where to go on the trip up from L.A. (and where to go in L.A. if any of you guys know that city well).
I don't have full autonomy on what we do, but if I stamp my feet enough I'm sure I'll get my own way enough to keep me happy!
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$0.02
Save any beach related stuff for So. Cal while you are down there — there beaches are better and more numerous.
- One night, visit Fisherman’s Wharf from the early evening to the late evening and have dinner at whatever place looks good as you’re getting hungry. Do some walking from pier to pier but do not play the shell game with anybody even if there’s a plant person that appears to be winning.
- If you are into wineries, visit the Napa Valley and do some wine tasting one afternoon
- On the way up, divert yourself to the 17-mile drive and snap a picture or two of the Lone Cypress.
Obviously there’s a whole bunch more to do but those were my ideas of some ‘must do’s’. I’m sure that others will offer their ideas as well. Have fun!
I disagree on the saving beach stuff for Socal
Socal beaches are better for laying out, soaking up the sun, and playing in the water. They are awesome and I love them.
But for pure natural beauty, I prefer the Norcal coast. I completely agree on the Point Lobos suggestion. Make sure you go at low tide to see some of the tidepools. You will see anemones bigger than your fist. I also highly recommend hiking in places like Big Sur (south of Monterrey) or Point Reyes (north of SF) to get spectacular views of the rough ocean. And places like Santa Cruz have a good combination of rocky awesomeness plus beaches to lie out on. The beaches are quite different from Socal (and you probably dont want to go into the water because it is freezing), but I like them all the same.
All right, now that I am on to this: here are some food recs:
Have to try dim sum: The best is not in Chinatown (its is extremely touristy), but Chinatown is still good if you go to places on the sidestreets and not on Grant. My favorite away from Chinatown is Ton Kiang on Geary.
Was going to say you have to try Indian food, but you live in England, so you probably know that cuisine very well. But the best I have ever had is Vik’s in Berkeley (though I heard it moved and have no idea what it is like now)
Any Vietnamese sandwich place.
A California burrito is a must in the Mission. But real Mexican food is also a must. Others could probably suggest better than me. I eat enough Mexican food in Texas that when I go back to the Bay I mostly eat Asian foods. For a European, I would recommend Mexican food more than anything because it doesn’t really exist in any functional capacity in Europe as far as I know (in Greece, I had pita used as a tortilla… this did not work) and it is damn good.
by Henduland in Texas on Aug 19, 2010 9:19 AM PDT up reply actions
Central Coast beaches are beautiful too.
Avila Beach would be a good spot and right on your way up 101. Montana de Oro is a gorgeous place to explore. San Luis Obispo is a really cute town with great food.
BTW, Vik’s is just a few blocks down from their old location on 4th and Channing in Berkeley.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Carmel Beach
Carmel and Monterey are very nice, but slightly off the path if you are staying on Highway 101. Going to Big Sur or Santa Cruz along Highway 1 would make that easier….
I agree. San Luis Obispo is nice.
"We're not the doormat anymore" —Dallas Braden, 4/22/10
um, yum.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
tell him about the large signs that
say…Now Entering/Leaving: Southern California, South-Cenral, Central California South-Central California, North-Central California, Northern California, etc. etc. etc.
alaska A currently residing in northern Idaho. --- theme for august = remain calm and try to truly enjoy a .500 team.
Excellent point on dim sum
What’s the name of that huge place in downtown Oakland? They do very good dim sum, always full of people on Sundays, and if you’re going to be in Oakland anyway, that might be a better choice than somewhere in SF.
Ditto on Mexican food, but in the Mission (and probably elsewhere in the Bay Area, too) there’s also a good number of other Central American restaurants. Anyone know of a really good Salvadoreno or Guatemalan restaurant?
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Agreed, dim sum in Oakland is also great
Downtown has a number of good places. Also, if you want a place with an unbeatable view, try Hong Kong East Ocean (I think it is technically in Emeryville). It is a little pricier, but you sit looking across the Bay to SF, and the food is also phenomenal.
by Henduland in Texas on Aug 19, 2010 9:52 AM PDT up reply actions
There is a great dim sum place near the corner of Grand and Staten, but I can't remember the name
The Google street-level pictures aren’t clear enough to read.
I can't see, now I have to pee, and I can't count to three, but I can count to JÄGERMEISTER!
The Old Place Seafood Teahouse
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Ah yes, thanks
I can't see, now I have to pee, and I can't count to three, but I can count to JÄGERMEISTER!
I think you are referring to Peony in Oakland.
Or maybe Jade Villa, which is no longer there (it’s now a Chinese buffet).
Or maybe Legendary Palace?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Oh, yeah, I forgot about that place,
which you would think would be hard to do since the exterior is so distinctive. I’ve never eaten there, but it sounds like a lot of people like it.
Hmm, probably Jade Villa
Shame if that’s the place I’m thinking of, if it closed down.
It ain’t easy being Rip van Winkle.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Nor Cal beaches are more rugged
So Cal beaches are more beach-y. They’re both beautiful in their own way.
When people hear that you went to California, they’re going to ask if you went surfing, so take a surfing lesson. The weather is finally turning around down here, it’ll be somewhat of the off-season for surf lessons, and it’s a lot of fun. I have no idea where to go in LA, but can’t imagine it’ll be hard to do.
Also, I don’t know if you guys have Yelp on that side of the pond, but it’s a kick-ass website for finding reasonable places to eat/visit here in the states.
The best Dim Sum in the Bay Area is in Millbrae
Ton Kiang is some fake upscale Chinese place that specializes at ripping off white people. Hong Kong Lounge is the best Dim Sum place in the Richmond district. But real good Dim Sum is only available in Millbrae. Koi Palace, Hong Kong Flower Lounge, and The Kitchen are the best in Norcal.
Nor Cal Beaches
If you “book” me far enough in advance, I will take you and the family out for a surf lesson in Pacifica. You can rent boards and wetsuits at the beach and it’s a lot of fun.
I'm here to talk about Don
by OptimistPrime on Aug 19, 2010 12:10 PM PDT up reply actions
I kick ass at the shell game!
It’s always the one now longer on the table!!!
Choosy Feebas choose Leopold Bloom nipples
Daring. Sensual. Invigorating. Squirrel.
BLOOM. For men.
If the eggs actually hatch I made more than a mistake, I made some scientifically impossible crime.
YES to:
Alcatraz
A bus tour of San Fran (can’t remember the company – they were red and blue coloured, 2 days was $35) We got off at Haight/Ashbury just to say we had, then caught the next one.
Pier 39
Frappuccinos
Disneys California Adventure
A’s Games (obviously). I’ve seen a Tomko, Anderson and Gio start.
Is this the real life-
Is this just fantasy-
Caught in a landslide-
No escape from reality-
Alcatraz is booked!
So I’ll add that to my list.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
YAY!
Hint: The Alcatraz guides don’t really like it if they ask what people spent their money on in the gold rush and you yell out “HOOKERS”
Is this the real life-
Is this just fantasy-
Caught in a landslide-
No escape from reality-
the truth is
“that hooker from Paraguay!!!”
Not too many women. However, boats travelling around Cape Horn would pick up occasional females from Paraguay. These women (quite small and dark) had been smoking rough tobacco since about….age five. So it was an arresting sight for the recently-arrived New England swells to see these women striding about, puffing on a foot-long cheroot.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 19, 2010 3:06 PM PDT up reply actions
Frappucinos
Hah. I don’t know why I think that is so cute.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
NO to:
Los Angeles traffic
Joes Crab Shack
Actual Disneyland
Hollywood (hint: it’s largely a shithole)
Universal Studios
Is this the real life-
Is this just fantasy-
Caught in a landslide-
No escape from reality-
I'll repeat one of my suggestions from that other thread
The single most beautiful spot on the California coast, as far as I’m concerned, is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. It’s just south of Carmel (which itself is pretty, but not worth a detour), and it’s on Hwy 1 — you’ll just turn left into the reserve, park, and walk out into an Ansel Adams photograph. You may think after that whole drive up the coast, having seen Morro Rock and Big Sur and the coastal range plummeting into the Pacific that you’ve already had your breath taken away, but it’ll happen again at Point Lobos. And if you’re lucky, you might see some sea otters playing and hunting in the kelp beds just below you.
As for the rest of your trip…eat many burritos. And It’s-Its. Oh, and if you’re in the City (i.e., San Francisco) with some time to spare, you should head up to The Exploratorium, which is the coolest science museum I’ve ever been to. It’s near the far, northern end of San Francisco, so if you’re planning to drive or walk across the Golden Gate Bridge (which isn’t a bad idea), you can do the Exploratorium on the same day.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
That's why I created the fanpost - people's suggestions are all over AN and I couldn't remember which
threads they were in!
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Follow-up on the Golden Gate Bridge
The bridge is well worth crossing over (I’ve never walked it — that’s the kind of thing that a Bay Area native might never think to do, because it seems touristy), even if only by car. But don’t plan to spend any time in Sausalito, which is the first town you get to in Marin County once you cross the bridge. Wandering in Sausalito would be somewhere around #300 on my list of things to do in the Bay Area. If you want to do something close by in the North Bay after crossing the bridge, head to Muir Woods and see the redwoods. If you’re feeling really ambitious, drive up to Point Reyes National Seashore, which is a close #2 for my favorite places on the Cali coast. It’ll take you about 45 minutes to an hour, I’d think, to get there from the City.
And it’s long been suspected that your countryman Sir Francis Drake came ashore on Pt Reyes, so you can reenact claiming Nova Albion for Queen and country if you’re feeling homesick!
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
I think we're stayin in San Francisco,
So we’ll have to cross the bridge anyway! I’ll check out your suggestions though, they look quite interesting. Thanks for the input, appreciate it
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
by OldhamA on Aug 19, 2010 11:55 AM PDT via mobile up reply actions
You won't have to cross the Golden Gate Bridge to get to Oakland
The GG takes you north, into Marin County. Oakland is east, and you take the Bay Bridge to get there from SF. Growing up in Berkeley (immediately north of Oakland), I literally never went over the Golden Gate Bridge — there was never a reason for my family to drive between SF and Marin (there’s another bridge between the East Bay and Marin that we would take to head up there). The first time I went over the Golden Gate bridge was when I was 25 and working in SF, heading into Marin county to canvass there.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Ha. My mistake.
This is why I created this fan post! Have no fear though, we’ll be doing the Golden Gate bridge!
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
To do the Golden Gate Bridge properly
if you have the foot power (heh) start at Crissey Field, the old airfield converted into a park. Walk west to Fort Point and tour that facility. The water along there is often dramatic, often surfed. Politely approach surfers and explain you’re from England, and they may impart some interesting insights. You are now under the Golden Gate Bridge, so you have some climbing to do (or, heck, take a cab) and get upon the Bridge itself and walk across. Just driving it is 10% of the walking experience. Once on the north side, you can take a Golden Gate Transit bus back into San Francisco. However, I would line up a trip (at this juncture) to Muir Woods via Golden Gate Transit (these are very very nice buses). Forget Napa, you won’t see enough for the time spent, IMO. You’re on a short trip. But Muir Woods, to see the size of California’s signature tree, is a must.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 19, 2010 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions
Strongly agree about Muir Woods > Napa
I drive the Pacific Northwest all the time, so I’m used to seeing Redwood Forests, including several that are better than Muir. But if you’re coming from England to California, an old-growth redwood forest is a rare spectacle.
Vineyards, on the other hand, nice as they may be, are not so geographically unique. I doubt that Napa is any more interesting than what Oldham would find in France or Italy.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
Golden Gate Bridge addendum...
If you drive over the Golden Gate to the Marin side, you can drive up a little ways into the Marin Headlands, where you can get spectacular views of the bridge and the city (on a clear day, anyway, and if it’s foggy at least the bridge will look cool through the fog).
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 3:10 PM PDT up reply actions
There's one amazing view of the bridge coming down 101 from the north
right before the tunnel, I think, where you come around a curve and suddenly, there’s the bridge, enormous, right in front of you and below you (because you’re still up in the headlands). Unless there’s traffic, you only see it for a couple of seconds, but it’s a great moment!
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
A big YES to Point Lobos
I can't see, now I have to pee, and I can't count to three, but I can count to JÄGERMEISTER!
I highly agree
on Point Lobos too (see Carmel/Monterey above)
"We're not the doormat anymore" —Dallas Braden, 4/22/10
The Exploratorium.
Although it is by no means only for kids, the Exploratorium is especially rewarding if you have kids along, particularly around ages 7-12.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
It might also be especially rewarding
if you have halucinogens. But I’m just speculating about that.
Did you ever go into The Tactile Dome? I went on a school trip in 5th grade. Very, very cool.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
I have no memory of the Tactile Dome.
Actually, all my Exploratorium memories are rather dim. I haven’t been there in at least 10 years, probably longer.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
I did it in my 20s and loved it (hallucinogens may have been involved)...
but I would never be able to handle the closed-in feeling now. When did claustrophobia happen to me?
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
And the new California Academy of Science.
Get tix ahead of time, if you want to go.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Oh yeah.
You really have been living under a rock. I mean, new, like a year or two ago? But totally redone.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Once he grew up, traveling pretty much anywhere went by the wayside.
That and this whole work thing. Maybe I need a girlfriend to get me out of this office and out to see the world again.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Get on that, would you.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Yeah, that place is cool.
Also, there’s an Impressionism exhibit at the De Young Museum (right by the Cal Academy), which I think goes until September. They have paintings on loan from the Musee d’Orsay. It’s pretty awesome.
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions
Two words: hookers and crack.
sock puppets have never successfully defended castles, except when working with squirrels, which would never happen because squirrels know better than to trust sock puppets, except when their nipples have magical powers. -nm
These things are free, right?
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Only the first one.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
Make sure ....
That if the games you are going to are a give-away game you get there SUPER early.
One of the games me and the Mrs went to was a FREE HAT…we got there sort of on-timeish (as is the culture in Australia/NZ) and alas no hat for us.
Same if you want an autograph….didn’t really realise this so no autographs for me. :(
Is this the real life-
Is this just fantasy-
Caught in a landslide-
No escape from reality-
Depends on the giveaway.
I’ve seen a couple giveaways still being given away 30 minutes after the game started.
by LoneStranger on Aug 19, 2010 9:51 AM PDT up reply actions
Endure a day in 6 flags?
Come on it has roller coasters.
I'm no a rides person
I’m hoping to get it scratched from the list!
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
by OldhamA on Aug 19, 2010 11:57 AM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Late note
Six Flags, along I-5, is definitely in the interior. It will be baking hot, in all probability. As in ninety degrees F. Ten AM, okay….three PM…quite hot, but no humidity.
That’s the thing about coastal California. No humidity when it’s hot, so you can be comfortable at night, no need for A/C. Sacramento, the interior, well it can be pretty hot, sometimes above 100 and 80 at night.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 20, 2010 11:12 PM PDT up reply actions
Isn't there one in L.A.?
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
not exactly...it's off Interstate 5 before you go into the LA basin
"Are those new tarps? Or did they paint 'em?" Mark Ellis
Is Six Flags what used to be called Magic Mountain, up the Grapevine?
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Six Flags is the Company that owns it
It’s still Magic Mountain. But they own parks across the country including Discovery Kingdom.
Choosy Feebas choose Leopold Bloom nipples
Daring. Sensual. Invigorating. Squirrel.
BLOOM. For men.
If the eggs actually hatch I made more than a mistake, I made some scientifically impossible crime.
There's a Six Flags in the middle of nowhere here in NJ, too
and IIRC they bought Great America in Santa Clara, too.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
They used to own Great America
Unless they just purchased it, it’s own my the same people who run Cedar Park (if I’m remember correctly). It annoyed me when Paramount sold it and they changed the names of their rides.
Choosy Feebas choose Leopold Bloom nipples
Daring. Sensual. Invigorating. Squirrel.
BLOOM. For men.
If the eggs actually hatch I made more than a mistake, I made some scientifically impossible crime.
Some fun alternatives
Wine Tasting: Livermore Valley instead of Napa. It’s just as pretty, it’s far cheaper, and less crowded. The wine is just as tasty
SF: Forget Haight/Ashbury. It’s a tourist trap at this point. Go to The Mission and walk down Valencia, its the most colorful authentic neighborhood in the city. It’s what the Haight once was.
Instead of Alcatraz, hike up Angel Island. It’s the Ellis Island of the west and the view from the top is the best in the bay.
Either way you’re going to have a great time.
"I was right and you were wrong." - Ray Fosse
i can vouch for the Livermore wines. we also have some good restaurants in town.
"Are those new tarps? Or did they paint 'em?" Mark Ellis
Seriously. Do we need to throw together a tailgate? I mean, he's crossing the pond after all.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Yes. Let's make this happen.
Shame we can’t Shoes to break out out of that silly shell long enough to hang out with us. Of course, I guess there are also logistics involved.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Like...she's in Texas?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Yes that's it.
Granted she somehow enters and exits California without nary a peep. Hell, she might be here right now, and we wouldn’t know it. I guess we’re not cool enough.
I'm here to talk about the past.
We?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
We, as in the group, exluding Pam. She brings enough cool for the rest of us.
Which apparently is still not enough for Shoes.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Seriously.
Also, who is going to plan said tailgate? I plan enough events for work that it makes me just want to sit around and be a lump in my real life.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
She might be dead
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Same. Well, not your kind of planning, but still.
Perhaps you can persuade Bloom and his boys to do it. Rumor is they have a boatload of time on their hands.
I'm here to talk about the past.
You and me, we'll let someone else plan, then show up and drink all the booze.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
This is a family blog.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Sounds right. I'll bring some chips just to look good. And then I'll be the one to eat them.
I'm here to talk about the past.
I'm never living that down, am I?
Next time I come to California, I just won’t mention it at all. So there.
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 3:13 PM PDT up reply actions
Umm, that's what you did THIS time.
And then YOU slipped up. We are COOL PEOPLE, Shoes. Why don’t you like us?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I won't even tell you that I didn't tell you that I was there.
(Shut up, that sentence totally makes sense.)
And I DO like all you cool people. I promise.
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 3:17 PM PDT up reply actions
We require that you hang out with us then.
Or just me, even. Seriously. You’re giving me a complex.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
You're not nice.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Well, I'm not going to be in the Bay Area anytime soon anyway.
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 3:26 PM PDT up reply actions
All those times when I complain about geckos and crickets and such?
Yep, it’s all for show.
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 3:32 PM PDT up reply actions
I knew it.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Wait, what?
[cancels trip]
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Smart move.
The Bay Area’s just not the same when I’m not there.
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 4:09 PM PDT up reply actions
There you go: Don't get caught.
I’ve been back in the Bay Area … hmm, let’s see [pauses to count] … seven times since I moved up here.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
I'm honing in on you.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
A ball game? Madness!
Though I’m going to check if the Raiders or the 49ers are at home for a pre season game.
As for the A’s – I’m hoping to see at least two games of time permits
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
by OldhamA on Aug 19, 2010 11:59 AM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Raiders and 49ers play each other on Aug 28 at Oakland.
But since you are not here for that, there’s Sept 2 (Raiders vs. Seattle). Thursday night football, just in time to ruin the field for a weekend A’s-Angels series!
I'm here to talk about the past.
Raiders v Seattle, huh?
Is that going to be sold out?
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
I don't think we use "Raiders" and "sold out" in the same sentence.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
by skigurl on Aug 19, 2010 12:52 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Huh? I thought the Raiders were pretty well supported.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
They actually are for the most part.
Though she might be talking about a different kind of “sold out”. Like leaving for LA or something like that.
I'm here to talk about the past.
by 67MARQUEZ on Aug 19, 2010 1:01 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Not that I'm a football fan,
but the games are almost never televised because they don’t sell out in time. Right?
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
That is correct. And most end up selling out after the fact.
I guess because the blackout deadline is Thursday and pay day is Friday.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Sold out? Hahahaha. Um, no.
Not for pre-season anyway. And 7 or 8 regular season games.
I'm here to talk about the past.
How much would tickets be?
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Surprisingly cheap. I'll look into it.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
I might actually be willing to part with my pair. Tickets, that is.
But shoot, there’s 3 in your group, right?
I'm here to talk about the past.
There is - me, my sister and her friend.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Well they can hang out somewhere else that day, and me and you can watch the Raiders.
I promise not to kill you. And now it’s in writing. Until I delete this post anyway.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Again, very tempting.
I might just take you up on that. Thanks.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
The Marquez Signal?
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Just start talking about the past.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I'm not here to talk about the past.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
Oh, BTW
I don’t think anyone’s linked to this: Roger Clemens indicted on perjury charges
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
sorry kid.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
apple-click. it’s habit forming.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 2:24 PM PDT up reply actions
Good to see the government is still good at
wasting time and money. It’s not like we don’t have any real problems.
But seriously, folks....
Yeah, but Roger Clemens.
Anything that kicks his ass is a worthwhile investment of my taxpayer dollars.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
generally I agree
this kind of prosecution is a big waste. But the gummint state local federal wastes a lot more money prosecuting people that so a lot less worse things or equivalent things. the only difference is those people are poor. so from an equity point of view, I can’t object to the indictment.
"The ego, the super-ego, and the Ed" - dannycakes
From what I've heard about Raiders games, I'd get away with it too.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
I've heard that ol' Oaklander
“I promise not to kill you.” soooo many times, just as the bullets start flying.
Them words are the signal to the homey to start firing.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 20, 2010 11:17 PM PDT up reply actions
Whatever A's game you hit, make sure to let us know. Or you'll never hear the end of it.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Shoes got away with it...
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
You are not Shoes.
Plus you posted this very informative FanPost.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
That was my first mistake, huh?
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Among many.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Sights:
BTW, you should be getting some great weather at that time of year.
SF: Bay Bridge/Golden Gate Bridge. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. Chrissy Field. The Mission. Coit Tower (do the steps). Lombard Street. Pier 39. Walk along the Embarcadero. Ferry Building Farmer’s Market. Alcatraz (already mentioned). Are you into shopping? There’s great shopping downtown/Union Square/etc.
Take the Ferry from SF to Oakland one day. You’ll land in Jack London Square, which is a cool waterfront area in Oakland. You can take the new (free) downtown B shuttle up Broadway to catch BART at 12th Street to go to the game.
Food: Well, I guess it just depends on what you want. Too many options to just start throwing out ideas. We’ll need parameters.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Coit Tower is more fun than it seems it would be
North Beach itself is a little too touristy, but it’s a quick walk from Market, and the murals inside Coit Tower are really fantastic. Plus, it’s a great view.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Sweet. I'll just let you plan the trip.
As for food – I’m up for anything, which either makes your job simpler or harder. =P
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
How much money do you want to spend on food?
Probably a good first question.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Also, (I assume you are picky) what don't you like?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I'm very observant!
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I'm only picky about people I'll sleep with.
I’ll try any food once. Twice if I like it!
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
And not a crazy amount, I'm not made of money.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
The Ferry Building Farmer's Market is really fun.
I’ve only been once, but it was a beautiful morning and there was so much deliciousness. And, of course, a great view of the bay.
by whiteshoes40 on Aug 19, 2010 3:15 PM PDT up reply actions
And saturdays
Which are actually the only day I’ve sold there.
If you’re going to the Farmers Market right though, take the ferry over from Jack London square. And make sure to get lunch at the market itself – such great food there.
What do you sell there?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
My parents own a blueberry farm
We only sell at the markets ~6 weeks a year, they finished a coupla weekends ago. I try to make it up once a year to help out, selling in SF is fun. We also do the Berkeley and Grand Lake saturday markets and the Marin Civic Center Sunday market.
Oooh I'm at Grand Lake often. What' s the name of the farm so I can look out for you?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Sierra Cascade Blueberries
Like I said, we’re done for the year, so won’t be back till next June or so :(.
Next year then. ;)
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Food/Beverages:
Every place seems to have Cherry Coke, Dr Pepper and grape soda. Awesome sodas are awesome.
Warning: If you ask for an iced coffee, they will bring you a normal coffee with ice in it. (spew)
Nowhere seemed to have Guinness.
If you can find one, there is a place called Bristol Farms and it’s like if a supermarket and a restaurant had a baby. It kind of blew our minds. I think there is one in the Westfield in downtown San Francisco if I’m remembering correctly.
Also, Americans can do fried chicken like nobodies business.
I found In-And-Out Burger to be hilariously over-rated.
Is this the real life-
Is this just fantasy-
Caught in a landslide-
No escape from reality-
Your food recommendations are cracking me up.
I wouldn’t say Bristol Farms is anything special. There is one in the Westfield shopping center downtown.
Bakesale Betty’s in Oakland (two locations now – Telegraph/51st and downtown Oakland at Broadway/Grand – easier to get to by public transportation) makes a killer fried chicken sandwich. Go, but go early, because they only make a certain number per day and will sell out. Also, get the strawberry shortcake. Or any of their baked goods, really.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
by pam5981 on Aug 19, 2010 9:50 AM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I'm trying to remember what I found different..... sorry if it's coming out weird lol
Oh yeah….
American portions are enormous, so order less then you’d order at home.
Is this the real life-
Is this just fantasy-
Caught in a landslide-
No escape from reality-
No, it's just amusing.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
recc'd.....highly
I'm here to talk about Don
by OptimistPrime on Aug 19, 2010 12:12 PM PDT up reply actions
Hungry now.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Just finished my BSB's fried chicken sandwich
Ugh — need a nap now.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
DAMN YOU.
Want. Let me know when you’re working up there and I’ll grab the shuttle and come meet you.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Only did it to bring lunch to my contractor
and because it’s right across the street from the doctor’s office. Figured I might as well get something good out of it. Next day there is 9/14.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
That's a long time away.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Places have Guinness, but I believe it's different than what you find in Europe.
by LoneStranger on Aug 19, 2010 9:53 AM PDT up reply actions
It's disgusting here, great there
don’t say you were not warned
I'm here to talk about Don
by OptimistPrime on Aug 19, 2010 12:12 PM PDT up reply actions
Plus if you're going to get a beer
Get an American Craft brew. So many good choices in California. Sierra Nevada, Russian River, Anchor Steam, Lagunitas, etc from Nor Cal. Stone, Port Brewing, Lost Abbey, Green Flash, Alesmith, Karl Strauss, The Bruery, etc in So Cal.
No reason to fly all the way from Europe and then just stick to European beers.
But European beers are better!
That said, I probably won’t be wine tasting or sampling local beers. I’m not a big drinker. I’ll put it towards the group though – I might be able to get rid of them for an afternoon!
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Them there are fighting words!
Though ignoring that, the point isn’t whether the beers are absolutely better, it’s that any beer is going to taste worse after being shipped halfway across the world. Eat and drink local for the best flavor!
And, you know, trying new things.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Guinness is always disgusting.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
I don't remember any place that specifically has grape soda on tap.
Maybe I’m not a true American.
by LoneStranger on Aug 19, 2010 10:44 AM PDT up reply actions
He could always visit the vaunted Shasta plant in Hayward
That’s good livin’ right there ;-)
"Do I talk to myself? No, I just remind myself of what I'm trying to do. You know, I never answer myself so how can I be talking to myself?" - Rickey
Athletics Nation - WE'RE ALL GONNA MRIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!!!
by cuppingmaster on Aug 19, 2010 11:02 AM PDT up reply actions
The don't have Dr Pepper and Cherry Coke
outside of the U.S.???
Here I thought the evil Coca Cola Corp globalizationists had conquered the world?
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
Yeah we have Dr Pepper and Cherry Coke over here.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Can't tell you how much I love
that you didn’t put a period after Dr
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
That's standard style in the _Economist_.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
BTW, what do you expect an "iced coffee" to be?
Coffee that was in a pitcher in the fridge (many places actually do it this way)? Or more like a Rhode Island coffeemilk?
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
OT but does anyone know how long it takes to drive from Utah to Oakland/California?
I’m from NJ and may be going to Utah next summer, wanted to see if I could catch an A’s game.
What you fail to understand in your joyless myopia is that baseball is the key to life-- the Rosetta Stone, if you will. If you just understood baseball better all your other questions your, your... the, uh... the aliens, the conspiracies they would all, in their way be answered by the baseball gods.
Salt Lake City to the Bay Area is a full day's drive
Or you can catch the Amtrak California Zephyr which leaves SLC around midnight and gets to Emeryville in the late afternoon.
I can't see, now I have to pee, and I can't count to three, but I can count to JÄGERMEISTER!
From Salt Lake City to the Bay Area
It’s about a 12 hour drive.
by bakerbeachboy on Aug 19, 2010 1:19 PM PDT up reply actions
Crap.
I live here and haven’t experienced a quarter of the shit mentioned. Maybe I should get out of the office a wee bit more.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Which 6 Flags?
There’s Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita or Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
Last year BBG and I went to Magic Mountain for like 3 hours and rode 8 rides. It was great.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Just went a week ago
Was pretty damn fun.
"Their batters are patient to the point that it's annoying." -Ryan Franklin
by Helloooo 1st on Aug 19, 2010 10:44 AM PDT up reply actions
I love roller coasters.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
This
Giant Dipper @ SCruz FTW.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
OMG! I haven't been to the Boardwalk in probably 10+ years. So fun.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
always free
(does not apply to rides)
But, OldhamA, if you want a nor cal beach that is the whole CA beach experience (read like you see on TV) Santa Cruz is the way to go.
"The ego, the super-ego, and the Ed" - dannycakes
I'm not into beaches, but t'other two are so I'll make a note of that.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
I agree with this comment.
Boardwalk is fun and awesome, there’s tasty places to eat, there’s beautiful beaches and spots like Natural Bridges, hot ladies in bikinis, hippies juggling on the beach, surfers… love it.
"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."
You had me at 'hot ladies in bikinis'.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
You can't not be into beaches
And excited about “hot ladies in bikinis” at the same time…
I mean, I suppose you can, but that’s just silly. Beaches are the best place to find hot ladies in bikinis :).
I'm a riddle, wrapped in an enigma.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Also, I'm sure you want to patronize some of the frequent A's broadcast advertisers
So a piece of pie at Nation’s (East Bay, Westlake, any time you need a break), as recommended by a succession of A’s managers competing for the Hardly Better At Reading Commercials Than A Computer award, and a visit to the Boardwalk (BOARDWALK!)….since you may not be able to cram a giant hunk of Lucite from T-t-t-t-tap! (Tap Plastics! The Fantastic Plastic Place!) into your luggage.
It's the fans that make the game fun. -- Rickey Henderson, July 26, 2009.
by Englishmajor on Aug 20, 2010 12:27 PM PDT up reply actions
Get there early though, if it's a really nice day.
There’s a parking lot right across from it. I think it’s worth parking in the lot because 1) it’s close, and 2) it beats trying to find parking in the surrounding neighborhoods.
by LoneStranger on Aug 20, 2010 9:53 AM PDT up reply actions
so glad you’re doing the long drive. when i’m about to die, and i want to remember the california i love, i’ll be thinking of those views.
you might consider one of these along the drive: hearst castle in san simeon (more time to spare), the monterey aquarium (a few hours), point reyes nat’l seashore (as long or short as you want—picnic or camp).
for some reason, things seem far apart on a map of SF. google some walking tours, especially around north beach/chinatown/wharf, or you might spend one day in chinatown and one day in north beach without realizing they were right next to each other and doable together.
some “where the real people at?” walkers in SF: 24th street in the mission/ valencia st/ 17th up to castro; union square/tenderloin/nob hill; the haight/golden gate park. (i guess i like to walk on vacations. gives me a sense of purpose, decreases my sense of being a total tool!)
random recs for oakland: go to piedmont avenue, buy sandwiches at gregoire or AG ferrari, a bottle of wine somewhere nearby, and take a picnic up to the top of the hill at piedmont cemetery—great view of the bay. walking around lake merritt ain’t half bad. treat yourselves to a new-style cali restaurant, such as pizzaiolo. get to know oakland by driving up and down broadway, telegraph, market, and grand. september 3 will be first friday, which is arty party night in oakland. also, when in oaksterdam, do as the oaksterdamned?
bar hopping (are you all over 21? no admittance if under.): valencia and 16th (SF hipsters), the tenderloin in SF (down and dirty, dives and divas), telegraph 51st to 47th (oakland hipsters).
see a band? medium venues: filmore, warfield, great american, slims, independent. smaller venues: uptown, new parish, bottom of the hill, cafe du nord. many more…. (check here or here closer to the date.)
do not get back on a plane before having a carnitas burrito. you might even want to get a burrito for the plane.
really don't care if i ever get back.
do not get back on a plane before having a carnitas burrito. you might even want to get a burrito for the plane.
I second this, as long as you eat pork. Carnitas might even be better than bacon.
I'm going to the taco truck now.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I might just hate you for that last sentence, if you weren't so damn, I don't know, right.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Why?
do not get back on a plane before having a carnitas burrito.
Don Henley and the rest of the Eagles sang about the warm smell of carnitas rising up from the air, did they not?
by LowcountryJoe on Aug 19, 2010 12:35 PM PDT up reply actions
That would be colitas
…another thing entirely. But makes you hungry for carnitas.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
Oh. Thanks for the clarification, bud.
I’ve been totally pining for some colitas.
by LowcountryJoe on Aug 19, 2010 1:09 PM PDT up reply actions
Which is also totally doable if he's taking BART to SFO.
Stop off in the Mission, grab food, get back on BART to catch your plane.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I'm glad to know you.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I misread read this sentence
do not get back on a plane before having a carnitas burrito
as saying “after” rather than “before”, and I interpreted it as an observation on said burrito’s effect on one’s digestive system, paired with the limited toilet facilities on a plane.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
i believe that issue was partly addressed by 67…
I’d hate to be the guy next to him if he brings a burrito on board.
i have personally found it unfounded. but then again, i’m used to burritos…
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 2:16 PM PDT up reply actions
The standard burritos I get
are actually quite good for my digestion. They’re a staple of my diet.
I’d worry about unknown burritos with unknown contents, though.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
I'd hate to be the guy next to him if he brings a burrito on board.
I'm here to talk about the past.
burrito burrito burrito
My vote is for Taqueria Cancun on Mission and 19th.
"The ego, the super-ego, and the Ed" - dannycakes
You.
I almost bought a pair of Converse yesterday just so you would think I was cool.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Yeah. I am not that cool.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
their carnitas are ok. the thing to get there is al pastor.
ok people, THINK! where do we send him for real good carnitas?
really don't care if i ever get back.
How would you know
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Excellent suggestions, AV
one more thing: if you’re into punk, OldhamA, you might want to catch a show at 924 Gilman, which is in north Berkeley.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Is it still $5?
And I lost mine when I moved back east :(
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
can't find mine either
I got it when I lived in SoCal, haven’t seen it since I lived in SF.
"The ego, the super-ego, and the Ed" - dannycakes
i had checked the dates for gilman and there wasn’t really anything i could rec (maybe la plebe? SF mexi-ska-punk.). but maybe the venue itself is worth seeing? (especially since they are in trouble!)
really don't care if i ever get back.
I live about 400 yrds from 924 Gilman
drive by it all the time. Anthropologically interesting.
Across the street is the Pyramid Brewery, where they actually brew, and sell the stuff. If you’re a typical Englishman who likes his pint, that could be a worthy stop. Can eat a decent (not gourmet) meal there, too!
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 19, 2010 3:31 PM PDT up reply actions
Oh god, I haven't been there since high school. Birthplace of some excellent bands.
I should really go back again. That is a most excellent suggestion to experience the area.
And OldhamA, if you drive by a cupcake truck, you STOP YER CAR AND JUMP OUT AND GET A CUPCAKE.
"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."
A cupcake truck?!
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Yep.
It is exactly as awesome as it sounds. We like our food trucks in California.
"This must be heaven," he says.
"No. It's Oakland."
Well if it's got the Kyli seal of approval I guess I'll have to try one.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Yeah we figured we're not in a rush to get to San Francisco so we might as well take in the sights.
We were advised to take a day trip to San Diego when in L.A. too, but I don’t know how far that is.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
90 minutes to 2 hours driving
NOt sure what’s in SD that isn’t in LA/Nor cal.
Its nicce and all, I lived there for a year. but its like LA, but cleaner.
"The ego, the super-ego, and the Ed" - dannycakes
I think San Diego is more tourist friendly, just because LA can be awfully spread out.
Also, that’s 90min to 4 hours, depending on where in “LA” and how bad the traffic’ll be( it will be bad, but there are degrees ).
Ouch, that's a long day trip. Four hours driving just to get there and back!
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
SD’s nice, and you can go next door to tijuana, mexico for a couple of hours too, but i think you’d be spreading yourself too thin. LA’s big enough to occupy you though.
In LA, you could focus on: hollywood/melrose/beverly hills/westwood strip, one beachy thing (either full beach experience or just walking around a beach town—malibu/santa monica or huntington beach), downtown LA itself (ghery building/museums), and probably california adventure or disneyland (just because you’re being nice to the others).
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 1:11 PM PDT up reply actions
Yeah we only have 12 days - so I'm probably going to discard this SD idea.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
It's unlikely. I'll put it forward though.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
If you can influence friends and fellow travelers
I highly suggest making the twenty-two mile detour off of Highway One (do stop at Hearst Castle if you can…worth it IMO if you like architecture) to the Hunter Liggett Military Reservation and the Mission San Antonio de Padua. The drive on Ferguson Road is gasp-inspiring from the coast to the Mission and back. The mission is the most original-appearing of them all in California (most are swallowed up by the big cities). The missions put up by the Spaniards unfortunately created a lot of aspects about California that were not good, but it’s worth seeing.
Check this and other links. The drive and visit to the Mission will give you a tremendous amount of perspective about California. It’s about a four hour detour. Have all your passports. I see the military is not as lax as before.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 19, 2010 3:46 PM PDT up reply actions
I'll try.
At the moment I’m getting an earful for trying to get to Oakland for the 2nd. “We want to spend 4 days in L.A. blah, blah, blah.”
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
They won't get a lot of sympathy from northern Californians about spending more time in Lalaland
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
I wish I had detoured to Hearst Castle while my wife and I were driving down Highway 1 on our honeymoon.
It’s on the list of things to go see.
by LoneStranger on Aug 20, 2010 9:55 AM PDT up reply actions
It is worth seeing
but you have to block out pretty much a whole afternoon — it’s way up at the peak of that part of the Coastal Range (the view is astonishing), and IIRC you have to take a guided tour, which, due to the agreement between Hearst’s estate and the State of California, sounds a bit like a pro-WRH propaganda presentation.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Hrm... 3 hours and 45 minutes to get there from Fremont, assuming no stops along the way.
A little too far for a day trip. Would have to be a night or weekend trip.
by LoneStranger on Aug 20, 2010 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions
And that would be taking 101, not 1
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
No, it said Hwy 1 on Google Maps.
Past Monterrey.
by LoneStranger on Aug 20, 2010 4:44 PM PDT up reply actions
Yes, 1.
You split off 101 in SLO to 1 North to San Simeon.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
it’d be an interesting exercise in hi/lo opulence to spend the night at the madonna inn and then go to hearst castle.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 20, 2010 5:40 PM PDT up reply actions
I concur about 24th & Mission.
I’m no tour guide, since I have no taste for things that even non-touristy tourists like. But in the rarefied topic of experiencing the “real” essence of the city, that’s my favorite part of San Francisco.
You have occasionally mentioned the lack of racial diversity in your own locality. If you want to experience diversity in full bounty — more colors and cultures than you even imagined — all being lived as if it were simply ordinary day-to-day life (which in fact it is), there is no better place to find it than at the southern end of the Mission district.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
just put some salve on it.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 20, 2010 3:01 PM PDT up reply actions
It got the name Tenderloin
because the cops who worked that beat took in so many bribes, they could afford to buy Tenderloin cuts of beef (instead of say, rump roast).
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 20, 2010 11:28 PM PDT up reply actions
I haven't spent a lot of time in the Tenderloin,
but when I’ve been there, I have not found it to be a lively and joyful place.
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
I go to a theatre in the heart of the tenderloin....I always hate it when I have to go to that one!
"Are those new tarps? Or did they paint 'em?" Mark Ellis
Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles in LA
Several locations but I prefer the one on La Brea near Sunset.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
Is that expensive?
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Not at all.
Losing this team would be a huge failure for this city and an affront to Oakland’s great sports legacy.
I second this recommendation
We saw Too $hort at one, but i can’t remember which one we were at.
"Don't look back. Something might be gaining on you." - Satchel Paige
I should get back to work. I've caused enough trouble here for one day.
I'm here to talk about the past.
Mmmm carnitas.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I had tacos from Mijito for lunch today. Carne asada and carnitas.
by LoneStranger on Aug 19, 2010 3:13 PM PDT up reply actions
Carnitas burrito from the truck. Delish!
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
tl;dr
but oldham, please please PLEASE email me. I play tour guide all the time. I don’t know if I have more insight to offer, but I might.
PS - I know the bay and LA both very, very well
and love both intensely.
Damn, I really need to visit the Bay Area some time soon
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Yeah!!!
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I'm afraid I can't see making it out there before the end of the season
but I’m trying to figure out when I’ll be able to visit. And when I do, I definitely won’t ’Shoes it.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Ok, FOOD:
These are my faves…Oakland/East Bay centric, because well, yeah.
- Sushi – Mijori – Grand Avenue, Oakland – GrandLake area (fancy/upscale sushi can be had at Ozumo – Broadway/Grand, uptown Oakland – $$$). Mijori is affordable.
- Fried Chicken Sandwich – Bakesale Betty’s – Telegraph/51st and Broadway/Grand, Uptown Oakland
- Upscale American – Flora – Telegraph/19th, Uptown Oakland $$$
- Spanish – Tamarindo – Broadway/8th – Old Oakland (also has a tequila bar, Miel, inside)
- Beer – The Trappist – Broadway/8th – Old Oakland (next to Tamarindo)
- Pizza – Pizzaiolo – Telegraph/48th(?) – Temescal or Boot and Shoe Service – Grand Avenue, Oakland – GrandLake Area (disclaimer: I haven’t been to either (sadly) but skigurl and others can vouch for deliciousness)
- Burmese/Thai – Burma Superstar – Telegraph and 46th or so – Temescal (also a location in Alameda and the original one in the Inner Richmond in SF – but this one doesn’t have the outrageous wait). You have to get the tea leaf salad and the samusa soup.
- Upscale Latin American – Bocanova – Webster/Embarcadero, Jack London Square. To die for. $$$
- Coffee/Breakfast/Panini – Farley’s East – Broadway/Grand, Uptown Oakland. Get the egg basket and a soy latte.
- Pho – Pho Ao Sen – via skigurl’s intro – E 14th/2nd Ave
- Upscale American – Sidebar – Grand/Euclid – Grand Lake area. Get the goat cheese souffle. Good cocktails. $$$
- Best Burger I’ve Found in Oakland – Chop Bar – Alice/Harrison – Jack London Square, Oakland.
- Chaat – Vik’s Chaat Corner – 4th/Channing, Berkeley (though you probably don’t need to spend time eating Indian food, it’s quite good)
OKAY. That’s a good start. Others can add on.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I've done very little work today.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Yeah. I did some mindless stuff.
Not doing the stuff I’m supposed to be doing.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Wow...next time I come to California I'm going to skip the Raider game
and go restaurant hopping with Pam.
But seriously, folks....
Please do. I'm a good tour guide.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
NRAFs only!
:D
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Have to draw the line somewhere.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I really don't know the Bay Area all that well
I’ve been there countless times but we’d go in and go to a game or a concert and maybe stay at a hotel but I’ve never spent more than a couple days in a row there.
Even when I come for a visit I’ll spend 80% of my time in Sacramento because that’s home. Maybe one of these days I’ll get to spend a couple of weeks in the Bay Area.
But seriously, folks....
Come hang with me.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I really don't know the east bay at all
I don’t think I’ve ever been anywhere in Oakland besides Jack London square and the Coliseum.
I’ve spent more time in San Francisco I guess when you add it up. SF does have great restuarants although they’re very expensive.
But seriously, folks....
The cool thing about the Oakland restaurant scene is that it's very up and coming.
New great things are opening every day, it seems like, and there’s some REALLY good food.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
It sounds great....I love going to new restuarants
and I always try to go to indendent ones rather than the chain restuarants.
One thing I know I’ll do when I get back to California is I’m going to eat as much Mexican food as I can….oh how I miss it.
But seriously, folks....
Oakland is really a neighborhood-focused city
not a downtown-focused city. You can really fall in love with the place once you get out into the different locales.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
by Nick on Aug 19, 2010 3:07 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
For ice cream...
Pam, would you recommend Fenton’s?
by bakerbeachboy on Aug 19, 2010 2:16 PM PDT up reply actions
Yes - forgot it originally - just posted.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
wow. i agree with every single one of these except the burger, but only because i haven’t it tried yet. (pam, have you tried true burger? it’s a simple burger, not huge, but very tasty. and their shakes… mmmm. conversely, i’ll try chop house soon.)
i love pizzaiolo. it’s misleading to say it’s pizza though, since he might think it’s mostly pizza. it’s closer to say nice food in a couple of courses, with oven-baked pizza as one of them.
and if i had to go get a nice beer right this minute (early, sunny, warm) i’d go to beer revolution instead of the trappist. very similar beers, outdoor deck, more casual atmo.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 2:33 PM PDT up reply actions
Ooh, Beer Rev. Forgot that one - dumb too since I go there a lot.
They were just featured in Oakland Magazine!
Good point about Pizzaiolo.
Haven’t tried TrueBurger yet – on my list. But you should definitely go to Chop Bar.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Coffee: Blue Bottle
SF or Oakland
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Better than BB?
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Breakfast:
Blackberry Bistro – Park Avenue Oakland – vanilla and orange scented challah bread french toast. Among other delicious things.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Here I go being Rip van Winkle again...
is Mama’s Royal still there on Broadway near 51st? Is it still full of hipsters?
I’m pretty sure Spaghetti Western in the Lower Haight closed, and I know my favorite SF bar, Dr. Bombay’s, shut down years ago.
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
Yes, and yes, but Broadway and 41st.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Aaaargh! Information overload!
I’ll have to digest this and get back to you.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Make a list
allow for distances between cities.
Let’s face it, you’ll see a lot, miss a lot, that’s the nature of a short trip.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 20, 2010 11:33 PM PDT up reply actions
I'll also make a list of potential hiding spots.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Just remember to drive on the right side of the road.
"We were shit, pathetic," Guillen growled early in spring training. "We hit too many home runs."
And try to ignore the LA folks yelling at you.
Outside of the random mopeds hopping in front of anything moving that was Naples, LA has some of the craziest driving in the world.
In my experience driving in LA is not much fun.
I still hope to go down there and have a nice experience but everytime I’ve been to LA my only thought was how soon can I leave.
But seriously, folks....
they’re just more, what’s the word, pragmatic or jaded or something. when they need to merge, they don’t spend time thinking about it and looking around and slowing down and negotiating eyeball-vibes with the other drivers. they just merge. freaks us out because we need to feel safe first, then go. but our driving pisses them off because we cause unnecessary stalls in the flow.
and when i say them and us, i mean former me and current me.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 2:42 PM PDT up reply actions
I was just amazed by how fast they drive
I think it’s partially a by-product of sitting in so much traffic. When you have the option to go fast, you take it.
And not that they’re driving fast, as much as they drive fast in heavy density. I’ve found myself going 80 on a 4-lane freeway with all 4 lanes occupied by dense traffic and a bit scared to go any slower.
San Diego’s not quite as crazy, though I do find myself frustrated by how terrible other cities’ drivers are in moderate traffic.
that’s kind of what i mean, though. they drive so much and have developed a special driving language for themselves. they trust the flow AS safe (and they do follow certain conventions to keep it safe and flowing, like staying in lanes, which in NY for example, has fallen by the wayside in street driving). here in the bay area, we need to see the safe spot and then move into it. the slowdown this causes would never do in LA.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 2:52 PM PDT up reply actions
About a week after I got my license
I visited my brother in LA. he gave me supplemental lessons. He would point at random cars two or three lengths in front of us and say “cut that guy off”
It was a very helpful lesson for when I moved to LA.
"The ego, the super-ego, and the Ed" - dannycakes
a well-rounded learning experience, i’m sure. or didn’t the other drivers try to expand your vocabulary too?
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 3:12 PM PDT up reply actions
That's awesome
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I grew up driving down there
and when I returned after a long absence, I too was surprised how closely everyone follows at high speed! It used to be, not like that!! I thought, "I’m going 65, what’s the extra rush??? Esp, with all the cars!! Dense!
Now, twenty four hours a day, any day, any freeway…. you may suddenly be in slow or stopped traffic. Just because of the density.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 19, 2010 4:14 PM PDT up reply actions
I was coming back to San Diego from the north side of LA a couple of years ago
It was 3am, I was cruising along just fine, when bam! I hit stop-and-go-traffic. They had closed off the entirety of I-5 south for construction and so I spent the entire next hour in a long line of traffic. Only in LA will you hit traffic at 3am on a random weekend night, traffic-induced or otherwise.
i guess you didn’t get caught trying to cross the bay bridge toward oakland after midnight on those random nights during the last couple of years of repair, when they’d reroute everybody to get off at 4th and back on at 1st. i waited an hour to two a couple different times.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 5:24 PM PDT up reply actions
I was ON the Bay Bridge the night the cable snapped.
That was fun.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
frightening. my throat tightened up just reading that.
really don't care if i ever get back.
by AV on Aug 19, 2010 5:29 PM PDT up reply actions
Yeah.
Traveling into the city too. Long night. Probably a dumb move, but I was able to get back on the bridge to get home right away before they closed the lower deck…but I just wanted to get home. I was a little shaky that night.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I can beat that.
I was on the bridge the night the BRIDGE snapped!
There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
talk to iglew
he was on the bridge a certain day in october 1989
"The ego, the super-ego, and the Ed" - dannycakes
He's a one-upper.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
joints you should eat at in San Francisco...
- Ike’s Place. Click HERE for their webiste. Click HERE for the video from their appearance on Man vs Food :)
- Little Nepal. My favorite restaurant in the entire city. Nestled in the Bernal Heights neighborhood. Order the Kukhurako Ledo…it’s one of the best things you’ll ever eat in your life. HERE is their website…it’s not impressive, but the restaurant and food are, I promise.
- for desert hit up Mitchell’s Ice Cream. Homemade in their shop and it’s an SF staple. Click HERE for their webiste.
- and if you want to top anything off with a beer, visit Schroeder’s. Order “The Boot”…80 oz of glory. HERE is a picture.
Woops, my finger slipped and hit submit before I was ready haha
Guess this should read Food/Drink joints…
by bakerbeachboy on Aug 19, 2010 2:14 PM PDT up reply actions
Speaking of Schroeders...
I met everyone’s favorite radio talk show host there once.
No, not CT. It was Michael Savage.
by LoneStranger on Aug 19, 2010 3:16 PM PDT up reply actions
This is a great thread, BTW.
Should be bookmarked by all NRAFs.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I have the best ideas.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Yeah you really did a lot of hard work in this thread.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
I'm an ideas man. I don't do the heavy lifting.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
Hey you locals who know all the great spots
Add this one to your list.
I recently discovered it, and it’s great. That’s a view of the Carquinez Bridge by the way.
You get a fabulous view of the Sacramento River from 70% of the tables, there are white-jacketed waiters and portholes in the doors. Often, classic cars in the parking lot (esp Sunday or Saturday brunch. Pricey, but worth it.
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 19, 2010 4:00 PM PDT reply actions
Because I don't remember and I'm too lazy too go back, were there any sports bars mentioned?
I'm here to talk about the past.
It's too bad we don't have an A's themed bar anywhere.
That would be really awesome, if we had a place we could go to all the time. Oh well. It’ll never happen.
by LoneStranger on Aug 20, 2010 9:57 AM PDT up reply actions
If only we had someone here who really wanted to own his own bar.....
by LoneStranger on Aug 20, 2010 2:48 PM PDT up reply actions
Since there's no DLD
WHY DOES MY WORK INSIST ON DOING THINGS THE HARD WAY? SHEESH.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
my friend just emailed that he’s coming up from LA next week. i’m all, ooh, i got a list of places to see! but he wants to see something we didn’t really cover. Kinda grim, my friends.
really don't care if i ever get back.
Um, creepy.
The funny thing about baseball is that people will believe what they want to believe. -Joe Posnanski 8/29/09
Monday Sept 6 is Labor Day
It’s a Bank Holiday. While many things travellers want to do are unaffected, some things may be closed, so be prepared.
It's the fans that make the game fun. -- Rickey Henderson, July 26, 2009.
Summer in San Francisco is often not warm
Oakland can be considerably warmer, and other places you might go such as Napa are warmer still. Certain places, such as the middle of the Golden Gate Bridge if you’re walking across it, can be miserably cold and windy. And then half an hour later, they’re not. Anyway, bring lightweight warm layers of some kind, including hats, or you may find yourselves having to buy horrid sweatshirts with little cable cars embroidered on them which will mark you out as tourists.
It's the fans that make the game fun. -- Rickey Henderson, July 26, 2009.
All I want to say is.....you must commit to a tailgate Mr. Oldham A. You can't come all this way to go to an A's game and not share it with your AN bretheren (and sisterthren).
Tell us you will so we can begin to plan…..
"Are those new tarps? Or did they paint 'em?" Mark Ellis
well - OK - you don't HAVE to
but we really want you to.!
"Are those new tarps? Or did they paint 'em?" Mark Ellis
I think the plan is to go to a game of the Angels series and a game of the Mariners series.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
when you know which ones exactly - let us know, We're pretty good at throwing something together. ;-)
"Are those new tarps? Or did they paint 'em?" Mark Ellis
You'll miss it this year
But come back, sometime, and, truly….
Many come from as far away as Russia. Some English, inevitably…
Blez: Most folks seem to believe that the big flaw with the 2010 Oakland A's will be the lack of any power.
Beane: They believe it because it's true.
by One won lost won on Aug 20, 2010 11:41 PM PDT reply actions
I may shoot myself before next Sunday.
"You see, in this world there's two kinds of people, my friend: Those with loaded guns and those who dig. You dig."
At least you're not a Villa supporter
"And Julio Franco is batting right-handed!" -- Wayne Hagin, A's radio play-by-play, mid-80s
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