As one of the best-known states in the U.S., California needs little to no introduction. The Golden State has long been a destination with a firm place on travelers’ bucket lists worldwide.

Offering an enviable climate, stunning beaches, and incredible mountains, it’s no wonder California draws in millions of tourists yearly. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Hollywood Sign, and Disneyland, the most difficult part of your trip to California may be deciding which parts of this vast state to visit.

We have created a list of vacation ideas to make planning your trip easier. Below are some of the must-see cities and top places in California.

When’s The Best Time Of Year To Travel To California?

California is a year-round destination with something to offer travelers at any time. Due to its sheer size, the weather in California can vary depending on what part of the state you are in. In northern California, you can expect snow-capped mountains in the winter, while just a few hundred miles away, you can find Death Valley, thought to be the warmest place on earth during the summer!

The summer months of June, July, and August tend to be the most popular months for tourists, with average pleasant temperatures ranging from 21 – 27° celsius in coastal regions. As a result, this can often be a more costly time to travel due to the large volume of tourists.

For skiing lovers, November through Christmas all the way to March is the best time to experience California’s world-class ski areas, with many of the most popular spots in the north of the state. Expect temperatures ranging from 10 – 15° celsius along the coast at this time.

The shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November can be fantastic times to see this beautiful place. Though the weather may be a little more chilly, many parts of California experience mild temperatures at this time, varying from around 10 to 23° celsius. Fewer tourists during these months mean that you can expect cheaper flights, accommodations, and quieter tourist attractions.

Five Of The Top Places To Go In California

Los Angeles – The Home Of The Country’s Entertainment Industry

The City of Angels is a buzzing metropolis renowned worldwide for its incredible beaches, inclusive and diverse culture, and, most famously, for being the center of the television and movie industries. Whether you want to walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, experience the glamorous neighborhood of Beverly Hills, or sun yourself on Venice beach, Los Angeles is a huge city with a wealth of attractions to offer to tourists.

Cool Places To See Los Angeles

Visit the Hollywood Sign – No trip to L.A. would be complete without a visit to the Hollywood Sign, an unmissable iconic place. Hike along one of the many established routes in the area, or pay a visit to the Griffith Observatory, which boasts one of the best views of both the Hollywood Sign and the city itself.

Experience some fantastic theme parks – Los Angeles is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks. No matter your age, be sure not to miss out on the movie-themed park of Universal Studios Hollywood or relive your childhood at Disneyland Park, located about a 40-minute drive from down town L.A. in Anaheim.

Go behind the scenes at Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros. Studios – Get a closer insight into some of our most beloved movies and television series during your vacation. Fans of Friends and the Harry Potter series cannot miss out on a tour of the Warner Bros. studio, while a trip to Paramount Pictures Studios allows you to explore the sets, costumes, and props of legendary movies, such as Forrest Gump. If you’re lucky, you may even grab a seat in the audience at the filming of Dr. Phil!

Must Try Food And Drinks In Los Angeles

French Dip Sandwich – This mouthwatering street food dish is a firm favorite in L.A., consisting of a meat of your choice (roast beef being the most popular) on a soft French baguette dipped in the juices of the meat, often with a cheese of your choosing on top.

Moscow Mule – Despite its name, this well-known cocktail does not hail from Russia, but from the U.S. This vodka-based drink is believed to have originated in Los Angeles. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime in a famous copper cup remains a popular drink of choice in the city.

San Francisco – Northern California’s Cultural And Nightlife Hub With The Best Music Clubs

San Francisco is an essential addition to your California travel itinerary. Famed for its steep hills, eclectic architecture, and booming tech industry, this city is brimming with attractions and experiences for tourists from around the globe. San Francisco’s European influence sets it apart from its Californian neighbors, which continues to enchant visitors every year.

The Top Places To Travel To In San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge – This remarkable suspension bridge is a world-famous engineering marvel and has become one of California’s most recognizable symbols. Though you can drive or walk across the bridge, one of the most enjoyable ways to experience this wonder is to rent a bike, cycle from Fisherman’s Wharf across the bridge, and complete your ride in the charming city of Sausalito.

Alcatraz Island – Look inside what was once one of the country’s most notorious maximum security prisons. This small island, just over 1 mile off the city’s coast, formerly housed infamous criminals and saw many failed (along with one successful) escape attempt. The prison closed in 1963 and opened for tourists ten years later.

Fisherman’s Wharf – With the Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop and a chance to see the California sea lions, it’s no wonder Fisherman’s Wharf has found itself on many travelers’ lists. Wander down to the bustling Pier 39 for some of the best views and to experience some delicious food.

Must Try Food and Drinks In San Francisco

Clam Chowder Bread Bowl – Though initially invented on the East Coast, clam chowder is synonymous with San Francisco since the city put its spin on the dish, serving the soup in a heavenly bowl of sourdough bread. Stop by one of the Boudin Bakery branches to try the best in the business.

Anchor Steam – San Francisco has a strong craft beer scene and is home to the famous Anchor Brewing Company. While there is a wide selection of beers, be sure to sample their popular ‘steam’ beer, which is akin to lager but brewed similarly to ale.

Yosemite National Park – Majestic Landscapes and A Nature-lovers Paradise

From cascading waterfalls, towering granite formations, countless hiking trails, tranquil rivers, and massive ancient sequoia trees, Yosemite National Park has long been an escape from hectic city life for many visitors. This sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site draws local, national, and international tourists to the Sierra Nevada mountains every year and is a must for anyone seeking adventure or an opportunity to unwind from everyday life.

Must Do Things In Yosemite National Park

Experience incredible hiking – The breathtaking hiking opportunities draw many travelers to Yosemite. Some of the most-loved hiking routes include the Mist Trail, the Sentinel Dome Trail, and of course, the famously terrifying Half Dome Trail, which is not for the faint-hearted. If the latter rigorous hike isn’t for you, check out the Mirror Lake Trail for a beautiful view of the Half Dome instead.

Get blown away by the waterfalls – The most popular attraction in Yosemite is the sensational Yosemite Falls. At 2,450 feet, Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America. Bridaviel Falls, Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and Horsetail Falls are just some of the other mesmerizing waterfalls in the area.

Rent a car – If you’re not an avid hiker, fear not. Many of Yosemite’s gorgeous attractions can be experienced from the comfort of a vehicle. Witness the famous Glacier Point, the El Capitan rock formation, Mariposa Grove, and the popular Tunnel viewpoint on epic road trips through the park.

Must Try Food And Drinks In Yosemite National Park

Avocado toast – With so many of Yosemite’s visitors being California natives, why not eat like the locals do while you’re here? This state is known for its love of this popular fruit, and it can be found in many breakfast and lunch spots in the area.

Cabernet Sauvignon – Less than four hours from Yosemite lies Napa Valley, one of the world’s most-loved wine regions. Known especially for Cabernet Sauvignon, enjoy a glass with the spectacular views of Yosemite as your background.

San Diego – A Southern California City For Honeymoons, Couples, And Families With The Nicest Weather

With glorious sunshine, idyllic beaches, palm tree-lined streets, and a rugged coastline, San Diego encapsulates what many of us imagine when we picture California. This dreamy destination has so much to offer tourists while maintaining a more relaxed atmosphere than its counterparts. San Diego’s proximity to Mexico sets it apart from other areas in California and contributes to its unique and alluring culture.

San Diego – What To Do There

Visit some of the world’s most pristine beaches – Soaking up the sun at one of San Diego’s beaches is a must on a visit to this southern city. Mission beach is a busy hotspot with a bustling boardwalk; surfers can catch some waves at Pacific Beach or La Jolla Shores, while Coronado Beach allows visitors a glimpse at the famous Hotel Del Coronado.

Walk around Balboa Park – This huge urban park has something to offer for all ages and interests. Perhaps known most famously for being the home of the hugely popular San Diego Zoo, the park boasts numerous galleries such as a San Diego Natural History Museum Gallery, the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Botanical Building, and the picturesque Spanish Village Art Center.

See the USS Midway Museum – A must-see for history buffs or those interested in learning more about the U.S. Navy, the USS Midway Museum comprises almost thirty resorted aircraft and flight simulators, giving visitors an insight into life onboard America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century.

Must Try Food And Drink In San Diego

Tacos – San Diego’s proximity to Mexico means it is no surprise that the cuisine has made its way over the border and cemented itself as a huge part of the food scene in the city. Tacos, in particular, are a favorite of many locals and can be found at countless restaurants and food stands across the city with fillings of your choice, though fish tacos are a popular option.

The Balboa – This cocktail is made from ingredients from two San Diego-based companies, making it a must-try during your trip. Henebry Whiskey and R&D Bitters created this tantalizing cocktail using lemon juice and honey, aptly naming it after the city’s beloved park.

Lake Tahoe – A Playground For Adventurers on the Nevada Border

The country’s second deepest lake is a gem in Northern California, nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Two-thirds of Lake Tahoe lie in California, while one-third lies across the border in Nevada. With crystal blue waters in the summer and the country’s largest concentration of ski slopes in the winter, Lake Tahoe has become a popular destination for visitors throughout the year.

What Are The Best Things To Do In Lake Tahoe

Hit the slopes – North Lake Tahoe boasts some world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months, and winter sports fans have their pick of some of the country’s finest ski resorts and slopes to suit all ability levels. Whether you’re looking to sip a warm beverage by the fireplace or party the evening away, there are many fabulous apres-ski options for you to enjoy in the evening.

Spend an afternoon on the water – If you are spending time at Lake Tahoe in the summer, there will be no shortage of water activities to choose from. From relaxing canoe rides and stand-up paddle boarding to fast-paced jet skiing and exhilarating parasailing, there is something for everyone here.

Trek to some fantastic viewpoints – Lake Tahoe is surrounded by jaw-dropping mountains waiting to be explored. Head to Eagle Rock for superb views of the lake, take the popular Five Lakes Trail, or experienced hikers can check out the Shirley Canyon Trail.

Which Are The Must-Try Foods and Drinks?

Sample the seafood – Although Lake Tahoe has a variety of fish in its waters, it is not always common to find restaurants including fish from here on their menus. However, Lake Tahoe is only a few hours from the Californian coast and, as a result, is home to some fantastic seafood eateries preparing mouthwatering salmon, trout, and oysters.

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale – Surrounded by the famous Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe is the perfect place to sample one of the many offerings from the renowned brewery whose brand is inspired by this part of the country. While they brew a variety of IPAs, their Pale Ale remains their most-loved product.

Enjoy your holiday without compromising your health.

There’s still a good chunk of summer left for holidaying around Australia, but as you pack your bags, remember that a change in environment and routine can impact your health. With some preparation and smart practices, you can enjoy your summer travels while keeping health issues at bay. Make the most of your summer adventure with these tips.

Be prepared

Before you travel, do some research into your destination. Know what health risks might be present and how to avoid them. Make sure you’re up-to-date on vaccinations and fill any prescriptions so you have a supply of any medications you need to take with you. It’s also good to pack a basic first-aid kit. Finally, look into the healthcare services available at your destination should you need them.

Keep up your hydration

Hydration is important during the hot summer months, especially when travelling on planes or spending large periods of time in air-conditioning. Be prepared by carrying a water bottle with you at all times and sipping throughout the day. If you don’t like the taste of plain water, opt for coconut water or add a slice of lemon or lime, herbs or berries to your bottle.

Eat light and right

Enjoying local cuisine is part of the travel experience, but choosing your meals wisely can help avoid digestive discomfort and foodborne illnesses, and help cool your body temperature.

Where possible, opt for fresh dishes that are cooked to order. Avoid complex carbs and red meat, which take longer to digest when your body temp is up, as well as oily foods and spicy dishes. Instead, look to fresh fruit and salads, particularly those with a high water content like leafy greens, cucumber, watermelon, mango and pineapple.

Practise sun safety

The sun’s UV rating is strongest during the summer months, so where possible, try to plan indoor activities – hello, day spa! – when they’re at their highest (usually between 11am and 3pm. You can use the BOM or SunSmart app to check them each morning.

When you do head outdoors, remember the five Ss – Slip on some lightweight, long-sleeved clothing, Slop on some broad-spectrum sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Slide on some sunglasses and Seek shade.

Listen to Your Body

While it’s great to have an itinerary, it’s also important to allow some flexibility so you can listen to your body and take moments to cool down when you need them. Don’t push yourself to tick off that bucket-list hike or go ahead with that beach picnic if you’re feeling the effects of the heat. Remember, everyone’s tolerance to temperature varies, so what works for others may not work for you.

Utilise online medical services

Even with all this preparation, there might be times when you require medical advice while travelling. That’s where technology comes in handy.

By following these tips, you’ll be all set for a safe and stress-free summer adventure.

If you find yourself dreaming of sunshine, sand and sparkling pools, it may be time to start looking forward to your next vacation getaway. Get a jumpstart on building excitement for the journey ahead by beginning preparations early, which offers many benefits, including better rates and more time to research your options.

Start exploring ideas for a fun-filled trip with these tips from the travel experts at Funjet, which specializes in providing travelers with vacation packages to hundreds of destinations around the world:

Plan Ahead

Booking your vacation well in advance allows you to take advantage of the best deals at the most popular hotels and hottest travel dates. In addition, by being flexible with travel dates, families can save hundreds of dollars. Moving travel dates by a day or two can result in major savings, often even more than the discounts you can get on last-minute trips.

Research Dream Destinations

Deciding where you want to go is the first step, but with a literal world of possibilities, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. One place you can find inspiration is by exploring the top travel destinations others are choosing. For example, the top 10 travel destinations booked with Funjet in 2023 include numerous international destinations. Las Vegas is the only U.S. city to make the top 10 list. Mexico is especially popular, with Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta and San Jose Del Cabo. Others include Belize City, Belize; Liberia, Costa Rica; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Panama City, Panama; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Consider All-Inclusive Options

Whether you prefer adults-only or family-friendly, luxury or budget-friendly, there’s a diverse range of all-inclusive resorts to choose from. All-inclusives are known for their convenience and value. They offer hassle-free experiences with meals, drinks and often activities included. While many resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean islands are all-inclusive, be aware that smaller islands like Antigua may feature European plan-style hotels, where meals and drinks are not included.

An all-inclusive package usually encompasses a variety of activities and amenities curated to offer an enjoyable and cost-effective vacation. Within these packages, guests often have the opportunity to access amenities such as swimming pools, engage in sports activities, participate in fitness classes and other entertaining experiences.

Anticipate Extra Expenses

While all-inclusive resorts make tropical getaways stress-free and economical, it’s customary to express appreciation for exceptional service with tips. Resorts typically don’t require tipping, but guests commonly tip as a gesture of gratitude. When deciding to tip, families should consider modest amounts, like $1-5 per meal per person, and be mindful of different service levels as well as the convenience of using local currency. Having cash on hand makes it easier to tip as needed and ensure you have extra for souvenirs and other purchases.

Unplug and Unwind

Although most travelers believe it’s essential to stay connected, it’s a good idea to limit screen time so you can make the most of your vacation. Schedule a specific time, preferably in the morning, to address emails and online tasks then enjoy a worry-free rest of the day. While phones are often used to capture photos and videos or look up information about nearby attractions, putting away the screens means you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery, connect with loved ones and have a truly rejuvenating experience.

From reducing plastic and paper usage to supporting the local economy and doing business with credible organisations, we bring you 10 essential travel tips that help the people and places you travel to

Being a traveller in today’s world demands that we contribute positively to the destinations we are visiting. Gone are the days when people could feign ignorance about their impact on the living world. With the advent of the technological age and social media, all of us can educate ourselves on how best to serve the communities and beings in the places we visit, lessen the negative impacts of tourism, such as littering, and try our best to be conscientious citizens of planet Earth.

Here are 10 helpful ways for tourists to travel responsibly and lightly on the only home we have.

Use Jute Bags And Turn Down Plastic Ones

Jute bags are helpful to the planet as they reduce the burgeoning amount of plastic in the natural world. While littering is a serious threat, plastic materials take centuries to breakdown into microplastics, the latter of which has even been found in human placentas and whose impact on our health is currently being studied.

Use Public Transport

This tip is not limited to the confines of a city alone. For instance, Europe’s rail network connects cities within and across broders. Enjoy a train ride and slow down to appreciate the landscapes flicking past you. Use metros, trams, and buses or learn to carpool for longer distances.

If You Need To Drive, Go Electric, Hybrid Or Use Alternative Fuels

While electric vehicles may not be perfect, using them eliminates the tailpipe emissions found in petrol and diesel cars. Plan ahead by noting charging stations on your route. Hybrid vehicles are often cheaper and a good option for budget travellers. Biofuels, green hydrogen and even compressed natural gas (CNG) are worthy alternatives that help lower carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide levels.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle And Repurpose Plastic

The first step to cutting down on plastic use is by reducing the amount you buy, such as by carrying reusable water bottles and bags. If you do buy plastic items, try to get as much out of them as possible. This will also reduce your plastic consumption. Recycling plastic prevents littering and land pollution. Finally, repurposing is similar to reusing an item, except that the product is used to fulfil another goal. For instance, plastic grocery bags can double as trash can liners or to pack pet waste in.

Avoid Printing Tickets

QR codes, email and custom apps mean our phones now permit us entry into cinemas, airports, restaurants, hotels and events. Do not print tickets if you don’t have to and travel with an electronic ticket. This helps save paper and is beneficial for the planet.

Cycle Away

The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 made many cities around the world expand their cycling routes as people realised the importance of being healthy and active. Opting to cycle instead of driving saves energy consumption and is also pollution-free.

Team Up With NGOs

Non-governmetal organisations have taken measures to inform the masses about the consequences of pollution, and also come up with campaigns to curb the same. Volunteering for NGOs helps travellers understand local issues and the effective methods required to prevent pollution. Plus, it’s a lot of fun to make a contribution that helps to protect the planet.

Support The Local Economy

Living in homestays, eating local food and hiring local guides are some of the best ways to give back to the local economy of the places you are visiting. Ditch mass-produced souvenirs and buy indigenous or locally-made handicrafts. This also applies to buying produce that is grown in and around the area you’re visiting.

Extend Your Stay

As much as possible, stay in one place for a long period of time to truly soak in the experience of living there. You’ll discover out-of-the-way businesses, meet people and have interesting conversations, and understand the local ecology and way of life that a short trip packed with attractions just does not allow for. Slow travel is the best way to get the most out of travelling to a place.

Respect The Living World And Do Business With Trusted Actors

If you’re booking a safari or engaging in any form of wildlife tourism, do your research to find companies, organisations and people that actually care for the animals, planets and communities in the area. Alas, a lot of organisations are jumping on the climate bandwagon and hoping to make a quick buck out of people’s well-intentioned goals of travelling sustainably. Respecting natural places means keeping to marked trails, not feeding wildlife or approaching them and carrying your litter with you until you get to a proper disposal facility.