Last day in Fog City

Although it hasn't been foggy at all while we've been here, in fact the weather has been glorious!

Today is our last day in San Francisco :o( I could easily stay here another week, or two, even three... Theres still so much to see and do! I'm clearly going to have to come back again...

This morning we went to Alcatraz. We got the first ferry at 9am so it wasn't too busy when we got there - unlike when we left 3 hours later, by then it was mobbed! I thought it would be interesting but was surprised by just how captivating it was. It's been so well planned out and maintained, the audio tour especially was really excellent. Despite the prison its actually a really beautiful spot and the views of the bay are amazing.

In the afternoon we had a lovely wander around Chinatown, it's so beautiful with all the bright colours and lanterns and bizarre buildings. Oh and all the Lucky Cats! I love Lucky Cats, they always make me want to wave back at them. :) I had to keep reminding myself that I still have a lot of traveling to do and a very full suitcase...no room for a waving cat!
We sat in the park where all the wee Chinese guys congregate among the benches and cherryblossom to play chess and cards with such seriousness (which I was thrilled to see after my disappointment at not spotting any in Washington Square!).
And of course we had to have something to eat there...we had Mui Shui at The Empress Of China which was lovely. It's a rooftop restaurant that looks out right across Chinatown and North Beach all the way up to the Coit Tower. (Many thanks to Kaybee for recommending it and for telling me about the park - among many other great San Fran things!)

Before we retired on our last night we had one final wander around Union Square and went to see Macy's windows - every year they do a massive spring show and decorate the windows and first floor with tonnes of flowers. It just started today and was so impressive. Really gorgeous displays and well worth a look, we did of course take loads of photographs which will appear on Flickr! in due time - I promise!

I have started uploading my LA photos, its taking ages though so just a few at a time, but if you'd like a peek they are here.