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California/San Diego to San Francisco

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Expert: Jason Curodeau - 1/17/2010


Question
Hello,
We are visiting California in mid October.  We are visiting a few place and the longest drive we will have is from San Diego to San Francisco. We have more than one driver so we are going to do the drive in one day.  Can you give us any tips on which will be the quickest route to take and if there is a nice place we can stop for a meal to break the journey up.
Many Thanks

Answer
Lucie, the quickest way would be I-5 but it is also the most boring way and offers mainly chain restauraunts. Highway 99 is a little better and there are a few notable eateries, such as the Madonna inn and Andersons. My personal favorite is highway 1 and 101. It's not quick but it can be done in one day. The only draw back is that you will be tempted to stop and take photographs at every turn and there are thousands of them. So the choice is yours. I do suggest, especially if you are from a far away state or country and do not plan to be back here soon that you take I-5 north from San diego and go as far as you can until you hit the exit for the 101 north (aka Ventura Highway, yes like the song) then meander onto highway one. Give youself an extra half day at least and enjoy some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen.
I hope this helps.
Jason Curodeau

California

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Jason Curodeau

Expertise

I can answer all questions regarding best routes of travel. Although I cannot predict traffic conditions, I can provide the most scenic and dynamic route for the traveller on a budget and or schedule. I also know the most direct and yet scenic routes.

Experience

I have had the opportunity to travel quite extensively throughout the Southwest and the Pacific Northwest, both as a resident and traveler. My search for adventure and new experiences has given me the thirst for the "road less travelled". Because I am not independently wealthy, the road I travel is as an admirer of the journey. As long as I can find a place to sleep for next to nothing, pack some food, and afford the gas I am down the road. If given a description of the prospective travelers needs I can easily provide them with detailed route options independent of their finances and suited to their needs. Most of my travels have been by automobile. I recently purchased a motorcycle and I am taking ten day trip from Joshua Tree to Auburn California and I am taking back roads and state highways the entire way. I will take a day trip around Lake Tahoe, where I lived for two years, and cruise the old highways of the Gold Mining era. I will cut across towards the Pacific and slowly wind my way down the coast taking in every minute smell and experience temperature changes subtly created by the shadow of leaves

Organizations
Some friends and I from the area have started a local music and art "zine" and have experienced some very positive community feedback.

Education/Credentials
I am currently a full-time, thirty-seven year old student and I am preparing to begin a career in primary education. I have chosen this field not only because I feel it will be rewarding but also for the travel time it will allow me. I anticipate frequent world travel in my near future.

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