Most of us who are foodies know these things. But Food Travelist has listed them, just in case you did not get the memo. Who sent the memo? The ghost of Tony Bourdain, or Julia Child? Mr. Bizarre Foods, Andrew Zimmern? Beat Bobby Flay? Look for the lines Yes, the longest line usually means the best food. Or get there earlier tomorrow? Ask waiters and cabbies Just beware, they could be on the "payroll" of a restaurant. I always talk to the hotel people, and I shall reveal a secret, which you may find rather sensitive. I always ask a person of color for a local spot. Go for lunch Generally, it is cheaper than dinner. And the portions are more manageable. Lunch may also offer a "fixed price" menu as well. The Michaelin starred places ... read more

My favorite college town: Although Berkeley may be considered more bougie than bohemian these days, the counterculture vibe that made it so famous in the 60s is still recognizable in its local haunts, and food and art scene. Dine at world-famous Chez Panisse — considered by many to be the birthplace of the California cuisine food movement — where the focus is on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. For art and cinema aficionados, the UC Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive are on a mission to “inspire the imagination (and) ignite critical dialogue” with diverse exhibitions and hard-to-find independent films. For a taste of the old days, head to the University of California’s epicenter of protests and performances, Sproul Hall, or head to Telegraph Avenue for bookstores and street vendor wares. I went to UC Berkeley ... read more

How many of you have walked across the Golden Gate Bridge? Better yet, how many of you have bicycled across the bridge? I have done both, on numerous occasions. It is a great thrill every time, as the conditions are always different. The weather can range from typical San Francisco fog, or a pristine clear and sunny day (and everything in between). The bride opened in 1937. The cost was $35 million or $523 million in today's dollars. My first time, crossing the bridge by car, was in the 50s. Our bridge toll was 50 cents. Today, the cost is $9.05. Forty million cars cross the bridge each year. It translates to $145 million in revenue, to pay for employees, maintenance and paint. The bridge is not golden, but rather international orange, creating the illusion that ... read more

If it is August, it is time to visit dear friends, Ken and Debbie in Southern California near Westlake Village. I am looking forward to a break from the heat, as well as some marathon card and table games with them. And I am sure we will have a gathering of friends for a barbecue at their wonderful condo at Sherwood Country Club. If you don't know Sherwood, here is a brief history: This land was purchased by David Murdock of Dole fame, in 1984. And Lake Sherwood, originally known as Potrero Lake, is the oldest man-made lake in California. It was built in 1904 and covers about 165 acres. We have motored on the Lake on previous trips. They said I was several shades of green, even though the waves are miniscule. ... read more

Here are three dying or dead tourist sites: Graceland, the mansion-museum where Elvis Presley lived for 20 years, is facing financial troubles after the pandemic. The estate has welcomed over 20 million fans since it began its second life as a museum, giving a glimpse into the life of the musical legend. However, post-COVID, revenue has reduced, and it has defaulted on its bonds. It may not be a death sentence for the famous tourist attraction—travel has picked up considerably this year, and the new movie Elvis is generating new interest in the King—but it’s a sign of the times. If you have been there, it is quite a spectacle, even if you are... read more