Knowing nicknames may not seem like an important tip when visiting San Francisco, but refer to the city as "Frisco" or "San Fran" to a local and watch the conversation abruptly end. Okay, it may not be that bad, but knowing a city's nicknames will have you feeling more confident in striking up conversations. Never use the above nicknames. They are strictly reserved for tourists who have never bothered to do any research about the city.
Almost all locals refer to San Francisco simply as "The City." Other appropriate nicknames are "Baghdad by the Bay", "City by the Bay" and "Golden City." The moniker "Everybody's Favorite City" is used primarily to attract tourist and is not in the local lexicon. Other nicknames are "Fog City" and "The Golden Gate City."
San Francisco was ranked as America's most walkable city, according to Walk Score's 2008 rankings. From Chinatown, which received a perfect 100 from Walk Score, to Union Square, San Francisco is meant to be seen using the soles of your shoes. Your packing list should include a comfortable pair of walking shoes for your San Francisco trip.
The Mission district has dozens of murals to wander by, Haight Street is lined with second-hand clothing stores and interesting book shops and Golden Gate Park is the world's largest city park. Good walking shoes will also come in handy when walking or biking across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Northern and Southern California are different worlds, not least in terms of weather. While the thermometer rarely drops below 72 F during an L.A. summer, San Francisco has an average low around 54 F. Add in the constant wind and occasional cloud cover and you could be stuck inside if you forget warm clothes. A few sweatshirts and a light jacket should suffice for the summers. Winter visits require a heavier jacket and some warmer undergarments.
More than 1.5 million people visit Alcatraz each year. During the busy summer months you should reserve at least a week in advance with Alcatraz Cruises -- the only government-approved tour company to take passengers to the island. Make reservations through its website, by telephone or in person at its offices at Pier 33.
San Francisco's prime Northern California location gives visitors the opportunity for plenty of day trips. Those looking to add a little wilderness to their city trip should head to John Muir Woods or Point Reyes National Seashore. John Muir offers a leisurely boardwalk stroll amongst sky-high coastal redwoods about 30 minutes from the city. Point Reyes National Seashore provides dozens of hikes through a coastal forest.
The Napa and Sonoma valleys is the most distinguished wine-producing region in the United States. A day-trip consists of scenery, some wine-tasting and great food. Other San Francisco day trips include Santa Cruz, Monterey, Carmel and Oakland.
