Oh, Deer!

While rightfully famous for its birds, Bodega Bay, a short drive north of San Francisco, actually has a few other animals to offer, too – and a really scenic view of the Pacific Ocean, Hollywood-sunsets included.

Pawprints in the Snow

Back in Germany, they’re having a real winter this year – just like in 2005 when I took this snapshot of a black cat and the traces it left in the fresh white snow.

Hippie Camper

What could be more Californian than a battered up but sunny VW camping bus, carrying a mountain bike and decorated with a sticker that says, "Teach Peace"? Now, where did we put the weed...?

Exotic Flower

 

No idea what this Southern California dweller is called, but it’s certainly eye-catching.

The View from Sausalito

On a clear day, you can look all across the Bay, and if you catch the right spot there can be something poetic about the view of San Francisco, as seen from Sausalito.

Used Vinyl

 

Does anybody still buy records? Those plastic things that spin around, sound scratchy after a while and don’t really fit into an iPod? Well, for music fans who do, the Bay Area is a true haven, with both Amoeba Records and Rasputin Music offering a huge selection of vinyl (and CDs) in Berkeley and San Francisco. Best of all, they also buy used music – from those of us who’ve gone all digital...

 

Fort Mason Sunset

Originally a Spanish military outpost on the Golden Gate, Fort Mason is now a hub for the arts: music, theatre, films, and much more. Plenty of good food, too – and a great place to watch the sun set over the bridge...