Memories in California

May 2022

#1 San Francisco

During my time of stay, I have been to SF almost six times. Initially, I didn't vibe with the city at all. Although there are sky rises, concerts, and nice shops around the street, there are also crowds of homeless people and the smell of urine wherever I go. After a while, I started to notice the charm of the city: the diverse mix of people, buildings, status, and views.

#2 Santa Barbara

Skinny palm trees, Spanish-style architecture, and a free mango with tajin from a Mexican food stand, Santa Barbara gives off a vacation vibe and made people just want to enjoy life and beaches. The campus of UCSB's view is also spectacular. If I go to school there, I will probably become a whole different person, and definitely more tanned.

#3 Bay Area

Last, it's the Bay. Living at Bay is so convenient. The area also has a sizable population of Asians, which made authentic Chinese cuisine so accessible. I went to parks almost every day when I was in Bay Area. I saw kids playing soccer, teenagers chatting under the shade, adults walking dogs, and seniors strolling around. I wondered what would my childhood be like if I had so much green space nearby.