Small-Group Chicago Food Tour: Chinatown Son Cubano

New! Self Drive Adventure. Coastal Cruise Hotel Economy Car

All content by Intrepid

6 days (ex Day 1 Los Angeles)

Destinations visited: USA, Los Angeles, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

from USD$1,530

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Description

Discover the magic of California's coastline on a self-drive adventure from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Be your own tour leader as you hunt for scenic lookouts and head off the highways in search of hidden treasures. Cruise through coastal towns, pack a picnic lunch and head into the hinterlands or cool off in the Pacific Ocean â“ it's up to you! We'll provide you with the wheels and the maps, leaving you with the flexibility to stop anywhere, anytime and enjoy the magic of California at your own pace.

Highlights

Meet the crazy characters of Venice Beach.
Take the walk of fame along Hollywood Boulevard .
Stroll past red-tiled roofs and Mediterranean villas in Santa Barbara.
Cruise through the fruit fields of Monterey .
Stop by one of Santa Maria's picturesque vineyards.
Chill out on the beaches of Santa Cruz.
Bask in the beauty of the Bay Area.
See San Francisco's busy Fisherman's Wharf .
Discover the gardens and museums' of Golden Gate Park.

Itinerary

Day 1 Los Angeles

Pick up your car and meet with an Intrepid representative before hitting the boulevards and boardwalks of sunny Los Angeles. Navigate crowded freeways and explore idyllic Californian neighborhoods as you cruise this sprawling metropolis â“ a heady mix of diverse cultures, cutting-edge art and post-war Hollywood kitsch. Arrive early to cruise the lavish streets of Beverly Hills, take a stroll along Venice beach or make a stop at one of LA's many museums and libraries.

Day 2 Santa Barbara

Hit the sun-drenched highways of the Californian coast and take a leisurely drive to Santa Barbara. On the way, pop-in for a peek at the ultra-exclusive Malibu or relish the carnival atmosphere of Santa Monica's iconic pier. Arrive in Santa Barbara and feel the European influences of 'the prettiest town in America'. Check out the Mediterranean red-tiled roofs, head to the beachfront arts and crafts market or try a hand made tortilla at one of Santa Barbara's fine Mexican restaurants.

Days 3-4 Monterey Area

Take the chance to meet San Luis Obispo's slippery seals before heading for the lush countryside of Monterey. Amble along Route 1 for a further glimpse of California's coast or head inland on highway 101 and make a stop at the Pinnacles National Monument for great views over the surrounding hills. Another option while in the Monterey area is the beachside bliss of Santa Cruz â“ a great place to spend a few hours lazing in the warm California sun.

Days 5-6 San Fransisco

Make the final leg of the journey to the beautiful Bay Area, a mix of silicone chips and sophisticated cities that is full of must-see attractions. Spend time strolling the hilly streets of San Francisco, catch a cable car to Market Street or hit Fisherman's Wharf for some fresh seafood. If there's time, why not hire a bike and cycle under the elegant struts of the Golden Gate Bridge to reach seaside Sausalito â“ a fitting way to end this unforgettable road trip.

Group Size

Maximum of 3 travellers per group

Accommodation

Hotel (5 nts)

Transport

Car

Budget

Allow USD $150 for meals not included.

Pricing Details

AUD $1530.00 per person single share

AUD $765.00 per person twin share

AUD $650.00 per person twin share

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$1,530

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