What makes San Francisco so special?

I've lived in San Francisco for so long now that I take it for granted and don't understand what makes it special. Maybe I've forgotten.

Why should I consider myself lucky to have lived in San Francisco for so long?

San Francisco has great restaurants, scenic views, and is a great tourist destination. As for longtime residents, I can see what you mean. If you live there long enough, you start to see the other side of SF such as the homeless bums, crooked or inept politicians, cold and foggy weather (although some may like this), etc.

Regarding transportation in and out of San Francisco, BART is pretty reliable. For transportation within SF, the MUNI transit system is another story.

I also hear more and more families are moving out of SF. Translation--less kids are growing up in the city.

So to answer your question, SF is like Baskin Robbins or any other city for that matter. What flavor do you like?

I'm going to be making a trip up that way next month. Never been, but have always heard good things about it. I'll report on my findings when I get back, though, and hopefully I find something special.

If this is your first time to SF, and I'm assuming you are coming as a tourist, then you may want to check out the following:

1. Golden Gate Bridge
2. Pier 39 area (try the crab that is cooked on the street)
3. Golden Gate Park
4. Alcatraz
5. Union Square area
5. Ferry Building area
6. Treasure Island

If your budget allows, Crustacean on Polk Street serves delicious garlic crab and garlic noodles. It's pricey though, expect to shell out at least $50 per meal.

Disclaimer: I used to live in SF for a year, so let me know if you have any questions. Are you coming for business or vacation?

I was going to make it a longer trip, but I'm thinking now that Im going to start off at yosemite for a day, go up to see friends in sacramento for a few days and on the way back to central CA, go over the bridge and stop at the CA academy of science at the park. Just a quick few hour trip.

Some say SF has a somewhat european feel when compared to NYC , and Los Angeles.. Huge melting pot of ethnicities and also food! Great career opportunites and also the BART for easy commute acess.. Cant forget the BayBridge and Goldengate Bridge!