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My San Francisco Holiday

November 30th, 2007 by amy c

Union square with christmas lights
Union Square lit up for the holiday season
photo uploaded by hjl

I was lucky enough to go home for Thanksgiving this year for much-needed family time and a little California rejuvenation to gear up for another New England winter. I’ve stayed in Boston for school the last few years and forgot how much I love San Francisco around the holidays.

It has all the holiday charm as New York City or Chicago but weather that doesn’t require massive layers; and the fall foliage that New Englanders raked up weeks ago are still decorating tree tops and sidewalks. I was amazed at the vibrant color still stubbornly clinging to the trees. The mild weather will promise travelers in the next few weeks similar foliage.

There is no better way to enjoy some mother-daughter bonding than with facials and massages, followed by Christmas shopping. Mom and I started out at Spa Fusion, located in Union Square. We were both in need of some pampering and relaxation and that is exactly what we got. Shrouded in comfy over-sized robes we lounged in a luxurious Asian-inspired waiting room while nibbling on nuts and dried cranberries and sipping tea or spa water.

I got the Oxygen Facial, hoping that the “cocktail of oxygen and vitamins” would bring new life to my skin that had taken a beating from the travel. I noticed a huge difference immediately–my skin emerged softer, brighter, and cleaner. A week later, and my skin still feels supple and emollient, allowing me to skip the makeup this morning…no wonder stars such as Cameron Diaz and Kate Hudson are fans of this treatment. My mother got a hot stone massage which she said was exactly what she needed.

After our treatments, we were tempted to check out the rooftop pool and sauna for the rest of the day. But, there was serious shopping to do, and thanks to Spa Fusion, we had rejuvenated and resolved energy to face the holiday crowds. Just an elevator ride through the Hilton Hotel and we were back in the bustling Union Square. Already Christmas music resounds in every store and wreaths and lights decorate the square.

Our first stop was Macy’s for a dose of holiday cheer and one-stop place to find the perfect present for Dad, Grandma, and all the aunts and uncles. Urban Outfitters, Aldo, and Forever 21 were my favorite places to get reasonable priced and trendy presents for my friends, while also dropping oh-so-subtle hints about my wish list this year.

As the sun started to set, we decided to head to the Embarcadero to see the famous Christmas lights that provide added sparkle to the San Francisco skyline during November and December. During the holiday season, the great shopping, festive outdoor ice skating rink, and cascading twinkle lights make this a must-see stop.

Another one of my favorite stops for holiday shopping, especially for truly unique finds, is San Anselmo Avenue, located a few miles north of the city and where I grew up. The sleepy town was voted “Best in the West” by sunset magazine for antiquing and is speckled with old fashioned charm, trendy boutiques, and one-of-a-kind shops, and delicious family-owned restaurants. For those who are looking to see another side to the bay area, check out this cozy neighborhood nestled in the shadow of Mt. Tamalpais and frequented by families, hikers, and bicyclists. My all time favorite shops for jewelry, funky finds for the home, affordable vintage clothing, and gifts are the Vintage Flamingo and Sax. Every Thursday night during the holiday season the shops stay open later and carolers stroll the avenue.

Planning a trip to San Francisco? Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the Go San Francisco Card.

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