San Francisco Convention & Visitors Bureau Photos

Be sure to read these budget travel tips. The former haven for hippies can be pricey. However, it need not be so. First off, in this green-conscious city, it is not only economical, but ecological to forgo the rental car and use the highly efficient trolley bus and train system. You can even take the train from the airport into the heart of the city.

Every time I visit the City by the Sea, I realize that is simply a phenomenal visual experience. As such, you need not spend a dime as you wander through the different neighborhoods and take in the atmosphere and culture. We are currently visiting my stepson, who lives in Berkeley. Yesterday, we went to craft's fair near the Embarcadero. If you're in that area, check out Mijita Cocina Mexicana in the Ferry Building.

If you are an avid reader, be sure to check out the vast array of half-price bookstores in Berkeley. They actually have some books that you might want to read! If there's room in your luggage, bring along your unwanted books and use them for a credit at the bookstores.

Want some more San Francisco tips? Check out this
article