jAnE jAnE’s bLoG

Just been to San Francisco (SFO). 1st time to US, a new experience to me… Nice weather, just like Genting.

1st impression was, alot of Starbucks! Able to see one Starbucks in every street. With this kind of weather, coffee is indeed necessary. No of coffees i had during this week is a record! Hee Hee!

Beggars… Can’t believe that there are so many beggars in SFO. One in every junction. Am i in the correct country? Understand from my colleague that US government provides these beggars shelter & $$$, abt US$500 per mth, to keep them out of the streets. But seems like it’s no working. The reasons for begging is kind of innovative, "for alcohol / for grass / my wife is being kidnapped, i need a quater for the ransom". Ha Ha, will you give them $$$ for being so innovative?

Giving tips in US is compulsory, taking cabs / eating in restaurants / drinking in pubs. 15% of the total bill! I remember i took a cab, abt US$16, i gave US$50. The driver asked "change"? I thought he was asking me if i had small change, hence i shaked my head. Immediately the driver flashed a big smile & started to thanks me. Then i realised that he’s asking me if change is required. I clarified with him & he gave me my change. What a narrow escape! US$34 as tips, NEVER will happen in my life. Another incident, took a cab, abt US$34. I gave US$40 & there’s no change back… So automatic… Hence lesson learnt, it’s always good to have some small notes in pocket.

There’s alot of slopes in SFO, really test ppl’s driving skills. Better think thrice if you choose to walk to the Fisherman’s Wharf!

Alcatraz Island, the infamous prison. Though the distance to the mainland is short, only 1 man managed to swim to the mainland. The rest died in the sea due to the sea’s current, tides & temperature…

Vending machine selling Apple’s stuff (including ipods), Cool! When will we have one in S’pore?

Life in US is indeed R&R. Hmm… When can i also relax in a big field of grass?

1st baseball game in my life. My colleague said that to experience real American, i have to go to a baseball game. Indeed, a gd experience! P.S: Guess What, the big cola is a slide for kids…

Cable car from the city to tourist’s sites. As the railway track is only one way, once it reaches the terminal, the personnal has to turn the cable car around. So traditional…

Really an eye opening trip!