I made the interesting choice of visiting SF in the middle of finals, but I figured I might as well make the most of it. The purpose of the trip was a food sustainability conference (which you can read more about here), but when I wasn't attending events, I was studying or exploring the area.

This was my first completely solo trip, and reflecting on it, my favourite part was the logistics. Little things like organizing the eSIM, public transit, and a low-fee debit card were deliciously satisfying. I mean, they're just day-to-day tasks, but it's like the satisfaction of cleaning your room or completing a project.

It started with a red-eye from Toronto to San Francisco. The flight was pretty empty, and I even got a row to myself. Once I touched down, I commuted to campus and even took this fancy shuttle bus decked out in Stanford branding. My first introduction to the Bay Area was the sheer number of people coding on the Caltrain.

Once the conference festivities wrapped up, I needed a dinner spot. Knowing that this was likely the only meal I’d be purchasing that weekend, I knew I had to go with some Mexican food. I chose a local place called Taqueria El Grullense M&G. It felt jarring to be eating a veggie burrito in Palo Alto when just a couple of hours earlier I was sitting in a still exam hall checking over my work. Also, my hand-wash-only wool sweater smelled like this burrito for the rest of the trip.

Although most attendees commuted via Uber, I opted for public transit to see more of the area and keep costs low. It was easy to navigate, and the peaceful people-watching nicely broke up the highly social events.

On Saturday, I grabbed some coffee from my hotel in San Jose and headed back to Stanford. I spent the morning strolling around campus and studying outside. And I have to note—the campus is huge! Most students biked just to get around. This is a stark contrast to McMaster, where it takes 15 minutes at most to get across the furthest points on campus.

I also had to check out the campus store, which has three levels to fill all your merch desires.

I connected with some SF locals at dinner to make the ultimate tourist plan for the next day. After goodbyes, I walked around campus some more to take in the quiet stillness at night. With a lot of conference attendees leaving that night, I got the hotel room to myself!

Sunday had no commitments, so I was free to explore by myself. I grabbed an apple and some coffee at the hotel and started by checking my bag at a convenience store. Then I headed north toward downtown SF. My first stop was Ghirardelli Square. I picked up some postcards and did some window shopping. Then I walked west along the pier toward the Golden Gate Bridge.

It was a bit windy, but the weather was perfect regardless. People could be seen playing soccer, flying kites, and windsurfing. The walk had perfect views of the beach and the GGB. I couldn't even believe I was there in that moment. I kept thinking about how grateful I was for all the opportunities I’ve been given and for the support of my family, friends, and mentors that allowed me to be in that place in time.

I didn't even realize it, but the Palace of Fine Arts was just south of the beach. I ate my packed tangerines and plant-based summer rolls, then headed over to the dome peeking out.

Ah, once again, another beautiful location.

I knew my time was wrapping up, so I perused the shopping area nearby. If I had more time, I would’ve chosen one of the many beautiful restaurants and done some more shopping. But time was ticking, so I only stopped at a bookstore and a curated thrift store.

I honestly didn't realize how little time I had until after I grabbed my coffee at Peet's. Then I raced to pick up my bag and left for the airport.

I'm so grateful to my mother for driving me from Pearson to Hamilton, which gave me time to rest before my next final at 4pm that day. There are so many things I missed out on, and I can't wait to visit again (hopefully with a travel companion). I still want to check out the Painted Ladies, take a Waymo, and hike the Dish—but until next time.

Also, here are some miscellaneous notes: