A Berkeley Afternoon

Author: Adrienne L.
Date of Trip: March 2011

On Saturday afternoon we ventured to Berkeley, CA to attend a Meetup with some fellow travelers. The group consisted of people who had traveled widely throughout the world. The conversation was lively, filled with travel tales that only a true traveler could appreciate.

After the meeting we decided to take advantage of the rich culture that Berkeley has to offer. Berkeley is strongly associated with the rapid social changes, civic unrest and political upheaval that took place in the late 1960’s. Berkeley was a focal point for the hippie movement that started across the Bay in San Francisco. Remnants of that era are still very evident. We witnessed it firsthand yesterday. Some people are still living the 60’s lifestyle and even wearing the same fashions. That element mixed with the present social climate makes Berkeley an enticing cocktail. Since it is a college town, the energy and open-mindedness is evident everywhere. The streets are filled with a kaleidoscope of humanity; intellectuals, humanitarians, vegans, political activists, environmentalists and so on. There is an air of freedom and acceptance to be who you are without being judged.

Another aspect that makes Berkeley unique is its dining scene. It is the home of Chez Panisse a restaurant known for using local, organic foods and credited as the inspiration for the style of cooking known as California cuisine. There are too many restaurants to name, but some of our favorites are Bake Sale Betty’s and Cafe Gratitude. It was refreshing to notice the absence of chain restaurants and fast food establishments.

It was obvious that the Berkeley mindset is one of authenticity and commitment to the preservation of the planet. To experience this, add Berkeley to your list of places to visit. Once again, you’ve got to GO there to KNOW there.

Will Berkeley be added to our list of frequent getaways? Most definitely. As we used to say in the 60’s, “power to the people!”.