Travel with a Local

Verily Magazine: San Jose

Photo by Mo on Unsplash

I had the opportunity to share my work with Verily magazine for their column “Travel with a Local,” check it out below.

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San Jose is a bustling city full of diverse experiences. It’s surrounded by the Santa Cruz mountains, and locals enjoy an average of 300 days of sunny weather each year. You’ll have easy access to the beach, wine country, and the city. 

As you travel the city you’ll enjoy beautiful scenery, high-end shopping centers, and peaceful trails. 

Whether you choose to explore by car or on foot, you’ll find glimpses of various cultures through both architecture and food. With so many options, it’s an ideal spot for a girls’ trip or family weekend. 

F O O D

For brunch, check out The Breakfast Club at Midtown. It’s the perfect photo-op, thanks to the beautiful blue dishes and large wall decor. The restaurant has thirty years of family expertise and it’s great for large crowds. 

Can’t agree on what to eat? State Street Market is the perfect compromise consisting of stalls that serve burgers, pizza, ramen, curry, and more. This open area is a great spot for groups, since each person can choose what they prefer to eat. 

For a special dinner, enjoy Maggiano’s—fine Italian dining in a romantic, dimly lit atmosphere. In the heart of Santana Row, it’s the perfect spot for a meal and shopping. Ask about their $6 take-home meals too.

C O F F E E

Our cup overflows with options for coffee! If you’re looking for a chain and something to order ahead, try Philz.They serve strong coffee with unique flavors. My go-to is the Mint Mojito, which can be enjoyed hot or iced.

If you’re looking for something with unique flavors, like turmeric and chai or a Mabuhay Ube Latte, checkout Nirvana Soul. It’s San Jose’s #1 coffee shop with open mics every Thursday and Friday night.

My favorite spot to linger in the Saratoga area is Sue's Gallery Cafe, a beautiful coffee shop on the border of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s a two-story cafe filled with hand-made ceramic gifts. If you’re looking for something cozy, their lattes are delicious! But my favorite drink is the iced pomegranate detox, it’s cool and refreshing on a sunny day. 

L O D G I N G

When my family came to San Jose for my wedding, the first place we recommended was the Pruneyard. It’s filled with shops and restaurants, and a short distance away from a park and walking trail. Right next to the Pruneyard is historic Downtown Campbell. This quaint area is filled with cute shops and restaurants. My favorite stores are Therapy and the Recycle Bookstore. Therapy includes jewelry, clothes, local gifts, and more. The Recycle bookstore has new and gently used books - a great spot to buy or sell books. 

S I G H T S

For something truly unique, Villa Montalvo is an “oasis of arts and nature in the heart of bustling Silicon Valley.” It’s filled with quick hikes and a beautiful garden. My favorite hike is the 1.6 mile hike to the lookout point. It’s pet-friendly and includes beautiful views of the Bay. 

After a hike, stop by the historic Rose Garden for a mid-day picnic. Don’t forget to stop at one of the Bay’s several Trader Joe’s grocery stores for unique snacks and treats. 

If you’re visiting with children and need a spot to release energy, book tickets to the Children’s Discovery Museum. It’s the perfect place for kids to explore and run around.

Unwind at the end of the day by enjoying some shopping and food at Santana Row, an upscale area with high-end brands like Anthoropolgie, Madewell, Kendra Scott, and Sephora. 

San Jose is a city that showcases the beauty of diversity. It prioritizes small businesses and highlights the importance of variety, so no matter what you do, you’re sure to have a unique experience. 

**First appeared on Verily Magazine: Read Here**