My San Francisco Adventure (From LA to Singapore!)
Just wrapped up my 3-day trip to San Francisco, after a stopover from LA before heading back to Singapore!
Union Square vs. Fisherman's Wharf
Initially, everyone suggested staying near Union Square during my San Francisco travel plan. But the hotel prices were crazy expensive, likely due to some event. As a non-shopper, Fisherman's Wharf felt like a better fit for me and my budget. I found it much more convenient for the things I wanted to see.
Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf: My Hotel Stay
I stayed at the Riu Plaza. A big shoutout to Quinn (hope I spelled that right!) at the front desk – he was incredibly helpful and professional. The bed was super comfy! The bathroom wasn't the best though, as others have mentioned. The changing area had no door, just a sink. But the location was perfect, within easy walking distance to Pier 39 and Ghirardelli Square. The included breakfast was decent too.
NBA Fanatic Alert!
Okay, confession time: I'm a HUGE NBA fan!
Witnessing the Warriors Live!
Watching a Warriors game from the first 10 rows was an absolutely amazing experience. Seeing Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook, Jimmy Butler, Green, Jokic, Aaron Gordon, and so many other players up close was unreal! At $250 a ticket, it felt like a steal.
Souvenir Splurge!
I ended up spending a whopping $1800 at the Chase Center for a Curry jersey and an autographed photo with a frame! And then paid an extra $125 for oversized luggage on my flight back to Singapore. I think I'm crazy, but that framed photo is already up in my home!
Driving vs. Uber: A Costly Lesson
Made a bit of a mistake in my planning. I didn't want to drive in SF at all.
I also purchased an Alaska Air ticket for $450. They give me a business class seat, but it's just a bigger seat and more KG for luggage, nothing else 😀. I think a BMW 4 series rent in LA is $700,so i should drive another 3 days. I ended up spending around $500 USD on Ubers, including two airport trips ($40 + $60 each). Uber in Oakland, where I went for a basketball training session and a few short trips, felt very expensive to me 😫.
One Uber ride after the Warrior's game at 10 pm cost me $54 back to the hotel!
The Best Experience: Walking to the Chase Center
My best experience was walking from the Riu Plaza to the Chase Center. It took about an hour (3.2 miles). I walked through Chinatown, the Union Square area, a part of the Financial District, and then finally reached the Chase Center. This wasn't for the game itself, but to grab some souvenirs. The walk was fascinating! I saw so many interesting things and really appreciated the city.
Hope to visit the US again soon!
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