Oakland is the Bay Area's hidden jewel. The City (that's San Francisco to you out-of-towners) attracts tourists like bees to honey for its Pier 39, crookedest street West of Mississippi, the Ferry Building, the Castro and its nightlife. However, if you're not into crowds of tourists and you want to chill, then head across the Bay to Oakland. I heart Oakland for its easy-going vibe, shopping, restaurants and outdoorsy-ness. Unlike walking around most of San Francisco, I don't have to worry about stepping over piss stained sidewalks or having to drive half an hour to get across town when I'm hanging out in Oakland, especially Lake Merritt, Rockridge, Montclair, Glenview and the Jack London Square neighborhoods.

Rockridge, Oakland's answer to Chestnut Street, is a residential-shopping district that spans College Avenue. Here you'll encounter boutiques and acclaimed restaurants, including Oliveto and A Cote. There's also great hiking in Sibley Volcanic Park and spectacular views of the entire Bay Area from the Oakland Hills. If you prefer, you can watch rowing and dragon racing as you stroll around the 3 mile perimeter of Lake Merritt and stop by the Farmer's Market on Saturdays to pick up a great lunch and listen to local musicians on the grass. The Parkway Speakeasy is the place to be on Wednesday nights when there's 2-for-1 admission (that's $6 total) to watch a movie that's just out of the mainstream theaters -- you get a huge bowl of popcorn, beer and get to sit in comfy, new couches.

There's lots more to be had in Oakland and nearby Berkeley. If you're heading this way, drop me a line!