Welcome to California travel from two people who have lived it, not just visited it. California runs deep through both of our stories, holding memories from what we often call our “previous lives” as well as the life we’ve built together. We have both lived in California at different times, each for military-related reasons. We’ve even discovered that there were occasions when we were living in the very same city at the same time without ever knowing one another.
Looking back, it’s fun to imagine how close our paths may have come before life eventually brought us together. If you’re planning a visit of your own, the official Visit California site is a great place to start.
Why Our Welcome to California Travel Story Is Complicated
Over the years, California has remained a place we return to for many different reasons. There’s no denying the incredible beauty throughout the state. But we’ve also found that the crowds, traffic, and high cost of living make it a place we’d rather visit than call home. Even so, California continues to draw us back because of the people we love and the memories we’ve made there. It has become a favorite gathering place for reunions with friends, offering countless opportunities to reconnect and create new adventures together.
San Diego and Napa Valley
San Diego holds some of our most cherished memories, both old and new. Between its beautiful beaches, perfect weather, and military connections, it is a place that will always feel familiar and welcoming. In recent years, however, Napa Valley has become our favorite California destination.
We love sharing the experience with friends and family, whether they are traveling from across the country or just down the road. There is something special about wine country—the rolling vineyards, exceptional food, world-class wines, and relaxed pace. It encourages you to slow down and savor time with the people who matter most.
There are still many corners of California calling our names. The rugged beauty of Northern California, particularly around Eureka, is a place we hope to revisit and explore more thoroughly. The Sacramento area is another region that holds a special place in our hearts. Not only is it home to some of our closest friends and family, but it’s also where the Country Swing Hall of Fame inducted my grandfather.
California may not be where we choose to settle down, but it will always be a place full of meaningful connections, treasured memories, and reasons to return. You can follow this and every other stop on our travel map.