Enjoy the spectacular contrasts of this wonderful state. From the beautiful beaches to the magnificent national parks, peaks, deserts and cosmopolitan cities.

Experience the rich cultural life of San Francisco, one of the world’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. The entrance to the Bay is spanned by the famous Golden Gate Bridge; take a walk across it – well over a mile – and enjoy a gull’s eye view of the shipping traffic passing far below. No visit to San Francisco can be complete if it doesn’t include Fisherman’s Wharf. Wander amid the bustle of fishing boats and the tempting aroma of freshly caught seafood. Buy a crab cocktail with sourdough bread from a stand along the boardwalk or dine in style in one of the many seafood restaurants clustered around the wharf.

Head for historic Monterey, one of the most alluring resorts on the Pacific coast. Wander along Cannery Row and Fisherman’s Wharf, both boasting tasteful shops and restaurants, or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium. At one end of the famed 17 Mile Drive, you will find the charming town of Carmel, once made famous when film star Clint Eastwood was mayor! Savour its quaint atmosphere as you stroll round wine shops, booksellers, antique stores, art galleries and designer boutiques.

Southern California has all the ingredients for a superb holiday, and what’s more, it has something for everyone. On the one hand you have exciting towns and cities like Palm Springs and its Desert Resorts, with everything they can offer – from a rich leisure lifestyle, wonderful restaurants and amazing attractions, to world class shopping – and on the other you have a world of discovery and adventure, with golden beaches, a stunning coastline, breathtaking scenery, lakes and canyons, snow-capped mountains and rugged deserts.

Soak up the culture in Los Angeles. Downtown Los Angeles is home to the brand new Walt Disney Concert Hall, seating over 2000 people. Visit Hollywood, where the legends of the screen come to life. Hop on the fabulous tram tour through the huge backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood and experience some of the excitement of the world’s largest film and television studio. From Universal via the Metro Rail System, you are just a short ride from Hollywood and Highlands – a complex of over 70 shops and restaurants with the Kodak Theatre - the home of the Oscars!

Enjoy Coastal LA, which boasts some of the best beaches in the state, stretching 72 miles along the Pacific from Malibu in the north to Long Beach in the south. LA’s shoreline is a beach lover’s paradise. Moving south from Los Angeles you’ll find Anaheim – home to Disneyland.

Experience the Mexican influences of San Diego – its exciting cuisine and bustling open-air markets. Then check out its famous Zoo and Sea World.