I have always dreamed of going to California, where are the best places off the beaten track? Is JUly good for weather? How long is the route 1a drive from L.A to San Francisco?
As much info as poss? Also I know that U.S has a lot of racial tension - my partner is white I am black- is California quite a laid back place?

California is a VERY laid-back state, and well on its way of becoming the first western state in which whites will no longer make up the majority of residents.

Tamara,
You and your partner will have no difficulties in California. It's very laid back here about the issue of mixed race relationships.

Ok, questions:

There are HUNDREDS of ideas of places "off the beaten track". What types of interests do you have? Nature, nighlife, shopping, beach??? Helps to narrow things down a bit.

The weather in July, in the LA area, will be in the 80s to 90s, maybe getting as high as the 100s. The beach cities will be cooler, and the vally areas will be much hotter. Temps in San Diego are usually are a bit cooler, but still very warm. Temps in San Francisco will be much cooler - I've been there in August and had to wear a coat! If you don't mind warm, dry weather, July should be a good time to go. Note: there may be some smog in the LA area, especially away from the beach cities, so if you are at all sensitive it is good to be aware.

One CAN drive from LA to San Francisco in about 8 hours. But you'd have to drive straight through, stopping only for gas. If you are planning on driving up the coast between LA and SFO, I would suggest taking your time - a minimum of 2 days. Some of the most incredible sights and the most beautiful coastline in the US (but I'm biased) is the coast between LA and SFO. Relax, don't rush, and allow yourself time to stop along the way to enjoy the great little towns and scenery. You won't regret it! If it were to mean cutting a day or two off of your time in LA, I would sacrifice the time in LA for the coast - it's THAT gorgeous! And, girl, you want to talk about romance?!?!? YEAH!

I assume if you're thinking of driving to SFO, you plan on spending some time there? You will love SFO! Of all the major cities in California, this is my favorite. And though it seems that I must have been there a hundred times, I always find something new and interesting about it! LA is LA, but San Francisco is pure majic! (Can you tell I left a part of my hear there?)

I know you will have wonderful time, Tamara. Hope your dreams come true!

Michele

I live in California and am also one half of a mixed-race marriage. You can relax on this issue -- nobody cares. (Hey, we're starting to get comfortable with same-sex marriages, so yours will be no big deal!)

On to the next point. If you drive on Highway 5 all the way down the middle of the state, you can get from SF to LA in about 6-7 hours; but it's mighty dull. I would suggest a coastal route; you'll need 2-3 days, but you'll see some magnificient scenary on highway 1.

Pack the kind of clothing that you can layer. LA will probably be very hot, but SF will probably be cool and foggy. You'll need long pants, short pants, t-shirts, sweatshirts and a light jacket.

It is about 375 miles between LA and frisco on I5 (mostly) and takes 5.5 hours if you go when there isn't traffic at either end. If you take 101, it will take about 7-8 hours (without traffic). On the other hand, if you are not in a rush, take your time. And, if you take your time, why not find those "off the beaten track" places yourself?

We live in California and our marriage is mixed with my wife being Mexican. Simply not a problem except in a few remote areas. The San Francisco Bay area is the most diverse and integrated society on earth. It is truly the melting pot of the world.

The race issue in the US is greatly exagerated. Yes, racism does exist as it does almost anywhere in the world. However we publicize it much more because of our goal to be a truly multicultural/ethnic society. We have lived in many other countries that were far more racist then the US. Yes, I will agree that there have been many atrocities committed in the US due to racism but that is pretty well in the past.

Now, to more pleasant things. The drive you mention from Los Angeles to San Francisco is spectacular as long as it is not foggy along the coast. July is an iffy month for coastal fog. The best month of the year for visiting the California coast is October. Weather is clear and still quite warm.

Allow at least 2 days to travel the coast. The other postings were very good. There are far too many sights to list them all here. You will discover them as you go. Make sure to allow a few days in the San Francisco Bay area. It is beautiful with many things to see and do. I would also allow a couple days to visit San Diego if possible. San Diego is a beuatiful city and area and much different from Los Angeles.