Author xxxxx can't be serious. If you were to ask 50 World Travellers.. name 2 "world class" cities in the USA, do you think they'd mention San Jose? They'd probably mention Manhattan and San Francisco. Hands Down. San Jose is a glorified suburban sprawl, with an airport and a few restaurants and hotels nearby. And yes, "The City" is San Francisco.. always has been always will be. Now please xxxxx, go back to your make believe world that you've created for yourself, you couldn't be more ignorant (or biased) on this topic if you tried.

It is obvious that some person/people have a bias against San Jose, and comments from these posters should be disregarded. Every big city has something of value for tourists to appreciate, some of course have more than others. In San Jose that might include a stroll down Lincoln Avenue in Willow Glen to check out the unique shops followed by a visit to the tranquil Japanese Gardens in Kelley Park, or a theater performance. But to say that there is nothing to do see or do in San Jose is laughable. If that were the case, San Jose would not have to expand the size of its convention center to be able to accomodate the increased number of conventions and trade shows each year that come to the city.

If you want a REAL city go to NY. But if you are looking for a city in California forget about it - go south to San Diego.

That being said, I thought the Tech Museum in San Jose was pretty good and have enjoyed a lot of what Silicon Valley, SF and the surrounding area has to offer. The drive to the Redwood forests through the Palo Alto foothills is an often overlooked ride that offers a nice view of the valley below.

I didn't find the homeless people in SF to be any more aggressive then elsewhere, but the street performers are way aggressive compared to the east. You can't even glance at them without them putting out a hand for money.

DC has the most creative homeless. A guy last week said he was blacklisted by Arthur Anderson for his letter on Enron and was reduced to pan-handling.

Not a bias against San Jose at all. Just the fact of the matter. Can't argue with facts. xxxxx (mp) would have you believe that because there are areas to stroll, or convention centers, or gardens, that this is what makes a big city. ALL big cities in the US have these things. That isn't the point. What sets San Francisco and Manhattan apart from the rest is the look and feel, the mystery, the excitement, the uniqueness, the passion. Do any of these emotions even cross your mind when you think of "San Jose"? Quite to the contrary, the words I'd use to describe San Jose would be boring, same ol same ol, concrete, run of the mill, passion-less. Sorry if these things disturb you, and paint a poor picture of your beloved San Jose, but I challenge anyone to have an evening out in THE CITY vs. San Jose and then decide which truly has more to offer the traveller and tourist.

Another thought. It's called the San Francisco Bay Area.. NOT the San Jose Bay Area.

And, look at all the posts on this board. How many people even bother to ask "Where should I eat or stay in San Jose?" Answer: Hardly any. Why? Who needs to know which hotel/motel near the airport to stay for your business event in San Jose? They're all pretty much the same.. no uniqueness, and not much fun.

How about adding history as a factor in determining San Francisco versus San Jose. Do you remember the old song "Do you know the way to San Jose?"---before the Silicon Valley many people didn't but they sure knew where San Francisco was. But, we all sound like idiots getting so up in arms about this.

Seamus:
If you want to talk history, San Jose was the first incorporated city in California.

Gimmeabreak:
I guess geography was not your best subject in school. Manhattan is NOT a city, but a borough of New York City along with Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. As for an example of world class cities, I would have to say NYC, Los Angeles, and Chicago. San Francisco isn't even in the same league as these great cities. The only people that would consider San Francisco world class are homeless drug addicts.

Gimmieabreak:
Do you work for the San Francisco Convention and Visitors bureau? By the way, we also have the Monterey Bay Area however, I would not consider Monterey a world class city although it does have infinitely more visual appeal than San Francisco. You defend your town all you want, but in the last 10 years The City has driven the econonic boom of Northern California, in addition to be a great place to live with all of the restaurants, culture, and outdoor activities. San Francsico on the other hand hand has been on a relentless downward spiral. Long live Willie Brown!

San Jose offers one of the most interesting urban trips outside of San Francisco. No where else will you find a museum as unique as the Technology Museum of Innovation. There are also some good restaurants nearby for lunch or dinner. The highlight is the IMAX Dome Theater, with its state-of-the-art giant wrap- around screen and dramatic digital sound. But don't pass up the opportunity to see the exhibits, too. A good place for lunch or dinner is at A.P. Stump's, just a short walk from the museum. Another great option for a sit- down lunch or dinner is 71 Saint Peter in the San Pedro Square, just a few steps beyond A.P. Stump's. The decor is more rustic, but the food is usually very good.