Thinking about moving to Cali, would like to live by beaches
Jul 26th, 2004, 06:25 AM
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Thinking about moving to Cali, would like to live by beaches
Hi,
I am thinking about moving to California for a year or 2..
Sounds weird, but one of my priorities is to be close to the beach.
I am considering San Fran or San Diego but I'm not too sure that SF has any beaches (swimmable).
Also, some of my friends have mentioned that it's two pretty different cultures in SF and San Diego. I realize that's a pretty broad statement. If anyone can offer any input on the differences in culture between SF and SD, it would be greatly appreciated. Also, any suggestions on what part of Cali I should move to would be great.
I've lived in NYC all my life and would like to make a change. I'd like to "slow down" and Cali seems to have a lot to offer.
Thanks
I am thinking about moving to California for a year or 2..
Sounds weird, but one of my priorities is to be close to the beach.
I am considering San Fran or San Diego but I'm not too sure that SF has any beaches (swimmable).
Also, some of my friends have mentioned that it's two pretty different cultures in SF and San Diego. I realize that's a pretty broad statement. If anyone can offer any input on the differences in culture between SF and SD, it would be greatly appreciated. Also, any suggestions on what part of Cali I should move to would be great.
I've lived in NYC all my life and would like to make a change. I'd like to "slow down" and Cali seems to have a lot to offer.
Thanks
Jul 26th, 2004, 06:38 AM
#2
Cali is a city in Columbia.
SF has beaches that are swimmable providing you wear a wet suit.
Cultural differences between SF and San Diego? Oh yes.
Take a trip to all of the above and look at them with eyes open. You'll soon see the differences.
Oh, and bring plenty of money if you want to live near the beach.
SF has beaches that are swimmable providing you wear a wet suit.
Cultural differences between SF and San Diego? Oh yes.
Take a trip to all of the above and look at them with eyes open. You'll soon see the differences.
Oh, and bring plenty of money if you want to live near the beach.
Jul 26th, 2004, 06:51 AM
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Big difference in climate between SF and SD ... SanFrancisco can be downright chilly in the summer. So if you're looking for warm California weather on the coast, that puts you in southern California.
Jul 26th, 2004, 07:04 AM
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If swimming beaches are a priority then San Diego is a better choice. There are more beaches to choose from and the water is MUCH warmer. Ocean temps are brutally cold in Northern CA -- you'll need a wetsuit at least 9 or 10 months out of the year.
As for difference in cultures, I can offer an opinion based on limited amounts of time living in both cities. SF is very different than SD. Despite the presence of a vast variety of cultures in SF there's a definite sense of community, which isn't nearly as prevalent in Southern CA including in SD. Walking in different neighborhoods of SF one gets the impression that everyone knows everyone else. I've never had the same feeling in SD or most other cities in Southern CA, or at least not to the same degree. Also, there are substantial Asian populations in some coastal areas in and adjacent to SF, such as Daly City which you won't find in SD.
As for difference in cultures, I can offer an opinion based on limited amounts of time living in both cities. SF is very different than SD. Despite the presence of a vast variety of cultures in SF there's a definite sense of community, which isn't nearly as prevalent in Southern CA including in SD. Walking in different neighborhoods of SF one gets the impression that everyone knows everyone else. I've never had the same feeling in SD or most other cities in Southern CA, or at least not to the same degree. Also, there are substantial Asian populations in some coastal areas in and adjacent to SF, such as Daly City which you won't find in SD.
Jul 26th, 2004, 07:05 AM
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Yes I would like to be in an area that offers warm weather right by the coast.
San Diego fits the bill but are there any areas between L.A. and San Diego that you would recommend? A laid-back, quiet area by the coast that's NOT too close to the hustle bustle of the city. I will be taking a trip out to California later on this year and it would be great to have a couple of places on hand to check out.
San Diego fits the bill but are there any areas between L.A. and San Diego that you would recommend? A laid-back, quiet area by the coast that's NOT too close to the hustle bustle of the city. I will be taking a trip out to California later on this year and it would be great to have a couple of places on hand to check out.
Jul 26th, 2004, 07:10 AM
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You really need to come visit the state of California (and yes, Cali is a grating way to refer to the state-- especially since it is indeed a city in Colombia). Completely different climates. You don't move to San Francisco for the beaches.
These are two completely different cities, and the cultures are pretty divergent in many ways. Both cities, depending on the neighborhood, are pretty socially liberal, but SD is in other ways far more conservative.
Both are extremely expensive in general, but the closer you get to the water, the price goes into the stratosphere. If you've lived in Manhattan, this shouldn't be a problem.
Are you truly ready for a life change? The life style out here is truly completely different from that of NYC, and the state is already full of ex-New Yorkers complaining about how different life is out here; these people basically wanted CA to just be NYC with sand and better produce. Sorry, it's a whole new world out here, and we like it that way.
I do recommend taking a lengthy trip to visit California. You may find that a city inbetween SF and SD fits the bill for your slower-paced ideal-- Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo, for example. You may even find something more inland that strikes your fancy-- Ojai is lovely and artsy and relaxed, for one. It's a state of huge variety, and you're sure to find something you like. I simply say: Don't limit yourself to just the coast (disclosure: I live on the coast and love it!). Good luck.
These are two completely different cities, and the cultures are pretty divergent in many ways. Both cities, depending on the neighborhood, are pretty socially liberal, but SD is in other ways far more conservative.
Both are extremely expensive in general, but the closer you get to the water, the price goes into the stratosphere. If you've lived in Manhattan, this shouldn't be a problem.
Are you truly ready for a life change? The life style out here is truly completely different from that of NYC, and the state is already full of ex-New Yorkers complaining about how different life is out here; these people basically wanted CA to just be NYC with sand and better produce. Sorry, it's a whole new world out here, and we like it that way.
I do recommend taking a lengthy trip to visit California. You may find that a city inbetween SF and SD fits the bill for your slower-paced ideal-- Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo, for example. You may even find something more inland that strikes your fancy-- Ojai is lovely and artsy and relaxed, for one. It's a state of huge variety, and you're sure to find something you like. I simply say: Don't limit yourself to just the coast (disclosure: I live on the coast and love it!). Good luck.
Jul 26th, 2004, 08:01 AM
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My brother lived in Long Beach for a year with his job and LOVED it. Beautiful and close to LA. Having lived in the South all of his life, it was quite a change for him too. "I just feel healthier here. It's so beautiful," he said. Flying into San Francisco and taking two days to drive to San Diego (spending the night in Cambria perhaps) would give you a great look at the Central Coast area.
Jul 26th, 2004, 10:07 AM
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Interesting! I'm a lifelong New Yorker and have never heard california called Cali. If anyone said Cali to me - I would assume they meant Columbia.
Second the idea of going for a visit before starting to make any plans - until you have been there you have no idea how different the various areas are.
Also, I know some people love the beach - but how often do you go in NY? Do you take a beach house for the summer? If you don;t like it enough to do that I would wonder if its enough to base a long-term move on.
Second the idea of going for a visit before starting to make any plans - until you have been there you have no idea how different the various areas are.
Also, I know some people love the beach - but how often do you go in NY? Do you take a beach house for the summer? If you don;t like it enough to do that I would wonder if its enough to base a long-term move on.
Jul 26th, 2004, 10:17 AM
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OK, I'll bite the bullet and mention the unmentionable - politics.
This state is roughly divided into Northern and Southern California. It is also roughly divided into coastal California and inland California. It is also divided into big cities and farming country.
GENERALLY SPEAKING, you will find the more conservative people (Bushies) in Southern, inland, farming California.
Then there's the rest of us!
We support the Green Party, the Libertarian Party, and - sometimes- the Democratic Party. San Francisco almost voted in a Green Party mayor recently. We like sushi and burritos, just not together. We barbecue on July 4th just like everyone else - only our weather is nicer. We drive fuel efficient cars and, if we could, we would drive electric cars. We're also very friendly. But the Bushies are friendly too!
All Californians are friendly. I even feel OK with Ahnold the Gubernator trying to turn Sacramento into Hollywood. Every time he has a disagreement with the girlie-men, he goes on TV and talks to his "constituency" - that's us! As long as his makeup is on properly, it's fine.
Me? I live in Northern California and, eons ago, was a registered Republican - until the neocons came along and disenfranchised me, so that I have no political voice to speak with any more. That's why most of the time I spend out in my yard mulching and mulling away on the strange ways of this American world. You're sure we can't interest you in a piece of yard? Gardening can be a year-round excitement!
So much for a poor attempt at trying to explain "culture" in California. It's very diverse, but I thought you might want to find some place where people talk the same politics as you do. Cuts down on the water fights in the swimming pools!
This state is roughly divided into Northern and Southern California. It is also roughly divided into coastal California and inland California. It is also divided into big cities and farming country.
GENERALLY SPEAKING, you will find the more conservative people (Bushies) in Southern, inland, farming California.
Then there's the rest of us!
We support the Green Party, the Libertarian Party, and - sometimes- the Democratic Party. San Francisco almost voted in a Green Party mayor recently. We like sushi and burritos, just not together. We barbecue on July 4th just like everyone else - only our weather is nicer. We drive fuel efficient cars and, if we could, we would drive electric cars. We're also very friendly. But the Bushies are friendly too! All Californians are friendly. I even feel OK with Ahnold the Gubernator trying to turn Sacramento into Hollywood. Every time he has a disagreement with the girlie-men, he goes on TV and talks to his "constituency" - that's us! As long as his makeup is on properly, it's fine.
Me? I live in Northern California and, eons ago, was a registered Republican - until the neocons came along and disenfranchised me, so that I have no political voice to speak with any more. That's why most of the time I spend out in my yard mulching and mulling away on the strange ways of this American world. You're sure we can't interest you in a piece of yard? Gardening can be a year-round excitement!
So much for a poor attempt at trying to explain "culture" in California. It's very diverse, but I thought you might want to find some place where people talk the same politics as you do. Cuts down on the water fights in the swimming pools!
Jul 26th, 2004, 10:28 AM
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easy: Good description of the political landscape in CA. Now we'll no longer discuss it.... 
Someone mentioned Long Beach, my hometown. It used to be really cheap. Now it's just cheaper than the rest of southern CA, but it is not cheap by any stretch of the imagination. Not when 625 square-foot condos are listing and selling for over $200K, a mile from the beach. Not when 1300 square-foot houses five miles from the beach are listing and selling at $500K. Not when 1000 square-foot homes in Belmont Shore are selling for over $1 million. Buyer beware.
Still, I wouldn't move away for anything. Diversity, really friendly people, lots of things for citizens to do in town and nearby....
Someone mentioned Long Beach, my hometown. It used to be really cheap. Now it's just cheaper than the rest of southern CA, but it is not cheap by any stretch of the imagination. Not when 625 square-foot condos are listing and selling for over $200K, a mile from the beach. Not when 1300 square-foot houses five miles from the beach are listing and selling at $500K. Not when 1000 square-foot homes in Belmont Shore are selling for over $1 million. Buyer beware.
Still, I wouldn't move away for anything. Diversity, really friendly people, lots of things for citizens to do in town and nearby....
Jul 26th, 2004, 11:09 AM
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You didn't say if you have a job waiting for you or not. Just to let you know the job market is very tough right now. San Diego and the San Francisco Bay Area are very expensive places to live. Santa Barbara is also very expensive but Ventura might be a little bit more affordable. Anywhere near the beach in California is going to be big bucks.
I live in the Monterey Bay area and my home has gone up 100% in 5 years. Just something you might want to consider.
BTW easytraveler, we just got back from Big Sur and we stayed at the Ventana Campground. You were right, it's a great place, thanks for your help.
I live in the Monterey Bay area and my home has gone up 100% in 5 years. Just something you might want to consider.
BTW easytraveler, we just got back from Big Sur and we stayed at the Ventana Campground. You were right, it's a great place, thanks for your help.
Jul 26th, 2004, 11:39 AM
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Thanks for everyone's advice. Very helpful.
If I do move to California, I would most likely start out by renting a place or sharing an apt with a roommate. I wouldn't be looking to buy right off the bat.
Thanks again.
If I do move to California, I would most likely start out by renting a place or sharing an apt with a roommate. I wouldn't be looking to buy right off the bat.
Thanks again.
Jul 26th, 2004, 01:00 PM
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I thought of California from Cali - actually the LL Cool J song popped in my head:
"Going Back To Cali"
I'm going back to Cali, Cali, Cali
I'm going back to Cali.. hmm, I don't think so
I'm going back to Cali, Cali, Cali
I'm going back to Cali.. I don't think so
Going back to Cali, stylin, profilin
Growlin, and smilin, while in the sun
The top is down, on the black Corvette
And it's fly, cause it's sittin on Dayton's
Laurents steering wheel, plushed out, gold-leaf phantom top
and three girls waiting
VRRRROOM engine's blowin, the chrome, is shining
Passing all the cars on the way
Movement of the wind, back wheels spin
Pop in a cassette and push play
. . .
For the rest of the lyrics:
http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/llcoo...acktocali.html
I also discovered a Notorious BIG song by the same name, which I'd never heard (not that I probably know any song by them), but the lyrics are not, shall we say, Fodor's appropriate.
"Going Back To Cali"
I'm going back to Cali, Cali, Cali
I'm going back to Cali.. hmm, I don't think so
I'm going back to Cali, Cali, Cali
I'm going back to Cali.. I don't think so
Going back to Cali, stylin, profilin
Growlin, and smilin, while in the sun
The top is down, on the black Corvette
And it's fly, cause it's sittin on Dayton's
Laurents steering wheel, plushed out, gold-leaf phantom top
and three girls waiting
VRRRROOM engine's blowin, the chrome, is shining
Passing all the cars on the way
Movement of the wind, back wheels spin
Pop in a cassette and push play
. . .
For the rest of the lyrics:
http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/llcoo...acktocali.html
I also discovered a Notorious BIG song by the same name, which I'd never heard (not that I probably know any song by them), but the lyrics are not, shall we say, Fodor's appropriate.
Jul 26th, 2004, 01:01 PM
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You are receiving some good advice. I live In N California and could not live in the South. Many people in the south will say that about the North. They are two different areas.
We have beaches in the north, but I would not swim in them...too cold.
Try the area around San Luis Obispo. College town and not as expensive (yet) as the other coastal towns. I think you are going to be surprised at the cost no matter where you go. It ain't pretty and it is going up all the time. Better get here soon.
We have beaches in the north, but I would not swim in them...too cold.
Try the area around San Luis Obispo. College town and not as expensive (yet) as the other coastal towns. I think you are going to be surprised at the cost no matter where you go. It ain't pretty and it is going up all the time. Better get here soon.
