Monterey, USA

Monterey is a city of natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. Founded in 1770, it is the oldest city in the state of California, and was the state capital for a time. Situated 115 miles south of San Francisco and 320 miles north of Los Angeles, Monterey Country is the virtual heart of California's Central Coast. To the east, the county includes the Salinas Valley, a lush growing region, which is today the "Salad Bowl of the World". The region alone produce 80% of the nation's lettuce supply, generating more than US$600 million annually.

Below are some photos I took during my recent trip to Monterey.

On the first day, after checking into the Marriot Monterey, I took a 3-hour stroll along the coastal road towards the Cannery Row. At the turn of the 20th century, this part of the downtown Monterey area was where fish processing companies canned fish fresh off the boats. Monterey was then the Sardine capital of the world! Today, the stretch is home to galleries, shops, and fine restaurants.

On the evening of the second day, I took a short stroll to Fisherman's Wharf. In the 1800s, this part of town was the epicenter of Monterey's whaling industry. Now, visitors climb aboard modern vessels and journey out to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary to admire and appreciate the whales. From the wharf, one could also see harbor seals, sea lions, sea otters and seabirds.

On the afternoon of the third day, we toured the Pebble Beach, which is best known for its luxury resorts, golf courses and stunning 17-Mile Drive tour that passes through the Del Monte forest. There are approximately 20 stops along the well marked route, each with a landmark of interest and paved parking for the vehicle. The stops include popular tourist icons such as the Lone Cypress tree (left photo), the Restless Sea, Seal Rock, Spanish Bay, etc. We stopped for high-tea at the Pebble Beach Golf Links, which is best known for its luxury resorts and golf club. On our way back, we stopped at Carmel-by-the Sea, an exclusive shopping enclave bursting with charming boutiques, fine art galleries and luxury retailers. Clint Eastwood was once the town's mayor (1986-1988).

photo: charming historic garden at Cooper-Molera adobe

On the final day, I followed the Old Monterey's Path of History. Following the yellow-and-brown tile markers set in the sidewalks, the walking tour bring me to the oldest houses in the county which include California's First Theatre, Old Whaling Station adobe, Cooper-Molera adobe, Case Soberanes, Cotton Hall, etc. I particularly enjoyed the tantalizing fragrances of the many historic gardens.