The first city on our round-the-world tour was San Francisco.

#Traveling Abroad The flight from Osaka to San Francisco was on United Airlines, departing at 6:30pm on February 25th and arriving at 11:30am local time on February 25th. It was a 10-hour flight. I sat in the window seat on the left side and was able to see the Golden Gate Bridge and the cityscape of San Francisco. I stayed in San Francisco for about 3 hours. The moment I landed in San Francisco, I felt that the temperature was comfortable. It was still mid-winter in Japan, so the maximum temperature of 16 degrees and the minimum temperature of 9 degrees was just right for warming up before going to South America in mid-summer. The cityscape looked like a scene from a movie no matter where you looked. There were many slopes, and the scenery of colorful Victorian houses lined up was impressive. The first place I visited was Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39, San Francisco's tourist attractions. At Fisherman's Wharf, there were many famous clam chowder shops lined up. The clam chowder with sourdough bread was especially popular, and many tourists were lining up. I didn't try it this time, but I'd like to try it next time I visit. They also have it at San Francisco Airport (Terminal 3). At Pier 39, I encountered the famous sea lions. They were so adorable, napping and frolicking on the deck. From Pier 39, you can see Alcatraz Island in the distance, and you can feel the presence of the historic prison. When you think of San Francisco, you think of the Golden Gate Bridge. Due to time constraints, I couldn't walk there this time, but I was able to see it from Pier 39, residential areas, and even from the plane. It was a landmark whose beauty could be fully enjoyed even from afar. During my short stay, I also visited the following spots. • Lombard St: The famous winding slope. We arrived after overcoming a slope with an incline of about 40 degrees. • Observing Waymo (unmanned taxi): I was able to see the latest self-driving technology in the city. • Enjoying the cityscape around Powell Station: The scenery of cable cars going back and forth was impressive. To enter the United States, you must obtain an ESTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). You apply online in advance, and it costs $21 (as of 2025). It is important to be well prepared before traveling. I had an ESTA that was still valid, so I didn't need to apply for a new one. My stay in San Francisco was short, about three hours, excluding travel time on the BART. I didn't have time to enjoy the nightlife this time, but the city was packed with things to see even in the limited time I had. Next time I visit, I would like to stay a little longer and experience the charm of this city more deeply.