Exploring Northern California with Globus: A Journey Through Hidden Gems and Iconic Landscapes
Even I would raise an eyebrow at the title of this article, yet here I sit composing it in all sincerity and earnestness. It was simply among lots of surprises though throughout a week of enjoyable expedition exploring with Globus. With lots of years of experience from which to draw, they were the perfect partner as I left my home/prison of 2 years and struck the roadway, this time traveling throughout beautiful Northern California on Globus’ California Dreamin’ trip.
Before this journey, I didn’t have much of an impression concerning the city, other than that I expected it to be dull, dull and barely worth my time. As is so often the case though in the travel experience, I was completely and totally wrong. Thanks not only to the professional guiding of Globus but also the options provided to me while visiting, I enjoyed a charming visit that I know will not be my last.
If you’re familiar with Sutter’s Mill, then you’re familiar with the history of Sacramento, at least partly. He was one of the early Western settlers to call the valley home and, of course, it was at his mill where, in 1848, gold was first discovered. Sacramento’s location was ideal and within a few years, it had grown to a population of 10,000. In the 1850s the state legislature moved to the city, permanently solidifying its presence and significance in the history of the state. Today, Sacramento is home to over half a million people, making it one of the largest state capitals but none of this really connected me. No, it wasn’t until I experienced the city on my own, with the help of Globus, that I truly began to understand its appeal.
Globus has a touring option that it calls Choice Touring, or YourChoice. The concept is to include elements of travel that people love, particularly the opportunity to choose what they see and do in new locations. Sure, some of the stops on the trip were set, but at three stops there were tour options from which to choose. Each option was very different from the other, ensuring that almost all types of travelers can be accommodated.
For example, I could choose from an additional walking tour of Old Sacramento or a visit to the California State Railroad Museum. Another option was a visit to the California State Capitol or Sutter’s Fort, each of which would allow me to learn more about the area’s fascinating history and its relevance to the early settlers of California. I loved how Globus had a local expert guide these activities as I had a history teacher for the day, giving me a far deeper understanding of what I was seeing.
We also spent some time in Mammoth Lakes, a beautiful and iconic destination that surprised me with its charming appeal. Once again, Globus’ choice touring was the key. I could choose to visit the Mono Lake Basin with its unique geography and ecology or a wine tasting experience, something I was particularly interested in doing. Mammoth Lakes is a beautiful area to visit during the winter, but I discovered there’s so much more to the area if you visit during summer. Hiking, biking, and exploring are all great choices that show off a different side of California.
Whether it’s heading into the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains, experiencing the nightlife in Sacramento, or just relaxing by the lake in Mammoth Lakes, Globus’ California Dreamin’ trip ensures you have a full array of options to suit your interests and needs. I left the trip with not only a newfound appreciation for the area but also a plan to come back and explore even more, thanks to the flexibility and personal touch that Globus provides on their tours.