Last year 2023, my husband and I embarked on an unforgettable adventure to San Francisco. Our first stop was Gold Beach city in Oregon, a coastal gem. The view from the mountains to the ocean was breathtaking. The salty scent of the ocean mingled with warm breezes, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. As I stood on the cliffs, gazing out at the vast expanse, I half-expected a dragon to soar across the sky, completing the fantasy scene. Perhaps, it was the magic of the place, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that mythical creatures might reveal themselves at any moment.

Gold Beach felt like a close-knit community, where everyone welcomed us. We stayed at the 101 Motel for one night. Leaving Gold Beach behind, we drove toward San Francisco. Ancient sequoias lined the road, leading us to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.