Who here knows what it’s like going back to work after a vacation? Well, that’s where I am today. The swamped inbox and game of catch up is all worth it in exchange for the past five days spent in Napa Valley and San Francisco, California.

What started out as a celebration trip for my sisters turning 21 turned into the trip of a lifetime. Beginning in Napa Valley, my family and I stayed at Auberge du Soleil, a beautiful resort on a hilltop in the valley. Here we relaxed, swam and toured some of the most fabulous wineries. There was no shortage of wine, California heat or pure happiness as we ate at The Restaurant at The Auberge du Soleil, a Michelin-starred restaurant, along as dining at many more of Napa’s go-to spots.

After two lovely days in Napa, we drove to San Francisco, where we spent three days touring through the windy and chilly weather. My favorite part of our time in San Fran was touring the retired federal prison of Alcatraz, where Al Capone once served time. Having watched The Escape from Alcatraz prior to the tour certainly helped, but nothing compares to seeing those cells in person. I also loved exploring the famous redwood trees in Muir Woods National Monument. It is a tough decision, but I think my all-time favorite culinary stop along our travels was at The Trident in Sausalito, the very restaurant where Otis Redding gained inspiration for “(Sittin’ on) the Dock of the Bay.”

The hilly streets of San Francisco and the wine in Napa made quite an impression. So much so, I am waiting for a box of wine to be delivered here in Pennsylvania any day! Traveling and touring is so wonderful, but I am happy to be home writing to you all.

Cheers!

— Haley Fogarty, advertising manager