In Love with San Fran: Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco has been named as the most romantic city in the world, by Miss Travel (see article here). It really isn't too difficult to see why. As we drove into the city, I was mesmerized by its hilly landscape and elegant architecture.

One of the biggest attractions of this city, is the Golden Gate Bridge. According to a ranger in Alcatraz Island, the bridge has gotten its name in the mid 1800s, when gold nuggets were discovered in Sancramento. Bridging San Francisco to Sancramento, this bridge slowly became known as the "Golden Gate" bridge. However, according to an official site (i.e.: goldengatebridge.org), its name was derived in another manner....

"The Golden Gate Strait is the entrance to the San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean.  The strait is approximately three-miles long by one-mile wide with currents ranging from 4.5 to 7.5 knots.  It is generally accepted that the strait was named "Chrysopylae", or Golden Gate, by John C. Fremont, Captain, topographical Engineers of the U.S. Army circa 1846.  It reminded him of a harbor in Istanbul named Chrysoceras or Golden Horn."

Despite contentions over the origins of its name, it is indisputable that the Golden Gate Bridge is a lovely sight to behold in the city of San Francisco. 

We wanted to do some bike riding along the bridge. However, since we set off rather late, we decided to take a bus over to view the bridge. Biking is highly recommended should you decide to visit the Golden Gate Bridge. Many bike companies offer special biking packages to cater for tourists, so do check them out!