Travel Guides: All Countries / North America / USA / California
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| | | Guaranteed sunshine |  | Why go on holiday to California?
It is definitely a state with something for everyone. Los Angeles for its film industry, theme parks and superb beaches; San Francisco for its mix of culture and attractions; San Diego for its unique Mexican flavour.
There's also guaranteed sunshine in Palm Springs plus the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.
How much does it cost?
Keep an eye out for bargains, flights only cost from £300 return, although it's quite normal to pay nearer the £500 mark. California is a great place to explore on a fly/drive holiday. A two-week holiday in July touring the spectacular coastline will cost from around £700 per person. Car hire from £200.
When should I go?
Anytime is a good time to visit California. The weather in San Diego and Palm Beach is always good.
June to September are the busiest tourist months and prices rise considerably. Visiting just before or after these months will let you take advantage of brilliant weather and less crowded roads.
Temperatures December to May 59F(15C)-75F(23C) June to September 75F(23C)-90F(32C). Southern California is warmer than the north. Nights get chilly wherever you are.
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| | | Wine country |  | What should I do when I'm there?
In Los Angeles take the film studio tour of Universal Studios, Hollywood and the Disneyland theme park. In San Francisco visit Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate. While in San Diego tour Sea World and San Diego Zoo.
What's outside the cities?
For perfect beach weather head to Palm Springs and then to the Joshua Tree National Park, where you'll find more than 1,000 miles of stunning scenery.
The stunning Yosemite National Park has 1,000 square miles of waterfalls, forests and valleys; and the beautiful 120-mile coastline of Monterey south of San Francisco.
Can I go wine tasting?
California has some lovely easy-drinking wines and the best stuff is produced in the Sonoma and Napa valleys. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the hundreds of wineries for tours and tastings.
You'll usually have to pay to try the wines - around $3 for three wine types. Buy a bottle and enjoy a picnic.
What festivals are on?
California's rich mixture of cultures means a variety of events year-round. There's everything from Chinese New Year and Independence Day to Mexico's Cinco de Mayo and the Festival of Whales.
In San Francisco there's a gay Mardi Gras in June. For details, contact the Californian Division of Tourism while visiting on 800 862 2543.
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| | | Diverse scene | | Where's good for nightlife?
Nearly every town and just about every shopping mall has a movie theatre.
Top pop stars can also be found touring at huge concert halls at San Diego Sports Arena, Los Angeles Coliseum and Hollywood Bowl. Check local newspapers for information.
You'll find everything in California from jazz and ballet to theatre, from comedy to classical. Bars and dance clubs are everywhere.
What's the food like?
California's dining scene is as diverse as its population. It is possible to eat Mexican for breakfast, Thai curry for lunch and Indian thali for dinner.
For those without an adventurous palate, the standard American fare is served at diners, coffee shops and fast-food chains and is never too far away.
Afternoon tea is enjoying a revival in San Francisco. On a budget? Fill up on a huge cheap breakfast at IHOPs (International House of Pancakes) statewide.
What should I buy?
California's diverse communities offer fascinating things to buy. San Francisco's Chinatown has all things eastern, including ginseng products.
In San Diego you can buy traditional Mexican crafts like fabrics and leather. For imported goods - from Guatemalan jackets to Indian temple incense - head to LA's Venice Beach.
What is there for children to do?
Apart from the many theme parks, kids can experience camping in the great outdoors or many water sports, including snorkelling, surfing, fishing and river rafting.
Tourist office
California Tourism, 4 Vencourt Place, London, W6 9NU. Brochure request line: 0906 577 0032 (£1.50 a min).
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| | Available rental properties in California |
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