I love California. The sun, vibrant and colourful homes, beaches, and lack of snow have made me fall in love with the state (even though I am Canadian and I hate to admit it but I can’t help but crave the snow from time to time..). Having family in Northern California, I have come to visit the state frequently. It is an area I always look forward to coming back to, as it has become something so familiar. From a planning perspective, I have always admired the state. That does not mean that it does not have its own challenges and shortcomings. Every region has ways in which they can improve. The perfect region does not exist. What we can do is continuously enhance cityscapes and minimize the negative implications of issues. It is an ongoing battle and effort. However, for this weeks article, I decided to focus on the positive and zero in on what I personally love about Northern California.
It is Innovative and Modern
California is home to a number of the most innovative and transformative companies. The overall atmosphere is very much looking for new and modern ways to tackle issues. I always feel like the next big thing will happen here. I love seeing billboards all across Northern California on the latest device or piece of innovation. It is no secret that Northern California is home to Silicon Valley, the official headquarters for many tech tycoons, such as Apple, Facebook, and Google. The area is very much entrepreneurship-driven, making the area a fuel for economic growth.
It is Diverse
I absolutely love how diverse California is. I have met many different types of people in the state, and I love how all individuals are welcomed. There is no ethic or racial group that makes up the majority of California’s population. According to the 2020 Census, 39% are latino, 35% of residents are white, 15% are Asian American or Pacific Islander, 5% are black, 4% multiracial, and less than 1% are Native American or Alaska Natives. Racism and social discussion is at a minimum. I’m all for inclusivity and accommodating individuals of all backgrounds.
The Architecture
I love how the buildings tend to be constructed with such vibrancy, incorporating colours that step away from the typical neutral look we tend to see when it comes to buildings. San Francisco’s ‘painted ladies’ is evidence of this. The painted ladies symbolizes the victorian style buildings constructed in the city beginning in the 1960s. They tend to use at least three colours in order to further enhance its design and appeal.
Healthy Living
Okay this one is not a planning matter, but a healthy population is essential to the quality of life of an area. In 2020, Night Northern California cities ranked among the healthiest American cities. This evaluation was made using 43 metics assessing four core factors: food, green space, healthcare, and fitness. Northern California has an abundance of green spaces, top notch hospitals, and vegan/vegetarian/healthy produce culture.
Beautiful Environmental Areas
I absolutely love how much opportunity there is to explore and hike In environmental areas. Since California is a mountainous area, the amount of hikes in the state is endless. It provides for a great opportunity for residents and visitors to really appreciate its unique landscape and adjacency to the ocean. Whether you want a short or longer hike, California has something for everyone’s comfort zone!
That sums up my top reasons why I love Northern California! I have not gotten a chance to explore and look into Southern California in depth. I am sure once I do, an article will come out highlighting my thoughts. Definitely look out for that one in the future.
Until next time,
Adena