Monterey is a very unique place, just like everywhere else. Being close to the Central Valley means that one frequently drives by rows and rows of crops. In addition, being close to the sea means that there is a vibrant fishing industry. Monterey used to be the sardine capital of the world. There used to be a squid festival every year. Instead, now we have a Mushroom festival, Garlic Festival, Strawberry Festival, and an Artichoke Festival. Yes, artichokes. The best thing in the world is a deep fried artichoke heart. One has not lived until one has eaten a deep fried artichoke heart.

Many literary-type people have written poems and novels describing the place. Robert Louis Stevenson, Robinson Jeffers, and John Steinbeck all spent a considerable amount of time in Monterey. Stevenson's Treasure Island was inspired by Point Lobos, now a state park and natural reserve. Robinson Jeffer vividly describe the natural beauty of the peninsula and his verses are simply music to one's ears. Steinbeck even wrote about Cannery Row, which can still be seen today as souviner shops selling memorabilia of the actual street described in the novel. If you're familiar with the book, you'll be happy to know that yes, you can purchase a beer float on Cannery Row.

The Monterey Peninsula consists of several locales of which there are several that are somewhat well known. Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for having very strict laws against the cutting down of trees. In Pacific Grove, purple flowers line the coast of that bloom once a year. The Bixby Bridge dramatically rises between cliffs near Big Sur. The Monterey Bay Aquarium boasts the largest tank in the world and a spectacular Jelly Fish exhibit.

I always enjoy bringing friends to visit Monterey so that they too can experience the natural beauty of the place. But sometimes, friends can be a liability too.