California.Berkeley.Advice.799.2006.htmlLocal's Advice List About Berkeley, California 2006http://www.findlocalguide.com:80/California.Berkeley.Advice.799.2006.10.htmlBerkeley is a very overrated town, not really what I expected. Actually, the only reason I went was just to see how liberal this city actually was. The answer, not very progressive at all. Just a bunch of coffee shops and music stores. Pretty much like any other supposed "liberal" city in the country. Just looks like everywhere else! Had some pretty cool little shops there though, but you can get that anywhere.http://www.findlocalguide.com:80/California.Berkeley.Advice.799.2006.10.html#101http://www.findlocalguide.com:80/California.Berkeley.Advice.799.2006.10.htmlWhile in the San Francisco bay area,a nice side trip to Berkeley is always a good idea. One morning we hopped on the Bart subway system and rode under the bay--destination University of California at Berleley.What fun,for 2.50$ each way the trip was more than worth it.First of all the subway trains are amazingly neat and clean,just like your family room on a good day!You can read the paper,tell some interesting travel stories or do nothing and sit back and enjoy the ride.In no time at all you'll be on land at the station,on the other side of the bay. Walking to campus is a breeze.We arrived in time for a breakfast selection of warm pastries and a cup of java.All along Center St.,tiny cafes and trendy restaurants can be found.On one of the corners is a store front which features a myriad of games and puzzles for sale.Chances are you'll find that one of a dind game you've been looking for for yrs. Newspaper publications are available,and every type of journal and periodical are on display for your perusing pleasure. Power walking to campus is the name of the game for student and teacher alike.As we headed into the Grinnel grove a small forest like setting,snippets of conversations could be heard,from school to social life topics.Once on campus the atmosphere is mediterranian in nature,Spanish style roofs of ed tiles,fountains of statues spraying into the aird clime,and the Cesar Chavez student union with its pine tree setting are wonderfully integral to the scene.The campanelli bell tower is also quite amazing,reaching 900+ feet into the sky.Ride the elevator to the top for being in the tower when the chimes play on the hour is something one doest forget any time soon. The view is spectacular and you can also see the Golden gate bridge from that vantage and campus points of intrest below such as the swimming lanes as well.Berkeley is beautiful! As an aside,Berkeley was also the campus used in the 1960's film "Graduate,the". Breakfast in Berkeley is a real great way to start the day in the San Francisco bay!http://www.findlocalguide.com:80/California.Berkeley.Advice.799.2006.10.html#100