California Travel Tips for Charter Travelers 2023
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As summer in North America begins the final month in August, we’re taking readers on a trip to the west coast. From the manicured lawns of Pebble Beach to the sun-soaked vineyards of Napa Valley, the dramatic cliff-sides of Big Sur, and the cosmopolitan allure of San Francisco, a chartered journey with Flyhouse offers an unparalleled Californian adventure with ease thanks to their app. Seeing California can be made simple by following our recommendations for accommodating and comfortable travel arrangements, superior dining experiences, and unforgettable views.
Pebble Beach & Cars
Your journey begins at Pebble Beach, a haven of natural beauty and home to the Concours d'Elegance, an annual gathering of the world’s most extraordinary vintage and antique cars. The event is August 20, the pinnacle of Pebble Beach Auto Week, which begins August 17. The week starts with the Tour d’Elegance along 17-Mile Drive onto iconic Highway One that crosses the finish line back at Pebble Beach—a prime opportunity to see the cars in action before the big show on Sunday.
If Pebble Beach Auto Week piques your interest in owning a piece of classic car history, Gooding & Company are the people to see at the event. According to a Reuters article from April of this year, “vintage cars have risen 185% in value over the past decade.” Gooding & Company is a historic partner of Pebble Beach Auto Week as they facilitate the viewing and auction of automobiles during the event. If you want to own a piece of automotive history and diversify your investments, view the available lots in person from August 16-19, and have your paddle ready at the auction on August 18 and 19.
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After spending the afternoon strolling the 18th fairway admiring the luxury vehicles, The Lodge at Pebble Beach is an exemplary accommodation offering panoramic views of Carmel Bay, steps away from the event. The Lodge at Pebble Beach is a complete experience with ample dining options and comfortable rooms with private balconies to take in the fresh breeze from the water.
Metropolitan Pit Stop
A city steeped in history and buzzing with vibrant culture; San Francisco is up the coast from Carmel, an easy trip with Flyhouse as your steward. Pine Street in downtown hosts two luxury hotels, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco and The Ritz-Carlton, which are within blocks of each other. Both offer exceptional amenities and proximity to fun experiences and exciting cuisine.
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San Francisco is also home to world-class museums, lush parks, and a culinary scene that caters to every palate. If a cloudy day meets your arrival, there are activities indoors for all types. The curious would find the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art intriguing, and the epicurious would be sated at the Ferry Building Marketplace. According to SF Travel Tips, plan to be at the museum between 2-3 hours, but add time if you’re trying to see each piece individually. The marketplace is a collection of eateries and opportunities for a glass of wine in a historic Beaux Arts-style structure on the water. Combine both experiences for a full day of sensory delight.
San Francisco’s culinary scene is a kaleidoscope of flavors that reflect its multicultural spirit. The city's innovative restaurants, delightful bakeries, and eclectic food stalls, all the way to the seafood eateries lining Fisherman's Wharf, will leave an indelible mark on your palate. With its iconic landmarks, cultural diversity, and culinary delights, the city leaves a distinct imprint on your memory.
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“Veni, Vidi, Vino”
With a few taps in the Flyhouse app, it’ll be time to make your flight to Napa Valley. An easy trip that could be accomplished by car, but with the added hassle of trying to leave the city. The short flight over San Pablo Bay with San Francisco behind you is a breathtaking way to soak in the splendor of the west coast.
Among the vineyard-draped hills, you'll find The Carneros Resort and Spa, nestled in a serene setting that embodies rustic elegance. This retreat offers private cottages with spacious living areas, alfresco showers, and captivating views of the surrounding vineyards and farmland. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including an adults-only pool. There could be little reason to leave the resort, but you’ll likely want to go to a nearby tasting. Four wineries are within less than one mile of the resort, including Domaine Carneros and Cuvaison.
Napa Valley's dining options are as varied as the wine selection. The Farm at Carneros offers an authentic wine-country dining experience using ingredients sourced from local farms. For a truly exquisite gastronomic delight, make a reservation at The French Laundry, Thomas Keller's iconic Michelin three-star restaurant. The French Laundry offers two nine-course tasting menus, a Chef's Menu, and a Tasting of Vegetables, priced at $350 per person and includes service and non-alcoholic drinks. You can expect to spend 3-4 hours at the restaurant on a tasting menu experience.
Drive Mode
Photo Courtesy Miguel Villagran / Staff, Getty Images News
If the experience at Pebble Beach ignited a passion for car shows, September and October promise premier European events for car enthusiasts. While we leave classic cars behind, The International Motor Show Germany and Geneva showcase the future of cars with manufacturers demonstrating and displaying their updated designs and technology.
Between September 5-10, 2023, in Frankfurt and October 5-14 in Geneva, the event is a vibrant tableau of gleaming bodywork, cutting-edge technology, and audacious design where industry leaders and passionate enthusiasts converge. As the lights of the exhibition center reflect off polished chrome and fresh paint, you're likely to find yourself immersed in a thrilling panorama beyond mere vehicles to encapsulate the future of mobility itself.
Go in style and comfort.
As you embark on your California dream car journey, Flyhouse and its app have you covered when it comes to getting there. Whether traveling internationally or domestically, Air Charter Guide has your back when booking a flight. You could start your search with a fine selection of operators with aircraft in California here, for example. We are committed to providing you with the most up-to-date and accurate information as we correct and qualify content directly with our listed operators and brokers.