10 Reasons Why California Is the Ultimate Playground for Middle East Visitors
DUBAI: Cultivating a sense of play is serious business in the Golden State. Here’s an opinionated guide to help you find all the fun you can handle.
Adventures for every family member
California’s experiences guarantee an adrenaline rush for every member of the family, ensuring joyful memories are created by all. Whether you’re craving outdoor escapades, the excitement of local festivals, or planning a visit to our world-class theme parks, California’s inclusive and vibrant spirit sets it apart as the ultimate playground. Regardless of the needs of any member in your group, the top adventures in the Golden State excel in every aspect. Explore Sesame Place San Diego and The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert, both are Certified Autism Centers, or dive into the fun at our theme parks, zoos, and aquariums, including SeaWorld San Diego, the Monterey Bay Aquarium and the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo.
Our hotels are too many, and luxurious
California boasts an abundance of luxurious hotels, catering to every taste and preference. From chic boutique accommodations to sprawling resorts, the options are as diverse as the state’s landscapes. But what sets California’s hotels apart is not just their sheer number, but their commitment to luxury and extravagance. Indulge in rooftop pool parties with breathtaking city views, offered by luxury hotels. With an array of upscale amenities and impeccable service, these hotels elevate your stay to new heights of comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re seeking a glamorous retreat or a trendy urban oasis, California’s hotels promise an unforgettable experience.
Our pools are elevated
A rooftop pool is the hippest place to take a dip. Swim with a city-skyline view or dance the night away at pool parties where DJs spin thumping beats. The Andaz in San Diego, The Kimpton Sawyer in Sacramento, the Freehand Los Angeles, Thompson Hollywood, The Shay in Culver City, and The Rowan Palm Springs are just a small sampling of California hotels where you can make a five-story splash.
We shop in style
In California, shopping isn’t just a necessity — it’s a fashion-forward adventure. From high-end boutiques to sprawling shopping districts, the Golden State offers an unparalleled shopping experience that caters to every taste and preference. Whether you’re strolling down Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, exploring the eclectic shops of San Francisco’s Mission District, or discovering hidden gems in quaint coastal towns, California’s shopping scene is as diverse and vibrant as its population.
We feed you, in style
When it comes to serving food, California is well known for its creativity and playfulness. It is always on the cutting edge of the world’s culinary scene. From legendary chefs, innovative food trends and bringing global cuisine to the Golden State, cities and towns across California give travelers something special to feast on. Whether you’re craving the freshest seafood in Monterey, indulging in farm-to-table delights in Napa Valley, or savoring authentic Mexican cuisine in San Diego’s vibrant neighborhoods, California’s diverse culinary landscape ensures to satisfy the palates of its visitors.
Nobody cruises the highway better
Endless sunshine, beautiful nature and incredible outdoor experiences—the itineraries collected here showcase why California is the ultimate road trip destination. At Monterey Touring Vehicles, you can rent a 1954 Chevy Bel Air Convertible, a 1981 DeLorean, or dozens of other vintage and classic car rides. Recommended route: Start on 17-Mile Drive and then head down Highway 1, cruising along two of the state’s most scenic thoroughfares.
Nature unlike any other
California is a year-round destination, with weather that has something for everyone, from sun worshippers to snow bunnies. The best time to visit really comes down to what you want to see and do. The Golden State’s flower show is always beautiful, but the high-octane version of the annual display known as the “superbloom” is something you shouldn’t miss. What makes the magic happen is that the Superblooms occur when rain falls in frequent intervals between October and February—especially when that rain follows a long period of drought. This leads to widespread germination of wildflower seeds that may have lain dormant for years.
Ski with a difference
With more than 30 ski resorts and numerous opportunities for downhill, cross-country, and backcountry adventures, California offers a wide range of skiing and snowboarding options, perfect for any skill or budget. On Independence Day at Mammoth Mountain, skiers and snowboarders shred the slopes wearing shorts and tank tops instead of parkas and ski pants. Mammoth’s high altitude, deep snowpack, and north-facing trails produce one of the West’s longest ski seasons, typically lasting from November through July.
Our farms make you fly
Embark on a culinary journey that combines the thrill of adventure with the freshest flavors of California’s farm-to-table movement. At Ancient Peaks in Santa Margarita, soar above the vineyards on six separate ziplines spanning 7,500 feet and taste your way throughout the town. Board a helicopter in Monterey or Watsonville for the flight to Eden Rift Vineyards, then sip and swirl from the seat of a Polaris ATV. At Calistoga’s Sterling Vineyards, hop on the newly reopened aerial gondola and glide 300 feet uphill to the Greek-inspired place, and taste the delicacies of Napa Valley.
Our museums are playful
All ages enjoy the curiosity-igniting exhibits at San Francisco’s innovative Exploratorium. Youngsters can experiment and play while adults admire the waterfront views from this spectacular steel and glass structure at Pier 15. But the Exploratorium is just one example; throughout California, museums cater to a myriad of interests, from art and history to science and technology.
