Things to Do in Silicon Valley: Where to Go, Eat & Stay
9 Silicon Valley towns, what each one is good for, where to eat and where to stay, and which tech campuses you can actually walk into. From someone who has lived here the whole time.
Silicon Valley
Shashi Hotel Review: Mountain View’s Boutique Base for Solo Travelers
I booked the Shashi Hotel in Mountain View solo for one night and would go back tomorrow. Here’s the full rundown: the pool, the free bikes, the corner-room upgrade worth every dollar, and the one bar policy that earned some side-eye.
Avatar Hotel Santa Clara: Groovy Vibes, Motel Reality, and That $10 Parking Situation
The Avatar Hotel in Santa Clara looks like Palm Springs decided to open a franchise near the freeway, and that’s mostly a compliment. Here’s what I loved, what mildly annoyed me, and whether I’d book it again.
I Stayed at the Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley. Here’s the Truth.
The Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley is one of those rare places that feels like a destination in itself. Charming rooms, a Chef Stephanie Izard restaurant, and a beer garden buzzing with good energy. Here’s what to know before you book.
A Solo Traveler’s Guide to Mountain View, California
Mountain View may not top your Silicon Valley list, but for solo travel it’s quietly perfect: Castro Street dining, lakeside walks at Shoreline Park, a concert at the amphitheatre, and an easy home base. Here’s how to do it on your own.
What to do in Downtown San Jose, California
Downtown San Jose might not scream “bucket list,” but don’t write it off just yet. With the Super Bowl happening nearby and light rail making Levi’s Stadium an easy ride away, this under-the-radar city suddenly makes a lot of sense. From theaters and museums to quirky restaurants and walkable pockets of charm, downtown San Jose has more going on than you might expect, especially if you know where to look.
Unique and Cool Places to Eat in San Jose and Silicon Valley
Player-piano dinners, a cable car down to your table, and a margarita that comes with a warning. Eleven places I have eaten around San Jose and Silicon Valley.
What to Do in Palo Alto: Best Things to Do, Eat, and Stay (Local Guide)
Palo Alto gets stereotyped as tech bros and Teslas, and yes, there are many Teslas. There is also a herd of donkeys, an Art Deco cinema showing double features for the price of a latte, and Silicon Valley’s actual birthplace in someone’s garage. I have lived here my whole life, so these are the places I really send people.
Is Alviso Worth Visiting? A Local’s Guide to This Curious San Jose Place
A quirky stop in San Jose with wildlife, old canneries, and flavor-packed food. Alviso is not what you expect and that is the best part.
Los Gatos for Solo Female Travelers: Safe, Scenic & Worth It
Discover the best places to eat, shop, and explore in Los Gatos, California — from a solo female traveler’s perspective. Safe, scenic, and full of charm.
Coolest Cafes in Silicon Valley
A local’s guide to the best cafés in Silicon Valley. Cozy spots, great pastries, remote-work friendly tables, and real atmosphere. Updated for 2025.
