California Travel Guide: Exploring the Golden State

California is an expansive territory covering 424,000 square kilometers, situated on the western Pacific coast of the United States. It boasts a mild subtropical climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The official symbols of the state are the grizzly bear, featured on the official emblem, and the yellow quail. The primary colors associated with the region are blue and yellow, representing the blue skies and the presence of gold deposits within its borders. The golden trout also signifies wealth and prosperity, while the state motto, 'Eureka,' affirms a constant pursuit of new ideas and a commitment to self-improvement.

This land, abundant in natural beauty, a diverse population, and a wealth of attractions, is an enticing destination for tourists from around the world. American Butler is here to assist its clients in discovering the most appealing excursion routes, offering significant savings in both time and finances, and tailoring excursions to meet the preferences of our customers!

History and geography

Until the 18th century, California's population consisted of representatives of no less than 70 indigenous tribes engaged in fishing, herding, and migration along the entire coastline. The most prominent among them were the tribes of the Lejena, Chumash, and Mohave. In the 16th century, the first English and Portuguese explorers, Francis Drake and Diego Cabrillo, appeared on the scene.

By 1800, Russians had established their own settlements here, as well as Spanish missionaries who seized extensive lands in Lower California. The growing American expansion systematically clashed with rivals from Spain and Mexico. In 1850, California became the 31st American state. Gold prospectors flocked here, and after the completion of the transcontinental railroad, California's population grew significantly. Many were attracted by the comfortable conditions for agriculture and livestock farming, making California the most populous state in the USA today.

California has an elongated shape, stretching along the Pacific coast for over 1000 kilometers, sharing a border with Oregon to the north and, to a lesser extent, with the states of Nevada and Arizona to the east. The southern border stretches for 500 kilometers and also forms part of the state's border with neighboring Mexico. California's length from north to south is approximately 1,250 kilometers, while its width from west to east is about 400 kilometers.

California ranks third in terms of its area among all U.S. states, with a land area of approximately 424,000 square kilometers. In this regard, it is only surpassed by Alaska and Texas. California is located in a seismically active region, experiencing earthquakes.

Population and climate

The state of California has a population exceeding that of a major European country, with over 12% of the country's total population. According to the latest census in 2014, this figure exceeded 39 million people. The honor of the highest population goes to Los Angeles County, where nearly 10 million people reside. The state of California has a relatively high population density, with approximately 91 people per square kilometer.

The proportion of the white population is gradually decreasing and currently stands at 40%. More than 38% of the population consists of Hispanics, Mexicans, and other Latin American representatives. The remaining portion includes Asians (12%), Native Americans, and African Americans, accounting for approximately 7% of the total population.

California boasts a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm winters and hot, dry summers. Coastal areas often experience fog due to the influence of the cold California Current during the cooler months.

As one travels further inland, the climate becomes considerably more continental, leading to a wider temperature range. Northern California is prone to heavy rainfall, making it relatively wetter. The presence of mountains in the interior of the state also prevents warm air masses from extending too far, resulting in a predominantly continental climate. In the eastern part of California, desert regions can be found, where the climate can be harsh due to the absence of mountain ranges, resulting in hot and dry summers.

Main attractions

California successfully combines several linguistic cultures and its vast expanse, which is why it is rich in various attractions that you can book tours to with us:

• Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles — a place where the names of the greatest entertainers and sports stars are immortalized in stone, and it is visited by over 10 million tourists annually;
• The Hollywood Walk of Fame — a place in the inner courtyard of Grauman's Chinese Theatre where the most famous people of the past and present have left their handprints, footprints, or shoe prints;
• Alcatraz — a former prison located on the picturesque island of the same name, 30 kilometers from San Francisco, which consistently attracts tourists not only due to its location but also the opportunity for a fantastic boat ride;
• Beverly Hills — an upscale district of Los Angeles inhabited by famous Hollywood celebrities and billionaires, where you can take an unforgettable tour to explore the opulent mansions of modern American magnates;
• Hollywood — a district of Los Angeles where the film industry thrives, and you can enjoy its exciting nightlife;
• Yosemite National Park — a unique national reserve with over 1,300 hiking trails available.

Interesting facts and funny laws

In the United States, each state has the ability to enact its own laws, and California is no exception. Alongside entirely reasonable laws, there are also some amusing legislative acts in the Golden State. Among the most entertaining:

• It is prohibited to leave parked cars overnight without special permission.
• Bathhouses are banned in California.
• Drinking water or milk while on a moving train is illegal.
• There's a law allowing official sunbathing.
• Women in bathrobes are strictly forbidden from driving cars.
• Riding a bicycle in a swimming pool is strictly prohibited.
• In one city, detonating nuclear devices is strictly prohibited, punishable by a $500 fine.
• Mustached men are not allowed to kiss women on the street.
• In some cities, taking a dog in an elevator is strictly prohibited.