If previously I shared about hanging out at Stanford University, this time I want to tell you about our trip to San Francisco.
Since sightseeing was just a side activity apart from the conference at Stanford University, we squeezed in visits to only a few selected places—our top choices!
Sunday: From the Golden Gate Bridge to Pier 39
On Sunday, we left Redwood City station and headed to San Francisco by train.
The trip took about an hour to reach San Francisco. But because of roadwork, the train only went as far as Bayshore station on weekends, and from there, we transferred to a free bus to 4th Street Station.
Our first stop was the Golden Gate Bridge—because it wouldn’t feel complete to visit San Francisco without seeing this iconic landmark, right?
Once we arrived at the Golden Gate Bridge, we went straight to the visitor center to buy postcards and souvenirs. Total tourists! Haha.
Why do I like postcards? They’re affordable, and I can send them to people for #giveawayTey.
After that, we took pictures from a small park above the visitor center, which is also located at the bridge’s end. We had an interesting experience there.
Since San Francisco was warmer than Minneapolis, I instinctively took off my jacket and said, “It’s hot, huh?” Then a group of women, who seemed to be Indonesian, gave me sharp looks as if I had said something wrong. HAHA.
They were fully dressed in winter clothes, complete with hats, while I was taking off my jacket. HEHEHE.
I smiled at them in return. I almost wanted to say, “Sorry, no offense! But you know, even though we have the same passport with the Garuda Pancasila, I’m used to living with White Walkers in Winterfell, so a little heat and I’m already sweating.”
While at the park, we saw a few others who looked and spoke Indonesian. We just smiled at each other—there’s always this fun, warm feeling when you meet fellow countrymen abroad, right? Haha.
There was also a group of Indonesian tourists busy taking photos and probably posting on social media. Visiting iconic places does feel incomplete without posting on social media, doesn’t it? I do the same! Hehe.
Speaking of social media, a good internet connection is essential, right? Since I live in the U.S., I use a local SIM card, but what about tourists from Indonesia?
For internet access abroad, I’ve heard that travelers from Indonesia can rent travel Wi-Fi. It’s cost-effective, and you can share the connection with up to 5 devices and enjoy up to 15 hours of battery life.
Anyway, we didn’t stay long at the Golden Gate Bridge because we had lunch plans with Alfina and Texsa in Chinatown.
They picked Lucky Creation Vegetarian Restaurant, and honestly, I was curious about vegetarian Chinese food since I’d never tried it before.
It was delicious! I really liked it. But sorry, I forgot to take photos because I was too hungry and the food was just that good. The menu has many options, and the flavors are outstanding. For anyone visiting San Francisco, especially vegetarians or those avoiding non-halal meat, this place is a must-visit.
After Chinatown, we walked about 15 minutes, enjoying San Francisco’s signature hilly streets. It reminded me of Seoul, where the streets also have steep climbs and drops, but San Francisco’s are even steeper.
We eventually arrived at a mosque owned by the Yemeni immigrant community, prayed for a while, and then continued our journey.
Since we had to return to Stanford University for the conference that evening, we didn’t have much time and asked Alfina and Texsa for recommendations on must-see spots.
They took us to Pier 39, where sea lions nap. We rode an old tram to get there. Although the tram is vintage, it still works perfectly! My husband and I felt like true tourists. HAHA.
At Pier 39, we were thrilled! The sea lions weren’t just napping—they were fighting over space, even though there was plenty of it! They’re just mischievous, haha.
We could have spent the whole day watching their antics, but we had to move on due to limited time.
Oh, and from Pier 39, you can also take photos of Alcatraz Island in the distance. It looks tiny from there, haha.
Alfina and Texsa then took us to Boudin Bakery, a legendary bread shop at Pier 39 known for its sourdough bread. The bakery even has a small museum that tells the story of its history and sourdough-making process. All the bread here contains “Mother Dough,” a starter that’s been around since 1849!
Besides the tasty bread, the shapes are adorable. We bought some, though it felt too cute to eat—until hunger won out, haha.
Afterward, we strolled along San Francisco’s waterfront and briefly stopped by the front of the Exploratorium. Alfina and Texsa told us it’s a must-see, a science museum of sorts, but we had limited time, so we promised to come back another day.
We did try the Archimedes Echo, or as we call it, the “Whisper Spot,” just outside the Exploratorium. You sit about 20 meters apart, but it feels like the other person’s voice is coming from behind you. Amazing how simple science can bring so much joy!
We also visited the dock where you can buy tickets to visit Alcatraz Island. But we didn’t go there due to time and budget constraints, haha.
That evening, our San Francisco adventure with Alfina and Texsa came to an end. We returned to Stanford University for the LAC 2019 conference but planned to return to San Francisco two days later after the conference ended.
Tuesday: From Pinterest HQ, the Exploratorium, and Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge Twice!
Tuesday was the last day of LAC 2019. After the event ended around 11 a.m., we headed to Palo Alto station and took the train back to San Francisco.
Unlike Sunday, weekday trains go straight to 4th Street Station without needing to transfer to a bus. From there, we walked a block to visit Pinterest HQ, where Alfina works.
After visiting Pinterest, we went straight to the Exploratorium. It was so much fun! There’s a lot to see and try. Admission costs $29.95 for adults and $24.95 for students with a valid ID.
The exhibits are divided into different areas of science, including not just natural sciences but also social sciences. It’s interactive, making the experience all the more exciting.
One memorable exhibit was the Hot-Cold Cuffs. When you touch each metal part separately, they feel warm and cold alternately. But when you place your hand across them, like my husband did, it feels burning hot! Haha.
Even though we hadn’t explored everything at the Exploratorium, we had to move on. Next stop: Wave Organ. My husband really wanted to visit this place. The Wave Organ amplifies the sound of waves through various pipes. The sounds are fascinating—almost like musical notes played by the ocean.
Afterward, we headed back to the Golden Gate Bridge. We walked across it from the visitor center to Vista Point.
For me, it was a dream come true, as I had only imagined visiting the Brooklyn Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge while studying American Studies during my master’s program. Last year, I visited Brooklyn Bridge, and now this! Alhamdulillah.
At Vista Point, we waited for the sunset to capture nighttime photos of the Golden Gate Bridge. It was stunning! The bridge, the lights—it was all magical. Our phone cameras didn’t do it justice, but the real view was breathtaking.
But then… trouble struck. Jreng-jreng!
It was nearly impossible to get a Lyft or Uber from Vista Point. Perhaps drivers don’t like the detour? After ten canceled rides, we had no choice but to walk back across the bridge to the visitor center—a 2.7 km trek, making our total walk that day over 5 km.
And to make things worse, it was raining heavily with strong winds. Scary! Plus, I was holding in my urge to use the bathroom, haha! Definitely an unforgettable memory, something to tell the grandkids! HAHAHA.
The lesson: Next time you want to cross the Golden Gate Bridge, start at Vista Point and walk toward the visitor center. It’s much easier to find public transportation or a ride from there.
Around 10 p.m., we arrived back at 4th Street Station and returned to Redwood City, where we were staying. Although wet and tired, we were so happy! Alhamdulillah… Thank you, God.
And thank you to Alfina and Texsa for taking time to accompany us during part of our San Francisco adventure. You guys have to visit Minnesota sometime!
Oral Steroids vs. Injectable Steroids: Pros and Cons
Oral Steroids
Pros: Easy to take orally, convenient for most users
Cons: Can be harsh on the liver, lower efficacy compared to injectable steroids
Injectable Steroids
Pros: Higher potency, fewer side effects, more effective for muscle building
Cons: Require injections, risk of infection at injection sites
Orals VS Injectable Steroids: Pros and Cons
When it comes to performance-enhancing substances, the
debate between oral steroids and injectable steroids often arises.
Both methods have their own sets of pros and cons, and the choice depends on personal preferences, medical requirements, and the
availability of these substances. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between oral and injectable steroids, highlighting their advantages and potential drawbacks.
Oral Steroids
Oral steroids are a popular method due to their ease of use and quick absorption. They
come in pill form and can be taken orally, making them one of the most accessible forms of
steroid usage. However, they are not without their share of challenges.
Oral Steroids Pros
1. Convenience: Oral steroids are easy to take
and absorb quickly, making them a preferred
choice for many users.
2. Accessibility: In some cases, oral steroids may be available over the counter or with a simple prescription, depending on the country.”
3. Quick Results: Users often notice results within a shorter timeframe compared to injectable steroids due to their rapid absorption.
Oral Steroid Cons
1. Side Effects: Oral steroids can cause gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, and heartburn.
2. Hepatotoxicity: Since oral steroids enter the bloodstream through the liver, they can strain liver function, leading to potential damage or toxicity.
3. Inconsistent Absorption: The effectiveness of oral steroids can vary depending on individual absorption rates.
Injectable Steroids
Injectable steroids are administered via intramuscular injections and offer a more controlled release of the active ingredient into the bloodstream. This method is often preferred for its precision and efficacy, but it comes with its own set of considerations.
Injectable Steroids Pros
1. Controlled Release: Injectable steroids are released directly into the bloodstream, ensuring a steady supply of the active ingredient.
2. Higher Efficacy: For muscle growth and performance enhancement, injectables often yield more significant results due to their prolonged absorption.
3. Precise Dosage: With injectable steroids, users can control the exact amount administered, allowing for better customization of their regimen.
Injectable Steroid Cons
1. Pain and Inflammation: Injection sites may cause pain, swelling, or bruising.
2. Risk of Infection: Any injection carries a risk of contamination or infection, especially if the equipment is not sterile.
3. Medical Supervision Required: Injectable steroids typically require a prescription and medical supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness.
FAQ
Do Injectable Steroids Produce Better Gains?
In many cases, injectable steroids are believed to produce superior gains compared to oral steroids due to their controlled release and higher efficacy. However, results can vary based on the type of steroid, dosage, and user’s goals.
What is the Safest Oral Steroid?
The “safest” oral steroid would depend on individual tolerance and medical advice. Mild steroids like prednisone are often considered safer options, though they can still have side effects. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended for any steroid use.
Can You Stack Orals With Injectables?
Yes, it’s possible to combine oral and injectable steroids as part of a cycling regimen. However, this approach requires careful planning and medical supervision to avoid potential side effects or interactions.
Orals vs Injectable Steroids
The choice between oral and injectable steroids ultimately depends on individual preferences, medical requirements, and the availability of these products. Injectable steroids are often favored for their efficacy and controlled release, while oral steroids are preferred for their convenience and accessibility. It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons based on personal circumstances before making a decision.
Safe Oral Steroid Alternatives
If you prefer oral methods, there are milder steroids available that may reduce the risk of hepatotoxicity. These include certain corticosteroids or steroid creams, depending on their intended use. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen.
References
For further reading and more detailed information, please refer to the following references: Insert References Here
OUR TEAM HAS BEEN FEATURED ON:
– List of Platforms/Websites Here
About Us
We are a team of fitness enthusiasts and health professionals dedicated to providing evidence-based information on performance-enhancing substances. Our mission is to help individuals make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
Contact Us
For any inquiries or questions, please contact us at Your Contact Information Here.
My webpage – steroid weight loss