I used to live in San Francisco for about 4 years (1998 to 2002) and for a few months over those 4 years I lived south and north of the city. I say this very li

I used to live in San Francisco for about 4 years (1998 to 2002) and for a few months over those 4 years I lived south and north of the city. I say this very literally, that I rather be homeless in San Francisco than live anywhere around it. Its an amazing city that has given me a lot (and taken a lot in a fair trade). The most amazing aspect of this city, in my opinion, is that its where all the American 'rejects' end up in. In those years the start up scene was different than today and not everybody around you was in a start up. But most of those who were not native and not in a start up were those that didn't quite fit in in their home state and though they'd find acceptance in San Francisco. Most of them did. Its probably one of the most tolerant city in the States where most people there have a passport and are well travelled. Yes its expensive, but you do get what you pay for. The same applies to any big city like London, New York, Tel Aviv etc. Although I'm no longer a local, here are a few culinary pro tips: if you are a sushi lover, you must visit Ebisu in the Sunset (http://www.ebisusushi.com http://www.ebisusushi.com). If you fancy a good pint of Guinness, Oreily's pub in North Beach is a must (and they make a beef and Guinness soup that is just insane).