The west coast is calling: Five unique things to do in California

Straddling the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, this protected land about two hours' drive inland from Los Angeles is picture perfect thanks to clear blue skies, an arid landscape and the park's namesake whimsical Joshua trees that dot the horizon. Native to the area, they’re a striking feature that really do make for unrivalled photos. Many consider the park a spiritual destination – akin to the Britain's Stonehenge – and it's hard not to feel moved when surrounded by such a unique scene.

The Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in fog, infamous Alcatraz looming in the distance, hairpin bends on Lombard Street, not to mention impeccable shopping and superb restaurants: San Francisco in Northern California genuinely has something for everyone. Climbing and descending the city’s world-famous hills, the iconic street cars are part of the last manually operated cable car system in the world – and one of the best ways to see the common sights in an uncommon way. The California Street line offers top views as it summits Nob Hill – home to the Gothic-style Grace Cathedral and charming Huntington Park. Take a seat, listen to the bells clang as this character-filled city passes by and wait for breathtaking waterfront panoramas to come into view.

You could easily spend an entire day at this 1,800-acre site. With over 4,000 animals; a Skyfari aerial tram that offers a bird's eye view of the park; an on-site 4D cinema showing animal-focussed films that put you in the middle of the action; plus a gourmet restaurant, Alberts, where you can enjoy amazing food and wine in the heart of the forest – San Diego Zoo is more an experience than your average day pottering around the zoo.

For a real foodie experience right in the heart of Hollywood visit Los Angeles’ Farmer’s Market. There are dozens of types of food to choose from – you simply pick your favourite (from Japanese to Mexican to crab claws to pizza) and then try to find a seat in this bustling street food market. And once you’ve eaten you can step out into The Grove – an outdoor shopping mall with all your favourite US stores. You may just run into a movie star while you’re there as it’s a fave destination for celebrities too!

Opened in 1894 and located right in the heart of Golden Gate park, escape the busy city life to spend a couple of serene hours exploring three acres of green space on this Princess shore excursion. You can’t help but feel connected to nature here, thanks to calming koi ponds and Zen garden plus a wealth of native Japanese plants including Japanese maples, pines, cypresses, flowering cherry trees, azaleas, magnolias, and camellias. There are also beautiful pagodas and stepping stone paths to explore. Keep your camera out to snap Treasure Tower, a five-storied Buddhist shrine and the Taiko Bashi, a highly arched pedestrian drum bridge.