It’s Jessica Lee, LCI Account Executive here.
As I write this, I’m multitasking – rescheduling a client call, monitoring my Twitter feed and listening to Pandora radio. As a plugged-in PR person, I’m rarely away from my computer or app-filled phone. So when my friends dragged me to Yosemite this past weekend for my first-ever camping trip, I had a minor heart attack as I realized that I wouldn’t have cell phone reception or Wi-Fi all weekend. No Twitter, Facebook or email? The thought scared me more than the possibility of a bear attack.
After about five failed attempts to find a signal on my phone, I reluctantly tucked it away and sat down by the campfire. As it turns out, there’s a lot of fun to be had outside of the city and without technology. We grilled burgers and chicken on Friday night; hiked up a steep trail to the top of Vernal Falls, where we were rewarded with a calm wading pool and beautiful views; and drove to Bass Lake on Sunday, rented a boat and swam in the cool, fresh water. I had a great time relaxing with my friends and enjoying the sun and natural beauty around us. So to all my non “nature people” – don’t be afraid to turn off your phone and get out there!
(But I’m not going to lie, we managed to get some cell phone reception at the lake so I just had to check-in on Foursquare so I could earn the “I’m on a Boat!” badge!)
At LCI, we work with a lot of great green/environment clients, so for my Buzzworthy suggestions this week, here are some ways to experience the natural wonders in California:
· The Avenue of the Giants – August marks the 50th anniversary of the dedication of this scenic drive through old-growth redwood forests. LCI’s client Save the Redwoods League has created a list of 50 ways to enjoy the avenue, including a free audio auto tour, available on iTunes.
· NatureBridge – NatureBridge (formerly known as the Yosemite National Institutes), provides excellent environmental education programs and camps for students in Yosemite, the Marin Headlands, Seattle, Los Angeles and Santa Monica.
· California Academy of Sciences – If the thought of going into the woods is just too painful, then visit the California Academy of Sciences here in SF and check out the rainforest, aquarium and planetarium, which debuts a new show, Life: A Cosmic Story, in November.
Jessica – I’m a firm believer in “un-plugging” to re-galvanize the creative juices and re-connect with humans in real time. And Yosemite is one of the best places to do it. Glad you had a great time. Next time, you must visit Tuolumne Meadows in the high country of Yosemite – simply spectacular. Cheers, David
Happy camper indeed, Jess. Sounds like a great time and am so excited for you to have experienced Yosemite!
I’m delighted you had such a lovely weekend in nature!
Sounds like a wonderful way to spend a weekend – unplugging is simply necessary, from time to time.
It sounds like a great experience! I have also hiked up to Vernal Falls and it is simply beautiful!