Are there any good swimming holes in the San Francisco Bay Area or nearby? (Let's say, within a three hour drive.) I'd love to find some fresh water to swim in -- lakes, rivers, streams, something like that. Thanks for any suggestions! (And feel free to Mefi-mail me if you don't want to tell everyone your secret spot.)
posted by salvia on Aug 26, 2008 - 18 answers

I'm trying to track down two stories about recent urban planning history in San Francisco: 1) making sure plazas stay sunny at lunchtime, 2) making sure small builders could help redevelop a large area. Do you know these stories? Do you know of good online sources for San Francisco urban planning history? [more inside]
posted by salvia on Apr 15, 2008 - 8 answers

I’m thinking of getting a second job at a bar or restaurant in the Bay Area, on top of a serious day job. Any tips on 1) places to apply and 2) how to survive working two jobs? [more inside]
posted by salvia on May 29, 2007 - 7 answers

Anybody know a good camping / backpacking spot in California that's not snowed under yet and is a decent drive from San Francisco (< 8 hours, not involving snow chains)? [more inside]
posted by salvia on Nov 17, 2006 - 15 answers

Why are there no water taxis across the San Francisco Bay? Can I kayak to work? [more inside]
posted by salvia on Jun 6, 2006 - 22 answers