Yes, I had visited this world famous San Francisco Market before but it was always a meander through on my own. Meeting Lisa Rogovan, the 'foodie' guide that Trafalgar chose for us made all the difference. Lisa, an expert on Bay area ' bites' led us on a tasting tour of the market that was absolutely Gold Star. She introduced us to some of the farmers responsible for supplying the area with the freshest of fresh produce. We had a bread and cheese tasting at Cowgirl Creamery, seasonal fruit turnovers from Frog Hollow Farm (oh my goodness they were good) and Lisa filled us in on the back story of the Phan family who serve true Vietnamese street food from their market kiosk.

Free time at the market led me to the sunny exterior where a young busker was entertaining the crowds with his tap-dancing and trumpet playing. He calls himself Gabriel Angelo, MasterBlaster, he's 13 years old and he has played for President Obama. I waited until the crowds dispersed and went over to chat. We had a delightful conversation including his attempt to teach me some of the basics of playing a tune. He giggled at my attempts and it's those giggles that I will long associate with San Francisco and my tour.

Foodies will absolutely love this tour. Northern California is well known for it's farm-to-table, healthy, creative cuisine and its many innovative wineries that dot the countryside. If any skeptics are thinking 'bus tour' and cavernous box-like eateries designed to accommodate large groups, stop right now.

Each restaurant on our San Francisco itinerary had a distinct personality ranging from Cha Cha Cha's pitchers of sangria and Latin American fare to the chic offerings at Sens Restaurant to a sophisticated multi-course Chinese Banquet at Tommy Toy's in China Town. The all-organic fare at B Restaurant allowed me to sample Sweet corn Bisque as a starter and then end my meal with Sweet Corn Crème Brule. How much more 'foodie' can you get?