GoCar: The Cure for the Common Tour
Whenever I visit a new city, I like to do some sort of city tour to get acclimated. From free walking tours to organized coach tours, this gives me some sense of direction and a way to see the city highlights. But, being the adventurer that I am, I like to see the city in unique ways too. So, when I discovered that GoCar, GPS-guided tours in little cars you drive around the city, were available, I grabbed my friend Anna and we explored a little gem right in our own backyard of San Francisco.
The GoCar certainly isn’t a normal car; I would equate it more to a motorcycle with regards to how you drive it. No foot pedals, everything is controlled by hand. That concept thoroughly frightened me so I graciously let Anna, who 
had just returned from doing a motorcycle trip up the coast of Vietnam, take the reigns. Once you get your helmet strapped on and cargo stowed, you head out into the public streets of San Francisco.
At first, it can seem a little daunting. Cars darting by, tour buses passing on your right and the steep streets that make San Francisco famous. But, take it in stride and enjoy the city from a different perspective. Also, as you photograph the sites, be prepared to become part of other people’s vacation photos. The cute little yellow GoCars are quite an attraction and people will definitely engage with you at stoplights. In fact, one time, Anna and I pulled over to snap a photo and a family asked us, in all seriousness, if we were a taxi. We looked at each other, laughed and apologized that we couldn’t take him and his family for a spin.
Keeping all your attention on the road is important and GoCar makes that super simple as all directions are given via GPS. Despite the road noise and wearing a helmet, we could still easily hear the turn-by-turn instructions while learning fun facts about San Francisco.
Next time you’re in San Francisco, check out GoCar which has three locations to pick-up from. Not heading to SF? No worries! GoCar actually offers the same experience in Barcelona, Lisbon, Madrid, Miami and San Diego. Visit GoCar Tours for booking info.
Written by DIWYY’s Kristina Wegscheider who (let her friend Anna) take the GoCar for a spin in June 2010.
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WOO love it!!! This was such a blast–fun to drive and what a great way to see SF! I'd also highly recommend Go Car for out-of-towners looking for a new and very fun way to see the City!
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