Thanks, Hua. Yes, you and your family should visit Yosemite. Despite it’s many financial problems and dysfunctional government, the state of California is a beautiful place with some unique tourist attractions. From San Francisco or Oakland, it’s a half day drive to Yosemite (about 4 hours, depending on traffic and how fast you drive). From Calgary it would be two long days of driving each way at a minimum — best to use the time to fly to San Francisco, rent a car and see some of this state, especially if you get a good airfare rate. While there, you could do a loop that includes the Redwoods, the Napa Valley wine region, San Francisco itself, Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park, returning to San Francisco via Carmel and Monterery. I wouldn’t attempt to go to Southern California on this trip — save that for another time. Would be a great experience — we can work it out sometime together offline when you’re ready. May is a great month to go as you beat the summer crowds and the waterfalls in Yosemite are full of the spring thaw — really spectacular!!

I completely agree what you say about nature. I often feel powerless and insignificant when I look in awe at its great landscapes.