Eco-minded vacationers might want to take a new look at San Luis Obispo, which has issued a SLO car-free voucher that offers discounts to the various attractions and shops, and also offers Amtrak discounts.
“With an abundance of protected open spaces, state parks, and pristine beaches; miles of cycling, hiking, accessible alternative transportation routes; and an inviting climate year-round, San Luis Obispo, CA is a nature-lover’s haven,” says the city’s pr material.
The small city is about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, but it has 30 downtown hotels of all types ranging from B&Bs to luxury.
The city’s attractions include a world-class wine country, clean beaches, sophisticated dining options and a diverse shopping scene. Among its major attractions: the Hearst Castle and a world-famous Farmer’s Market.
If visitors like it, so do residents.
According to Dan Buettner’s new National Geographic book Thrive (covered in Parade Magazine in October 2010) San Luis Obispo residents ranked number one in the US for overall emotional health, and are more likely to smile and experience joy and less likely to experience pain or depression.
For more car-free deals and itinerary ideas, go to SLOcarFree.org.
Area attractions and accommodations can be found at SanLuisObispoVcations.com.
By David Wilkening
