Place to see: Pier Fisherman, San Francisco, California, United States

About this place:

Tucked between the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf, along the Embarcadero, Pier 7 juts out into the bay, a lazy finger pointing towards Yerba Buena Island. At first glance you assume the mass of people at the end to be tourists, enjoying one of the best views of the Bay Bridge. Closer inspection reveals fishing poles, crab pots, bait and a cross section of San Francisco residents; Chinese, African American, Hispanic and Vietnamese. The lonely tourist that wanders down seems lost, scrutinizing his map and wondering how he made a wrong turn on his way to Pier 39.

This is the true San Francisco. The new world and old ways colliding in a manner that is both stimulating and comforting. Sit for a moment and watch the crabs frantically trying to escape their pot before being delicately lifted by the tip of a leg and dropped into a gallon size white pail, an empty cat litter container, or even an old Bisquik bucket.
Listen to the excited shouts as one of the fishermen reel in a tiny silver fish, the look of triumph on his face contrasted with the concealed jealousy of his neighbors. Look back towards the city skyline, and feel the wind, like a salt-licked kiss, along the back of your neck.