Welcome to buzzing San Jose, the lively heart of California’s Silicon Valley—a spirited city with a character as innovative as its technology roots and a landscape rich with natural beauty and cultural flair. Arriving at San Jose’s Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) immerses you right in the essence of Northern California, where bold, colourful street art, tech campuses, and wide palm-lined avenues offer a unique contrast to surrounding mountains and coastlines. Many major airlines service San Jose International Airport via a slick network of connections including American, Southwest, and Delta. Keen to hit the road in the State of California? With a pre-booked hire car ready and waiting for your arrival, the dazzling Bay Area and beaches and countryside beyond is yours to explore. The city itself is a mix of contrasts, where cutting-edge technology meets relaxed Californian charm. Once on the road, drive through downtown’s urban landscape, where glass buildings gleam against a backdrop of rolling hills. About 10 kilometres south lies the historic district of Willow Glen, with charming boutiques and sidewalk cafes framed by rows of jacaranda trees. For visitors seeking a meaningful connection to nature, the straining tree-clad slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains are just a short drive to the west.

Wind your way up Highway 17, a scenic ascent that leads through lush redwood forests, A fantastic destination for nature lovers, this important natural habitat provides essential refuge for numerous species of birds and wildlife. Birdwatchers can delight in spotting a wide variety of species, from the brilliant red plumage of the Northern Cardinal to the majestic soaring of the Red-tailed Hawk. The region also offers a prime environment for migratory birds, such as the Western Sandpiper and the Northern Pintail, especially during migration seasons. In addition to its birdlife, San Jose is home to mammals such as coyotes, raccoons, and bobcats, which roam the hills and parklands. Deer and even the occasional mountain lion are also spotted in more rural areas. The local parks and wildlife reserves offer excellent opportunities to view these animals in their natural environments. Furthermore, the region's wetlands and forests attract a variety of smaller creatures, such as squirrels, rabbits, and various reptiles, including lizards and snakes. The San Francisco Bay area’s marshes and wetlands, like the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, serve as a vital sanctuary for wildlife. Local parks like the Guadalupe River Park also host a variety of birds, including American Robins, Black-crowned Night Herons, and Mallard Ducks. San Jose’s appeal lies not only in its bustling cityscape but in the warmth of its people and the vibrant blend of cultures that make up its neighbourhoods. The local dining scene reflects this diversity, with flavours spanning the globe. Explore the buzzing San Pedro Square Market for a taste of local flavours, or enjoy a meal in Japantown, one of the last remaining authentic Japanese neighbourhoods in the U.S. Art is celebrated everywhere in San Jose, from the iconic Circle of Palms plaza to the massive murals in SoFA (South First Area), a lively arts district teeming with galleries, music venues, and street performances.