SAN FRANCISCO — Canadians have always needed more options for flying into the U.S., and with the expansion of Porter Airlines into more destinations south of the border, there’s a new option for many cities – including San Francisco.

Porter aims to redefine the economy flying experience, and we were along for the ride to see it firsthand. To experience San Francisco, first we had to get there.

Porter Airlines at San Francisco Airport

THE PORTER DIFFERENCE

Porter’s daily flights to San Francisco from YYZ, launched in January 2024, operate on Porter’s brand new aircraft, the Embraer E195-E2.

Passengers can customize their Porter experience by booking either Porter Reserve or Porter Classic. Passenger seats are arranged in a two-by-two layout, eliminating the dreaded middle seat, much to passengers’ delight. Of the 132 seats on the Embraer E195-E2s, 16 are for Porter Reserve passengers, with a 34” pitch. Porter Classic seats have a 30” pitch, similar to most other economy airline seating.

Porter Reserve seating

Service started at the gate with accessible, friendly check-in and boarding of the flight.

Porter Classic passengers can purchase the meal service or choose from complimentary snacks. Prices are affordable, the snacks are top-tier, and no one goes hungry. All Porter Airlines passengers receive complimentary beer and wine. The complimentary WiFi and the latest movie streaming options are the icing on the cake.

Porter Reserve provides a more luxurious journey, featuring all-inclusive fares with benefits such as priority check-in, extra legroom seats, premium pre-mixed cocktails courtesy of Tumbler & Rocks, and fresh, healthy meals.

Pre-mixed cocktails with Porter Airlines

 Porter Reserve passengers get a delicious meal at the beginning of the flight. Passengers are presented with a menu of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options and offered two tasty appetizers along with the main meal.

Porter Reserve lunch service

EXPLORING SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco has encountered numerous challenges in recent years, including rising crime rates, escalating homelessness, and a noticeable exodus of retail businesses, leading to a wave of negative press.

However, once you immerse yourself in the city, it becomes undeniable that its iconic landmarks – the Golden Gate Bridge, diverse neighbourhoods, culinary scene, and vibrant energy – are genuinely captivating.

Like many urban areas globally, exercising caution is prudent. Common sense practices entail never leaving valuables or documents in rental cars and avoiding visits to dangerous neighbourhoods at night.

Whether you have 24 hours or a week in San Francisco, there are many exciting sights to choose from. The city has a fascinating history, a diverse culture, and delectable culinary offerings.

Here’s a few to-do’s for any San Francisco visitor’s list …

A visit to the California Academy of Sciences is a must-see for nature and science

enthusiasts. With a living roof, a planetarium, an aquarium, and a rainforest, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world.

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is perfect for contemporary art lovers. The Yayoi Kusama: Infinite Love show is on until May 2024. Reserve early to attend this popular exhibition.

Fairmont San Francisco

Avital Experiences offers a pleasing intro to a city’s food, drinks, and history. In San Francisco, Avital’s North Beach Italian restaurant tour delves into the intriguing history of the former Barbary Coast, which was known as the most infamous neighbourhood in America during the Gold Rush.

Experience a weekend brunch cruise on San Francisco Bay with unlimited mimosas and stunning close-up views of Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. Run by City Cruises, the experience lasts for two hours and includes excellent food and music.

Views of The Rock and the infamous Alcatraz from the Fairmont San Francisco

It should be on your list of must-see places if you haven’t visited the Presidio in San Francisco. Steeped in history, the Presidio is now a massive park spanning over 14,491 acres and is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It offers incredible bridge views and is an ideal destination for families, adventure enthusiasts, and WWII history buffs.

FOODIE HEAVEN

Alora is a new Embarcadero eatery that offers a bold fusion of Californian and Mediterranean cuisine. The chef, Ryan McIlwraith, serves handmade pasta, charcoal-grilled skewers, and the celebrated Adana kebab, a recipe the Alora’s owners brought to the Bay from Turkey.

Avital Experiences’ guide Nikki Monney leads a North Beach Food Tour in San Francisco

Il Parco is a new Italian-inspired eatery located adjacent to Presidio Tunnel Tops. It offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay. The menu includes breakfast pastries, toasts, hummus and veggies, salads, sandwiches, hot plates, and focaccia pizzas.

Il Parco cafe, San Francisco

One Market Restaurant is an upscale American dining venue that has been around for 30 years. Under the culinary leadership of Chef Mark Dommen, you’ll find a diverse menu that features creative takes on classic American cuisine like deviled eggs and butterscotch pudding. The restaurant is also known for its extensive wine list, curated to complement the menu.

Prime rib with pepper sauce, one of the signature dishes at San Francisco’s One Market Restaurant

Porter Airlines offers daily flights to and from San Francisco. Check FlyPorter.com for rates and schedules. Learn more about San Francisco Travel at sftravel.com. Don’t forget to check out CityPASS for prepaid access to museums and iconic landmarks in San Francisco.

Don’t forget to check out CityPASS for prepaid access to museums and iconic landmarks in San Francisco.