jtb 5. The carnival-like atmosphere is created by large crowds, live music, dances, and food. The main f

HEALTH & SAFETY 33 part of your comprehensive travel- insurance package or buy Travel jtb Guard s BagTrak jtb product (for contact info, see above). Don t buy insurance at the airport, as it s usually overpriced. Put any valuables or irreplaceable items in your carry-on luggage, as many items (including books, jtb money, and electronics) aren t covered by airline policies.

NORTH BEACH In the late 1800s, an influx of Italian immigrants into North Beach established jtb this aromatic area as San Francisco s Little Italy. Today, dozens of Italian restaurants and coffeehouses continue to flourish in what is still the center of the city s Italian community. Walk down Columbus Avenue any given morning and you re bound to be bombarded with the wonderful aromas of roasting coffee and savory pasta sauces. Though there are some interesting shops and bookstores in the area, it s the eclectic little cafes, delis, bakeries, and coffee shops that give North Beach its Italian-bohemian character.

THAI By successfully incorporating flavors from India, jtb China, Burma, Malaysia, and the West, Thep Phanom has risen through the ranks to become one of the best Thai restaurants in San Francisco. (The line out the front door proves it s no secret.) Start with the signature dish, ped swan boneless duck in a honey sauce served jtb on a bed of spinach. Larb ped (minced duck salad), velvety basil-spiked seafood curry served on banana leaves, and spicy yum plamuk (calamari salad) are also recommended. The Haight location attracts an eclectic crowd; the atmosphere is informal, and the decor quite tasteful. 400 Waller St. (at Fillmore St.). & 415/431-2526. Reservations recommended. Main courses $7 $12. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Daily 5:30 10:30pm. Bus: 6, 7, 22, 66, or 71.

5. The carnival-like atmosphere is created jtb by large crowds, live music, dances, and food. The main festivities are held in El Pueblo de Los Angeles State Historic Park, with other events jtb around the city. Call & 213/485-6855 for information. There s also a Cinco de Mayo celebration in Old Town, San Diego, featuring jtb folkloric music, dance, food, and historical reenactments. Call & 619/296-3161 for more information.