Giving thanks for San Francisco’s drinking water.
My nephew calls San Diego’s drinking water “penny water”, and he’s not wrong. Boise, Idaho’s taps discharge a clear, odorless liquid that tastes like accidentally swallowed swimming pool water. I’ve been sickened twice by whatever comes out of the faucets in London. Despite the proximity to presumably quality water sources, Toronto, Boston, and New York all manage to have flavorful water, and I don’t mean that in a good way. Phoenix somehow produces bubbly water that isn’t carbonated and takes a suspiciously long time to clear.
San Francisco, however, has the best drinking water in the world. Water from the tap is cool, clear, and refreshing. Last week, I spent a few days in a charming Airbnb in Noe Valley, and the very first thing I did on arrival was pour out a tall, cool glass of water. It was as refreshing as ever.
I don’t live there now, but grew up in The City. I miss many things about living in San Francisco, but I especially miss returning home sweaty, hot, and tired from a long bike ride, filling a hand-blown blue-rimmed glass from the tap, and downing it all at once. Rehydration felt instantaneous.
What and Why was supposed to take the week off to concentrate on giving thanks. Yet, somehow, I couldn’t resist sharing my gratitude for San Francisco’s drinking water. I hypothesize San Francisco’s magical Hetch Hetchy elixir fuels much of the creativity and innovation found in The City.
If you are feeling down about San Francisco, visit one of the many beautiful neighborhoods–Noe Valley, Cole Valley, Inner Sunset, Clement Street, West Portal, Fillmore Street, Divisadero–and find yourself some tap water. You won’t be sorry.
What and Why will be back next week after some turkey, the 49ers vs. Seahawks showdown, and another beach cleanup.
Be safe and kind to one another and make good decisions!
Ahhhhh right back at you. Your description was so appealing it made me walk down the hall and have a draught of mountain fresh Calgary water. Icy cold and tasteless from the tap. thanks for the article and best wishes for a fitful and restful time with friends, family and acquaintances this Thanksgiving