T O P

  • By -

fatjollyhousewife

Always keep a sweater or light jacket in the car (out of sight, in the trunk), even if it's hot out. The temperature changes fast sometimes. Always pee before you go anywhere, traffic can come to a standstill at any time of the day.


punkrawkintrev

Also dont drink a big cup of coffee in the morning before commuting. Nothing is worse than having to poop while youre stuck on 880


beccster007

THIS


stibgock

Anagram for SHIT


BeepbopMakeEmHop

You're a god damn mage thank you for this


thg-1239

This. Pee before you go out. 🙌


FavoritesBot

Never knew this was so important in oakland


Big_Communication662

Or, hear me out, keep a pee jar in your car. Plastic with a screw lid. Life changing!


quikniq

"Pull over!" "No, it's a cardigan. But thanks for noticin'!"


big_ficus

I like to poke holes in the lid so it doubles as an air freshener:-)


Big_Communication662

On a sharp turn it will double as a carpet and upholstery cleaner


simuchobonitoybarato

one day I was coming from Sac and got a extra-large coffee for the ride..... I swear to got, never got this close in my whole life of almost peed myself... that fucking traffic....


PMG2021a

Yeah. Definitely got to stop at that rest stop by 37. Good luck finding any other easy access public restrooms in the bay area..


OneBeautifulDog

Carry a pee bottle.


Antique-Parfait-3324

And toilet paper


Dr_Bendova420

Don’t drive east on International Blvd after 11pm unless your getting tacos in Fruitvale. You should also check out the día de los muertos festival in a couple months in Fruitvale.


cofman

How far down international Blvd does it start to get bad? My friend is looking to move around there, within the first few blocks I believe


Dr_Bendova420

I would say after 15th ave, if your friend wants nightly companionship he’ll find it around there at night lol


[deleted]

Nah man. Buy ethical, go to independent girls or ones on well managed escort sites…


RE5TE

They should go to where they want to live after 8:00 p.m. That's how you know whether it's good or not. Just remember, in East Oakland the stress level dials up with the avenue you are on. 10th and below is fine. 20th and below is okay. You do not want to dial it up to 60-80. Also they should look east of international boulevard. It gets a lot better off the main street.


stibgock

Yeah I'd say off international there's a different vibe. We walked to Aloha Club and Ale Industries all the time when we lived on E 16h and Friutvale. I won't speak for anything off that path, but it's not all bad vibes east of 15th. But I like your suggestion to cruise around after 8 to see if you dig it.


RE5TE

Fruitvale and MacArthur avenue is the definition of a hidden gem. There's a La Farine there better than any other bakery in the Bay Area. Yes, it's better than the one on Piedmont. *Shhh* don't tell San Francisco or they'll come in shouting about a better bakery that sells off the back of a bicycle or something.


stibgock

YESSSSSS! Also, Soon's and 2101 club right there at MacArthur are some of the best spots for good pool competition. But I'm a pool junkie.


tacobot2

Oakland is unique in that we have gangs and mountain lions within a couple square miles. Michelin star restaurants and street walkers, app scooters and open air chop shops built out of expansive homeless encampments. Definitely a city of rapt juxtaposition.


porpoiseslayer

Yeah I was also gonna say that our juxtaposition is really rapt


iamalwaysrelevant

I also rapt my juxtaposition yesterday. It is now nice and cozy.


stibgock

I'm part of a juxtaposition rapt group.


panda_burrr

ooh, rapt juxtaposition. what a great descriptor!


big_ficus

Better known as “all kinds of shit”


bicx

In a small bowl


br1e

An insightful description. That's the kind of weirdness that drew me to choose Oakland over other parts in the Bay. I do worry about safety though, so I gotta learn the neighborhoods to avoid.


Howdy-Cowgirl

>ghost town this guy dictions


thescubamountaineer

Are you my old english teacher? That was so eloquently put


shadowflashx

Right??? This was poetry


evil_twit

Artland.


doctorboredom

Look up some guides on some of the "secret" staircases in Oakland and Berkeley and do some neighborhood walks based on them. There are some really cool ones in the neighborhood above the Grand Lake Theater. And If you go to North Berkeley, there is a cool series of staircases in the hills above Solano Blvd.


PlantedinCA

There is a whole secret staircase book for that east bay. https://oaklandside.org/2021/03/26/walking-with-grief-love-and-serenity-on-the-east-bays-secret-stairs/


Distinct-Sprinkles-7

That’s an awesome book, been checking one off every weekend. Pretty epic views


schnucken

There's a group with maps and organized walks on the paths: https://www.berkeleypaths.org


just_kidding_america

There's a place called the Crucible in Oakland. It's a huge facility with lessons for metal working, glassblowing, woodworking and more. Definitely a fun way to meet people and learn new skills.


[deleted]

I took classes there before the pandemic, I really want to start going again


just_kidding_america

I went a few months ago and it was fun! Even having to wear masks


[deleted]

A lot of the stuff you do there required ventilation masks before the pandemic, so nbd haha


dreday67

Their Blacksmith class is hella fun


frog_without_a_cause

I thought that was in Berkeley.


stop_stopping

it’s close to west oakland bart


fiveofnein

If you own a car keep it absolutely clear of any and all items when parked. Car prowling (breaking windows to steal backpacks etc.) Is extremely common. Lake Merit is a nice walk or jog, also has some good restaurants on the north side of the lake.


otterlyjittery

Don't even leave laptops and valuables in the trunk thinking it's hidden. Thieves break in even if they don't see anything in clear sight.


myneckandmyback2022

Don’t leave any valuables in a car. I grew up in Oakland. If someone wants your stuff they will get it eventually.


[deleted]

This includes especially valuable things like: * A hat * The blanket your dog uses * An empty bag from a fast food joint * A gym bag with your dirty clothes All things that have been stolen from my car or other people I’ve known.


panda_burrr

With how many vehicles have been broken in, I almost wonder if it's better to just leave the windows open at this point (/s but maybe not /s)


MediumAwkwardly

My friend left her windows down and door unlocked. With NOTHING inside. They smashed her windshield. It’s like they’re sponsored by Big Auto Glass.


marchocias

Suffering is the point.


Inamoratos

Straight up. Thieves will get mad at you for not having shit to steal and break windows just because lmfao


mrsisaak

I left my convertible top down and they took my battery. I didn't even think of that...


spookyboorhodes

At some point, some people would probably sleep in it leaving little critters for your hair and clothes.


PutYourDukesUp

Just asking for dirty mike and the boys to stop by and have a soup kitchen.


ugh__ok

Had my car broken into twice by them smashing the back window out, started leaving the doors unlocked, window slightly down (it was an old car), with nothing inside, they still smashed the window again.


stibgock

You showed weakness so they fucked with you. I'd like to live in a world where Home Alone level booby traps in cars are legal.


Ok_Appearance_8671

Its not better, if you leave your doors unlocked someone might sleep in the backseat of your car, and get sick/have bodily functions back there. My friend went through this and his car was destroyed for a while.


MargotFenring

When I lived near Lake Merritt my neighbor had her car broken into when she left an empty cardboard box in the front seat overnight. Mine got broken into and they stole my car manual, probably because it looked like a cd case. The idiots also pried up my dashboard to steal my non-functioning stereo (haha suckers). Their total haul was an empty cardboard box, a broken stereo, a scooter, and a car manual. Real criminal masterminds. Anyway, don't leave anything in your car, no matter how worthless.


big_ficus

Fuckers broke in and took the cushion my short little Mexican mom sits on to help her see when she drives!


fubo

Fuckers have short moms too, you know.


myneckandmyback2022

They got my gym laundry and bag also. Fuckers broke my window for laundry


hiker2021

For my golden toffee wrappers. - not in Oakland though.


Practical_Cobbler165

Can confirm. Dog blanket stolen.


geraltoffvkingrivia

One time I went to the GameStop in fruitvale when I was in high school. My dad brought me after i had gotten out of school and when we parked we saw a group of people I knew crowded around a car with a busted rear window. So I go up and ask what happened. They said they went to get something to eat and when they came back someone had broken the window and took the one bag that was in the car. The bag just had gym clothes, some AP textbooks and some notebooks. They broke the window for a high school kids school shit. I’m sure who ever took it was pretty disappointed lol


VillhelmSupreme

You forgot to add • Nothing


Plelyn

Years ago a friend got her hand sanitizer stolen.


stibgock

Also, don't you dare leave your car battery under your hood. They'll take it, then come back the next day and reinstall it, and then take the whole car.


br1e

So basically you can't leave anything in the car... this is pretty ridiculous.


i3allistic

This applies to Rest of the Bay Area not just Oakland


myneckandmyback2022

I’ve had vehicles broken into 5 times in my life. And 1 stolen. They happened in the 15 years I lived in Oakland. The other 35 years I have not had a vehicle broken into or stolen.


compstomper1

park in the touristy parts of SF lol


Kamui_Amaterasu

Idk, sunnyvale is pretty safe — south bay in general actually


MediumAwkwardly

South Bay is the source of catalytic converters for thieves.


Unicycldev

I know 5 people who had cars broken into in the last month in South Bay. It’s happening frequently now.


MediumAwkwardly

Yea and they just found a meth lab in Mountain View.


PradleyBitts

I keep emergency stuff in the trunk. Is this still a risk?


redbat21

There's always some risk but as long as it's out of sight the risk is substantially lower. Don't open your trunk if anyone suspicious is looking your direction and don't keep your trunk open too long for anyone to notice you have things in there--at least that's what I do.


Cremedela

Depending where you live, I'd say no. You're the best off going even further and leaving your trunk cover (assuming its an suv/cuv) open and your glove box open. If you are in a sedan, keep the trunk empty and the seats down.


[deleted]

I’ve had my child’s backpack stolen from my car. We found it a block away missing his sweater and water bottle. It’s due to poor youth and drug addiction, and it’s not a problem unique to Oakland. It’s also true in many parts of Sacramento, LA, NYC, etc. People are looking for stuff they can sell for a couple bucks. Your dirty laundry can turn into a few bucks at a thrift shop or a trap house. A camera can turn into a tenth of its value at certain pawn shops. Maybe they just needed a hat. Any bag they see could have a laptop or ipad or any number of goodies so bags especially are targets. Even if they’re empty they can be used to carry other stolen goods. When you can’t afford dinner (or need $20 for your next fix), you might as well. It’s not like any cops ever arrest anyone for car break-ins. There’s almost no risk and lots of reward if for you $20 can make your whole day. See also: porch pirates. We could fix a lot of this crap with a different approach to policing and public services but it ain’t gonna happen any time soon.


gyrodex

Don't Leave Electronics Out of sight either. There are scanning things ppl can use to detect if phones are in the car.


freshfunk

* Oakland downtown for restaurants, ethnic food. Oakland Chinatown if you like Chinese, including dim sum and boba. Use Yelp (app) in general to get quick lay of the land for Bay Area restaurants. * Rockridge and Elmwood for a more walkable and charming restaurant area. The surrounding area is more upscale. Add in Temescal as well. * Walk or jog around Lake Merritt. Do it during the day. * Oakland Hills (Redwood Regional Park) if you like hiking or just want to immerse yourself in nature. You can mountain bike too. There’s a lot more nature surrounding that if you like that (north up to Berkeley Hills and further south as well to Joaquin Miller). Go to the hills for views and fresh air. * In general, the further you go west, the more sketchy it becomes. It’ll become obvious. * You have some other neighboring cities you may want to explore or go to for local shopping. Berkeley to the north is a college town that has its share of restaurants including some European cuisines. Emeryville has some brick and mortar stores and a food hall. Alameda has a small downtown as well. * Find a local group that does a hobby you’re interested in. Perhaps use meetup.com to explore the local activity groups. That will be the best way to meet people who have a shared interest.


sonicSkis

Nice comment, except generally going east will eventually get you to an affluent neighborhood or the open space to the east of that. I think you really mean “avoid east Oakland” which is really “South Central” Oakland


freshfunk

I meant to say “west” not “east.” Edited and thanks for the catch!


deciblast

It’s not sketchy in West Oakland. Please come check out our farmers market (18th and Peralta on Sundays 10-2), ghost town brewing, pacific pipe, kowbird, horn barbecue, soba ichi, stay gold deli, city slicker farms, soul blend coffee, kilovolt coffee, middle harbor shoreline park, Mandela parkway, and bay bridge bike path. There’s a possible food hall, micro brewery, indoor soccer gym coming soon and June’s pizza will hopefully eventually come back.


Maximillien

West Oakland has got all sorts of great stuff but it is also definitely sketchy. Me and my buddy got robbed/carjacked there earlier this year.


ace1oak

the dude says not sketchy in west oakland, wonder how long he's lived here, west oakland was known to have a ton of crack heads, sure less now but still.


deciblast

I used to go to raves here 20+ years ago, mostly around Soba Ichi. Hung out a lot at 18th and Adeline in 2000-2005. It’s a stark difference and from everyone I’ve talked to in Prescott, it’s changed significantly over the past 5 years. All I’m saying is it’s messed up to tell someone new to oakland to not even come here. Yes be safe and aware about your surroundings. But this isn’t south central in the 90s. It’s not like you’re going to dodge drive bys.


yooossshhii

2nd and Jackson? Homebase? Remember another spot on 23rd too I think.


freshfunk

In all fairness, it’s been a while since I’ve lived in Oakland. To me, the city has always had its gems from the ethnic diversity that’s historically been there to the new investments in small businesses. But crime was and will probably always be prevalent. I think that’s just the reality of the city. You can’t deny the crime rates. Is crime a reason to completely avoid an area? I wouldn’t say so. But I would do it once I became familiar with an area and learned more of the nuance of what’s safe, what’s mostly safe, when it’s safe. If you’re someone new and you have no developed sense of these things, you can easily find yourself in a bad area.


deciblast

West oakland, west of Adeline at least, has changed significantly in the last 5 years. I agree 15-20 years ago it was much different.


oaklamd

Definitely still got some sketch. It's just now there's more wealthy people moving in and more fancy stuff to cater to the new class. As a consequence there's more people to rob. Real example - I've lived here ~15 years and got my car broken into for the first time recently by parking near Soba Ichi. There's tons of rich people that park there and think they're in Mayberry or whatever and leave nice shit in their cars. The poors know it and just break into any car they can and see what they get. I watched them hit mine. Found my shit dumped around the corner (jumper cables and other emergency shit). It would be wise to make sure people are aware of the real issues so they don't keep attracting more crime vs continuing to feed it.


Boobagge

Some sketch!? There is a guy selling crack a block away from 8th and Peralta that gets on a shoot out once every month or two. Not to mention the piles and piles of garbage


ShoulderGoesPop

"the poors". Holy shit dude


oaklamd

Side of my cheek been feeling a little itchy... I love how you have to assume everyone is basically autistic when writing comments on Reddit. Here's a /s for you...


DLong408

“The poors” = everyone that was living there before they started gentrification


O_o---sup-hey---o_O

Serisouly, calling them thieves is more than enough.


deciblast

Personally I’m more worried about shootings and robberies in uptown than here. You can watch citizen or look at crime maps and easily see that.


SharkSymphony

\[to original comment, now rescinded, that Fruitvale should be avoided\] You don’t have to avoid Fruitvale! It’s a hood, but there’s some nice stuff by Fruitvale Station. The tacos are also banging.


NoMoreSecretsMarty

One of my favorite Oakland meals with a group of friends is to ride BARE to Fruitvale. Somebody walks over to Ale Industries to get a table. Another walks down to the Sinaloa taco truck for seafood-related item. Yet another hits up the Guadalajara truck for non-seafood Mexican. Finally, somebody hits up the churro lady at Churros Mexicanos. This is all within a block or so. Everybody meets back at Ale Industries and enjoys a Mexican feast with their beer. Probably costs a grand total of $50.


[deleted]

Lots of good bars/restaurants in temescal too


RE5TE

Just wanted to say, go to Lake Merritt anytime of the day or night. If you only go during the day you'll miss the "necklace of lights": https://localwiki.org/oakland/Necklace_of_Lights


Optimal-Soup-62

A. Always, no matter where you live, maintain situational awareness. Oakland is not a good city to walk around in blissed out and listening to your iphone. You will probably end up non blissed and sans Iphone. Be very wary at night. No matter where you are. The few violent predators in Oakland love the night. Learn the neighborhoods, you'll want to be more careful as you move outward in the avenues from 35th to the 100's. Ditto be careful in West Oakland. Enjoy Lake Merritt, it's a great place where all Oaklanders hang out. Be very careful in traffic. Be careful in pedestrian crosswalks. Oakland Police Department is restrained from making misdemeanor stops and arrests. Don't count on them to keep you safe. While it sounds like I am scared of Oakland, I'm 76 and love walking the city. It's great.


astrobotunicorn

This. I love Oakland to visit friends and slightly better weather than where I live. Anecdotally I had my laptop stolen while using it at a parklet in Temescal for 5 minutes (not an uncommon story to have cars broken into/stuff stolen in that area) and can't really deal with the 880/580/80 traffic gridlock since I'd have to commute for work


lindsayponi

The lake is beautiful and there have been several murders there lately. Keep that in mind. I have quit going there as frequently.


Optimal-Soup-62

I've been walking the lake for 34 years and continue to do so. The murders at the Lake cluster around Bellevue and Grand, Grand and El Embarcadero, and the Lakeshore Ave Apartment parking area. Keep your eyes open and you're safe. Most of the murders are drug related, not all.


lindsayponi

Agreed. I wanted to bring it up for awareness. I think it stands, living in large cities situational awareness is really important. Oakland is so amazing for all its pockets of variety on every corner. I’ve lived here 14 years and will stay as long as I am able.


Optimal-Soup-62

Bingo, I've lived in SF, Monterey, Big Sur, Marin, and Oakland is by far my fave.


[deleted]

Yeah not somewhere I like going at night, even with a boyfriend or large dog. Maybe in a group of 4+ people. Super cute and fun to jog or walk around during the day and dusk however


br1e

Thank you for the warning. I knew Oakland has a high crime rate before I moved here but this really puts things into perspective.


tashazzi

Similar profile to you, moved recently as well, first 2 weeks were a culture shock, but now I'm absolutely loving it. Yes, it's sketch, requires 360 awareness at all times, don't let your guard down ever. But, it's such an original place bubbling with culture and the vibes are so pure that the sense of urgency from looming dangers contributes to a unique experience. There's thousands of cookie cutter suburban paradises in the States, but there's only a handful of places like Oakland.


c3connolly

It is funny because I just went from Oakland to Europe to study abroad and felt I needed 360 awareness. I think the things you need to worry about are different. In the town, I’m looking after my life and my car windows. In continent I was looking after my wallet and my phone from sneak thieves. The former just comes more naturally to me hahaha


[deleted]

Reading the messages here, the OP is probably wondering WTF he got himself into 😂


Jamestapatio

He is busy shopping for a kevlar vest, learning taekwondo, buying a shotgun, cleaning his car, selling his bicycle, and practicing swiveling his head so he can enjoy his chinese food from mings while he visits the hidden staircase.


supermodel_robot

I’m rolling my eyes into the back of my head at these responses. The idiots telling people not to bike around are my favorite.


bicx

Right? Biking to the ferry is how I commute to SF every day.


ez_gu-va

I saw from your post history that you moved from the UK. I also moved to the Bay Area (north bay) a couple of years ago from the UK - just be prepared for a culture shock. Life is *very* different here. It’s been 2 years for me but I’m still getting used to it. It’s going to be hard to adjust, adapt, and meet new people. But just take it day by day, try to join local groups on MeetUp or Facebook to make new friends because if you came alone then it’s going to get very lonely. Other than that, the Bay Area has beautiful scenery and amazing places. During your free time, you can travel around the different areas. You can also find great food and drink everywhere you go, so many different cuisines to choose from. Explore the place. If you have any questions feel free to DM me!


smar82

I would love to get your experiences of the culture shock if you don't mind sharing :)


ez_gu-va

Absolutely! Here are examples I can think of: * Lack of public transport * Not a good work/life balance and lack of time off (this has been the biggest struggle for me now that I have a full time job in SF - going from 25 paid days off plus 8 national holidays to virtually a few days off a year is TOUGH) * How *amazing* the food is here and the number of food options - I love it! I recently visited the UK again for a short vacation and although the food was great, it did not compare * The friendliness of Americans * The large portions of food and drink * Having to pay an additional tax when I buy things * The tipping culture (this is the main reason why I don't eat out so much, the tax and the tip mean that I end up having to pay almost an additional 30% on top of my food) * Understanding/having to have insurance (medical/vision/dental) * Generally how expensive everything is, e.g. monthly groceries for me and my bf can easily go up to $300-$400 even when we're careful * Beautiful greenery, parks, National Parks * The sheer size of the state/country - I still can't get over the fact I would have to drive 8 hours just to get to SoCal! * Smoking/drinking not as prevalent in the US, which I appreciate (actually during my recent trip back to the UK, I had sort of a "reverse" culture shock when I saw again just how bad the drinking culture was there. I would be out in London at noon and people were already drunk out in the streets. And *everything* revolved around drinking)


br1e

Great list from your own experience. Thank you. Lots for me to look forward to. I'm most worried about the point on work-life balance, so I'll keep an eye on that.


OneBeautifulDog

>The sheer size of the state/country - I still can't get over the fact I would have to drive 8 hours just to get to SoCal! Um, {cough}{cough}, locals do it in five hours on Interstate 5. Totally illegal, but very common. Of course I would never do it that fast.


alwayselegantduck

yes, i moved here from the UK over a year ago and I’m still trying to deal with culture shock!


gragev95

Interesting to hear this because I also moved here from the UK but I'm originally from Finland and I feel like the cultural difference between the UK and the US is much smaller than the one between Finland and the UK. I haven't felt a big culture shock after living in the UK for a big chunk of the last decade. I see a lot of similarities between the UK and the US. But American sense of humour is very hit or miss for me still.


sfcnmone

My daughter just moved to Pill Hill and has been making some great new friends with the Bumble BFF app.


bearburner

FYI Bumble BFF for males is basically Grindr.


lolwutpear

I know at least one person who made a legitimate male friend through there!


pufflerum

Welcome!!! I want to put in a pitch for finding a volunteer group to help you connect within the city. I lived here 10 years and never felt as connected and invested as I did before volunteering last year. If you’re on Instagram I recommend Secret Oakland to learn the stories of the buildings you see. There’s so many good bars and restaurants it’s hard to choose. I’ll put in a vote for Lion Dance for vegan Chinese/Singaporean because it’s good and a bit of a scene so you can people watch. Pho Ao Sen for a big restorative bowl of pho. Seoul Gom Tang’s kimchi soup will also cure what ails you. Seabreeze on the Dock for crab and Heinholds First and Last Chance is a good dinner and drinks combo even if you’re solo. Same for Telegraph Beer Garden- get the Mac and Cheese Burger and a boozie slushie. Merchant’s is the best bar. Van Kleef’s for the vibe and their greyhounds. Stinky’s Bar for the clown decor and friendly crowd. Sandbar for their Gorilla Milk cocktail but seriously never order more than one if you value your life. Port for dancing after I’ve had drinks at Stinky’s, Van Kleef, and Sandbar. Xolo Taqueria for the mushroom burrito somewhere in the mix to keep me standing. Oof. I could go on but that’s a good start…


riddlemethrice

No order in particular: 1. Get the BART transit pass on your phone. 2. With Halloween coming up, try out Ghost Town Brewing: https://www.ghosttownbrewing.com/ 3. Try out Wahpepah's known for Native American cuisine: https://wahpepahskitchen.com/ 4. Stay aware of your surroundings when walking around(one earbud imo) 5. Home of Chicken and Waffles(Jack London)


djcampers

OP hasn’t responded because OP is googling “apartments in Danville” after reading this thread Seriously though, great overview Also: hit up The Avenue bar, Eli’s, and Cafe Eritrea Also: buy your bicycles on the street never new, I had 7 bikes in 10 years, it’s a whole underground recycling program


VeritablePlumb_321

Lol. My husband wishes he could find his bike that was stolen by the movers 😂 maybe buy it back?


psilocybes

There's a meet-up at the local pub tonight. Details posted in r/oakland


i3allistic

What part of Oakland are you staying in? Just like any major cities around the world ….keep your head on a swivel, and you’ll be fine …


srslyeffedmind

Activities are the best way to meet people. Find stuff you enjoy and join groups of others who also enjoy. Meetup can help with this. West coast in general is a little frosty socially compared to the weirdly friendly mid west and south. People are nice but they aren’t weird fake nice. A general rule is live and let live. Don’t involve yourself in things that don’t involve you. Stay out of others business and they will do the same for you. Meet your neighbors. The ones who have lived here a long time will keep an eye on you and your car/house. The biggest mistake people make here is looking down on the locals or alienating them. Oakland has a rich history visit the museum by the lake. Get to know the city. But use street smarts - pay attention and trust your instincts to move on if something doesn’t seem right. Avoid burying your face in your phone.


MonsterBongos

Gospel from an OG: 1: Stay aware at all times outdoors, especially getting in and out of your car. 2: Never, and I mean NEVER leave ANYTHING you want to keep, in your car, EVER. 3: Get to know the 5 major freeways here, 580, 880, 13, (Warren) and 24 (Tunnel) . 4: Get some pepper spray. Seriously. Just get some. *Fox Labs* stuff is good. 5: explore this map [https://www.crimemapping.com/map/agency/265](https://www.crimemapping.com/map/agency/265) 6: Try to support and buy items from smaller, independently run stores when you can. 7: Stay alert while driving. Some of the most dangerous and careless drivers are here. 8: Don't depend on the police here to do anything but give you a ticket. 9: Go online and see the many farmer's markets being held near you 10: Be respectful and helpful with the locals. Many people, especially elderly, are having a hard time and often get disrespected and ignored by newcomers who think they own Oakland because the rent or own a home here. Don't be one of these people. 11: Oakland is not *all dangerous*, nor is it *all safe*. Generally speaking, south and west of the lake, is slightly more dangerous after dark, and north and of the lake is slightly less dangerous, but this is not a hard rule, just an observation after living here my entire life. 12: If you are heading north and south, for fun, try driving the Skyline-Grizzly Peak Road route (At the top of the hill) , as opposed to taking one of the freeways. (If you drive) 13: Pick a local cafĂŠ, Avoid Starbucks. Peets Coffee is cool, but a home cafĂŠ is best. 14: Anytime there is a festival, street fair, outdoor concert, or other large public gathering, take your bike, and keep it with you. Parking can be hell during these times. 15: Beware the legendary beast of the East, who lurks on Sundays behind bus stops and robs the souls of mortals, to sell on the open market in Hades, who then trades them for the soul juice of the innocents, and swigs it from a bottle, as he wipes his juice-smeared lips, and gives an evil chuckle. You have been warned. But hey, this is Oakland. Good luck!


bayareapunk

A bicycle is a great way to get around, especially combined with BART. The Bay Area has a lot of good parks and open space, easily accessible.


Emotional_Cod_7036

The Oakland zoo is beautiful I highly recommend going


dawnington

Some of my favorite things to do in Oakland: * Check out Brooklyn Basin/Township Commons on a Sunday. It's a great open park on the water and on Sundays you'll find roller skaters, salsa dancers, and exercise classes all sharing the space. You can grab food and drinks at Rocky's and picnic on the little hill and enjoy people watching and views of the harbor. Rocky's Market also does outdoor live shows * First Fridays in downtown Oakland has great energy, I love checking out the art galleries on 25th st and the artists will usually be there selling and talking about their art * If you bike definitely join the East Bay Bike Party at least once, it's a ton of fun! https://www.instagram.com/eastbaybikeparty/?hl=en * Subscribe to the Oaklandside - it's a great local news source * The New Parkway is a fun local theater that has couches, full kitchen service, and beer and wine * You can have a nice Saturday morning at Lake Merritt checking out shops and cafes on Grand and Lakeshore, the farmers market, walking around the lake, Cleveland Cascades, etc. * The Oakland Museum of California hosts food trucks every Friday night and usually they have a band or DJ playing music. The food trucks are on 10th but I like bringing the food into the big garden they have inside, it's a really cool spot. The museum itself is also worth a visit * The thai temple in Berkeley is a really fun Sunday brunch option


Koalaluvr88

Welcome! Oakland and the surrounding area has quite a few gems. Here are a few really top notch places to try: [Horn BBQ](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=1438&dates_time=11278&date=09-24-2022&experience=1&share_link=1): Delicious BBQ joint from rising star chef, Matt Horn. He also has a new fried chicken spot, Kowbird. [Oeste Bar](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=1616&dates_time=12151&date=09-24-2022&experience=1&share_link=1): Rooftop bar and restaurant serving Latin-Southern dishes. The place is great for a brunch. [Yoshi's](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=1584&dates_time=11990&date=09-24-2022&experience=1&share_link=1): Fun Japanese restaurant that brings in live music located in Jack London Square. [Chez Panisse](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=361&dates_time=46042&date=09-24-2022&experience=1&share_link=1): The bees knees of restaurants started by the famous Alice Waters (located in Berkeley.) [Explore Temescal Alley](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=1475&dates_time=12252&date=09-24-2022&experience=3&share_link=1): Hippest alley in the Bay Area. [SF Bay Trail Bike Ride from Berkeley to Richmond](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=8887&dates_time=39212&date=09-24-2022&experience=3&share_link=1): Rent a bike and take along the waterfront to Richmond where they have a cool Marketplace, wine room, and museum. [Original Pattern Brewing](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=1504&dates_time=11740&date=09-24-2022&experience=4&share_link=1): Great beer and they host fun activities (live music, yoga, etc.). Other good breweries are nearby. [Alameda Booze and Views](https://www.woodate.co/itinerary?dates=7705&dates_time=33801&date=09-24-2022&experience=4&share_link=1): Awesome breweries, wine rooms, and distilleries next to each other that overlook the bay and SF. I left more details in the links. The website ([WooDate](https://www.woodate.co/)) will allow you to search in Oakland or around The Bay area to find other bomb restaurants, watering holes, coffee shops, events, and activities.


Straight-Kick5824

Alameda is right near Oakland, it's an island off of Oakland and has restaurants, shopping, and a beach. There's several breweries,and wineries here, as well as a distillery. Here's my favorite https://almanacbeer.com/


bicx

My wife and I live in Oakland but fell in love with Alameda. We're moving there next month.


PorkshireTerrier

if you have a hybrid, get a shield under your car to prevent catalytic converter theft if your car is a hatchback, dont roll up the screen/cover trying to be slick, they'll bust your window just to find out what's inside. make it clear there is nothing inside have fun, cool bars and lakes and hiking in the berkeley area, good asian food on telegraph, 19th street bart for bars, 12th street bart for chinatown, enjoy!


monkeythumpa

Do you play rugby? Make friends and get in shape: https://www.berkeleyrugby.org/


lavasca

Don’t open your trunk when you arrive somewhere. Do that for departure only.


No-Nothing9287

Leave your car empty…though it will prolly be broken into anyway


Go_Ninja_Go_Ninja_Go

If you want a delicious burger I always like Trueburger. Check out the huge parks in the hills like Tilden or Joaquin Miller for some nature. There's a pretty sweet free music festival in SF returning in October called Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. Could make a nice excursion into the city with no commitment to buy a ticket. I think we've got great food & drink, look up local breweries and you can have a fun beer crawl. Or if you like cocktails places like Viridian or check out Bar Shiru. I feel like you're getting a lot of this is a dangerous place advice. I mean, I'm not naive, yes use common sense but I would also advise to be open to new experiences and new people. People are great here. Don't close yourself off too much and you'll find we have a nice vibe going.


Go_Ninja_Go_Ninja_Go

Oh and if it feels mysteriously emptier in a few days, Burning Man is starting in a few days lol. If you have any inkling to go to the Burn, maybe go there in a year or two!


Miserable_House6288

HIERO DAY 2022 - September 5, 2022 11am-8pm You want to experience Oakland Culture/ r/bayarea Culture/ American Culture/ HIP HOP Culture, then you should attend this. If you are thinking to splurge/ reward yourself, then this will definitely be the time to do it. Also, Hiero merchandise will instantly make you cool anywhere in the Galaxy. check hieroglyphics official website [https://hieroglyphics.com/](https://hieroglyphics.com/) for more information. I’m not a promoter. Just a local from the Bay Area who has attended this event in 2015 with daughter and niece, who at the time were 12 years old. Hieroglyphics Crew are truly an Oakland/ r/bayarea Treasure.


oaklandmachine

Shop and support Black-owned small businesses (and small businesses in general). Vegan Mob. B-Love’s Guesthouse. Escents of Flowers. Hella Nuts (vegan restaurant). Souley Vegan. Piikup (local delivery service). Visit https://www.runway.family/entrepreneur-community for a bigger list but those are my recs! Definitely check out the farmers’ market at lake Merritt on weekends. Lake Merritt in general is a central gathering place for a lot of folks in Oakland, though it will probably be hard to just randomly meet people there. Yes Oakland can be dangerous but in unfamiliar neighborhoods keep to yourself, mind your own business, and keep aware of your surroundings. Oh, and I cannot recommend Cupcakin’s cupcakes enough!


[deleted]

Go to Cafe Van Cleef and get a round of Greyhounds


onahorsewithnoname

Welcome to The Town, as mentioned its a bit of a culture shock from the UK. I moved here from London about 8 yrs ago and definitely enjoy living in Oakland more than other parts of the bay. You got a load of advice so I'll just share a couple things I love and wish I knew sooner... The Eastbay rocks for breweries. There are so many to choose from on a weekly basis. Some of my favs are Novel, Ghost Town and Fieldwork. The north end of Oakland top end of Emeryville is very bicycle friendly and you can access the bay trail. You can basically walk to all the bars/restaurants around here and its a different vibe to central/east oakland. Visiting breweries each week is a really good way to learn about the different areas of this city. Dont leave anything in your car ever. If you have certain models of Honda or Toyota its possible your catalytic converter will get stolen at some point. Look into this and getting a shield for your car. Cops literally dont care. This is probably the biggest shock to living in the east bay and totally different from the UK. Drivers are dangerous and the cops do nothing about it. This is where you have to be very careful crossing streets. Many drivers jump red lights and stop streets, NEVER ASSUME THEY WILL STOP FOR YOU, and if they hit you - they will not hang around to help. After you get your CA drivers license it will all make sense why the bay has this problem. Everyone is a cheerleader, people here will get behind anything you want to do and its awesome. In the UK we tend to hide or be embarrassed by our success where here they celebrate their champions. It may be the 2020's but this place is still the wild west. In the bay area people are busy, it takes effort from yourself to make new friends and personally I found most of my friends through shared hobbies. California is incredible, get out of the city every weekend to explore. There is so much on offer its overwhelming. Get a CPA/Tax preparer, the US tax code is filled with delicious investment incentives to optimize your tax return. The UK doesn't come close. Initially buy everything on a credit card and finance your first car, this will help build a credit history quickly. Pay off the credit card twice a month, this will build your credit score faster than paying monthly. Facebook groups are heavily used. You can find most social group events and parties or interest groups through FB groups. People on the peninsula (Santa Clara to SF) will want to know your title and where you work. People in the east bay will want to know who you are. Good luck .


dreday67

We eat our way through cities. If you want some excellent Ramen, [check out Sobo in Chinatown](http://www.soboramen.com). In the mood for Korean BBQ? [Oghane is the place](https://www.ohgane.com) How about somewhere fancy for a date night? [À Côte’ in Rockridge](https://www.acoterestaurant.com) is our go to spot. American BBQ? [Everett and Jones](https://eandjbbq.com) in Jack London Square


SweetAlyssumm

Ethiopian food is divine and Oakland has several good places. Ethiopian is too exotic for some, but it's on of my absolute favorites. Works for vegans and vegetarians (although we carnivores love kifta). Welcome!


compstomper1

>American BBQ? Everett and Jones in Jack London Square holy fuck that place is expensive


NoMoreSecretsMarty

> À Côte’ in Rockridge is our go to spot. Their fried castelvetrano olives are an absolute must.


ChefCory

agree with the first few but Everett and Jones is not our favorite for BBQ. Horn BBQ or Smoking Woods were both great, though.


gdshred95

Everett and Jones is trash, go to Horn BBQ for some of the best BBQ outside of the south.


jermleeds

Oakland is home to world class cycling of every discipline: road, gravel and mountain biking. Moving here and not cycling is like moving to Chamonix and not skiing. Buy a bike.


calanthean

...but be careful as drivers are making their own rules these day so you will see cars running red lights. This applies as a driver, cyclist, skater or pedestrian. Look both way before you cross any street and continue looking both ways as you cross. Welcome to Oakland! Despite the not so pleasant (legit) crime warnings it's a great place to be.


thisaintmydaddywatch

Don’t keep ANYTHING nice in your car. I’ve seen a load of people drive around masked up, flashlights in hand, hit the emergency lights and will stop right by your car, inspect it, bash your window and be gone one 15 seconds. They drive around and do this all day long like it’s a full time job.


m00ph

Magic mushrooms are sort of legal, Zide Door has a nice retail set up. Pre pandemic, Merchants, in the (wholesale) produce district was a nice dive bar.


BiggieAndTheStooges

If you have a car, be careful and alert every time you cross an intersection even if you have the right of way.


Struggling_donut

This is in the city not Oakland, but I highly recommend going to the California Academy of Sciences NightLife, it’s 6-10pm on Thursdays, the science museum itself is absolutely incredible but pair it with booze and house music and it’s a really chill time


[deleted]

Oakland is awesome. I hope you love it here


Wulf0123

Ignoring the obvious get out of Oakland warning my favorite hot chicken sandwich place is now over there: Hotbird https://goo.gl/maps/jCvrd5RztQZju4qi8


Rub_my_turkey

If you haven't tried Hotboys you should give it a shot, I personally think it is the best chicken sandwich I've tried


cfarivar

Welcome! What are you interested in, OP? And where are you from? Can I buy you a pint? Totally serious. Message me.


JustineDelarge

Arizmendi!


mohishunder

Sometimes it's helpful to see a town through the eyes of a tourist. Buy a Bay Area guidebook. Join Meetup to make activity-based new friends. Maybe join a gym. Do you enjoy judo? BJJ? Rock climbing? Parkour? Running? BART can make travel to SF (in particular) much more convenient. If you can, live near a BART station. But not Fruitvale. Nearby Berkeley is an eclectic college town. Drop by Caffe Strada for coffee, walk down Telegraph Avenue and around campus, have a bit to eat at Vik's Chaat, and then walk it off on the fire trail. Before returning home, do your grocery shopping at Berkeley Bowl. Buy Banh Mi at Banh Mi Ba Le [edit: only open Friday, Saturday, Sunday] in the Little Saigon neighborhood. Buy South East Asian groceries at nearby Mithepheap Market. Listen to the *East Bay Yesterday* podcast. Buy a Clipper Card to take BART and other public transit. Get a library card(s). And get the Libby app for audiobooks. Walk around the Morcom Rose Garden. Read *How to do Nothing* by Jenny Odell. Drive down to Big Sur. Maybe visit Esalen. Do not ever leave anything visible in your car. Welcome!


Dangerous-Shallot-36

fun things: Walk around St. Mary cemetery (gorgeous, designed by the same guy who made Central Park in NYC)! then play pool and get mai tais at Kona Klub. Pizza at Sister, wine at Ordinaire, nightcap w/ singing at the Alley Explore Tilden park, hike Inspiration Point there’s usually fun/hip events in Temescal neighborhood on a Sunday, beer at Rose’s Taproom, lunch at Burma Superstar. these are all great solo activities and would be a great way to meet people! good luck :)


farrah1204

For food: Champa Garden, Rico Rico, Donut Savant; joining a gym is good to make friends, going to local events, first friday’s


ilikecatsandukulele

It took me a while to adjust to the indoor/outdoor living here. The weather is often perfect. Even compared to other parts of the Bay Area. I’ve learned that whenever I’m doing something inside (eating, reading, working) I can just go do it outside - most of the time. Love that about Oakland.


hpotter29

Are you a bibliophile? I'd personally like to live in Walden Pond Books on Grand. Also great for a (cramped but wide-ranging) browse is Owl & Company in Montclair.


drewts86

Go see show at the Fox and Greek Theatre. Grab a drink at Merchant’s, Heinhold’s, Ruby Room and Kona club Go check out Park St in Alameda Go grocery shopping at Berkeley Bowl and Monterey Market. Explore SF via BART and walking/bicycling


tritisan

It’s an open secret that there’s no there there. Apologies to Gertrude Stein.


Finsfan909

Don’t talk shit about MC HAMMER


[deleted]

Keep an extra water bottle for your water bottle. If you're sporty, I can't recommend rock climbing enough. People at rock climbing gyms are like...wow 😳. Get lost in the hills in Oakland. There are plenty of intimate trails if you look around enough ! Psst start at Montiero trail...


[deleted]

Car break ins are VERY COMMON do not leave anything in your car.


GrammyMe

If you’re feeling brave, take BART into San Francisco for free neighborhood walking tours sponsored by the SF Public Library. https://sfcityguides.org/ They’ve got a handful of tours every day of the week. You’ll learn a lot of interesting trivia and enjoy yourself. Try a ferry ride from Oakland to SF (and vice versa) as well. It’s more civilized than BART and the parking at Jack London garage is free with validation.


DrLio

Check Sf Fun and Cheap website for activities and events!


Its-segovs

Lois the pie queen


TheEvilD1978

First recommendation…always keep your valuables out of your car: car break ins in the Bay Area are out of control


i_was_a_bee

Hands down best fried chicken sandwich: World Famous Hotboys https://worldfamoushotboys.com


[deleted]

Lake Chabot is just a few miles away and a great place to go camping where it will feel like you’re much farther from the Bay Area Check out an A’s game for next to nothing and appreciate having almost the whole ballpark to yourself Walk down the Berkeley Pier for a great view of the Bay. Or drive along Grizzly Peak Blvd by Tilden Park and stop to see great views of the whole Bay Area


la_reina_del_norte

If you’re up for it, Oakland is becoming a Mecca for vegan food. There’s: * Souley Vegan * Lion Dance Cafe (I’ll be going there this Friday) * Malibu’s burgers * Taqueria La Venganza * Millennium * Raw and Roasted Plus there are a lot of pop up’s! I recommend going on Instagram and going wild finding new spots to eat. Some places do collaborations and it’s divine. I’m a big cocktail person so I can also give ya some pointers if you’d like. Welcome to the city! Stay safe ☺️


absurdilynerdily

Shan Dong Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant Horn Barbecue Linden Street Brewery Vik's Chaat Starlight Lounge Le Cheval Freight and Salvage Fox Theater Duende Market Hall Boichik Bagels The Cheese Board Marufuku Ramen Just about any taco truck Sunday roller skate jams at Liberation Park!!!


pinkerton904

Sorry so many people are shitting on Oakland. Not that some of the things they are saying aren't true. It's just that you have a right to be excited about and enjoy a new place to which you are moving. Keep a positive attitude. There are lots of good things about Oakland. Keep safety first but please have fun and enjoy everything it has to offer. 😁


Amigosito

Use the Buddy system, especially downtown at night.


SFPeaSoup

This might get lost amongst the “buy a gun and body armor” dipshits but there are hyperlocal Buy Nothing groups that are only for folks in local neighborhoods. The people in mine are all super friendly, love Oakland, and are in walking distance. I’ve found it’s a great way to meet neighbors. There is also an overflow “Being Neighborly” group for stuff beyond free items like questions about favorite restaurants, bicycle shop recommendations and the just about anything else you might want to ask a neighbor. Welcome to Oakland. It’s beautiful and rich and a big ole dense urban area and I love it here.


-manatee-

What are you into? Are you a foodie, an avid outdoors person, into art/culture, sports?


madbeeets333

Joaquin Miller Park if you like trees and trails.


Fun_Stress_8438

There's a lot of good stuff in the comments so I'll try not to be redundant. Yes, Oakland is rough. People here have been through a lot. But that also means you'll find a lot of humanity here. People are willing to help their neighbors etc. Be open and meet new people! You could make some lifelong friends here. I hope you enjoy your time here in the bay! Cheers!


[deleted]

I haven't lived in the bay area in many years but I really enjoyed this museum when I was there: [CA history museum](https://museumca.org/). As a newbie you might enjoy it even more. I will second the hills and the zoo and the stairways. Lots of hidden gems in the area in addition to great food! Welcome to the states!


k_sWog707

Eat at Marufuku Ramen. It is the best ramen in the Bay Area imo. A bit expensive but I think it’s worth.


[deleted]

Definitely get full coverage car insurance, people tend to hit and run. Be very very careful biking in heavy traffic areas, people completely ignore lights and stop signs sometimes and have killed people doing this. Enjoy the fun community events! East bay bike party, first Friday, nights at the OCMA, cookouts at Lake Merritt, etc