Why I Hella Love Oakland: by Amy Ahlers

Now, I know that Oakland sometimes gets a bad rap. It's often overshadowed by its neighbor across the bay, San Francisco. But let me tell you - Oakland is an amazing city in its own right. And I'm proud to call it my home! 

First off, Oakland is incredibly diverse. It's home to people from all walks of life, from every corner of the world. This diversity is reflected in everything from the city's food scene (which is amazing, by the way) to its art and music scene.

Speaking of art and music, Oakland is a hub of creativity. From the Oakland Art Murmur / First Fridays Art Walk to the Oakland Museum of California to the Fox Theater, there are countless opportunities to experience art and culture in Oakland. And let's not forget the city's rich history of activism and social justice - Oakland has been at the forefront of many social movements over the years, and that spirit of resistance and resilience is still alive and well today.

But Oakland isn't just about culture and activism - it's also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The city is surrounded by beautiful parks and nature preserves, including Lake Merritt (a gorgeous urban lake), Joaquin Miller Park and Redwood Regional Park (which both boast miles of hiking trails and towering redwoods). Plus, with its mild climate, Oakland is a great place to be outside year-round.

And let's not forget about the food. Oh, the food! Oakland is a foodie paradise, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to hole-in-the-wall taquerias. Whether you're in the mood for Korean BBQ, Ethiopian injera, or a juicy grassfed burger, Oakland has you covered.

But perhaps the best thing about Oakland is its sense of community. There's a real spirit of camaraderie and support among Oaklanders - whether it's through neighborhood block parties, community gardens, or grassroots organizing. People in Oakland look out for each other, and that sense of connection is palpable.

So there you have it - just a few of the reasons why I hella love Oakland!

If you're considering looking for a home in Oakland, whether in the hills with a view of San Francisco or a loft in downtown or nestled into the foothills in Glenview, I'd love to help. 

And if you're lucky enough to call Oakland home, well, you already know how lucky you are.