I'm thinking about moving to San Francisco from Norway. How is living there?

[The Bride Beatrice]

Best website for SF Bay Are rentals: http://www.craigslist.org (some job adverts too) -- but BEWARE of scam adverts. Do NOT rent anything sight unseen or anything priced remarkably lower than market, because scams are plentiful on craigslist. Stick with Property Management places that have a legitamate phone contact listed in their ads.

SF's beaches are windier and cooler than places like Southern California, but nearby Pacifica has beautiful beaches and decent surfing. Riptides are a problem in SF, but beaches like Stinson in the North Bay or Aptos to the south are gorgeous. TONS to do even with no car in SF and surrounding areas -- my only complaint is most restaurants close by 9 or 10, unlike places like NY. A great diversity of people and activities. It's also easy to hook up with other people from Europe via social networking.

The weather is moderate (rarely hot, usually in the mid-60s to 70s, colder in winter but never freezing) which makes it one of the most competetive housing markets, even in this down economy. Although jobs are scarce, it is fairly easy to be placed at least temporarily in a solid office job if you have good experience and references. Bilingual opportunities are also something to look into -- perhaps support staff in a consulate? Not sure where your experience lies.

Also you may want to look at moving in with a roommate for at least a few months -- there used to be a place called roommatereferral.com but not sure if it's still around -- you can also find them on craigslist.org. Good luck - keep in mind that rents in SF are high compared to the rest of the nation, and you may wish to look at Berkeley or the East Bay cities as well.