Name: Christian Becerra

Occupation? I work with Owens & Minor through different hospitals in the Bay Area like Stanford and Northbay. I also do freelance photography with certain companies that I like.

Preoccupation? I really enjoy music. Music is what got me started in photography. I would watch band members and try to capture the artists’ emotions behind the music.

How long have you lived in the South Bay area? I have lived here for four years.

What is the best thing about the South Bay area? We have so many amazing things to do right here in South Bay, and San Francisco is only about an hour away. I love our downtown San Jose area. It’s nice all year-round and is especially nice during December. We have Christmas in the Park and people come from all around to see and enjoy all the lights and festivities. Another amazing thing about the Bay Area is the food. The food here is remarkable and your choices are endless. The sushi in San Jose is some of the best in the West.

Can you sum up the South Bay area? Truly unique & diverse.

What is a perfect day in the Cupertino area? I would head up to Santana Row and along the way would take some pictures of the overcast weather with rays of sun shining through the fog up in the hills. I would  have lunch at Pluto’s (the Mac & Cheese is amazing) and then take a drive through the city to photograph a colorful sunset at Sutro Baths. Once I got back into town I would hit up San Pedro Square for some music and drinks. My last stop on the way home would be La Vic’s for some delicious late-night food.

What are the people like in the South Bay area? The people here are very diverse. There really is a little bit of everything when it comes to the culture. Everyone is more than friendly and ready to enjoy life. It is a fast-paced lifestyle, after all, we are in Silicon Valley.

If your area was a person who would it be? RoboCop. He is all about innovation and the start of a new age, just like the tech scene here. Every day here you have a new company popping up that is going to be in Forbes.

What was your impression of the Hotel Juniper Cupertino? My first impression was how stylish and trendy it is. Tucked away behind the main street so you don’t feel the hustle and bustle, it makes for the perfect place to relax. Upon entering, the team members were so kind and helpful. I felt like I had made new friends within minutes. Once I got to my room, I couldn’t have been happier. Seating was comfortable and inviting, and the room had lots of space. The bathroom was also spacious, and the Jacuzzi tub was great. The bed was incredibly comfortable, which helped with a great night’s sleep. The light in the room was excellent due to the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows. Even with rainy skies and overcast weather, I enjoyed a great view and great light. The overall design was marvelous and seamlessly blended the latest technology of Silicon Valley with chic accommodations savvy travelers can appreciate.

What was your experience like staying at the hotel? The decor and art in the lobby were truly unique to the area and helped illustrate the overall essence of the region. And the entry was grand, and inviting, yet bold. The whole vibe made me want to enjoy my night out, in – particularly with their daily complimentary wine reception from 5 to 6 p.m. Additionally, the hotel’s Parkview Kitchen and Spirits is delicious and includes an expansive list of local and regional wines with dishes prepared from fresh and seasonal ingredients.

Describe a perfect day for visitors staying at the hotel: I would suggest they order room service and enjoy their breakfast with the beautiful morning light in the room. Once they are ready to venture out, I’d have them make their way to Ridge Vineyards to enjoy the tasting menu. The team at Ridge Vineyards is so friendly. It was raining when I was there, but they told me you get a great view of the bay when it’s not overcast. The wines are amazing; try the chardonnay! For lunch, I would send them to Pluto’s in Santana Row which is only a short drive from the hotel. I would suggest that while they are down there they should enjoy the shopping and maybe a movie. Next, I would suggest they head back to the hotel to rest up before dinner, which would be served in the hotel’s own Park View Kitchen & Spirits. Last but not least, I would remind them to take a dip in their room’s Jacuzzi.