54   South Bay Accent 
              stellar standouts that  
              keep us cheering for this  
 wonderful place we call home. 
 BY CAROLE BARROW 
 In spite of all the talk about a mass exodus, the San Francisco Bay Area  
 remains one of the most desirable places in the world to live, work and  
 play. Yes, we know; housing costs are sky-high and traffic congestion is  
 the pits. Still, we can think of plenty of reasons—and they’re not all techrelated— 
 to keep us rooting for this region.  
 With the season in full swing, we have highlighted 14 hidden and not-sohidden  
 gems, great eats and iconic attractions that inspire us to love where  
 we live. From fine wine to quirky candy collections, there is something for  
 everyone in this dynamic place we call home.