The key to escaping any situation is unplugging and getting off the grid. The Bay Area just happens to be located an idyllic 30 minutes from any hiking trail and an hour from the beach. Grab a couple friends, pack up a picnic and enjoy the weather.

Trying to escape on a budget? Check out all the free places to visit, explore and learn more about Silicon Valley. Check out incredible views at the Lick Observatory or learn to laugh again at any one of San Jose's comedy shows.

Some will be celebrating a win others will be nursing a sore defeat, whichever it is, a night out with friends can always improve the mood. Hit up these happy hours for the best deals in San Jose.

After surviving all the Twitter and Facebook battles, time spent away from the electronic world might be a welcome respite. Even though the months are getting colder it’s a good time to fix up the house and start new projects that might even keep you busy until the next election.

Make up for a less than sweet election with something cold and creamy. Stop in to any of these shops, that offer ice cream multiple ways with unique flavors.

The Silicon Valley offers a musical respite for any genre lover. From indie to rap music to rock and roll there are always shows going on every night of the week. Check out our event listings for more information.

There are a variety of San Jose day trips ranging from hidden public spaces in San Francisco to wine country excursions, all of which offer a sort of day-cation for those who are in desperate need.

Sit back, relax and enjoy poetry from award-winning author David Allen Sullivan. His published works include Strong-Armed Angels, Every Seed of the Pomegranate, a book of translation from the Arabic of Iraqi Adnan Al-Sayegh, Bombs Have Not Breakfasted Yet, and Black Ice.

There are still battles to be fought and any San Jose local holds the duty of supporting the Sharks as the play out the season. Mix and mingle with fellow Sharks fans or enjoy a pre-game happy hour at any one of these spots.