SAN DIEGO
The Sunshine City

California’s second largest city is also its prettiest…at least in my biased opinion! Surrounded by 70 miles of beaches, bordered by Mexico on the south and the Pacific Ocean on the west, this scenic city offers the feeling of heaven right here on earth (if you’re not driving on one of the umpteen highways or are stuck in downtown midday!). However, the year round spring like temperatures, the diversity of life, and free spirited lifestyle are the key aspects which have drawn me to San Diego every time.

To get started, I’ll reminisce about my first ‘tourist’ visit to San Diego. I drove through the treacherous Grapevine, the choking LA traffic and continued on I-5 until I began to see the ocean view with the pleasant breeze caressing my face, as cars with their rooftops down drove past me at a subtle speed also enjoying this heavenly moment. My trip was pre-planned with plenty of tourist activities to partake during each one of my four-day stay. Upon reaching, I went to stay with my sister at her apartment at UC (University of California) San Diego, where she gave me a semi-tour of the gorgeous campus, hidden amidst a mini forest, with a humungous library, theatre, football field, and stadium; to cater to the various colleges (aka programmes) offered on campus. After a six hour drive from home to a local restaurant for some nice authentic Mexican dinner, it was time to call it a day.

The exciting highlights of my trip included the grand San Diego Zoo, which takes one an entire day to completely enjoy and observe the diversity of animals living in their near-natural habitats. Attached to the Zoo is the Wild Animal Park, which is stretched along 1,800 acres and is home to more than 3,500 animals of 429 different species. This breathtaking and educational wonder is known to give you close encounters with animals in their natural setting, including the Lion camp which provides you an opportunity to come face-to-face with the African big cat! Of course I couldn’t conclude my day at the zoo without visiting the elephants, the sight of which was memorable, with the gigantic creatures in their open arena and just an arm’s length away for me to observe and admire! To end my demanding yet entertaining and knowledgeable day, I picked up a few souvenirs on my way out of the San Diego Zoo, which would definitely require another visit as there were many areas that I couldn’t cover and animals which I couldn’t take a look at in just a one day visit!

One’s tour to San Diego is not complete without visiting the Sea World. Known for its performing dolphins and ‘Shamu’ the whale, once again you gain an educational experience as well as a close watch of the beautiful mammals of the sea. With professional trainers who provide you minute-by-minute account of the mammals’ eating habits, swimming patterns as well as reasons for them making particular noises; Sea World is not only for children but also for the young at heart!

Although, at the time of my visit, alcohol was allowed on the beaches, but this January onwards, it is no longer allowed on California beaches. However, all you have to do is just step off the sand and enjoy a cool drink at the numerous bars and restaurants along the shoreline. As some describe it, “In San Diego, the beach is a way of life, a source of pride and joy, a defining influence in people’s lives. For some, the mere memory of a mid-summer sunset melting into the Pacific is reward enough.” So, to conclude my trip I spent the next day relaxing at Coronado Beach, known as one of the best beaches in the world, admiring its awesome view, true surfing waves and the perfect sand to place your blanket and get your tan on!

THE DESTINATION DOSSIER

Steering the course

There aren’t any direct flights from India to San Diego. The best option is to take a flight to LA or San Francisco and take a connecting local flight to San Diego.

Cosy corners

Hotels of all variants are present depending on your budget. From Hilton to Motel6... all you have to do is check your wallet and check in!

The ‘season’ed traveller goes now

October is the best time to visit as it’s the warmest and the most comfortable. It’s advisable to avoid summer months.

‘Savour’ faire

What not to eat would be more of a challenge as San Diego is a diverse city and offers everything to eat. But take advantage of its proximity to the Mexican border and enjoy authentic Mexican food. San Diego also offers food from all around the world and is authentic as well!

What’s the word?

English is primarily spoken followed by Spanish. Como estás? (How are you?), San Diego esta una ciudad bonita! (San Digo is a beautiful city) are some words that can help you make friends!

Keepsake courtesies:

Be sure to pick up a keepsake from the zoo and SeaWorld as they are worth all the memories. Don’t forget to carry a camera and take as many photos as this is one destination which will give memories worth reminiscing!

Ruchika Chawla