San Diego. You’re hoping to see Anchorman Ron Burgundy’s definition of San Diego, aren’t you? Sorry but it’s not going to happen this time. The only thing we can promise is a great overview of the idyllic shores and attractions of one of USA’s safest and friendliest cities.The bay area that comprises San Diego etches the significant past of the 16th century Spanish naval expeditions. ‘Hurra!’ Juan Cabrillo shouted when his men claimed the first lands of the West Coast of The United States in 1542. Like the native Kumeyaay people, the Spanish never wanted to leave. And why would they? 112 km of beach, a climate that the trusty Weather Channel proclaims as ‘one of the two best summer climates in America’, and a twenty-five minute drive to Mexico. Yep. Twenty-five.
You’ll probably notice San Diego is a little spacious for a city that boasts over a million residents. Here’s an interesting little insight as to why this may be the case. San Diego is the home to the largest naval fleet in the world. Due to the convenient deep waters of the harbour, the Navy, the largest employer for this Californian region, has shiploads of its population floating out on the Pacific Island most of the time. What’s more obvious (and convenient for you) is the border crossing to Tijuana and Mexico and the two-hour ride to Los Angeles, that most residents and tourists take advantage of. Yeah, alright, San Diego sells three trips in one. (I told you it this place was cool.)
An easy way to experience the 19th century colonial setting is by visiting the Old Town State Historical Park in Mission Valley. It’s like a historical theme park (minus the rides and ring-toss) and it is Southern California’s headline to preserving colonial heritage.
If history bores the kids, then how about Mums and Dads entertain the young’ uns at the the world famous San Diego Zoo or Sea World or Legoland, or even the San Diego Zoo Safari Park? These are good starting points, and you can purchase multi-passes at discounted rates.
But perhaps you’ve only come to San Diego for some ‘time-out’ and a weekend swim. What better place to let the stress wash away than Ocean Beach, the home of surfing. If you don’t surf, pretend you do (not by getting out on the waves, of course), walk bare feet and throw out the occasional ‘dude’. Once this is in order, a stroll down Newport Beach will have you feeling Zen by the time of your departure.