San Diego

Miles of stunning beaches, picture perfect weather all year round and the kindest people on the planet. Of course they're the kindest people on the planet, who can be angry living in San Diego? This gem located in Southern California is one of the most gorgeous cities in the United States. It combines old-fashioned Mexican charm with the addition of a contemporary and modern edge. In a city where the sun is always on, it's the perfect place to get away for a bit of relaxation or stimulation.

While San Diego is a modern metropolis on the West Coast, it's incredibly laid back. It's almost like the entire city has taken on the surfer mentality. You can expect to hear "dude" quite a bit, and before you leave, it will make its way into your vernacular. There's so much to see and enjoy in San Diego, and since there's rarely a chance for rain, the best of it's outdoors.

Getting in to San Diego

Most visitors arrive at San Diego International Airport (SAN) and even the flight to San Diego is quite an experience. As the plane descends, it flies right through the heart of the city, coming pretty close to the buildings by doing so. The airport is only 10 minutes away from downtown, so you'll be there like a cool breeze coming in off of Mission Bay.

If you're coming in to the city by way of Amtrak, San Diego's Santa Fe Depot is within walking distance of many of the popular downtown hotels.

Where to Stay in San Diego

The Hotel del Coronado is a national landmark and a world famous hotel that has housed famous dignitaries and celebrities alike for generations. The 679 rooms offer sublime elegance and luxury with an unbelievable view and a host of amenities for your San Diego vacation. While this 5-Star resort may be out of the price range for many with rooms starting at $228 per night, if you can afford it you can do no better.

While a little less expensive at $184 a night, the Manchester Grand Hyatt offers an equally striking waterfront view. It includes all the amenities you would expect in a luxury hotel plus, the trolley to Mexico is right across the street! It's also close to many of the city's attractions like Sea World, the San Diego Zoo and the fabulous shopping at Seaport Village.

Where to Eat in San Diego

The highlights of San Diego cuisine come from Asian and Mexican influences, but flavors from all over the world are represented here. Some of the best San Diego restaurants include the incredible view, service and food at Bertrand at Mister A's, which serves contemporary and elegant American cuisine, the French delights of Mille Fleurs and the Italian specialties of Primavera Ristorante. For the best steak in the city try Donovan's, and Candelas is routinely voted the best Mexican food in San Diego. Of course, sometimes a single giant slice of pizza on Mission Bay is all the sustenance you need for an afternoon of surfing and tanning.

What to Do in San Diego

San Diego is filled to capacity with fun things for everyone's tastes. From the world famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park to the nation's best Sea World to the museums and science centers found in beautiful Balboa Park, your education and entertainment is guaranteed. History buffs will appreciate some of our nation's heritage and lore in the preserved Spanish-American Old Town San Diego. San Diego is a great place for a famiy trip too so check out the top 10 family attractions in San Diego.

Of course, no trip to San Diego will be complete without visiting some of America's best beaches. While you're there, try your hand on a boogie board or marvel at the underwater scenery by snorkeling or scuba diving. For the shopper in the family, San Diego offers a sensory explosion at Seaport Village and the always fun Del Mar Plaza. Or, to enjoy the natural beauty of it all, try hangliding from the cliffs high above the Pacific Ocean or rock climbing Mission Gorge and Mount Woodson.

All in all, San Diego is quite possibly the most perfect vacation spot in the United States. The weather is always gorgeous and there are many, many great places to see, experience and dine. If you want a vacation to remember and cherish forever, visit San Diego, the diamond on Southern California's coastline.