San Diego Weather Is Near Perfect…

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

But You Should Be Informed Anyways. San Diego weather is very mild and sunny almost throughout the entire year. Yes…we have been blessed with some amazing weather. It is almost near perfect year round.

Occasionally though, we will receive a surprise here and there. It is always a good idea to be prepared and to know ahead of time.

If you’ll be engaged mostly doing outdoor activities during your San Diego vacation, make sure to check out the forecast. Although, you should never rely 100% on the weather forecast, do use it as a rule of thumb to gage your plans.

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San Diego weather does have some trends that are almost the same year after year. Since you’re probably reading this wanting to know how the weather will be at a particular location during a specific time of year, I have done a little bit of research for you.

Here are some of the weather trends you are likely to experience at some popular locations around the San Diego County…

Some Useful San Diego Weather Facts

If you plan on visiting San Diego around the months of May or June…you may come across a term called “June Gloom”. This refers the fog that clogs up the days sunshine. You’ll know it when you ask, “Hey, where’s the sun?”. This thick “marine layer” cloud cover will keep the air cool and damp within a few miles off the coast.

You may also here the term “Santa Ana Winds” on occassion. These winds don’t happen that often, but you’ll know it when you feel some really hot and dry winds blowing from the east inland deserts.

It really doesn’t rain all that much in San Diego. On an average we may experience as much as 12 inches of rain annually. Most rain falls during the months of December through March, which are also the coolest months. No need to worry about rain if you’ll be visiting during the summer months.

According to Weather.com, they have found some common yearly trends and averages. This may be of some help to you and your vacation planning efforts.

January
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
66°F       50°F        58°F

February
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
66°F       52°F        59°F

March
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
66°F       54°F        60°F

April
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
69°F       56°F        63°F

May
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
69°F       60°F        65°F

June
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
72°F       63°F        67°F

July
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
76°F       66°F        71°F

August
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
78°F       67°F        73°F

September
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
77°F       66°F        72°F

October
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
74°F       61°F        68°F

November
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
70°F       54°F        62°F

December
Avg.High  Avg.Low  Mean
66°F       49°F        58°F


Some More San Diego Weather Tips

If you anticipate you’ll be visiting San Diego around the month of August…make sure you bring lots of light clothes. It has been reported as the warmest month, with a record high of 111 °F in 1963.

The last thing you want is a suitcase full of jeans and sweatshirts! Make sure you pack plenty of shorts, sandals, t-shirts, and don’t forget your swim wear.

Also, the coolest month is December. Keep in mind that what we know as cool really isn’t anything compared to other states in the U.S. Just be sure to bring along a warm jacket, and plenty of long pants.

If you need more detailed and specific San Diego Weather according to destination you’ll be visiting…Weather.com is a great resource for this.

…and remember to put on that sunscreen if you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors. A nasty sunburn is the last thing you should be worrying about while on vacation!

Visiting Baja California Mexico

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

You’ll be glad to know that Baja California Mexico is only minutes away from San Diego. You have the advantage of taking two vacations in one if planned properly. So if you’re looking to experience a different culture…Baja California is only steps away. There is just so much to see and do it would be hard to include it all on this page. Here is what I consider to be some of the top things to see and do while in Baja California Mexico.

There is no question about it when it comes to stuff to do in Baja Mexico. From the culture to the shopping, dinning, and the
nightlife…it’s no wonder so many San Diego vacationers are flocking over the border for some tacos and margaritas. Tijuana,

Rosarito Beach, and Ensenada are some of the closest spots near the U.S./Mexico border. Visit each link for highlights of each region.

Tijuana
Baja California Mexico is a region rich in culture. Unfortunately Tijuana is what most people see since this is the border town to San Diego…which offers a distorted view of what Baja California has to offer. Although it is not considered a glamorous family vacation spot…it does offer a lot of bargain shopping, festive restaurants, and a sizzling nightlife.

Rosarito Beach
This was once a quiet fishing village…but today this is a hot spot with a booming tourist economy. It is an ideal resort destination offering a variety of hotels and spas for all kinds of vacationers. It is especially well known for having some of the best seafood restaurants on the peninsula.

Ensenada
Just like Rosarito…Ensenada is well known for its sport fishing and restaurants. There is just so much to see and do here such as shopping and nightlife. It is not a rare thing to see cruise ships pulling into port.

Hotel Accommodations

Well, if you stay in Tijuana…I would recommend Hotel Lucerna. This is where my wife and I had our wedding reception. It is by far one of the nicest hotels in this area.

If you’ll be traveling much further south into Rosarito Beach…then you can choose between Las Rocas Resort and Spa or Rosarito Beach Hotel.

Of course these aren’t all the options available…just some of my personal favorites.

Getting There

Well, for starters if you are afraid of driving into foreign territory…you can take the trolley all the way south to the border…and then cross by foot. Or you can drive and park your car just before entering into Mexico…and walk across. I particularly like walking into Mexico. It’s always more convenient to catch a taxi, and not worry about traffic, directions, and parking. Makes for a stress free trip.

Best Time to Visit

Of course anytime is a good time to visit Baja…since the weather is almost near perfect year-round. If you plan on visiting around a major holiday…expect long lines both entering Mexico and the U.S. since this is when most people make their way south of the border. Remember…this is the most trafficked border crossing in the world!

Other Useful Information

If your looking for more information prior to entering into Mexico…then here are a few links to some other very useful
websites.

Tijuana Convention and Visitors Bureau
Paseo de los Heroes 9365-201, Zona Rio
Tijuana, B.C. 22320
011-52-664-684-0537, 800-025-0888
www.tijuanaonline.org

Rosarito Convention and Visitors Bureau
PMB #451 P.O. Box 439060
San Diego, CA 92143-9060
011-52-661-612-0396, 800-962-BAJA
www.rosarito.org

San Diego Vacation Rentals…Just So Many Options!

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

San Diego Vacation Rentals…so why choose a vacation rental over a hotel or other accommodation?

I thought you’d never ask. Why wouldn’t you?

Whether you’ll be visiting for Spring Break, a Summer family vacation, or simply to splurge a little on yourself…you will be stunned at the amount of vacation rental options you have here in San Diego.

With San Diego’s year-round warm climate, you’ll be sure to find something great to do any time of the year. Of course, the beaches are full with spring breakers during the Spring time, and you’ll find that the Summer months are the busiest of all…but don’t let that turn you off to the idea.

If you know you’ll be vacationing in San Diego for a couple of days…San Diego vacation rentals just make sense. They are fully equipped with kitchens and barbeque’s and more. All you’re needs will be met without having to spend a fortune of food, gas, and all the other little expenses that get in the way while vacationing.

So where are the best locations for a vacation rental?

Whether you’re looking to spend some time on the beach or in the water…or you’re looking to visit some of San Diego’s world class animal parks and attractions…you’ll be sure to find that vacation rental that meets you’re needs.

Most vacation renters flock to Mission Bay…but you’re only limited by your imagination. You’ll find great San Diego Vacation Rentals along Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and Ocean Beach.

The good news is that everything is so close to each other here in San Diego…so where ever you choose to stay, you’ll only be minutes away from that next adventure or discovery.

Choosing the right vacation rental for your particular needs is almost like a science. Well…not quite, but I thought I would exaggerate a bit in order to emphasize that it isn’t easy to meet the needs of everyone with one vacation rental. So how do we measure what is right for every single person? There really is no way of telling until you have actually experienced it for yourself.

There are some recommended vacation rental agencies and consultants within the area that will have no problem matching you up with the right beach vacation homes or luxury vacation villa.

Search around, and I know you’ll find something very special made just for you!

Trip Planning Made Simple and Stress Free

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

We all know that trip planning should always be done before going on vacation. But what sort of stuff should you plan for? Good question!

You wouldn’t try to board your flight without first purchasing your boarding pass, right? So why risk it and go on a vacation without first planning.

On this page you’ll find some very important…but common sense things you should double check before departing.

Trip Planning Tips:

1. If you’ll be traveling from another country…make sure you have a valid passport or visa. Also, fill out the emergency information just in case.

2. Laws change state-to-state and country-to-country…so become familiar with them before visiting. Last thing you want is to have to pay fines because you didn’t know the local laws.

3. Let friends and family know where you’ll be traveling to and for how long. Assign someone as a point of contact in case of an emergency. This is very important, but an overlooked detail.

4. If you make your airline ticket purchase around 60-90 days in advance…be sure to contact your airline for seat assignment for you and your family. Don’t be caught like a dear in headlights…and find out later that the flight was overbooked, and you’re one of the unlucky ones.

5. Travel as light as possible, and leave your valuables at home if possible. If you’ll be flying in…make sure to get to the baggage area as soon as possible. Thieves love baggage areas!

6. If you’ll be needing certain heavy items, such as golf clubs or a surf board…you may want to consider having them shipped on your day of arrival.

7. Don’t make the same mistake I made…confirm that your chosen hotel is the right one. I once traveled to Ohio with the intentions of staying at a Marriott in Cinncinati…only to find out later that the hotel I had reserved was in Dayton…1-hour away!

8. If you know you’ll be arriving a bit late…ask about the hotel’s late arrival policies. Make sure that you don’t get stuck in a smokers room or a room too small simply because of a weak hotel policy.

9. Always call to confirm your vacation reservations…such as hotel, transportation, and activities. Don’t be taken by surprise, and find out later no one ever got your memo.

10. Make sure to always check the weather forcast. San Diego is known for flawless weather year-round, but we do get our share of rain from time to time. A change in wardrobe may be needed.

11. Charge up those batteries…and leave your camera and video recorder by the door the night before so you don’t forget them.

12. Upon arrival…make sure you have a map indicating where you’ll be going and how you’ll get there. This will set you and your family at ease…and it will get your vacation to the right start.

I can sit here all day and continue on-and-on with a bigger and longer trip planning laundry list…but as long as you take care of the above, I’m sure you have the most important things covered.

Try not too worry so much. You can never do enough trip planning. It’s so easy to get hung up on a to-do list…but the most important thing of all is that you enjoy yourself.

Remind yourself to Have Fun while you make all those travel plans!

…Oh, and one last thing…don’t forget those shades and sunscreen.

Looking for Vacation Planning Tips and Advice?

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

I know vacation planning is not the most attractive or inspiring thing to do with your time…but how would you like to fly on a lousy airline, or be stuck in a hotel that wreaks of cigarettes! The last thing you need to be worrying about is whether the car you rented will accommodate your whole family upon arrival.

These are things that need and should be taken care of before taking your trip. Read on for some insightful travel planning tips and advice…

Trip Planning

There are a variety of reasons why you should go through the hassles of outlining your vacation plans. How silly would you feel if you got to the airport…and found out you had booked a flight out for the following day instead? Or even worse…you forgot to renew your passport or visa!

In order to make things easier on you…I have gone through the hassles of outlining some stuff you should take care of before departing.

Financial Travel Planning

A vacation can’t happen without a budget of some sort. Whether you have a huge or small budget…you’ll want to keep some important things in mind.

There is one thing I dislike to do…and that’s to tell others how to spend their money, but it’s an important topic that needs to be addressed. Last thing you want to find is a huge bill in your mail a month later with no way of paying it off.

When should all of this vacation planning take place?

You want to give yourself plenty of time to plan. I would say about a month or so in advance. Stress and anxiety due to lack of planning can spoil the time which was meant for relaxation.

…and if you’re feeling overwhelmed with all of this, please don’t hesitate to ask for help. We may be able to point you in the right direction.

Also, before departing for your vacation…double check that you have all the right contact information in case you’re faced with a special need or a crisis. Follow the link to the following page where I have outlined this information for you…

Looking for Free Online Travel Guides?…

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

Whether you’re looking for specific travel guides of your favorite destinations, or you’re planning an upcoming trip with the family…this resources page is loaded with free information that should allow for hours of enjoyable reading.

We are constantly adding new information to this page…so be sure to visit us often.

Resources

San Diego Travel – Sites of San Diego.com is San Diego’s Travel Directory for hotels, attractions and visitor information.

Adventure Travel Tips – The Global Directory of Adventure Travel Websites.

Del Mar Guide for everything about Del Mar, California – California’s coastal gem, Del Mar has everything for a visitor. Shopping, family vacations, sunsets and whale watching, thoroughbred horse racing, beaches and world-class restaurants.

Best Family Beach Vacations
Beach vacation guide for family travel. Learn about family friendly destinations, all inclusive resorts, kid cruises, family attractions, what to pack, how to keep the kids amused and more.

HawaiiBeachcombers.com
Hawaii beaches are
shared by a lifelong Hawaii resident through favorite activities like fishing, kayaking, kayak fishing, bodysurfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and tips for Hawaii vacations.

Utah Trip Advisor
Provides info on the “best of the best” vacation destinations in Utah. As a landscape photographer and a life-long resident, I hope to help you find the info you need to plan out and thoroughly enjoy your next vacation.

kid-friendly-family-vacations.com
Every family vacation can be kid-friendly and fun. Family Vacations do not have to be run of the mill….Shake up the
routine and have fun.

beach-therapy.com
Everyone deserves some beach therapy now and then. Reviews of beaches with pictures. Everything to plan your vacation,including
reviews, gear, accommodations, and more.

scotlands-enchanting-kingdom.com
Visit Scotland’s enchanting kingdom, the Kingdom of Fife. This travel site introduces the visitor to Fife; to its history, people, food, music, culture and things to see and do.

my-island-penang.com
My Island Penang, offers an exciting and lovely destination for someone who wants to travel and visit Penang, have fun but same time learns about our local traditions, cultures, stories, folklore, food, chinese new year, malaysian food, hokkien, penang food, malaysian festivals.

upper-rogue-information.com
In the Northern part of Jackson County Oregon lies the Upper Rogue Region. Visit our natural wonderland of rivers, forests, lakes, waterfalls and history. Home to the Rogue River, Crater Lake National Park, Oregon State Parks.

pigeon-forge-gatlinburg-family-git2know.com
A friendly local guides you through Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg Tn. He introduces you to the beauty, warmth, charm, and fun family vacation possibilities of the area.

Arizona Vacation Planner
Travel along with Jeff and Paula Hartgraves as they explore the Grand Canyon state. Their Arizona vacation and travel guide is packed with resort, spa and restaurant reviews, favorite things to do, insider travel tips, photos and more.

enjoy-englewood-florida.com

Enjoy Englewood Florida with its sunny skies, great beaches, a wide variety of golf courses and warm weather make it a great retirement community and a relaxing vacation destination.

Festivalpig.com
Festivalpig.com has been to the world’s greatest festivals and has photos, secret tips and all the details you want. Getaway inspiration Guaranteed!

fun-travel-malaysia.com
Visit Malaysia? Sit back, relax, enjoy and let me be your humble travel guide to Malaysia, my beloved country and beloved home.

aruba-caribbean-beaches.com
Aruba, white beaches, sunshine and the friendliest people.

Remote
Islands Getaway Vacation in an EXOTIC Asian Paradise
– Vacation at a real tropical paradise Island and take a trip back into time. See the natural and untouched beauty of Camotes Islands, the lost Horizon and nearly forgotten and unheard of Islands of Cebu Philippines.

block-island-family-vacation.com
Block Island Family Vacation: Create the Best Family Vacation on Block Island. The only site of its kind about Block Island. A real life, up to date Insider’s Guide to Everything Block Island.


Family Vacations Travel

Our site draws on our “personal travel experiences”, including what we’ve learned in planning our family “getaways” to provide you with some insights for your vacation ideas and travel research.

DestinationsUnlimited.org
Ulltimate Travels is a complete Travel Company offering you various Trips of India and Nepal such as India Holiday package, Adventure Package, Religious Tour, Honeymoon Tour, Adventure in Nepal and Many More.

<a href=”http://www.vacation-savings-and-information.com/index.html” target=”_blank”<Vacation-Savings-and-Information.com

General information about travel, destinations, discounts, health and safety, carry on baggage and any topic that may be of interest to anyone traveling.

Dalai-Lama-Dharma-Dharamsala-MiniGuide.com
Study the life of dalai lama-dharma-dharamsala,yoga meditation-retreat,experience himalayan adventures,tibetan india tours buddhism with us,Lodging,Reaching Dharamsala, tibetan art, tibetan buddhism,volunteering,good karma,dalai lama teachings

The Shops At Las Americas…Dizzying Designer Bargains

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

What’s the big fuss About?

The Shops at Las Americas is one of San Diego South Bay’s hidden gems many outsiders still don’t know about. It is by far the best Outlet Mall in San Diego. I would even like to risk and say it is the best Outlet Mall in the West Coast.

Before The Shops at Las Americas everyone used to talk about crossing the border in search of that great bargain. Tijuana, Mexico is the world’s busiest international border in the world, and with that Tijuana thrives on tourism. You may be disappointed to find out that prices in Tijuana are “almost” comparable to the U.S. when it comes to everyday merchandise such as brand name clothing.

The Shops at Las Americas has changed many things for shoppers looking for that bargain! I have run into many people who tell me they are so greatful for the outlet mall. It has eliminated the need to cross the border (for some).

Don’t get me wrong, Tijuana has merchandise you can “ONLY” find in Mexico such as pottery, jewelry, art, etc. So if you were planning to visit Tijuana, Mexico, continue on with your plans. I promise you that you won’t be disappointed.

Some Interesting Background:

The Shops at Las Americas is located smack down dead center just steps away from the World’s most trafficked border in the U.S. It was designed to resemble California’s Spanish heritage with its elegant architecture, water fountains, sculptures, and beautiful surroundings.

By far its the people though that make this place truly unique. You have two worlds clashing together who share one thing in
common. Bargain shopping! If you don’t know Spanish, bring a translator with you as Spanish is heavily used, but don’t worry
as most people also speak English.

Anyways, you will find as many as 125 designer stores ranging from your extremely exclusive stores such as Coach and Neiman
Marcus Las Call. This series of stores practically demands a day for itself.

You will also find designer stores such as Nautica, Polo Sport, Kenneth Cole, Bebe, Banana Republic, etc. Teens would love to know that there’s a Hurley store, American Eagle, Aeropostale, Vans, etc. You get the idea.

Grab a free map/store directory on your way in, then plan to hit your favorite 10 or 12 destinations.

If you find yourself going hungry after all that crazy shopping, there is a food court.

What’s so different about this Outlet Shopping Mall?

The outlets at Las Americas are like a “best kept secret” that you can’t wait to tell your close friends about. Great for families or anyone who just wants to spend a leisurely afternoon without the stress of the bigger malls.

If you’re really looking for that memorable shopping experience, this is it. It’s located in a great tourist environment, but without losing touch of the shopping experience.

Where is The Shops At Las Americas Located?

The shopping center is conveniently located from all areas of San Diego County, just 20 minutes south of downtown off two freeways. From I-5 exit on Dairy Mart Road, go 1/8th mile and turn left onto Camino de la Plaza. From I-805 exit on Camino de la Plaza, turn right and go 1/8th mile on the left to experience San Diego’s premier international shopping destination.

Insider’s Tips:

Many people don’t know, but if you stop by the visitors center near the food court sometimes you can get some great coupon books. This adds to the already discounted bargains you will find.

Also, if you happen to go on a weekend when traffic is the busiest, and you just can’t seem to find parking. I usually go to the back of the outlets where there is additional parking. My family and I especially like that we don’t have to be watching out for traffic as much getting to-and-from the stores.

The Shops at Las Americas

4211 Camino de la Plaza
San Diego, California 92173

Shopping Hours

Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
619-934-8400

Spring Valley Swap Meet…A Valley of Bargains

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

So why do so many people come to the Spring Valley Swap Meet?…

Well, first off it has been around for some 37 years. I think it has had plenty of time to gain in popularity among San Diego residents.

It has been said that some 20,000 people fill every corner of this place. The Spring Valley Swap Meet is just as diverse as San Diego itself. People from both sides of the U.S./Mexico border shop and sell here.

This San Diego Swap Meet sits on a 15-acre lot. This yard was first used as an enclosed “auction yard” by the Derr Family back in 1969. Soon after they were able to obtain a Swap Meet business license, and like they say, “Everything Else is History.”

As far back as I can remember living in California…my parents would always take me and my brothers to the local Swap Meet most weekends for some bargain shopping. We were always short on cash, so this was paradise to us.

Not too long ago though, I began picking up this old habit again. For the past 4 years now, my wife and I have been going to the local Spring Valley Swap Meet as a way of reducing our unwanted clutter. We have been doing more selling than shopping though. We’ve been doing this casually every 6-months…although we are considering selling new items in a near future.

I just think it is funny how we go through great lengths to accumulate as much as we can, and then we practically give it away when we grow tired of the “stuff” we’ve accumulated.

I’ve been very impressed as to the skills that some people have who shop at the Spring Valley Swap Meet. They truly are professional bargain shoppers. Most of them almost always expect to buy below the price we have set. Boy…are they skilled or what?

Another thing…if you’re shopping for clothes, keep an eye out for designer labels. In the past I have sold my used jeans and shirts (all designer clothes) for no more than two bucks!

You should try and arrive at the Spring Valley Swap Meet as early as possible. I would suggest arriving around 7 am (or maybe even a little before).

This is because there are a lot of other people there to shop for the exact same reason as yourself. The best stuff always sells the quickest. I mean, it sells within a couple of minutes of unloading the stuff off the car.

The first time my wife and I came to sell, we were shocked as to how quickly we sold everything. Before we had even unpacked… swarms of people were crowding around us to see what goodies we had.

You won’t want to come alone. Four eyes or more are always better than just two when you hunting for hidden treasures. Also, don’t forget to bring lots of nickels, dimes, quarters, and dollars.

Do keep in mind that if you plan on leaving for any reason…make sure you get your hand stamped. Otherwise you’ll have to pay the entrance fee again.

On the other hand, if you’ll be shopping for newer items…you can show up at any time before 3 pm. Just keep in mind that the Spring Valley Swap Meet parking lot can get quite congested. The earlier you come, the better a chance you’ll have of getting a good parking spot, the best deals.

When you come to the Spring Valley Swap Meet, bring some light snacks and drinks you can carry around in a small bag. You’ll be burning a lot of calories walking around, and the sun will dehydrate you quicker than you think.

If you get hungry and you forgot to pack some lunch, you can always buy some Carne Asada Nachos. It is money well spent. They sell these in both small and large plates, and they come loaded with jalapeños. I typically ask for the small size, and tell them to not include the jalapeños. A heavy spicy meal is the last thing I want while out in the sun.

Spring Valley Swap Meet
6377 Quarry Rd.
Spring Valley, CA 91977
7 AM – 3 PM
Admission: $1.00 per person
(619) 463-1194.

Seaport Village…Shopping By The Bay

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

If your from out of town, Seaport Village really speaks volumes about San Diego. Whether you’re looking for a gift that has San Diego written all over it, or you’re looking to have a romantic meal right next to the bay…Seaport Village will cater to all your needs.

This place is loaded with fun. You’re sure to get lost walking the four miles of meandering paths…or enjoying San Diego’s Embarcadero. You’ll also find the Embarcadero Marina Park where you can have a picnic or fly a kite. Whatever your reasons are…you’re sure to have a good time. Be sure to grab your hat and sunscreen.

An Evening At Seaport Village:

When my son was just 4-months old, my wife and I brought him to Seaport Village for an evening stroll. The weather was quite fair…now that I think about it, I should have listened to my wife to bring a light jacket.

In the distance we saw a mix of both Victorian and Traditional Mexican architecture. This is how we knew we were arriving.

As we entered the Village, we pulled the parking voucher, and we pulled into the parking area. We then remembered that it was a Saturday evening…one of the busiest days for Seaport Village. After looping around the parking area a few times, we were finally able to find a spot to park.

We were so excited because it was Alex’s first evening stroll by the Harbor. We had our digital camera…and I’m sure we took more pictures of him that day than any Paparazzi could ever take. As we put Alex in the stroller, my wife and I could not help but notice the excitement on his face…it was as if he knew that he was about to experience something new.

First thing we did was stop at Ben & Jerry’s for a sugar cone ice cream. We remembered to get our parking voucher validated so we wouldn’t have to pay on our way out. Anyways, my wife really loves Ben & Jerry’s…well, so do I. We then took a walk over to the Carousel. It was quite interesting to see my 4-month old son follow the riders circle around.

As we wandered around all the neat little souvenir shops, we passed by a small pond. There were some ducks…so we took advantage of this candid moment, and took some pictures.

We walked around the bay and winding park paths until the sunset came down. It was quite an experience. I must say, it has been one of the nicest evenings my wife and son have spent together, and I would really like to revisit Seaport Village as soon as Alex starts to walk.

What to do in a nut shell

Shopping

I will be dead honest with you, if you’re looking to do some major shopping…look elsewhere. You will be highly disappointed if you’re looking for a Gucci Bag, or the latest Prada Shoes.

But if you’re looking for some really cool San Diego Post Cards, Mugs, Shot Glasses, Smooched Pennies, or even Wind Chimes…then you’re in the right place! You’ll even find specialty stores entirely dedicated to hot sauce, music boxes, hammocks, and kites.

The good thing is most items are quite small…so you wont have to go out of your way to buy an extra suitcase!

Another must see is the Wyland Gallery. If you’re not sure who this guy is…well, he is one of California’s best known marine artists. When you go, just pretend you’re thinking of buying something…or you can just buy something if you really can afford it.

Dinning

You’ll also find four bay-view restaurants here

…the Harbor House restaurant, Edgewater Grill, Buster’s and the Pier Cafe. You may also be interested to know that the Pier Cafe is the only one on the waterfront. Not only can you get a good meal while you take in the view…but you can also get some sun while you eat.

If you’re not looking to spend a whole lot on dining in, head over to the food court. I’m sure you’ll find a snack or drink to satisfy your appetite.

For the Kids

…and head over to the old carousel with your kids when shopping gets to be too much for them. This is sure to keep them entertained for some time.

I’m also sure they won’t be disappointed when they find out there’s a video arcade.

Also, don’t miss out on San Diego’s Aircraft Carrier Museum (about half a mile or so away). You can take a tour of the USS Midway, which use to be a real aircraft carrier until it was retired. Now it caters to thousands of San Diego lovers who visit us every year.

The Embarcadero Marina Park is also a great place to walk the dog or fly a kite. This can be jammed packed with people on the weekends…so come early.

Take A Tour

From Seaport Village you can catch some great sights of Coronado and the Coronado Bridge. But don’t just stand there and stare…get over there and visit this awesome location.

You can also take a carriage tour in a Cinderella Carriage. If you’re planning a romantic evening with your honey, be sure to include this in you itinerary.

The San Diego SEAL Tours is another recommended tour to take. You’ll be riding in an amphibious vehicle both on land and sea.

There are also Pedicab drivers that can take you just about anywhere in the are for a small fee. This is a great option when walking just seems too much.

Staying Nearby

If you plan on staying near Seaport Village or close to the Gaslamp District…you can either choose to stay at the nearby Marriott or the Hyatt (which has some really cool views of the bay from the top floor lounge).

Additional Tips

Make sure to Pick up a brochure of Seaport Village on your way in. You’ll find an event schedule and discount coupons.

You can also take advantage of the free public concerts, which happen mostly on weekends and some weekdays. That brochure you’ll pick up will have all the details.

Directions to the Village

So how do you get to and from >Seaport Village? Well, you actually have a few options here…

Drive

You can take Harbor Drive, and drive past the Embarcadero. Go past the USS Midway, and continue along Harbor Drive until you see Seaport Village to the right. But be sure to get a map with proper directions before going in case you get lost.

Water Taxi

Water Taxis can be found near Greek Islands Cafe. Call (619) 235-8294.

Pedicab

Pedicab’s are good for getting around the nearby area relatively quickly, while avoiding the hassles of traffic and parking. They charge a flat fee, but rates are sometimes negotiable when they’re not too busy.

San Diego Trolley Tour

The San Diego Trolley Tours makes a stop at Seaport Village (as well as other sights). Make sure to buy some tickets ahead of time if you do opt-in for this option.

Seaport Village
849 W Harbor Dr
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 235-4014 Hours

Daily: 10 am-9 pm
Summer hours: Varies

Otay Ranch Center – Shop In Class Without the Guilt!

September 1, 2008 by xcelmuscle

If you’re in San Diego’s South Bay area, make sure to visit the new Otay Ranch Center. Otay Ranch is on the eastside of Chula Vista going towards Eastlake.

A few years back this part of town was nothing but dirt. It seems as if just over night homes started popping up left and right. It is your typical suburbia, but it’s suburbia with class.

My wife and I purchased a condo last year in the Otay Ranch area, and we are getting ready to buy a second. We figure this is an ideal area to live in due to its rapid rate of growth. The area is expected to double in size by 2020.

This past year Otay Ranch unveiled it’s greatest accomplishment yet…

The Otay Ranch Center!

This is by far one of the most family friendly shopping centers I have visited in all of San Diego. If you’ve ever visited Santa Barbara’s downtown shopping district, it is very much like that.

You can park right in front of the shops. Now tell me, what shopping mall has those options. It even has valet parking! It is typical of a downtown shopping district, but it has been done with class unseen anywhere.

I don’t own a dog or anything close to it, but I think it’s really cool that the mall was designed with poochy in mind. The stores have a dog bowl for drinking water outside. Most people don’t realize that fluffy gets tired and thirsty having to wait for you while shopping.

Oh, I almost forgot to mention, there’s also a dog-friendly park across from the mall.

Do your kids enjoy writing on the walls at home? Well my son isn’t old enough to scribble yet, but I’m sure he’ll be excited to know he can go wild scribbling with chalk at the town center’s “chalk garden”. There’s popper fountains, so plan on bringing a spare of clothing to change your kids into after they are completely soaked.

The Otay Ranch Center is still very new, so you won’t experience much crowdedness (Unless you come on a Saturday or Sunday).

Keep in mind that when shopping in San Diego it’s all about the experience, and not necessarily about buying everything in sight.

I often tell my wife that she is a professional shopper. She knows exactly where to park, and she has an strategic plan before getting there.

My wife really likes the Black and White store. I prefer to spend most of my time in the Apple Computer store or Discovery store (geeky stuff has always attracted me).

You will find a lot of high-end stores that rival Rodeo Drive at the Otay Ranch Town Center. Here’s a quick list of just a few very popular (a bit pricey too) stores.

- Coach, Anthropologie, Macy’s, Ann Taylor, Build-A-Bear Workshop,REI, Barnes & Noble, Apple, Sephora and White House Black Market.

You also have a good balance of stores that won’t knock the financial wind out of you.

Also, don’t miss out on the Philly Cheesestake sandwiches at Steak Escape in the Food Pavillion. These are really good! Or if you feel like dining at other more well know restaurants there’s P. F. Chang’s China Bistro, Cheesecake Factory, Frida Mexican Cuisine, California Pizza Kitchen.

Additional Information:

Otay Ranch Center
2015 Birch Road, Suite 500
Chula Vista, California 91915
(619) 656-9100

Mall Hours:
Monday-Saturday:10:00am-9:00pm
Sunday:11:00am-7:00pm
Store hours vary, please call ahead.