Things You'll Need:
- A computer for making online reservations
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Step 1
Look for San Diego, California in the extreme southwest of the U.S.; cross the border, and you'll find yourself in Tijuana, Mexico.
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Step 2
Admire the city's diverse natural beauty, which includes San Diego Bay, numerous canyons, mountains and the nearby Cleveland National Forest. Beaches abound, including Pacific, Mission and Ocean Beaches.
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Step 3
Bask in the mild, Mediterranean weather. The average temperature here is about 65 degrees F, and rain in California is mostly restricted to the winter months.
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Step 1
Fly into the San Diego International Airport. The airport serves 20 plus North American airline carriers as well as international airlines.
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Step 2
Rent a car if possible, since public transportation is spotty in San Diego. If you don't drive--or if you simply want to ride the trolley for fun--know that Old Town Transit Station is the epicenter of public transportation. Most mid- and upper-range hotels are within easy access of public transit.
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Step 1
To book a hotel room, contact San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau at (619) 232-3101 or visit their Web site (see Resources below).
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Step 2
Narrow your accommodations search by first picking a neighborhood that appeals to you. San Diego has hundreds of hotels and B&Bs, as well as neighborhoods of very distinct character.
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Step 3
Stay at the famous Lodge at Torrey Pines if you are an avid golfer. With an average price of several hundred dollars a night, the hotels aren't cheap, but the hotel's location (next to famous Torrey Pines Golf Course) is ideal. Some rooms have views of the Pacific.
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Step 4
Choose from a huge selection of good quality, moderately priced hotels. Mid-level national chains are available in San Diego and suburbs such as Del Mar.
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Step 5
Make friends and save money by staying in a hostel. Compare ratings and reviews before reserving accommodations in one of San Diego's half dozen hostels, since they vary greatly in quality and vibe.
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Step 1
Make time for the city's most popular and beloved attraction: the San Diego Zoo. Admire the rare giant pandas and the zoo's 10 distinct "bioclimatic zones."
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Step 2
Picnic, golf or visit the museums of Balboa Park. This wildly popular spot is much more than just the home of the San Diego Zoo. Consider choosing a hotel or motel near the park to make sightseeing easier.
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Step 3
Shop and dine to your heart's content in the 16 blocks of the Gaslamp Quarter. The Quarter is characterized by its lovely and historic Victorian-era buildings. There are plenty of boutique hotels as well as national chain establishments houses in these renovated buildings.
