Are you stuck in San Diego for part of winter break due to working or studying? Are all of your friends going home? Do you have an extra day or two to relax after finals? If so, San Diego County is home to stunning sights and exciting activities that students rarely have time to take advantage of. This December is a perfect time to explore the aspects of our region that attract tourists and thrill-seekers year-round.
Hot Air Ballooning in Del Mar
If you are up for an adventurous new experience, try a sunset hot air balloon ride. Just 20 minutes north of UCSD, Del Mar is a coastal city that offers much in the way of beauty and entertainment. There are hotels of all price ranges to stay in, but Del Mar is close enough to make it a day trip for those who are limited in time or budget. The California Dreamin’ BalloonPort offers both sunrise and sunset tours that provide spectacular views of the ocean and coast line, as well as the luxurious estate homes and mountains bordering the Borrego desert in the east.
Sometimes, on a perfectly clear day, the Coronado Islands are visible. Champagne and sparkling cider are served aloft while the balloon floats on the wind current. There is no need to worry about falling out of the balloon, and because of the nature of hot air ballooning, there is no danger of motion sickness or turbulence. The Web site claims, “”balloon flight is very stable. There is no turbulence, sway or keel.”” Reservation forms and answers to frequently asked questions can be found at http://www.californiadreamin.com. The company suggests calling in at noon on the day of your reservation to check if weather conditions will permit the flight.
Romantic Getaway in Julian
About an hour east of San Diego, in the beautiful Cuyamaca Mountains, a small, old-fashioned town provides the perfect site for a quick romantic getaway. Julian is famous for its apple pie, but there is much more to do here than eat — though the many fine restaurants make this option tempting. As a gold-rush town from the 1880s, Julian offers many old-fashioned comforts. One can shop in its specialty and craft stores, such as The Coffee Tree, which offers country gifts, and Earth Dance, a shop of botanical bath and body products that are created on site.
After shopping (and of course some famous apple pie), take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city. According to an advertisement for Country Carriages, “”the driver will point out the historic sights and share local lore”” while you clip-clop down Main Street. Julian offers many romantic bed and breakfasts, but it is also close enough to escape just for the day. More information about the town can be found at http://www.julianca.com, and Country Carriage reservations can be made at (760) 765-1471.
Cruise to Catalina
A brief drive north of UCSD, Dana Point is home to a port that offers two ways to travel to Catalina Island. Catalina is about 22 miles off of the coast of Los Angeles, and is only an hour boat ride from Dana Point. There is no need for cars on Catalina; residents get around the small island via golf carts. Avalon, the city on Catalina, boasts restaurants and shops of all types. Kayaks, boats, bicycles and carts are all available for rent. Tours of the botanical gardens, the city and even the ocean floor aboard a glass-bottom boat can be purchased prior to or upon arrival. For a more adventurous and hands-on approach, scuba diving and snorkeling are also available.
In addition, there are golf courses, a museum, a theater and other attractions to visit. Hotels are available for rent, but good weather makes camping a viable option as well. To find out more, look on http://www.Catalina.com or call the visitors bureau at (310) 510-1520.
Old Town Trolley
If all of these options sound too far away from home, explore the treasures of San Diego itself aboard the Old Town Trolley. At just $24 for the day, the trolley follows a 30-mile circular route with a dozen stops at points of interest around San Diego. The trolley can be boarded at any point, and stops include Embarcadero, the downtown area, Horton Plaza, Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park and Heritage Park. The trolley can be exited at any point and boarded again at each stop. This is an inexpensive option to explore home from the perspective of a tourist; for more information call (619) 298-TOUR.
