San Diego ~ Part 2
So where did I live off from my last post? Oh yes, food. Well, my family is partial to Mexican food and we like the family-run places so I’m giving our vote to an eatery that’s been around since 1940. It’s called ‘El Indio’. It’s not fancy, you order at the counter then search for a table. It’s in an industrial area and parking can be interesting. So what makes this place worth recommending?
Everything is homemade. Tamales, carnitas, enchiladas, you name it. All fresh. You can buy packages of steaming tortillas, sides of guacamole and sour cream to accompany your meal. It’s totally casual, not as cheap as some, but definitely popular and always a line, especially weekends. Also very close to the port of San Diego and San Diego Airport.
There’s also a popular burger eatery called Hodad’s and a pasta place named Lotsa Pasta. Didn’t eat at these but they seem to be well liked. Googling San Diego restaurants is enlighting. Everyone has their opinions. I’ve found restaurant reviews are similar to hotel reviews in that sometimes people can be really picky. My experience has taught me if even a few folks like it, it’s probably pretty good. It’s always a good idea to checkout the menus and read as many reviews as possible. And use your gut instinct.
Things to do in San Diego. As far as activities go, Sea World San Diego is fun for all ages. Plan on a full day, possibly two if the little ones need naps. The San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park are popular but they’re inland a bit so prepare for warmer weather at those locations during the summer.
If you’re looking to stay along the beach, we love La Jolla. It’s about a 15 minute drive from the Mission Bay/Sea World area and neighboring Pacific Beach. There are a lot of restaurants, bars and funky shops along the main drag of Pacific Beach. It’s geared to a 20’s and 30’s crowd rather than families. La Jolla, meantime, has a different vibe, lots of boutique properties, nice shops and romantic restaurants. It’s pricey but pretty. Parking is tight and food can be expensive but definitely worth a visit if you have an extra afternoon or evening.
One of our other favorite areas is Coronado Island. There are a half a dozen places worth staying, everything from motel to high-end resort. That would be the Del (Hotel del Coronado). At more than 100 years young, it’s a landmark in the San Diego area and worth a walk around the grounds. Known for many amenities including it’s oceanfront location and Sunday brunch.
So if you’re taking a cruise from San Diego, allow yourself at least a couple of days to get acquainted with the area. With its’ impressive downtown skyline it looks like a bit city but with it’s casual beach atmosphere and laid back attitude, it has a smaller-town feel.
One other thing to consider, if you’re cruising from the port of Los Angeles, you could still enjoy the San Diego sights. Consider flying in to San Diego and spending a couple days there then take a shuttle directly to the pier or ride amtrak to downtown L.A. From there you’d take a bus or shuttle transportation to the pier, about 20 miles away. The ride between the two areas takes on average about two hours.
So there are lots of choices. If you have the time and are taking a week-long cruise, consider extending your trip to a-week-and-a-half or even two weeks. I’ve lived in Southern California all my life and I still have more to see!
Happy travels.
San Diego, Cruise from San Diego, Sea World San Diego, Port of San Diego, San Diego Weather, Smart Money Cruises
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