If you’re a regular to my blog, you’ll know that one of my favourite things about my job is the opportunities I have to travel. Over the past year, I’ve visited places I could never have imagined, from Jackonsville, Florida to New York City. I love learning more about different cultures and mixing with locals, and I know how lucky I am for it. This week, I visited somewhere new – sunny San Diego, right at the south of California.
San Francisco
We started our business trip with a quick pitstop in San Francisco, fitting in meetings before heading to one of my favourite rooftop bars in the city, The View. After a couple of jalapeno margaritas, we had to rush off to the airport. We said a sad goodbye once again to the city before jetting off to San Diego.
Of course, you can’t visit San Francisco without a spot of crab! We grabbed a tasty crab roll from Yankee Pier before boarding the plane to San Diego.
We flew over Los Angeles on the way – I was mesmerized by the lights, all neatly arranged in rows.
The Nolen, San Diego
Feeling a little sleepy after a 4am wake up call, we felt in need of a cocktail. We headed to one of San Diego’s finest rooftop bars – The Nolen. Here, we spent the evening chatting away and enjoying the views across the city.
We grabbed a few tasty cocktails, and began to plan out what to see in San Diego. We didn’t have long to explore, so we wanted to make the most of it.
After finishing up at The Nolen, we went to explore the Gaslamp District. It’s a historic area of San Diego that’s famous for its nightlife. We grabbed a few drinks in a bar, and a slice of pizza or two. Afterwards, we then set off to our hotel in search of sleep, before a busy day ahead.
Breakfast Republic, San Diego
First, coffee. And possibly one of the largest coffees I’d ever had! If you’re in San Diego, make sure to grab brunch from Breakfast Republic. As the name suggests, the food is amazing.
I’d highly recommend the Crab Benedict. The portions are huge, so you certainly won’t leave hungry. The perfect sustenance ahead of some intense meetings.
La Jolla, San Diego
After our meetings, we were desperate to get out and explore San Diego as best we could before catching our flight back to Vancouver. Our client recommended going to check out the beautiful neighbourhood of La Jolla. La Jolla’s a seaside village that’s famous for its sunshine and glamour. It’s very much home to a handful of rich and famous. After seeing the views, we soon realized why.
After seeing the sun for the first time this year (Lucy’s based in London), we were both pretty happy to have the sun shining down on us and to see the incredible colours of the ocean.
La Jolla is famous for the seals that rest at the cove. They’re adorable and fun to watch, even if they do make it smell a little.
We spent some time meandering the avenue that takes you along the coast to the shore. All the while, we appreciated the hot sun and lovely Hispanic architecture.
The architecture really is beautiful. Look out for the iconic pink building – La Valencia Hotel. It’s been a getaway for the stars since the 1920s Golden Era. Maybe one day I’ll be lucky enough to stay there.
George’s at the Cove, La Jolla
Having worked up quite the appetite after our meetings and seafront wander, we headed to a recommendation: George’s at the Cove. It’s easy to see why it’s so popular with its stunning views across the San Diego ocean.
We munched our way through chips and salsa, fish tacos, and a couple of drinks whilst tapping away at our laptops. I must say, it’s certainly the best view I’ve had from my desk in a long time!
A wonderful way to spend the afternoon in San Diego. Although the view was somewhat of a distraction at times.
Very disappointed to be leaving, but very thankful for our brief stint in San Diego, we headed off to the airport. Of course, it wouldn’t be the US without our taxi driver asking if we’d seen the princes or queen riding about town. Ah America, I love you!
Have you visited San Diego? Which travel tips would you share for this beautiful city?