Whale Watching Everywhere from December till April

Right from December till April, one thing that nobody wants to miss is the whale watching cruises.

These five months are whale watching season when more than 25,000 California Gray Whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California.

As gray whales migrate south during this time, they travel close to the San Diego shore which allows locals and visitors on a vacation to San Diego to have close encounters with the marine animals.

Various whale watching cruises and sailing adventures take place during this time. You can spot whales on a cruise or from land and while going on a kayaking tour as well. And its not just whales. You also get to spot playful dolphins, seals and lots more. The clear waters of La Jolla offer a great opportunity to sight whales.

You can go on La Jolla Kayak Whale Watching tours from December to March. Kayaking in La Jolla bay is itself amazing and watching whales only make the experience more memorable. But remember, you need to be a swimmer to go for this La Jolla whale watching tour.

Another way to watch whales is by going on Hornblower Cruise and Whale Watching Adventure. Hornblower Cruises include whale as well as dolphin watching cruises daily from December till mid April. These cruises begin at 9:30am and go on till 1:30pm.

The beginning of the whale sighting season is the best time to spot whales i.e. December to February is the prime time.

Hence if you are coming on San Diego family vacation in December or January, do include whale watching event in your itinerary. Watching these marine animals play and swim around is an exhilarating experience.

San Diego Restaurant Week

To the delight of all “FOODIES”, San Diego’s Restaurant Week is back!

Treat your taste buds at San Diego's Restaurant Week, to be held from Sunday, January 13 through Friday, January 18 2013.   

With over 180 restaurants throughout San Diego participating in the celebration of Restaurant Week, food lovers can relish over 140,000 diners and savor 3-course meals, specially prepared for the occasion, at discounted prices.

Depending on the restaurant, 3-course meal is available at $20, $30 or $40 per person. From this year, San Diego’s Restaurant week will also feature lunch to the menu. Diners can enjoy different delicacies in 2-course meals at $10, $15 or $20 per person.

Don't miss the opportunity to dine at a location you normally avoid because of the cost. You can also revisit the restaurants to try international flavors you have not tasted before. San Diego Restaurant Week is another temptation for an extended stay San Diego in addition to a fun-filled and adventurous San Diego vacation. 

You need no tickets to be a part of this event. Just book your slot at any participating location, show up, pick your favorite cuisine from their menu and enjoy the food!

The list of participating restaurant includes:

• 100 Wines Hillcrest
• 333 Pacific
• Anthony's Fish Grotto La Mesa
• Anthony's Fish Grotto San Diego Bay
• Bertrand at Mister A's
• Blue Point
• Croce's Restaurant & Jazz Bar
• Davanti Enoteca Del Mar
• Greystone steak house
• Gaslamp Strip Club
• Oceanside
• Kelvin at the W San Diego
• La Jolla Strip Club
• Taste of Thai Hillcrest
• The Fish Market- San Diego        
• The Melting Pot- Gaslamp

Refer to http://www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com/restaurants  for complete list and prices.

Don't worry if you don't want to spend much on San Diego lodging. With different affordable yet comfortable motels in San Diego, you can enjoy the San Diego Restaurant Week to the fullest.

Photo Courtesy: dguides.com

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is Mesmerizing

San Diego Bay at Embarcadero looks breathtakingly beautiful during the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. Set to take place on two consecutive Sundays i.e. 9th December and 16th December, 2012; the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights draws more than 75000 visitors.

Beautiful San Diego

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights features a boat parade in which different kinds of boats are decorated with beautiful lighting. The annual event kicks off with fireworks display at 5:30 pm that dazzle the sky. Following which the parade takes place that includes more than 100 beautifully decorated vessels. Led by the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter, the theme of this year's San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is "The Sounds of Christmas.”

The parade commences at the east end of Shelter Island, then moves past Harbor Island and further to North Embarcadero. The best viewing location to watch the parade would be Harbor Island, Seaport Village and Embarcadero Marina Park North. It is advisable to arrive at the venue as early as possible to avoid the parking hassles and get a good spot to watch the parade.

Approximate timings of arrival of the boat parade at different locations:

• Shelter Island (start of parade) - 5:30 pm
• Harbor Island - 6 pm
• The Embarcadero - 6:30 pm
• Seaport Village - 7 pm
• Ferry Landing Market on Coronado - 7:30 pm

Source: www.sandiegocoastlife.com

If you are coming on a San Diego family vacation in December, it will be a nice idea to take your family to Embarcadero to watch the parade. As the holiday season is almost here, it is best to book your San Diego accommodation in a good budget hotel as early as possible.

Festive Time in San Diego in November

With sandy beaches, year-around mild temperature, wonderful attractions and interesting events; San Diego ranks among the top tourist destinations for a pleasing family vacation. The coming months are ideal for a family vacation in San Diego. If you are planning to come to San Diego in November, two San Diego events should be must see in your San Diego vacation itinerary.

El Cajon Mother Goose Parade

Considered as the largest parade in the city, the annually held Mother Goose Parade is going to take place the Sunday before Thanksgiving day, i.e. November 18, 2012 at the Main Street and Magnolia Ave in El Cajon.

Expected to draw around 400,000 spectators this year, the Mother Goose Parade has a different theme every year. It is a family-friendly, lively event which boasts of fun activities that are sure to please adults and children alike.

You can watch the parade of colorful floats, drill units, equestrians and specialty vehicles. There will be clowns too to entertain you and performing artists to present spectacular performances. Some celebrities too are expected to be present. And your kids will love watching the Santa waving to everyone from his special float.

The parade will begin from the corner of the Main Street and Magnolia and will end at Madison. When you decide to come here; do carry some snacks, a folding chair, water and hot cocoa for cold days.

Santee Holiday Lighting Celebration

On November 16, 2012; take kids to the Mission Gorge Road at the Santee Trolley Square to see the spectacular lighting of a 20-feet tall tree.

The Santee Holiday Lighting Celebration sets the mood of festive spirit with convivial celebrations which includes caroling, ice skating,  holiday-themed crafts and the Santa's visit. You can also enjoy listening to the LIVE band or ride on a horse-drawn carriage. The Santee Holiday Lighting Celebration takes place from 5:30pm to 8:30pm.

San Diego is ideal for luxury tourists as well as budget travelers. The city is home to various budget hotels in San Diego that offer attractive vacation packages and fine services. Besides, various San Diego accommodations are going to offer attractive discounts in November and December so remember to book your rooms in advance.

Fun & Entertaining San Diego Kids Expo & Fair

Considered as the largest and the longest running child expo in San Diego, the San Diego Kids Expo & Fair is going to take place on 20th and 21st October, 2012 at the Exhibit Hall in Del Mar Fairgrounds from 10am to 5pm.

Started in 1994, the San Diego Kids Expo & Fair has grown to be a big event which promises plenty of activities and products for kids. It is a complete family-friendly event where you can enjoy the amusement rides, participate in interactive games, enjoy food and do all the happy, fun things that families do together.

There will be a talent show, entertainers, arts and crafts, hands-on-learning activities for kids and other fantastic attractions. Once there, do enjoy the “Largest Inflatable Slide in America” brought by Inflatable World. And then there will be cliffhanger slides, fun obstacle course, animal rides, dog and cat shows, music concerts, dancing contest, child modeling, Go Kart racing, junior theater, art museum, gymnastic show, petting zoo, face painting, magic shows, parade, children' camps, and lots more. With more than 200 exhibitors presenting kids related things, there will be something entertaining for everyone.

This children' event has convivial ambiance with lively, entertaining activities that are sure to bring the whole family together and have some good memories to cherish in future. The fee for the adults is $6 and its FREE for kids of 12 years and younger.

If you are coming on a San Diego family vacation, you can attend this children' event. It is a lively, fun event for the whole family. If you are seeking an affordable lodging in San Diego, there are plenty of budget hotels in San Diego which provide good facilities at competitive prices.

What’s better than a San Diego Beach Vacation!

Spread over 70 miles of colossal coastline, decorated with year-around sunshine and favored by optimum temperature, there could be nothing as tempting as a San Diego beach vacation.

The sun-kissed beaches, reefs, tide pools and rocky cliffs, everything calls for an extended stay San Diego. Nothing can be more fascinating for you and your whole family to explore beaches, play volleyball, watch world’s top surfers playing with the tides, spot sea creatures, or just relax and enjoy the picturesque view of sunset.

Here are some of the most exotic beaches of San Diego you can discover during your San Diego Vacation:

La Jolla Cove is among the most
beautiful beaches in San Diego

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is among the most beautiful beaches in San Diego and is an ideal spot for scuba diving, kayaking, and snorkeling. Fortified by 300 feet sea cliffs, it is widely appreciated for its striking beauty. La Jolla Cove is accessible to public transport and is located in proximity to budget hotels San Diego.

Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is the favorite hang-out place of college students and young adults. With a lively atmosphere, three miles of boardwalk, a pleasant sun and fun after the sunset, Pacific Beach has all to make your San Diego beach vacation a memorable experience.

Mission beach offers different lively
activities to perform in sun, sand and surf.

Mission Beach

Located near the classic East Coast beaches – Atlantic City and Coney Island, Mission Beach offers different lively activities to perform in sun, sand and surf. Mission Beach provides visitors an access to hot night clubs, street performers, sandy shores hot dog stands, and fine dining eateries.

Coronado State Beach

Spread along Ocean Boulevard, Coronado Beach is a perfect holiday destination for not just the couples looking for a romantic trip but also for the families planning a San Diego beach vacation. North beach, Glorietta Bay, Silver Strand State Beach, and Ferry Landing Marketplace are some of the wonderful location worth-seeing in and around Coronado State Beach.  

Belmont Park (part of Mission Beach)

Belmont Park is the only amusement park in San Diego. Located on the surf and sand in Mission Beach, Belmont Park offers free park admission and free parking. It features amusement park rides, wave machines at Wave house, arcades, midway style games, a wide range delicacies in beachfront restaurants and food court style dining.

Mark your dates for an extended stay San Diego without bothering about San Diego lodging. An array of San Diego budget hotels fits well in your holiday budget.

Sample your Favorite Flavors at the San Diego Restaurant Week

Participating restaurants at the San Diego Restaurant Week
are located at different locations in San Diego

Finest of delicacies at affordable prices! Isn't this deal tempting? The upcoming San Diego Restaurant Week lets you enjoy various cuisines at any of the 180 of San Diego’s finest restaurants.

San Diego Restaurant Week takes place twice every year. It was held early in January, 2012 and now it is going to take place from 16th to 21st September, 2012. During this time, you can enjoy the most exotic and delectable dishes and the best of culinary delights.

The popular culinary event presents its visitors with a chance to explore the city’s vibrant food scene and brings you varied cuisines from different parts of the world. You can enjoy prix fixe menus from any of the restaurant. You can savor a two-course lunch menu for hardly $10, $15 or $20 per person, depending upon the restaurant you choose. And a three-course dinner menu cost just $20, $30 or $40 per person.

During the San Diego Restaurant Week, you can enjoy lunching with your friends at one restaurant and end the day dining at some five-star restaurant. All this at discounted prices.

You do not need to buy any passes to book your table at a restaurant. All you have to do is call the restaurant where you want to dine to make reservations. It is advisable that you book your table early in advance as the number of people expected to attend the Restaurant Week is increasing.

San Diego Restaurant Week defines the art of fine dining in San Diego. If you are coming on a San Diego vacation in September, do take advantage of this culinary event. If you are foodie; do not miss this food event at any cost. And even if you are not too much into food, you would still enjoy this culinary event. And you never know, you might develop a taste for particular cuisine.

Participating restaurants at the San Diego Restaurant Week are located at different locations in San Diego. Best is to choose a hotel in San Diego which is centrally located. Approved by the AAA, California Suites Hotel is a leading budget San Diego hotel which offers fine services and is close to lots of attractions that includes Balboa Park, Old Town, Gaslamp Quarter, La Jolla and more.

Sample new flavors one day while enjoy old favorites the other day at the San Diego Restaurant Week!

Unwind, Socialize & Enjoy Music at Outdoor Concerts in San Diego

San Diego is known for its pleasant weather. Imagine sitting in the lovely surroundings, enjoying the cool breeze and listening to some great music in summers. Concerts in the open have become a tradition during summers in the city of San Diego. Such outdoor concerts are a great opportunity for locals and visitors to socialize with people, make new friends, and enjoy some great music. In the coming weeks, many such outdoor concerts are scheduled and  we will discuss two such events here:

Pacific Beach Concerts on the Green

Pacific Beach, with its endless boardwalk
(three miles from here to the Mission Bay Harbor Channel) and funky beach bars

Scenic views and great music make Pacific Beach Concerts on the Green a wonderful event to chill out with your friends or family. Set to take place at the Kate Sessions Park on Sundays i.e. on 22nd and 29th July and 5th and 12th August, 2012 from 4 to 6.30pm; Pacific Beach Concerts on the Green lets you enjoy great music in the beautiful surroundings.

Kate Session Park is situated above Pacific Beach. Thus you can enjoy magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, downtown San Diego, stunning Mission Bay and Fiesta Island. On 29th July, you can enjoy the music of Agua Dulce and catch Rockola on 5th August. Other bands include US Navy Big Band and The Palominos.

Enjoy a picnic with friends or family here or meet up with locals and get to know about local culture and most importantly, chill out on some amazing music in the lap of nature. Best part is it is a FREE event.

Oceanside Concerts in the Park
Join other music lovers at the Rancho Del Oro Park to enjoy the Oceanside Concert in the Park. This outdoor musical event began in June and will continue till 17th August between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m at the Rancho Del Oro Park on the corner of College and Avenida Empresa in Oceanside. 

Oceanside Concert in the Park features three summer concerts mostly local bands. Bring your blankets (as it gets chilly in the evening) and lawn chairs and get set to enjoy a great evening with your dear ones. Sing along, dance and have fun at this family friendly event.

You can listen to the music of Todo Mundo on 20th July and and Not Fade Away on 17th  August. While Todo Mundo music has influences of Reggae, Caribbean style, Samba, and Rumba; Not Fade Away music is about 50s and 60s Rock n Roll music.

Since parking is limited, it is best to come in a carpool or take a cab. Try to come early to find a good spot to enjoy the entire evening and listen to good music. Again this event too is FREE.

Balboa Park is a great place for a family outing in San Diego

Having a good time during the summers in San Diego doesn't require loads of money. Within limited budget, you can enjoy lots of things for free. To enjoy your vacation to the fullest, you must have a good San Diego lodging which is not far from various attractions, so that you get to see as much as possible. California Suites Hotel is one such hotel in San Diego which offers fine services and is close to lots of attractions that includes beaches, Oceanside, Balboa Park, Old Town, Gaslamp Quarter, La Jolla and more.

Approved by the AAA and being a proud member of the San Diego's Chamber of Commerce, the California Suites Hotel provides impeccable services and facilities which include continental breakfast, heated large swimming pool, cable with HBO, high speed Internet access, free parking, laundry facilities and more at affordable prices.

So take a break from your daily routine and head for a San Diego vacation to unwind at the beach concerts.

Del Mar Horse Racing

The Del Mar Racetrack begins
its Thoroughbred Racing Season at
the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in oceanfront Del Mar.

It’s summertime where the turf meets the surf, and that means exhilarating races, big wins, and great music.

Del Mar Horse Racing excitement returns to the Del Mar Racetrack on July 18 through September 5 (except Labor Day and Tuesdays), as the Del Mar Racetrack begins its Thoroughbred Racing Season at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in oceanfront Del Mar.

The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club will celebrate 75 years as a world-class racing and entertainment destination this summer. The seaside track’s seven-week meet – filled with fast horses, free concerts and big weekend events – will commence on Wednesday, July 18, 2012.

One of the summer’s most anticipated events – Opening Day at Del Mar Horse Racing– is likely to welcome more than 46,000 celebrities, socialites and party-goers to the track to kick off the season in Kentucky Derby style with “The One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest,” again showcasing Southern California’s wildest and most glamorous creations.

Besides world-class Thoroughbred racing, Del Mar is known for its incredible lineup of summer entertainment. This season, the track will welcome big name performers to the Seaside Stage for its Summer Concert Series. Race-goers can enjoy free shows from a lineup of performers.

The $1 Million TVG Pacific Classic will take place Sunday, August 26 and is expected to attract many of the country’s top jockeys, trainers and Thoroughbreds for Del’s Mar’s richest and most prestigious race.
The 2012 season event calendar will also feature fan favorites such as the Gourmet Food Truck Festival, Miss Cougar Del Mar Contest, microbrew festivals and the annual Reggae Festival.

The track’s Family Fun Day will take place on Sunday, July 22, but families can get their share of the action and enjoy kid-friendly activities in the Infield every Saturday and Sunday throughout the meet.

Racing at Del Mar happens Wednesday through Sunday, with post time for the first race on most days at 2 p.m. On Fridays first post changes to 4 p.m.

Del Mar Horse Racing is one of the spectacular events that take place in the San Diego city. If you are planning a San Diego beach vacation between July to September, do attend this event.

To make sure your San Diego holidays enjoyable and convenient, try to find a San Diego hotel from where Del Mar and other tourist spots are nearby.

California Suites Hotel is one such San Diego lodging from where most of the attractions including La Jolla, Old Town, Gaslamp Quarter, beaches, shopping centers and Del Mar are nearby.

Approved by the AAA and a proud member of the San Diego’s Chamber of Commerce, the California Suites Hotel is well known for its impeccable services and hospitality. Our services include continental breakfast, large heated swimming pool, cable with HBO, high speed Internet access, free parking, laundry facilities and more.

If you are fond of horse racing, do not miss Del Mar Horse Racing!

Sources include:
sandiego.org
delmarscene.com/music/dmtc_2012_press_release.htm
Photo Courtesy: ali.sdsu.edu

Go Crazy at the San Diego Night Time Zoo

Let the wonders of China enchant and amaze you at the San Diego Zoo’s Nighttime Zoo.
This year, the San Diego Zoo’s Nighttime Zoo’ theme is a China celebration.
The festivities will begin from 23rd June and continue till 3rd September, 2012.
You can check out various shows at the Nighttime Zoo, such as:

Dr. Zoolittle Explores Asia
Dr. Zoolittle brings his own special take on science when he “transports” audiences to Asia to study the giant panda. Come get the scoop on these black-and-white wonders, such as the fact that pandas poop an average of 48 times a day!

The Legend of Dragon Mountain-Heibei Chinese Acrobats
Let the Heibei Chinese acrobats dazzle you with “The Legend of Dragon Mountain”, featuring gravity-defying acrobatic feats, enchanting traditional dances, and stunning martial art performances.

Golden Lion Acrobats & Dragon Dance
Join the Golden Lions as they entertain and delight the crowd at Canyon Cafe with their astounding talents and acrobatic skills. Five times a day they will invade the food court with their performances along with the Dragon from Dragon Mountain, a colorful, 20-foot-long serpent brought to life by puppeteers. Marvel as it sinuously winds through the Zoo’s Panda Canyon, mesmerizing visitors along the way in honor of the Year of the Dragon.

Power and Air – Strength and Aerial Acrobats
Five times a day, this dedicated team of professionals will be displaying amazing athletic prowess as precision balancing will be matched with the beauty and skill of the aerial lyre. These cool cats will be on display in front of the Skyeast Pool.
Surfin’ Safari Bush Band
Many regular guests have come to know and enjoy this zany, interactive minstrel-style band. Their antics will be inspired as they bring limbo sticks, hula hoops, and fun interactives to get kids and adults alike involved in the organized mayhem.

Animal Activities
San Diego Zoo is home to more than 4,500 rare and endangered animals at the Zoo. Here you can indulge in various interesting animal activities.

Check out Panda Trek where you get to enter into the world of giant pandas, red pandas, takins, and the Mangshan pit viper at the San Diego Zoo’s Panda Trek! Or you can go for Giraffe Feedings and help feed the giraffes at the Urban Jungle.

After you are done with watching wonderful shows, you can enjoy dining at the Albert’s Restaurant. Here you can dine and unwind at your leisure.

If you are planning a San Diego beach vacation between June and September, do visit San Diego Nighttime Zoo. It is totally crazy and lots of fun. Plenty of San Diego budget hotels offer great discounts on room rates during this time. Do your research and choose the San Diego lodging which is closer to various San Diego attractions.

California Suites Hotel is one of the best amongst budget hotels in San Diego and is in close vicinity to the San Diego Zoo and other top tourist hot-spots of the city.

Approved by the AAA and a proud member of the San Diego’s Chamber of Commerce, the California Suites Hotel provides high quality facilities at budget prices. Services include continental breakfast, large heated swimming pool, cable with HBO, high speed Internet access, free parking, laundry facilities and more.

Sources include: sandiegozoo.org
Photo Courtesy: 101thingstodosw.com

Time for Shakespearean Plays at the Old Globe in San Diego

Are you fond of watching plays? How about watching Shakespearean plays? The Old Globe’s 2012 Shakespeare Festival is set to take place from 3rd June to 30th September, 2012. The Old Globe is located in San Diego’s Balboa Park.

The Old Globe’s 2012 Shakespeare Festival will be performed in repertory at the outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theater. Adrian Noble returns as the artistic director of the festival and will direct plays – “As You Like It” and “Inherit the Wind”.

British director Lindsay Posner will make his debut at the Old Globe with his production of Richard III, which will kick off the festival on 3rd June. Jay Whittaker will star in the title role.

Here is a look at the 2012 Old Globe’s Shakespeare Festival:

Richard III
June 3-Sept 29
Directed by Lindsay Posner

“Richard III is one of the most diabolical and outrageous villains in all of literature. A ruthless Machiavellian, the brilliant and power-hungry lord embarks on a bloody campaign to seize and keep the English crown. Shakespeare paints an unforgettable portrait of obsession, seduction, betrayal and a man who would be king.”

As You Like It
June 10-Sept. 30 (Opening night is June 29)
Directed by Noble

“Flirtation, friendship and mistaken identity make for one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies. Rosalind escapes into the forest and adopts the persona of a man to get close to her beloved Orlando. But when he falls for another woman, she must untangle the web of deceptions she has woven to win her true love. As You Like It explores the giddy excitement and dizzying foibles of love and is a perfect summer night under the stars.”

Inherit the Wind
By Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee
June 17-Sept. 25 (Opening night is July 3)
Directed by Noble

“Two powerhouse lawyers face off in a small town with the eyes of an entire nation upon them when a schoolteacher is arrested for teaching Charles Darwin’s theories of evolution. When the issue goes to trial, the two attorneys must passionately confront questions of faith and science in a heated courtroom. This fictional re-creation of the infamous Scopes Monkey Trial tackles issues that are every bit as relevant today as they were in 1925.”

Apart from the plays, you can catch various other special events too at the Old Globe such as “Shakespeare in the Garden” seminars, post-show forums and more.

Want to watch something other than Shakespearean? Some other plays will also be showcased at the Old Globe such as Yasmina Reza’s God of Carnage, Divine Rivalry by Michael Kramer and more.
If you are coming on a San Diego beach vacation during June and September, do spare some time to watch one of these historic Shakespearean plays at the Old Globe.

As far as San Diego lodging is concerned, we are a favorite accommodation in San Diego for tourists wanting to visit the beautiful city. California Suites Hotel is located close to Balboa Park, so it will be easy for you to commute to the Old Globe in the urban park to watch the plays. Besides California Suites Hotel is also in close proximity to several beaches, Old Town, La Jolla, Little Italy, Gaslamp Quarter and various other tourists hotspots.

Approved by the AAA and a proud member of the San Diego’s Chamber of Commerce, the California Suites Hotel provides high quality facilities at budget prices. Our services include continental breakfast, large heated swimming pool, cable with HBO, high speed Internet access, free parking, laundry facilities and more.

Make your reservations with us now and enjoy these various attractions of San Diego and good services to their fullest.

Sources include: playbill.com
Photo Courtesy: kpbs.org