Of historic downtown districts and harbors

The mere mention of San Diego arouses interest and curiosity. Why not? With its almost perfect weather throughout the year, beautiful beaches & parks, a booming wireless and biotech industry, world class hotels and dining, jazz festivals, great cosmopolitan culture... words that make every San Diegan proud, San Diego offers post card settings in every corner.

The experience starts at the relatively small but neatly laid out air terminals with a catchy view of the San Diego skyline at the waterfront. You can't help but catch a glimpse of the hip downtown buildings as you drive towards the freeways from the airport.

The downtown itself is small compared to other big cities in US but has its own charm. Most of the action takes place in a historic downtown district called the Gaslamp quarter which is dotted with numerous fine-dining establishments and ultra-chic night clubs. The Petco park (home of the Padres, San Diego's baseball team), a waterfront convention center, a stylish shopping mall and a number of boutique hotels are all either in or within walking distances from the Gaslamp.

Walking along the San Diego harbor is a great experience. The walkways are dotted with contemporary sculptures themed on the ships, sailing and sea. For anyone with a passion for vessels, there is a fine display of a number of historic ships including the world's oldest active ship 'Star of India' by the San Diego's Maritime Museum. Of course, there is waterfront dining serving fresh seafood and sunset dinner cruises. A bonus sight for winter visitors is spotting whales.