California
Cool
City Spotlight on San Diego

From
the sandy beaches of the Pacific to the bright lights of the
city skyline, San Diego combines metropolitan sophistication
with a laid back California lifestyle. The seventh largest
city in the United States, it continues to be a top destination,
renowned for its topnotch golf, world class resorts, sumptuous
restaurants, exciting family attractions and near perfect
climate.
Where to stay
Hotel Del Coronado: Set on Coronado Island amid 26 acres of
sandy beaches, the historic Victorian masterpiece has been
the epitome of luxury for over 115 years, hosting dignitaries
and stars alike. An oasis of splendid tranquility, it is also
just minutes from the buzz of downtown San Diego. hoteldel.com
Hotel Solamar: A hip newcomer to the downtown district, the
four-star "lifestyle hotel" features 235 eclectic guestrooms
designed in the Southern California urban loft style. Unwind
by day with their "Om Away from Home" yoga program, while
at sunset, the nightlife heats up by the cabana rooftop pool
bar. hotelsolamar.com Where to dine Jsix: Recently opened
in the trendy new Solamar Hotel, Jsix combines a coastal fusion
menu with a stylish interior designed by world renowned designer
Bob Puccini. jsixsandiego.com
Where to eat
Georges at the Cove: The list of awards is as extensive
as the menu. George’s has long been the most popular
restaurant in San Diego—and for good reason. The views
of the La Jolla coastline are superb and the food is in a
class by itself. Try the signature five course tasting menu
with wine pairings for the ultimate California cuisine experience.
georgesatthecove.com
Pamplemousse Grille: Voted Best Restaurant in San Diego for
the last three years by the Zagat Guide, it has set the bar
for fine dining in San Diego. The cuisineÕs French roots are
tastefully infused with touches of Mediterranean and Asian
influences. Whether savoring a classic cowboy rib eye steak,
or nori-crusted Ahi with green tea noodles in a coconut red
curry sauce, Pamplemousse never disappoints. pgrille.com
What to see
Balboa Park: Home to the world famous San Diego Zoo, the 1,200-acre
retreat is the largest urban cultural complex in America.
With over a dozen gardens, nine restaurants and 15 museums
it is no wonder the Park is regarded as the Smithsonian of
the West.
La Jolla Beach: A perennial favorite for swimming in the Pacific
Ocean, surfing with the pros or just people watching. Gaslamp
Quarter: The historic downtown Gaslamp Quarter, with its Victorian
architecture, has received a major facelift and with more
than 100 restaurants, 35 nightclubs and 100 retail shops it
is the hot spot for shopping, sports, dining and a sizzling
nightlife. Where to Golf With 92 golf courses and ideal temperatures
all year, San Diego is quickly becoming the premier golfing
destination in America.
Where to golf
Four Seasons Resort Aviara: Recognized as one of the top resort
courses in the country, the Arnold Palmer design is set amongst
a natural wildlife preserve. The award winning layout winds
through rolling hills and valleys with views of the ocean.
fourseasons.com/aviara
La Costa: Home to the Accenture Match Play Championships,
La Costa offers the perfect balance of tranquil setting and
challenging golf. With two 18-hole PGA championship courses
and tee times reserved for resort guests only, golfers will
feel like they have the course to themselves. lacosta.com
Torrey Pines: Regarded as one of the best public courses in
the country, it will host its first U.S. Open in 2008. A demanding
test of golf, it sits atop majestic cliffs overlooking the
coastline. Stay at the elegant Lodge at Torrey Pines, just
steps from the 18th green, to get preferred tee times. torreypinesgolfcourse.com
Maderas: One of the best-kept secrets in California, the Johnny
Miller and Robert Muir Graves collaboration has garnered a
number of top awards. Its pristine layout captures the essence
of its natural surroundings and features undulating fairways,
serene creeks and 40 acres of wildflowers. maderasgolf.com
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