Category Archives: Insider Tips

I am in Old Town at midnight. I am not surprised. While it is a place, without question, built for tourists, I balk at the suggestion that ‘locals don’t go there’ and such ‘traps’ should be avoided by those looking for an ‘authentic’ experience.

For me, there is nothing more authentic and alluring than the post-structuralist break-down of real and pretend. Old Town is a piece of living theater staged on the actual blood, sweat and bones of San Diego’s history. The lines between reality and mythology blur amongst historical landmarks and themed restaurants, dusty graveyards and costumed guides. Read More…

It’s almost the weekend and sun-kissed Coronado is calling! In between boogie boarding and wiggling your toes in the sand on America’s #1 Beach (thank you, Dr. Beach!) following are a few fun – and free – lesser-known “secret” sights and activities around the island to check out. Read More…

Seventy-five years have passed since Bing Crosby and his friends opened up the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, but the glamour and prestige of Opening Day hasn’t faded with age. Every year, locals and visitors alike flock to the seaside racetrack to soak up the first day of racing action, not to mention gawk at all the elaborate hats on display, and this year’s Opening Day was no exception. Read More…

A quick guide to San Diego Pride, one of San Diego’s biggest summer events, coming up this weekend July 20-22, 2012! Plus a look at places to eat, drink and be merry in and around Hillcrest, San Diego’s hip LGBT uptown neighborhood. Read More…

Fish tacos, craft beer and…barbecued lamb’s head? Yes, those are all delectable specialities you can find in San Diego, and the last is just one of the many tasty treats that Travel Channel host Andrew Zimmern sampled while filming Bizarre Foods: San Diego. Read More…

It’s the third day of San Diego Comic-Con and there is still a ton to do! Take a break from the Convention Center crowds and head out into the Gaslamp Quarter for one of these great Comic-Con related events. Read More…

Summer is sublime in San Diego, especially with a chilly treat in hand. Something about enjoying your icy cold indulgence under the sunshine makes every bite just a little sweeter. Of course, with San Diego’s impressive culinary chops, chowing down on an average Drumstick just won’t do, so stop into one of these delicious spots for a summery treat your taste buds won’t soon forget. Read More…

Robert Arends presents his first Essential Summer Guide to Coronado, a lowdown on what’s hot and what’s new on the island, as well as some incredible lesser-known sights that are sure to delight visitors this summer. Read More…

San Diego is crazy for burgers. The booming chain of organic burgers, Burger Lounge, got its start right here in San Diego and Hodad’s has been a local favorite for the beef filled buns for decades. Thanks to the recent openings of Smashburger and the soon-to-open Counter Burger, it’s nearly impossible to have a bad burger anywhere in San Diego. Here are three of San Diego’s newest, hot off the grill destinations:

Bunz

Terra American Bistro chef and owner Jeff Rossman just opened up a new burger-centric venture in Mission Valley, bringing a much-needed infusion of farm-to-table …

Claire’s on Cedros: Start the day off right…sustainable, homemade, delicious. Fletcher’s Cove: A favorite for surfers and families alike.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps: Gorgeous views, both outside and inside.

OEX La Jolla Dive and Kayak Center: Good for the body and the soul.

SeaWorld San Diego: Brand new Manta Coaster! So fun!

Botanical Garden and Lily Pond at Balboa Park: So beautiful, and totally free!

Altitude Sky Lounge at the San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter: To great weather, great views, and great people…Cheers!