San Diego
San Diego is a laid-back gem on the southern coast of California, just a hop from the Mexican border. With a population of around 1.4 million, it’s a big city with a chill vibe. The average annual temperature hovers around 70°F (21°C), making it pretty much perfect all year long.
Tourists flock here in droves, with millions visiting annually to soak up the sun and enjoy the surf. The best time to hit San Diego is from late spring to early fall when the weather is just right for beach days and outdoor fun.
In San Diego, you’ll find that people are super friendly and greet each other with a casual “Hey” or “Hi.” English is the main language, but Spanish is also commonly spoken. Meals are usually served from 7 AM to 10 PM, with lunch and dinner being the main events of the day. Most businesses run from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. Tipping around 15-20% is the norm, and the local health system is well-equipped with hospitals and clinics. Dress code is relaxed—think shorts, tees, and flip-flops. Typical expressions include “No worries” and “It’s all good.”
San Diego Beach
Views of San Diego from the bay
Arriving to San Diego
San Diego is a fantastic spot in Southern California, right on the Pacific coast. You can get to this sunny city easily through San Diego International Airport, which is super close to downtown. The city is made up of some cool neighborhoods to stay in. If you want to be near the beach, Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are your go-to. Downtown is perfect if you’re into nightlife and dining, and La Jolla is great for a more upscale vibe with beautiful coastal views.
Getting around San Diego is a breeze. You can use the San Diego Trolley, which is a fun way to see the city, or hop on a bus. For more flexibility, renting a car is a good idea, especially if you plan to explore beyond the city. Biking and walking are also popular, especially around the waterfront areas.
San Diego’s food scene is seriously good. The city is known for its fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine, so don’t miss out on tacos, burritos, and fish dishes. You’ll find plenty of great food trucks and local markets to satisfy your cravings.
There’s so much to check out in San Diego. Head to Balboa Park for museums and beautiful gardens or visit the San Diego Zoo, which is world-famous. Don’t miss the historic Gaslamp Quarter for some cool nightlife and dining options. For beach lovers, there’s plenty of sun and surf at places like Coronado Beach and La Jolla Cove.
When you’re in San Diego, it’s a must to experience its outdoor activities, like hiking in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve or kayaking in Mission Bay. Whether you’re hitting the beaches, exploring the city’s cultural spots, or just soaking up the laid-back atmosphere, San Diego has something for everyone.
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Currency: The official currency of San Diego is Dolar, 1 US$ is equivalent to 0.90 EUR €
Keep in mind before travelling to San Diego
San Diego is more than just beautiful beaches and great weather—it’s also home to some awesome annual festivals. Every year, locals and visitors alike look forward to a mix of lively events. There’s the San Diego County Fair, which is a summer staple with tons of rides, games, and food. Comic-Con International takes over the city in July with all things pop culture. The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival is perfect for those who love art and fine wines. Don’t miss the San Diego Beer Festival for a taste of local brews and good times. For a bit of tradition, the Little Italy Festa is a celebration of Italian culture with parades and food. The San Diego Music Festival brings a great lineup of artists each year. Lastly, the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival combines delicious food with spectacular waterfront views.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the city, there are some great day trips nearby. Check out Coronado Island for its stunning beaches and charming small-town feel. Head to La Jolla for beautiful coastal views and outdoor activities. Temecula is a great spot for wine lovers. You can also visit Julian for a taste of small-town charm and apple pies. For a change of pace, check out the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for some desert scenery and hiking. Lastly, Carlsbad is perfect for a day of fun at LEGOLAND or relaxing by the beach.
Tips to visit San Diego
San Diego locals are known as San Diegans. When you greet someone, a casual “Hi” or “Hello” works great, and you might hear a friendly “What’s up?” too. English is the main language, but you’ll also hear a good amount of Spanish, reflecting the city’s diverse population.
San Diegans generally eat breakfast around 7-9 AM, lunch from 12-1 PM, and dinner between 6-8 PM. Most businesses open around 9 AM and close by 5 PM, though some restaurants and shops stay open later. Tipping is customary in San Diego, with 15-20% being the standard in restaurants and bars.
The city uses a mix of public and private healthcare services. When it comes to dress code, casual and relaxed is the norm, especially near the beach. You’ll hear phrases like “dude” and “awesome” often.
