San Diego REBARCAMP and NAR November 2009 Tips
I'm in! I just registered for #rebcsd (rebarcamp San Diego). Its the day before #NAR2009 - and I have to say, I look forward to rebcsd much more than NAR. However both will be great as the REBarCamp and NAR are in Sunny San Diego.
SD is a fantastic city, and I highly recommend hanging around and taking in the sights. I lived in SD for 14 months, and spent way to much time hiking the hills, sailing the harbor and soaking up the sun on my favorite beach (la jolla shore).
Airport -It is Downtown - I mean right downtown. 3 miles to convention center / Gaslamp District.
Hotel location Tips - NAR and REBCSD are both in the Gas lamp district of SD, essentially South side of Downtown. The area is very pedestrian friendly, safe and with cabs and the train station within a short walk.
Convention center - Located in downtown and gas lamp district. It is downhill at the end of the road (literally) and sits on San Diego Harbor with views of Coronado Island, home of the Hotel Del Coronado
Hotel Del Coronado - $$$$$ Very nice. Known as "The Del". The Marylin Monroe movie "Some like it Hot" was filmed there, and they say there is a ghost in the hotel as well. Visit the Hotel for a beverage or meal overlooking the Pacific and the huge beach. There are high end shops in the basement of this amazing wooden structure.
San Diego Harbor -During my time in SD, My job was to take tourists sailing on the harbor on 25-32 foot sailboats. You can still rent sailboats with or with out a skipper (captain) Or, take a harbor cruise on one of several large 3 story White "Hornblower" ships. Very touristy - but you get nice views from the water. There is also a harbor taxi (small powerboat) that will take you to Coronado island restaurants and shops ($7).
Mexico - Tijuana - known locally as "TJ" - The trolley/train is the best way to go to avoid parking and the traffic jam. Don't drive into Mexico unless you get insurance to do so, and have no fear... There is parking on the US side of the border, and yes, a bridge to walk over to get to the vendors and shopping in TJ. Bargain with the vendors - this is the fun part. That cool Mexican blanket you want to buy? Think 1/2 price as "beginner negotiating". Biggest tip is stay with the crowd. Be safe and smart.
Mission Beach Known as "MB" -Fun filled area with nice wide boardwalk for people watching. Wooden roller coaster, cold beer and cocktails, fried seafood good times. Try the small local places rather than the big chains for more local flavor.
Golf - I'm bad at golf. Best of luck getting in and playing Tory pines. Rancho Bernardo is Home to several nice courses with views of the hills but 20 miles north of downtown.
Hope This helps, Ill See you in Sunny San Diego California!
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