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During your San Diego vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala
Established in 1769 above Old Town, this was the first link in a chain of 21 missions founded by Spanish missionary Junípero Serra. In 1774, the mission was moved from Old Town to its present site for agricultural reasons, and to separate Native American converts from the fortress that included the original building. The mission was burned by Native Americans a year after it was built -- Father Serra rebuilt the structure using 5- to 7-foot-thick adobe walls and clay tile roofs, rendering it harder to burn. In the process he inspired a bevy of 20th-century California architects. A few bricks belonging to the original mission can be seen in Presidio Park in Old Town. Mass is said daily in this active Catholic parish. Other missions in San Diego County include Mission San Luis Rey de Francia in Oceanside, Mission San Antonia de Pala near Mount Palomar, and Mission Santa Ysabel near Julian. Known as "the King of Missions," the San Luis Rey is the largest of California's missions and one of its most beautiful.
Torrey Pines Golf Course
These two gorgeous, municipal 18-hole championship courses are on the coast between La Jolla and Del Mar, only 20 minutes from downtown San Diego. Home of the Buick Invitational Tournament, and the setting for the 2008 U.S. Open, Torrey Pines is second only to Pebble Beach as California's top golf destination. Situated on a bluff overlooking the ocean, the north course is picturesque and has the signature hole (no. 6), but the south course is more challenging, has more sea-facing play, and benefits from a $3.5 million overhaul in 2002 (the north course will get a similar facelift some time before 2008).In summer, course conditions can be less than ideal due to the sheer number of people lined up to play, and "tee scalpers" aren't uncommon. Tee times are taken by computer, starting at 7pm, up to 7 days in advance and by automated telephone only -- it takes only 20 to 30 minutes for all tee times for a given day to sell out. Confirmation numbers are issued, and you must have the number and photo identification with you when you check in with the starter 15 minutes ahead of time. If you're late, your time may be forfeited. Golf packages double the cost, but give you much better odds of actually getting onto the course. Golf professionals are available for lessons, and the pro shop rents clubs. Greens fees on the south course are $105 weekdays, $125 weekends; the north course is $65 weekdays and $75 weekends. Cart rentals are $30, and twilight rates are available.Tip: Single golfers stand a good chance of getting on the course if they just turn up and get on the waiting list for a threesome. The locals also sometimes circumvent the reservation system by spending Friday or Saturday night in a camper in the parking lot. The starter lets these diehards on before the reservations made by the computer go into effect at 7:30am.
Timken Museum of Art
How many art museums invite you to see great works of art, free of charge? How many of them have smiling guards who welcome guests as graciously as the Timken's? This jewel-like repository houses the Putnam Foundation's collection of 19th-century American paintings and works by European old masters, as well as a worthy display of Russian icons. Yes, it's a small collection, but the marquee attractions include a Peter Paul Rubens, Portrait of a Young Man in Armor; San Diego's only Rembrandt, St. Bartholomew; and a masterpiece by Eastman Johnson, The Cranberry Harvest. You'll find a spot apiece for works by Bierstadt, Pissaro, Corot, and Cézanne. Since you can tour all of the museum in well under an hour, the Timken also makes for an easy introduction to fine art for younger travelers (pick up a copy of the Children's Gallery Guide for $2). Docents are available Tuesday from 10am to noon and 1 to 3pm; Wednesday and Thursday from 10 to noon; or by appointment.
Staybridge Suites SAN DIEGO RANCHO BERNARDO AREA
The Staybridge Suites - San Diego Rancho Bernardo Hotel is the favorite extended stay hotel in the Rancho Bernardo Area. We offer free high speed internet access in every guest room and daily complimentary buffet breakfast! Our all suite hotel offers studio, one bedroom and two-bedroom/two bath suites. Each Suite features fully equipped kitchens, including microwave, 2-burner stove top, dishwasher, ice maker and coffeemaker, perfect for any extended stay. The Staybridge Suites - Rancho ...
Doubletree' Club Hotel San Diego
Recently renovated eight story high rise hotel located in the heart of San Diego's Mission Valley. 10 minutes from San Diego Trolley service within minutes of the hotel to the Convention Center, Gaslamp Quarter, Tijuana, Mexico border and Qualcomm Stadium. Opposite the hotel is the Riverwalk Golf Course and the renown Mission Valley and Fashion Valley Malls. Recently innovated eight story high rise hotel located in the heart of San Diego's Mission Valley. 10 minutes from San Diego ...
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego/Rancho Bernardo
Centrally located in picturesque Rancho Bernardo, 24 miles north of downtown San Diego, the hotel is situated in the Mercardo Business Park, featuring a health center offices, restaurants and ...
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