San Diego: A Quick Tour

Magazine Issue: U.S. Vol. 4.1

First thing, head for the Gas Lamp District. The once run-down area known for entertaining off-duty sailors is now a major nightlife destination and the social hub of downtown. With more than 60 restaurants and 15 nightclubs playing rock, jazz, Brazilian, disco and house music, this is a great start for a taste of the city.The Blue Tattoo is the place to go for hip-hop, house or Top 40 dance music. Grab a drink, and enjoy the underwater visuals, pillars with bubbling water and blue neon, and exotic fish swimming behind the bartenders.

The Avignon CafĂ© (Fifth Avenue and Market Street) is a vaguely French cafe in the Gas Lamp District. You’ll find several coffee drinks, and cigar aficionados are welcome to light up. The sidewalk terrace is the perfect place to observe the goings-on.

The Cuban Cigar Factory (551 Fifth Avenue) is a smoker’s haven. Besides top-of-the-line cigar paraphernalia, a half-dozen men are usually on site hand-rolling stogies as you shop.

Much of San Diego revolves around the ocean, making it a place to catch rays, rent a Jet Ski or bike the coast. SeaWorld, one of San Diego’s main attractions, is another option. Located in Mission Bay and stretching across more than 100 bay-front acres, SeaWorld’s famous for its stadium shows.