Although I had been to the States a few times already, it was my first time on the West Coast and I was really excited to discover this new part of the country and soak in some californian vibes. I was not disappointed. California is a whole new world and the East Coast felt far far away. Beautiful people, hippies, sunshine, relaxed atmosphere, beaches, amazingly friendly people, what more could I ask for? I only had one day and a half to explore the city, which is not much, especially with no wheels. I walked around a lot, took a few buses and trolleys and manage to see a few sights, but I definitely have to come back with a car to explore more. Anyways, this was a good taster to San Diego and California…
After checking-in, I went out for lunch. The hostel was right in the Gas Lamp Quarter, which is perfect to go for food or to go out at night. It was late for lunch time, but it was actually very busy. I made my way to a Mexican place on 5th Street and had some lobster tacos. It was delicious, the atmosphere was nice and the waitress was super friendly. Actually, during my time in California, waiters seem to have been so friendly. It is very refreshing.
After that, I made my way to the waterfront and enjoyed the sunshine, the scenery, the water, the crazy trees and most of all people-watching. There were fortune tellers, people napping on the grass, painters, various artists, a few tourists, a kite seller and so on. The vibe was very chilled and you could definitely spend the afternoon there just hanging out. At Seaport village, there were a few tourist shops, but it isn’t really worth the detour.
I continued my way around the waterfront, saw some interesting boats, espcially the impressive Midway boat and one specific statue, right next to it, the huge Unconditional surrender, based on the photography V-Day Kiss. The location is perfect and I actually really liked the piece, as well as the small one nearby.
After that, I started to make my way to Balboa Park, but I couldn’t keep my eyes open. The past days were weighing on me and I couldn’t really put one feet in front of the other anymore. Since the beginning of the trip, I had been running on excitement, drawing into my reserves. Luckily, I just had one month of peaceful rest in Lao, or I am not sure I could have lasted for so long. I made it back to the hostel, had a delicious empanada meal organized by the hostel, talked with some nice travellers and crashed on my bed. I think I slept for 10 hours.
The next day was the road trip. The day after that, I had the whole day in front of me to explore. I bought a day-pass for the cheap price of 5 dollars and made my way to Cabrillo National Monument. It took me an hour and a half and two changes to get there, but I made it. I had one hour to explore before the next bus. This is an absolutely stunning place. You have of course the monument, some history to learn, the old lighthouse and stunning views over San Diego, the Pacific and further away, Mexico. I could have stayed there the whole day, reading a book and taking in the views. I am quite sad I was so close to Mexico, but I didn’t go. Unfortunately, with the ESTA waiver program, it would have been tricky to go and I did not really want Tijuana to be my first impression of the country. So, until next time…
I took the bus again. You have great views at the beginning around Point Loma. It was late already and pretty much a nightmare to get to the other places I was thinking about, so I just made my way to Ocean Beach, the closest and “easiest” place to reach. It is not the best beach, but it was nice to enjoy the sunshine, get close to the ocean and take it all in. I was so surprised to see a dog beach. Ocean Beach is a nice little district, with cute and original little houses and a few good eateries. I ended up in a Mexican restaurant (yes, I know, at least I had some Mexican food instead of going there) and tried the Carnera Asada Tampiquena. It was huge, but delicious. My dessert was a tasty pumpking spice frappucino. I took the bus back downtown and it was already time for sunset, which I fully enjoyed in company of other tourists.
The next day, I left the beautiful and comfortable hostel in the morning to make my way to my last destination, Austin, Texas. I arrived around 8pm and I am now writing to you from the common room. It seems to be a nice and cosy hostel, with a good atmosphere and some great tunes. I cannot wait to finally explore Austin and tell you all about it.
Don’t forget to follow Taralynn’s adventures in France on Voyages et Vagabondages! She is having some crazy transport adventures and becoming a fully experienced traveller.
Kristjana says
How did you like peanut butter and oreos?!
Lucie Aidart says
It’s was good, but I could not eat it all the time, its way too intense 🙂 Do you like it?
Katie says
If you need any Austin tips or just want someone to meet up with, let me know! That’s where I live 🙂
Lucie Aidart says
Hi Katie, I would love to meet up. At Fun Fun Fest today, but will let you know for other days. My email aidart . lucie (a) gmail.com
Sarah Grace says
While in Austin, tomorrow night, you need to go to Midnight Rodeo! It is a country two step dance hall. I love it, and it is most definitely a culture shock!
Lucie Aidart says
Thanks for the good advice!
Tish says
Hi Lucie, Welcome to Austin! I live here and recommend you go to Guerro’s on South Congress for good TexMex. Walk across the street and down a block to Continental Club for some original TX local musicians every night of the week.
Do NOT Miss Zilker Park and walking the hike and bike trail around the lake. It is beautiful! If I must add one more, if you have time to go up to Mt. Bonnell it’s another MUST see if you ask me.
Hope you love Austin as much as we all do!
Lucie Aidart says
Thanks for all the good advice, I will add all that to the list 🙂
Laura says
Go to Old Town, San Diego next time for some Mexican culture.
Lucie Aidart says
Thanks for the tip Laura!
Julie says
Je t’ai donné des dares sur les Etats du Sud mais j’aurai pu te donner des conseils sur quoi visiter sur San Diego! J’y étais en plus moi aussi en même temps, si ca se trouve on s’est peut être croisée 🙂 Enfin t’as l’air d’avoir vu pleins de choses et certaines des coins les plus beaux!
Lucie Aidart says
Ah c’est dommage que l’on ne se soit pas croisé Julie! Tu as vu quoi de beau toi dans le coin?