SAN DIEGO – Perhaps the most perfect weather in the world. Fantastic beaches. And a world-renowned zoo. Most folks conjure up those images when they think of this city perched in the far southwest corner of the U.S. But you’ll also find wonderful shopping, museums with a Canadian angle and some of America’s best craft beer. Lucky for Canadians, Porter Airlines has announced service will begin between Toronto and San Diego later this year. San Diego is a year-round route, starting Dec. 9, with four weekly flights. Here’s a look at six great things to do and check out in Read more
Carlsbad
This is the first in my regular “Destination Spotlight” stories, in which I’ll give a quick taste of some places to check out in North America and around the world. CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA This is an outstanding beach town about a half hour north of San Diego. There’s a great, walkable downtown filled with cool restaurants such as Shorehouse Kitchen and The Goods, which dishes out inventive donuts and good coffee. You’ll find plenty of independent shops, including Fahrenheit 451 book store. The Beach Terrace Inn is a fun, boutique hotel on the water. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is named Read more
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA – CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA – A fashionable, sexy hotel with a perfect location on the beach. And just a two-minute walk to an adorable downtown. The Beach Terrace Inn is a sleek hotel that’s been given a just-right facelift, with tons of stylish touches and just the right amount of cheeky attitude. The check-in area is a bright spot at street level with big windows and an outside seating area with ocean views. Look for a minimalist design that’s still warm and friendly, with lots of light-coloured wood and a few tall, spiky plants. I loved the little paper Read more
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA – I’ve just finished a wonderful lunch at a place called Shorehouse Kitchen, and I’ve got time to explore the downtown area of this very walkable, compact city on the Pacific Ocean. I spot several nice, independent shops (if there are any chain shops downtown, I didn’t see them) and then poke my head into a marvellous Italian shop called Vigilucci’s. It’s one of those places that makes your head spin; filled with lovely meats (iberico ham, perfect Bresaola, pink prosciutto with just the right ribbon of fat), imported cheeses with deep, cheesy smells and Italian chocolates, olives Read more
