Overview

The Gold Rush of 1848, which saw Europeans coming to California in droves, helped connect San Diego, which was a Spanish settlement, with the rest of the nation. In the year 1885, the railways helped connect the area to other cities. The city was incorporated in 1886.

Today San Diego is the 2^nd largest city in California, with almost three million people jam-packed in just over 4,000 square miles.

Activities & Attractions

One of the biggest attractions in San Diego is the coastline. Holiday-makers can enjoy great weather throughout the year. With miles of beaches to enjoy, many people find it hard to fit other activities in their schedule. SeaWorld San Diego and the famous San Diego Zoo are some of the attractions you can enjoy with your family. The San Diego Wild Animal Park is even more exotic than the zoo, with a focus on African and Asian animals dwelling in close proximity to their natural habitats.

A popular attraction for both adults and children is Legoland. Its rides, shows, and other attractions make it one of California's most popular theme parks. A one-day ticket for Legoland California costs $62, with a discounted ticket of $52 for seniors and children. Two-day and larger passes offer discounts for repeat visitors.

San Diego is also known for its golf courses, and a number of day and night cruises, with hotels especially designed to accommodate cruisers.

Lodging

Lodging in San Diego can range from $399 a night for a spa hotel, where you can get a free massage or free golf and tennis lessons. The average regular hotel accommodations will cost you $90 upwards, with most bed and breakfast rates starting at about $70 per night. For those of you who are on the lookout for inexpensive lodging with only a few amenities, there are about five different types of hostels in San Diego. If you are lucky enough, you can get into one that even offers free breakfasts. Rates for hostels start at about $19 per night. Many of them now offer facilities like full kitchens and free Wi-Fi for travelers-all for an unbelievably low price.

Transportation

You can fly into the city at the San Diego International Airport. Shuttle services, car rentals, limousine, town car rentals, and taxi services will get you to your place of stay. A popular way to get around San Diego, for those who do not want to pay a high car rental fee and also do not prefer driving, is the trolley light-rail system called the Metropolitan Transit System or MTS. The trolley fare is $2.50 one way, with shuttle fares often costing only about $1 or $5.