By Anita Paul
I’m the outdoorsy type—hiking, snorkeling, skiing, jogging. Heck, why stay inside and sulk when the call of nature is yelling at the top of its lungs for you to EXperience life anew. And what better place to be outdoors than beautiful, sunny San Diego, California? Especially for a recovering Ex.
For visitors to the city, just EXit the hustle and bustle of San Diego’s Lindbergh Field Airport and trot across the street to a great escape -- Spanish Landing Park overlooking a serene stretch of bay. But don’t worry, the planes flying overhead won’t disturb the peaceful surroundings of the area as you enjoy watching the fish jump gracefully out of the water, the canoes float slowly by, and the luxury sailboats navigate through the still waters. Walk the pathway just over one mile to discover another charming area -- Harbor Island. With views of San Diego’s downtown skyline and Shelter Island across the harbor, this area is home to dozens of restaurants to feed your appetite for fresh seafood and California cuisine.
When you’re ready for a taste of San Diego you have a plethora of choices. From authentic Mexican to fresh seafood to Italian, Southwestern and even Creole, San Diego’s restaurant roundup won’t leave your belly growling. Cruise the high-energy avenues of the Gaslamp Quarter and try any of the swanky spots, like Croce’s for creative American fare with a hip jazz bar ambience. Or pull up to a table at Trattoria La Strada, a warm, cozy Tuscan style place where you can relax and enjoy unique Italian food in a friendly dining atmosphere. Head out to the seaside town of La Jolla for fresh seafood and steak at the elegant Top of the Cove Restaurant, or for more casual dining visit George’s at the Cove and enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean with your lunch or dinner atop the Ocean Terrace Bistro. And then there’s the unique Japanese fusion of Café Japenga in University City. Any of these places is ideal to shift your focus from blues and boredom to beautiful and breathtaking.
And for every recovering EX, we know full well that one of the best ways to cure an aching or lonely heart is with the medicine of sweets. Besides that, no meal would be complete without dessert. So stop by EXtraordinary Desserts (2929 Fifth Avenue). Believe me, the name says it all. From delectable cakes decorated with flower petals, to pallet pleasing pastries adorned with leaves, to the luscious list of flavored teas, this tiny café/bakery offers the sweet reward of enjoying time alone or with friends.
