As a born and bred New Yorker who saw whales spouting this morning and heard a wonderful concert this evening, I can very enthusiastically urge you to throw your skepticism to the winds and come to San Diego for the May meetings of The American.
San Diego is a uniquely easy place to visit. It's very unlikely that you'll have any problem with weather, crowds, traffic or crime. Everything is less expensive than in other major cities and there are lots of wonderful things to do that are completely or almost free.
Getting around can be a challenge if you don't have a car, but the Hyatt is located within walking distance to more than enough sights to keep you busy between meetings. The Trolley line (619–233–3004) will take you to where you can walk across the border into Tijuana or, for the less adventurous, to a domestic version of Mexico in Old Town. The San Diego Express (619–990–8770) offers reasonable shuttle rates to nearby venues such as Cabrillo National Monument for sightseeing and hiking, or to Balboa Park, where free trams will shuttle you between the many museums, gardens and the zoo. There are even plans to offer a special five-hour behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo.
I recommend the 1997 Fodor's as a general guide, but I am also offering a few of my own low-cost favorites. Seaport Village and the Gaslamp District are right outside the hotel and easy to explore on foot. Try Upstart Crow for coffee and books in a library atmosphere, and the Gaslamp Quarter Hot Line (619–233–4691) for the latest in whatever interests you.
If you want a taste of Mexico without the hassle, Old Town is a fine short trip. The only problem is deciding on one of the many restaurants.
Fandango's and Casa Bandini are my favorite reasonably priced restaurants, and Bazaar del Mundo is a great place to window shop.
The park is a series of botanical gardens open for strolls and picnics. There are also museums for every taste — from fine art to model railroads. The unique Mingei International Museum of Folk Art and the Museum of Photographic Art are my favorites, followed by a rest at the lily pond and a glass of wine at the Sculpture Garden Cafe. Check at the park Visitor Center (619–239–0512) for special rates and museum passports.
You will need a car to travel about thirty minutes north of the Hyatt, where the park has several nature walks and hiking trails woven into cliffs that overlook the Pacific. Along with the wildflowers and succulents of May, the ocean panoramas are spectacular. You can hike down to the beach for a secluded picnic, or drive up to Del Mar Plaza for a cappuccino on the terrace or a terrific (but pricey) “Pacific Rim” meal at Pacifica Del Mar Restaurant.
You need a car again, but Avis (800–331–1212) and Courtesy Rentals (800–252–9756) both allow cars across the border. Lobster lunch with chips and margaritas on the patio of La Fonda is a special treat on the way to Ensenada, or you can drive to nearby Puerto Nuevo, a “town” devoted exclusively to the consumption of Pacific lobster, huge flour tortillas, and beer. Easiest of all is to take the trolley and walk across the border into the foreign land of Tijuana.
Whatever you do, enjoy! And don't hesitate to call me (619–459–0532) or request more information by E-mail (brosen@ucsd.edu). “Mi institute es su institute” this spring.