Living in San Diego, it’s somewhat normal during the summer months to expect “out-of-towners” to visit. Relatives, college friends, that random kid from summer camp, all coming to America’s Finest City to see the limitless tourist attractions and beautiful beaches. And I, as the native, seem to have an inherent duty to prove to my guests that this is indeed the BEST place in the world to live.
After showing several different friends around my hometown, I’ve learned a few things about myself and my city.
1. I set everyone’s expectations way too high.
Ok, so maybe a California burrito isn’t as much of a dank religious experience as I described. And maybe anywhere inland doesn’t necessarily have a great view or streets lined with palm trees. Whoops?
2. I get asked a lot of questions.
Apparently there are a lot of strange things about Southern California that people from other places don’t understand. (Especially freeway on-ramps.)
3. The beach is never a bad idea.
Unless it’s pouring down rain, any guest would enjoy seeing the ocean.
4. There's a necessary balance between tourist traps and hidden spots.
I always try to take people to locations that can’t be found on a Google search, but sometimes, going to big attractions like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld are inevitable.
5. Sometimes, people just don’t like food.
If you’re like me, you want someone to love your favorite food as much as you do. However, you can’t be upset if they’re just not a big fan of that particular food. It helps to adjust your restaurant picks according to what your guests know they like to eat.
6. Seaport Village is good – if you have money.
There’s tons of souvenirs and cute shops, but don’t bring someone tight on cash. Otherwise all you’ll be able to do is walk around and window shop. Stopping by the Ben & Jerry’s to get some ice cream is still a great idea though.
7. I can't show everyone everything.
You would need a lot of time to take a visitor to every cool spot in SD. Only have a week? No worries, just pick a few good ones. No one likes to feel rushed (or completely exhausted) on their vacation.
8. Sunscreen is my friend.
Don’t believe your cousins when they try to tell you, “Oh, we never get sunburns.” Something about this San Diego sunshine is more powerful, and more likely to turn your friends into lobsters.
9. Traffic is my enemy.
Try to avoid going anywhere during rush hour. Visitors would obviously rather spend time doing things than sitting in traffic. Don’t make them spend half their vacation on the I-5.
10. I can be a tourist, too.
Take your friend somewhere cool. Try a new place. It’s a win-win!
11. I get to fall in love again and again.
It will never be a bad thing to go to see all your favorite places.
I love taking friends on tours of San Diego’s best spots. Because as I’m showing someone La Jolla Cove or the Downtown skyline at night, I swell with pride at the beauty of my own city. And it feels good to know that I can always call it home.
