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International
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Dine & Sleep
Travel Adventures
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Where To Dine & Sleep
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Delightful Northern San Diego Coast
by Bonnie Neely
Carlsbad Inn & Beach Resort on the coast in Northern San Diego is a quiet, delightful village with laid back family fun and entertainment. The Tudor style buildings have spacious suites with beautifully appointed furnishings and décor, overlooking the love green grassy horseshoe lawn, which is surrounded with flowers, a gentle garden stream. With the pool at one end and a few steps down to the excellent fitness center, you'll have to choose which way to go, because at the far end the wrought iron gateway leads to the Pacific Ocean access, just across the quiet street. Time-share condos are also often available for rent, and these border the sides of the green. Carlsbad Inn & Beach Resort (800-235-3939) is right off the historic Highway 101 at a quiet curve of the coast, (3075 Carlsbad Blvd.) perfectly located for walking to the unique
shops that border the hotel or shopping in Carlsbad Village. You'll find excellent restaurants just a few steps away from the hotel lobby. Breakfast or lunch at the Daily News is delicious! And they open at 6:30 A.M., so if you are still in sync with Eastern time zones or just a naturally early riser, they are ready with coffee and elegant fare after your early dawn walk on the sandy beach or the sidewalk path overlooking the ocean. Our favorite evening dining was at Fresco Trattoria & Bar (264 Carlsbad Village Dr.) This lovely restaurant is quiet and subtly elegant. The owner, Leone D'Arcangelo, is authentic Italian and makes sure your food is as fresh as the restaurant's name promises, and each plate has beautiful presentation. The extensive menu includes almost any choice your palate could desire, and every bite is absolutely delicious! If you prefer a more casual setting, you can opt to dine “al fresco” on the porch. Don't miss this dining experience while in any part of San Diego! For reservations call 760-720-3737. The drive from the heart of the busy city can be just a few minutes on Highway 5. However, we preferred the more relaxing and enjoyable pace of Highway 101, which follows the coast. You'll want to veer into the exquisite La Jolla, winding up the mountain to see the wealthy homes and perfect views, and down to the coastal village. Next, stop to appreciate Torrey Pines and walk through the State Park to appreciate these wondrous, ancient trees. There is only one other place in the world where these exist. At the town of Del Mar you could take a peaceful hot-air balloon ride at 3 PM. There is no more peaceful way to see the beaches, mountains, and desert scenery here. Allow about two hours for this.
In Encinitas you might wish to visit Quail Botanical Gardens, or the blue and gold domed church, founded by Yogananda, the world-renowned mystic. There are lots of eateries here for any hour of the day or evening. You'll find many other small, historic beach villages along the way. On this route you can stop frequently to take photos, visit unique and eclectic shops. Allow some time to visit the Cedros Design District in Solana Beach, where uniquely crafted items for the home are wonderful finds. Or you may wish to shop in the up-scale Carlsbad Company Stores. And the largest mission in California is Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside. You could spend a day, a week, or a lifetime at the fascinating stops on Historic Highway 101 and never grow tired of the gorgeous scenery and many experiences to enjoy.Real Travel Adventures International Magazine
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