Todd and Cindy's Travel Blog

Sunday was a bit of a low-key day. We explored Horton Plaza – an open-air, multi-story mall full of name brand stores (Foot Locker, Coach, Macy’s). No shopping, only browsing… From the top level, we spotted a skating rink on one block – multiple refrigeration units cooled real ice; surprised they haven’t discovered the synthetic ice – no refrigeration units – great cost savings….

By mid-afternoon, every bar along 5th Avenue was packed with people for the Chargers game, so we joined the crowds. Happy hour deals + happy people = fun times J. The game was interrupted just after half time when everyone left the bar to head out to the street when the Annual Dog Christmas Parade began…

Thousands of dogs dressed in Christmas garb paraded through the streets with their owners proudly in tow.

Monday morning, we walked the waterfront (about 3.5 km), then turned around and headed back to the Hornblower kiosk to book our full moon dinner cruise for the 17th . Then we boarded the USS Midway, where we spent the next three hours wandering about and learning its history.

The USS Midway is the longest-serving US Navy aircraft carrier (from 1945, just after WWII to 1992, participating in Vietnam and the Middle East).With space for a crew of 4 500 during active times, the museum offers an up close look at life on the floating city with a tour on all levels to areas such as the infirmary, sleeping quarters, mess hall, war room, engine room, the ship’s jail, and so much more.

The 4 acre flight deck on the top houses multiple planes that were part of the USS Midway through the years. We talked to a former pilot who was housed on the Midway for 26 years. He spoke about catapulting  off the flight deck – from 0 to 5 Gs reaching speeds of 170 MPH approx  in 2.5 seconds (he was so animated as he expressed the rush he felt…).

The catapult is a bit of an engineering wonder, it is powered by two 18” diameter pistons that are powered by a large steam accumulator under the deck. The sled that pulls the jet weighs approx 5000 lbs. After it reaches its top speed of 170 MPH, it must come to a stop in the last 5 feet of travel via a special water cushioned end stop. The pilot said that the shock of the catapult stopping could be felt through the whole ship.

Next to the USS Midway is the Fish Market restaurant, a place my parents said we must visit. I swallowed my fears and went outside my comfort zone…. Todd and I started with crab cakes (and some Sauvignon Blanc). I will admit – not something I would ever order, but edible; Todd, who is the seafood lover in our duo thought they were very tasty.

Next we decided on the Black Cod (Mesquite grilled) with sides of coleslaw and potatoes au gratin. Coleslaw was delicious, potatoes au gratin were delicious, Black Cod – thank God for tartar sauce J (did I mention the Sauvignon Blanc?)…. Next time Fish and Chips…. Todd’s opinion – flavours were good, portions were small…

This evening – relaxing, checking out Happy Hour reception at the hotel, relaxing….

 

We have flown all over the world, but this year we decided to discover some areas closer to home in the United States. We are starting with two weeks in San Diego. Well, I have to say in regards to the flight – we have been spoiled internationally: larger planes, food service, multiple wine/beverage offerings, and no fee for luggage….

Before leaving Toronto, we declared at the US customs automated kiosk that we were carrying food (cheese and crackers and nuts for the plane ride). That got us an X on our printout, so we had to bypass the long line and go directly to the front to speak with a customs officer J (something to remember for the future….).

We arrived in San Diego on time and amazingly our one piece of luggage was FIRST out with the other following shortly after (how often does that happen?!).

Staff at the Residence Inn Gaslamp warmly greeted us. After dropping our luggage in the room, we headed to the hotel bar for a drink and bite to eat – with the 3 hour time difference, we were feeling the effects; 9:30 PM here, but feeling like the 12:30 AM time back home.

First full day in San Diego – weather is certainly warmer than back home, but sun and rain have been homeless J.  We walked down to the waterfront and strolled up to the area of the USS Midway (a visit aboard saved for another day) where a tribute to Bob Hope stands acknowledging his support of the troops.

Also by the USS Midway is the famous Kissing Statue representing when a soldier in Times Square first heard the Second World War had ended.

Wandering back, we stopped in Seaport Village to explore the many quaint shops and to have some lunch. Todd tried the infamous Fish Taco at the Pier Café (I opted for a chicken burger – I know, shocking…). The grilled fish taco was tasty, but a little bland, could have used some “kick”; it will be interesting to compare it in other restaurants.

In the evening we walked to Balboa Park for December Nights  (just over 2.5 km – uphill) – foods from all over the world, performances, and rides – a huge amusement night (expected 350,000 people over the two nights). We wandered around taking in some music and enjoying a couple of empanadas. Lots of people, lots of excitement.

Observation – Can’t believe the number of people in winter coats/jackets at 15°C – not sure how they would survive the winters up North…..