San Diego: "California Dreaming"

If you're California Dreamin, there's good reason. The Mamas and the Papas song was voted No. 89 by Rolling Stone magazine on their Top 500 songs of all time list. And if you've ever spent time in San Diego, you're likely to agree with them. Upon arrival, you're greeted by a fresh ocean breeze that brushes your cheek leaving a fragrant scent in its wake and immediately you relax as if someone pushed your pause button. Fabulous shopping, the ultimate in dining choices and panoramic ocean views to ease your tension. All the leaves are green and the sky is blue.

The Luxury Real Estate market in San Diego is very diverse in its offerings. From beachside property to mountainous retreats and desert hideaways, the option to find your perfect vacation home is easily attainable. With many hotels to choose from, the Hyatt boasts a great waterfront location with spectacular views and amenities. Right outside is Seaport Village and cruises on the Bay. It's also within walking distance to the Gaslamp Quarter. Speaking of Gaslamp, you most definitely want to dine at The Oceannaire where you'll be greeted by a staircase wrapped in Mahogany with brass railing. The ambiance of the restaurant has the same easy feeling as an "ocean liner". The wine list is sophisticated and the servers are attentive. However, your next stop should be Chef Deborah Scott's Island Prime atop San Diego Bay. Some of the most magnificent views of the city skyline and Coronado are enjoyed here. The dcor is warm with large dark wood beams and deep hued earthtones. Ambient lighting and fresh exotic florals accentuate the restaurant's tropical nature. The wine list is extensive and offers the perfect pairings for steak or seafood. The Pan Roasted Blue Crab Cake with Dijon aioli, chili azucar pork belly over frisee salad with blackberry vinaigrette is an excellent starter and if you must have dessert, and you must, the Key Lime Pie is delicious! To take in the city from a different perspective, head over to Bertrand at Mister A's for a cocktail and make dinner reservations while you're there. With a wrap-around balcony, your eye will wander over the dotted glows of San Diego Bay, Coronado and Point Loma. Recently featured by Gayot.com for MSN as one of the "Top 10 Penthouse Restaurants in the United States", Bertrand at Mister A's will not disappoint. One thing for sure is that no matter where you are in San Diego, the scenery is breathtaking. One of the most graceful and beautiful bridges ever built is the San Diego - Coronado Bridge. Coronado is a small island with big charm. It is also home to the iconic Hotel Del Coronado. The beachfront hotel was built in 1888 and is the number one wedding destination in America as rated by The Travel Channel. There's no better place to take an evening stroll after dinner than along the coastline parallel to the Del's Victorian splendor. You can dine, catch a movie or shop all within blocks. Coronado has many restaurants to choose from including 1500 Ocean for fine dining and an array of others for more casual fare. Feeling a little nostalgic, try Vigilucci's Ristorante, featuring Italian favorites, certified prime steaks and fresh seafood. The service is exceptional and authentically "Italian"! Indoors there is a wall-to-wall waterfall and elegant dcor. But if you prefer dining in nature, the patio has an ambient fireplace and overlooks Orange Avenue. For a nightcap, linger at the restaurant's martini lounge and piano bar. San Diego could be described as a big city that moves at a slower pace. The people that live here are happy, friendly and enjoying life. The vibrant sunsets are framed by gracefully swaying palm trees and the architecture is so charming and quaint; it lures you to keep coming back until your California Dream becomes a reality.