We had a week off of school in February 2013, and I was looking for a fun place to go for a few days.

I got good deals on a flight, car rental, and hotel in San Diego, California, and set off for 3 fun days in the sun!

I flew Southwest and really enjoyed it.  This was the first flight I had taken that had wifi.  It was fun to follow the flight!

This was also my first "direct" flight where you get off the plane at your first stop (Chicago Midway) and then re-board the same plane.

 I took the shuttle from the airport to the nearby Budget office and picked up my rental car.
My first stop was the Cabrillo National Monument.  It is right on the ocean!

On the day I came, entry was $5.

The views were amazing.  It was such a beautiful day!
Next, I stopped by the visitor center to get my passport stamps and see the movie.Right by the visitor center is the Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo monument, honoring the man who, in 1542, explored the area.  It reminded me so much of Monument to the Discoveries in Belem, Portugal!
Next, I enjoyed exploring the Old Point Loma lighthouse nearby. I drove all the way to La Jolla, couldn't find a parking spot, then drove back and enjoyed an hour walking along the beachside recreational trail ("Ocean Front Walk") near Mission Beach Park, Bonita Cove Park, and Belmont Park.
Another view of the recreational trail.  It warmed up, so I was able to take off my fleece!On the way back to my car, I got a yummy ice cream sandwich as a snack!
Back to my rental car!

I got a good rate through Priceline for a room at the Wyndham Garden San Diego, an old Holiday Inn.

  It had a fabulous location but awkward parking!

The room was big with a nice TV, fridge, and microwave.  It was also on a main drag (near lots of restaurants, a Target, and a grocery store).  The beds were firm, though, and the Internet went in and out.
 
After checking in at 3 pm, I went to buy some snacks at the nearby Target, then came back with a headache and slept for 12 hours.  Not a great first night of vacation!