A 'Get Away' for Two

Tucked away, on the outskirts of one of the Southern California's coastal cities is the enchanting .a cozy hillside Hacienda Inn.  It's a great Get Away for a brief stay for anyone looking for a change of scene.. The town is filled with Old World and Spanish charm.   From your doorstep, on foot, you can access all activities and attractions in town. Browse storefronts indoor and outdoor,  and stop to admire the colorful handmade art.  In the evening you might take in a little nightlife and great appetizers!  In daytime there is much culture and museums, and famous placita to stroll through. Listen and you may hear soothing sounds of Peruvian mountains.  Plan a day excursion to Baja Nuevo, a 30 minute drive across the border of Mexico. This is a traditional spot to indulge in a Lobster meal and beer.  The Lobster is fresh and caught by local fisherman and prepared at most of the restaurant establishments for market price.  It is still a bargain for the American dollar! A complete meal comes with homemade tortillas, beans, rice, salsa and guacamole.  You might get  stuffed before finishing your fourth lobster(8oz/each). After your meal, spend time shopping for a blanket or piece of rustic, decorative art for your home. And remember you can always bargain with the local merchants.  Some are more flexible than others.  Keep in mind this may be the only way they make their living.  US tourism is a boost to their economy.  Enjoy a complimentary shot of tequila. Abuelo's (secret recipe) homemade natural Agave plant extract.  @ $20/bottle. Another bargain for your US dollar!   Make it a memorable day on foreign soil.  After you return across the border, settle in and start your plans for the next day.  A local visit to Balboa Park.  Or  to the local Zoo. You'll be surprised, as the park is a world of its own. There are acres of cultural and botanical venues to discover.   You won't know where to begin!  So start at the Visitors Building and work your way along the stretch of architectural wonder and historic sightings. See one of the largest outdoor amphitheatres and pipe organ during a rehearsal. Venture over to a large water fountain.  Stop by the Carousel with wild animal shapes.  Go inside a Greenhouse and Botanical Indoor Garden filled with flora & fauna.  Some of the blooms are rare and exotic plants from all around the world.  Outside the structure is a giant coy fish pond and across from the Greenhouse is the longest landscaped garden pond, ever seen.  The architectural craftmanship of the building structures will take your imagination somewhere else. Somewhere far and away from your nation and perhaps time. There just is'nt enough time in one day to take it all in!

A tip:  If you plan to stay over night, in Mexico, be sure to get your fast pass at the hotel accomodation before you leave for return drive and border crossing. Most helpful after 6pm (peak traffic hour).