The Grande Colonial Hotel in La Jolla has it all: history, charm and an incredible waterfront location. Add to this a walkable town with tasty restaurants, and beaches with seal lions and leopard sharks, and you know why the hotel is one of my favorites in the San Diego area.
La Jolla (La-HOY-a) stretches out along Southern California's western coastline, just a brief drive north of downtown San Diego, and about 30 miles north of the Mexican border. It's famous for its small cove and its beach, surrounded by residential homes perched on its cliffs. Its fame also includes surfing, snorkeling and scuba activities. Free public parking is very limited --- mostly found on the street. There is a strong ecological movement, so it's a haven for sea lions, sea gulls, and various fishes.
As you read this, I will probably be in La Jolla, CA beside the beach. No, I won't be soaking in the sun. I will be resting in our hotel room while my wife attends a company retreat. Because of my wife's work activities, I have traveled to several US tourist areas. I guess you can call it a blessing. But I enjoy a nice conversation more than any travel.
Paradise comes in many ways. Recently it came in the form of a charming suite overlooking the Pacific Ocean, a secluded beach, and a delicious, 40-day aged cut of prime steak. In other words, I spent a night at the historic Grande Colonial in La Jolla and dined at the property’s renowned NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar. A friend and I recently …