San Diego Weekend Getaway

What a wonderful hotel!

We stood 1 night July 18, and wish we would have stayed there longer!

The staff were very friendly and helpful. The suites are large, with a full kitchen setup (microwave, fridge), kitchen eating area, living room, roomy bathroom with a nice shower and good water pressure, and a separate bedroom with King Bed. The bed was very comfortable and our suite even had a walkout to the pool area. Very clean and the decor is beautiful.

About 15 minutes after we arrived, there was a knock at the door and a staff member brought us bottled water and cookies. A nice extra.

The hotel was clean, and service was excellent. We didn't use the pool, but it was a decent size (not big, but not as dinky as some hotels) and there were plenty of chairs.

There was a free morning breakfast that was very good. The best part was the "make your own waffles" setup- they were delicious. There was a large assortment of other items- muffins, cereal, bagels, etc., as well as Juices & Coffee. There were 3 staff members always present ensuring the guests had everything they needed. We checked in on a Wednesday night and they even offered a free dinner during the weekdays, however, we already had other plans, so I cannot comment on how it was, but I thought that was a nice 'extra' the hotel offered.

The Hotel is located in a business park area, so you will need a car. There is nothing within walking distance, but it is close to the freeway which makes it convenient. Parking was free, and there were plenty of spaces. Travel times to the downtown San Diego area can vary, but for the most part, it seemed that whatever time of day we travelled, the freeways were packed.

We travel extensively, and are members of the Hilton Honors program so we got to stay for free using points. This was our first time staying at a Homewood Suites, and it definitely will not be our last.

This hotel was wonderful. Nice and clean! Friendly staff who actually seemed to care about their guests. Large rooms that are beautifully decorated, and a great breakfast!

You will not be disappointed staying here. It's great!

About 35 miles north of San Diego, there is a park like no other--the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park. This place is wonderful and it is a must see on your trip to San Diego!

The Wild Animal Park is different. Instead of large animals in small enclosures, the main focus of the park is an extensive open field exhibit area of land, where giraffes, rhinos, and many other animals are free to roam. In a way, this park feels like you are entering 'Jurassic Park.'

We had a great time! The park was clean, staff were friendly, and bathrooms were clean. There is a lot to see, and a lot of walking. The railway tram is one of the best ways to see the animals in the field exhibit. We took the railway ride, which was about 45 minutes and went to the outside sections of the park.

The highlight of the visit was the photo caravan. It is 2 hours, and costs an additional $90 per person, and worth every penny! You load onto a covered van, and a guide and driver takes you into the middle of the park where you can feed the giraffes and rhinos, and get some excellent close up photos. It's amazing. I would recommend it to everyone, because it is a once in a lifetime experience. Reservations are needed, so you will need to stop at the guest relations desk in the front of the park.

There is a hot air balloon ride which looked fun, but we did not go on it.

Definitely consider the photo safari. It's a little costly, but the park is non-profit, so all of your money goes back to the animals and supports the park! Plus, it is a wonderful experience.

For a great time, head to the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park next time you are visiting San Diego.