WATERFRONT PARKS OF SAN DIEGO BAY-TIDELANDS & CORONADO LANDING

"MY BIKE"  -  ARNOS ROBINSON
        CORONADO TIDELANDS PARK

There are 21 public parks along the San Diego Bay, all with beautiful views. My goal is to visit, photograph, and write about each one—riding my bike along the way. Most are located on the 24-mile San Diego Bayshore Bikeway.

The more than 240 acres of parkland are managed by the Port of San Diego which provided a list and map on their website to guide my journey.

On-leash dogs are welcome and alcohol is not permitted without a special permit. Hours are 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. All require permits for groups of 25 or more. Additional amenities vary at each location and may include: picnic tables, play equipment, exercise stations, fishing piers, boat launches, concessions, and bike paths—see individual websites for details.

CORONADO FERRY LANDING

The Coronado Landing Park, 1201 1^st Street, is located at one end of the of the San Diego Bayshore Bikeway; this is where I will begin. It sits adjacent to the Coronado Ferry Landing Pier which is the arrival and departure point for ferries that transport hundreds of visitors and commuters daily between downtown San Diego and Coronado. It is the park with the most spectacular view of the downtown skyline and is usually busy, especially on weekends. There are a couple of benches, concrete walls, and grasslands for sitting with a nice view. It's a good place for people-watching; visitors come from all over the world and speak many languages. The 377-foot pier is popular for fishing.

The Landing offers many shops and restaurants, as well as an area with a waterfall, palm trees and tables to enjoy a meal or snack. A farmer's market is held here every Tuesday from 2:30 to 6:00 pm. This is also the setting of free Sunday afternoon concerts. They are held year-round, featuring a variety of local musicians and venues from jazz to pop.

CENTENNIAL PARK 

For a little more serenity and history, take a short walk north to Centennial Park, site of the original Ferry Landing Terminal. Although not officially part of the Port of San Diego parkland, it has a great view and is more peaceful and comfortable, with more seating available, to enjoy the panorama of downtown. I sometimes savor a morning coffee here with the fragrance from the spring-blooming Japanese mock orange filling the air, watching the boats pass, and listening to the birds chirping.

At the Orange Avenue entrance, there is a lovely rose garden where the shrubs are just starting to bloom. Next to them, is a historical landmark: the original Coronado Ferry Ticket Booth. The park sits in the original site of the Coronado Ferryboat Terminal which operated ferries between San Diego and Coronado from 1886 until the opening of the bridge in 1969. The ferries accommodated passengers, horses, buggies, and later, automobiles. Riding these ferries was a way of life and is a fond memory for many who lived here at that time. In 1987, the old car ferries were replaced with passenger ferries that now depart from the Coronado Landing Pier.

                                                    * * *

 

For another great view and park, stroll south about one-half mile toward the Coronado Bridge. This waterfront path is one of the prettiest walks in San Diego. Here you will find a spectacular bridge view and the 22-acre Coronado Tidelands Park, 2000 Mullinex Drive, the largest San Diego Bay park.

CORONADO TIDELANDS PARK

The park is famous for its great view of the Coronado Bay Bridge which is particularly stunning at sunrise with the Laguna Mountains in the background. Adding to the photographic scene are the about 40 small sailboats that are moored here.

The park, being the largest along the bay, is especially popular on weekends when hundreds of people gather for picnics and sporting events. There is rarely a time that you can pass this park without seeing some activity. It also has an exercise station where I usually stop for push-ups when passing by.

A fascinating kinetic sculpture of a bicycle that rotates with the wind; sitting high up on a pole overlooking the bay, is a wonderful addition to this park. “My Bike” by Arnos Robinson is one of the many interesting, outdoor works of art along the bay.

ROSE GARDEN -  CENTENNIAL PARK

      

CORONADO FERRY LANDING

CENTENNIAL PARK
ORIGINAL FERRY LANDING BOOTH

SAN DIEGO SKYLINE
CENTENNIAL PARK

CORONADO TIDELANDS PARK

 CORONADO BRIDGE
TIDELANDS PARK

                                                   

INTERVIEW WITH JOHN GOLICZ, CEO AND FOUNDER OF THE TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOWS

JOHN GOLICZ, CEO AND FOUNDER
 TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOWS

I enjoy planning my journeys almost as much as taking them. I guess this is why I never miss a nearby travel show and wasn't about to miss an opportunity to interview John Golicz, CEO and founder of the Travel & Adventure Shows. They are the largest series of travel shows in the United States and are held annually in seven major cities. After producing more than 60 events that have brought together millions of attendees, Golicz is one of the top experts in the field of travel.

My Vintage Journeys is pleased to share this exclusive phone interview with John Golicz on April 8, 2015:

Good Morning, John. I'm glad to have this opportunity to visit with you. I love going to travel shows, and a chance to interview the guru of the trade is an honor.

Let's start with how it all began—what originally lead you to create the popular Travel and Adventure Shows?

I was always an adventure traveler and enjoyed the boating and other sport shows that were available. However, I couldn't find events specifically for the consumer traveler. This was about 14 years ago, and Europe already had a lot of them. I decided that there was probably a market in the US as well and decided to test it.

Our first show launched in January 2003 in New York City with attendance of over 26,000. They have been growing ever since—booming in the last few years.

How much time do you spend traveling throughout the year?

We do seven shows across the country in the first quarter of the year, which means I am traveling 40 plus days during that time. The rest of the year I travel throughout the world interfacing with ministers of tourism, tourism officers, and travel directors.

I just returned from a nine day multi-generational family vacation in the Dominican Republic where we stayed at Casa De Campo. There was something for everyone, including, beaches, golf, tennis, fishing, horseback riding, scooters. It was wonderful.

What changes do you foresee in the travel industry in the upcoming year?

Self-directed travel is growing: a recent poll of our travel show attendees indicated that 80% are not using a travel agent.

Europe is red hot. The euro is at recent historic lows. Airfares are dropping, and Europe is experiencing a recession so accommodations are more readily available and rate-friendly.

JOHN GOLICZ

What are some of your favorite European destinations and tips for families traveling together?

We've traveled multiple times with our kids and we try to make the trips kid-directed, as much as possible. For example, when we went on a family trip to Paris and London about four years ago, we gave each of them an opportunity to chose two things that they wanted to do in each city. In Paris, my son wanted to see the catacombs and do the sewer tour. My daughter wanted to go to a museum related to her interests in medicine. They all found something, and we separated at times if necessary.

We also hired a guide for a private walking tour of Paris. We had a three-hour introductory tour of the city, visiting the major sights and neighborhoods and learning how to get around. Now we're acclimated to where we want to go on our own. Later, we did a tour of the Louvre, which was also very helpful.

We are finding that a lot of families come to the travel and adventure shows together in order to plan their next trip. It gives the kids a chance to meet people from other countries, hear the local music, and even taste some of the local food.

We all love travel gadgets and apps. What are the top ones for 2015?

I like the HeadDEFENDER which is a headrest cover for the airplane, train or bus seat. Your head is resting on a clean fabric that feels good and prevents germs from spreading. It comes in a nice carrying pouch, and I always travel with it.

I used the NapAnywhere on my last trip and I plan to use it again. It is an ergonomically-stable neck support that is covered with a foam padding that molds to you and allows for a good sleep while sitting up. I tried it on my last trip, and it really worked—I plan to use it again. .

Another trend I'm seeing is “on demand travel.” I'm coining that term right now because you're really set free on how you travel these days. With apps like hoteltonight.com, for example, you can just show up in a city and open your app and find a hotel that matches your preferences at discounted prices, in just about any city in the world. Now think about that: I don't have to preplan where I'm going to go. Now there are apps. I can just show up and get a hotel room, and I'm guaranteed it at a good price. I can make restaurant reservations at opentable.com. I can use Uber to get my ride. I'm kind of set free. I can also get train and airline tickets. RickSteves also has free on demand walking guides on his website for many cities in Europe.

Do you have a favorite travel gadget that you never leave home without?

I always travel with an iPad and iPhone.

Do you like to take photos when traveling? If so, what camera do you use?

I use my iPhone for photos rather than a camera. It's more convenient and I can send them anywhere.

Another tip is to copy important docs and credit card information onto your iPhone in case of emergency—just make sure you have a security code on it.

As the founder and editor of 1000TravelTips.com, tell us about the website?

It was launched in February, and I'm really excited about it. We're asking travel experts and others to contribute concise and simple travel tips on a wide range of travel topics. There are a lot of great ideas out there. Our goal is to provide our readers with the most up-to-date travel advice available.

MyVintageJourneys is a website for those of us who like to travel the vintage way, often one month at a time, which leads to my final question: If you could choose one place in the world to spend a month, where would it be?

Italy, I love Italy. We'd like to take a trip for a month where we will spend a week in four different spots. We're thinking about Tuscany, Venice, Sardinia, and Sicily.

Thank you, John—this was very informative. I'm already looking forward to attending the next San Diego Travel & Adventure show January 16-17, 2016. 

RICK STEVES
2015 SAN DIEGO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW

THE BEST WAY TO FIND A FARE ONLINE

UNISPHERE
BILLIE JEAN NATIONAL TENNIS CENTER
FLUSHING MEADOWS

Finding the best airfare can be complicated and frustrating. How do you make sure you're getting the best deal on the already overpriced airfares? With dozens of websites available to search—sites where you can reserve tickets and some that search multiple sites and send you elsewhere to book. Add to this the recent consolidation of major players, and the addition of new ones—it's confusing and time consuming. Then there are the extra charges imposed by airlines for amenities such as assigned seats and carry-on luggage.

I guess it's no surprise that a recent article entitled “The Best Way to Find a Fare Online” peeked my interest. It was published in the Wall Street Journal on April 2, 2015; written by Scott McCartney. At the end of the featured story, he provides a valuable, no-nonsense approach to finding the best airfare. Here is what he has to say:

“Best advice for consumers now: Shop several search sites, such as Kayak, Google, Hipmunk or Skyscanner. They are strong and reliable, but have different features. See which ones you like best. Hipmunk shows options in useful time bars so you can easily schedule. Skyscanner lets you easily shop inventory available in other countries where airlines may be running specials.

      Once you find what you want, book directly at the airline. Booking on the airline website gives you the best shot at accurate information about what you get—or don't get—with that fare, plus add-on fees or buying potential up-grades. You also stand a better chance of getting your Known Traveler number to TSA Pre-Check if you're enrolled.”

Note that the four sites he recommends are sites that do not book tickets —they send you elsewhere. Google Flights is a new search engine that is getting good reviews. The TSA Pre-Check is a real value—you don't need to remove computers and toiletries from your bag and you can leave your shoes.

Follow his guidelines. Keep it simple. Be flexible. Good Luck. 

PORT OF SAN DIEGO EXPANSION

The day we moved into our new home, as I was hastily trying to get organized, I looked out my window at the San Diego Bay and noticed, for the first time, an ocean-going vessel pass by. Since then I have seen hundreds them. They come intermittently at a slow speed, so there is always plenty of time to view them. Besides the large cargo ships, there are kayaks, paddleboards, sailboats, yachts, fishing boats, ferries, party and sightseeing boats—the parade never ends.

NAVY TUGBOAT  CELEBRATION

The naval ships pass by on their way to and from Naval Base San Diego, also called the 32^nd Street Naval Station, which is the largest US Navy base on the West Coast. It is most impressive, on those infrequent occasions, when the ship is returning from many months of being on assignment. The naval personnel are lined up on the deck, the front is adorned with a large wreath, and they are lead by a tugboat with a fountain of water flowing from it. Band music can be heard from the dock, and I can only imagine the happy families that are waiting for them there.

US NAVY SHIP- SAN DIEGO BAY

Since I am fond of watching the ships float in and out of the bay, I read with interest the news that the Port of San Diego may become even busier. It is currently proposing to modernize the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal, located off Harbor Drive and Cesar Chavez Parkway. If this gets approved, it will lead to San Diego becoming a leading West Coast specialty port—comprised of the Tenth Avenue Marine Terminal (TAMT) and the National City Marine Terminal (NCMT). San Diego is desirable because it offers a natural, protected harbor that is uncongested as well as a year-round mild climate.

“The Economic Impact of the San Diego Unified Port District 2/25/15” was recently prepared by the Economic & Planning Systems, Inc. This annual study indicates that the Port of San Diego contributes more than $7.6 billion a year into the region from employment, sales and purchase of goods and services. This makes it the second-largest employer in San Diego County, after the state of California. It is the primary port of entry for Honda, Acura, Isuzu, Volkswagen, Nissan, Mitsubishi Fuso, and Hino Motors into America. It also holds a twenty-year lease with Dole Food Company, bringing in much of the country's bananas.

The Port of San Diego controls more than 60 percent of the Bay shoreline, or 33 of the 54 total miles—the Navy controls 17 miles. It oversees two marine cargo terminals, two cruise ship terminals, the Harbor Police Department, and leases of almost 600 tenants and subtenants along San Diego Bay. In addition, it oversees 20 public parks, including the newest waterfront park, Lane Field, that opened on March 16. Located on the corner of West Broadway and North Harbor Drive, it was once the site of Lane Field where the original Pacific Coast League Padres played from 1936-1957. It is named after Bill Lane, who was the owner of the Pacific Coast League Padres in 1936.

A helpful tool that makes observing the vessels more interesting is marinetraffic.com It provides the location of all the ships in the area along with the name, type of ship, a photo, current location, itinerary, home port and other details.

The San Diego Bay appears reasonably clean and odorless, however, it is far from perfect. A federal list that identifies unhealthy waters, called the 303(d) list, includes San Diego Bay for 20 separate pollutants—including copper, mercury, PAHs, PCBs, zinc, and chlordane—along with general toxicity in the bottom of the the bay. Sources of the pollutants are urban runoff and copper-based paints on boats. There are signs posted at all piers along the bay warning anglers that fish may contain chemicals believed to cause cancer and birth defects.

The proposal to expand the terminal and increase the traffic is now waiting the results of a Notice of Preparation for a Draft Environmental Impact Report issued by the Port of San Diego. The public and other interested parties now have an opportunity to comment on possible environmental impacts of the project. Comments will be accepted until 5pm on Tuesday, April 14, 2015.

US NAVY  SHIP ADORNED WITH WREATH

DOLE CARGO SHIP

"OUR SILENCES"---MEXICAN ARTIST RIVELINO

OUR SILENCES

As I was rushing to the Fifth Avenue Pier to catch a ferry to Coronado, I noticed, for the first time, massive bronze sculptures along the walkway. They were especially striking with light shimmering on them. I decided to return soon to see what they were all about.

I then discovered that this display of giant men has been traveling around the world and was unveiled on January 29, 2015. San Diego is the first U.S. City to exhibit Our Silences, by the Mexican artist Rivelino, and it will only be here until March 15. Previously, the sculptures toured Mexico City and other major cities in Europe, including London, Paris, and Madrid.

TUNA HARBOR

I returned a few day later, on a perfect 65 degree San Diego day, to enjoy the art at my leisure. From the Broadway Pier, I walked south toward Seaport Village, enjoying a view of the USS Midway and Tuna Harbor along the way. The abstract human figures are situated in Ruocco Park, just before Seaport Village, with the city on one side and San Diego Bay on the other. Park benches offer a perfect resting point to appreciate the art in this beautiful setting.

The display consists of ten bronze sculptures 11½ feet tall, weighing about one ton each. All with the same cream color and brown trim. They have slits for eyes, bald heads, big pointed noses, and long thin ears. Each mouth is covered with a metal plate, representing the artist's belief in the importance of freedom of expression. They are placed in a long line with each one at a 45 degree angle to the bay, one group of five is looking toward the Midway and the other five is looking south. (The configuration of where they are placed varies with the location, for example, in London they were placed in a circle.) There is also a separate large, black, touch-box for use by people with visual disability.

Rivelino, whose full name is Jose Rivelino Moreno Valle, was born in Jalisco, Mexico in 1973. He is one of Mexicos' most famous sculptors and works out of his studio in Mexico City.

He explained in Spanish at the unveiling, “From here, that silence moves from one city to another, one country to another, and one continent to another. It's important to share what we think and feel.”

In every city where it is presented, the work of art acquires a different meaning by establishing relationships with the local architecture, culture, society and history.  

OUR SILENCES 
SAN DIEGO

OUR SILENCES  IN SAN DIEGO

OUR SILENCES IN SAN DIEGO

OUR SILENCES IN LONDON

OUR SILENCES IN LISBON

OUR SILENCES IN MOSCOW

OUR SILENCES IN SAN DIEGO

2015 SAN DIEGO TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW

 SAN DIEGO CONVENTION CENTER

       Studies have shown that people like to plan their trips as much as take them. I know that I fall into that category which is probably why I love to go to travel shows. Especially, when one of the fastest growing Travel & Adventure Shows is being held nearby at the San Diego Convention Center.
      When you walk into a large center with over 140 exhibits surrounded by four stages featuring travel celebrities, exotic destinations, cooking demonstrations, and entertainers from around the world it can get a bit overwhelming. I quickly realized that seeing it all was impossible, so I needed to focus. I decided to concentrate on some of my favorite celebrity writers and travelers who were being featured on the main stage.

 

RICK STEVES - MAIN STAGE

       Rick Steeves was the first speaker of the day. The room was filled with hundreds of travel enthusiasts that were rewarded with his travel stories and advice from over 30 years of travel to Europe. He had slides on each side of the stage that helped to keep us interested for the one and one-half hour presentation. With his nationally televised travel shows and books, as well as the popular Rick Steve Tours, he still finds time to 
spend four months out of the year in Europe to stay current.      

       Among his many words of wisdom were the following:

--Personalize the trip by doing your research and picking out things that interest you. For example you can find a Museum of Bags & Purses in Amsterdam or ruined castles all over Europe that are free, but hard to find.

--Find out what's going on and go where the locals go. Enjoy leisurely evening strolls with them or attend their favorite sporting events.

-- His favorite place in Switzerland:  Appenzel Alps and their northernmost summit, Ebenalp.

–Berlin is the most dynamic city in Europe right now.

--In his opinion there are two IQ s of European travelers: those who wait in lines, and those who don't. Travelers that read his books can learn how to avoid the lines and save precious time.

       I recommend his website: RickSteves.com. You can go there to read his latest travel news and most importantly to view one hundred free travel shows along with lectures and others classes. It also includes a great forum for answers to all of your travel questions.

      He also has free phone apps that can guide you on tours of many major cities. I found it interesting that his latest travel books assume that travelers in Europe are traA quote from his blog: “... each time I fly away, I know I’ll be collecting new friends and life-long memories wherever I venture...”

       Another favorite is writer and publisher Pauline Frommer. She is the daughter of Arthur Frommer, who at age 85 is famous for his book series which started out in the 1960s as Europe on $5 A Day. Pauline and Arthur still appear together on a nationally syndicated two-hour radio travel show which airs every Sunday from noon to 2pm. (You can also listen to it online.)

       They are also busy writing a new book series. Frommer's Easy Guide to New York City is currently a best-selling guide to the city.veling with a cell phone.

       A quote from his blog: “... each time I fly away, I know I’ll be collecting new friends and life-long memories wherever I venture...”

       Another favorite is writer and publisher Pauline Frommer. She is the daughter of Arthur Frommer, who at age 85 is famous for his book series which started out in the 1960s as Europe on $5 A Day. Pauline and Arthur still appear together on a nationally syndicated two-hour radio travel show which airs every Sunday from noon to 2pm. (You can also listen to it online.)

       They are also busy writing a new book series. Frommer's Easy Guide to New York City is currently a best-selling guide to the city.

       There are a number of significant things going on right now in the travel industry that make for some good near term opportunities. Probably most importantly the US dollars value has improved against most currencies. Also, there are some real deals on safaris to Africa (check out Smart Tours.com). Airbnb.com is providing good value on lodging and now booking more rooms than hotels are booking. River cruising is currently very popular—with few discounts. She also advises to visit Cuba now before it changes. The old vintage cars they have maintained will soon be replaced by new shiny cars that they can now be purchased on the free market.
      One of the hotspots for travel in 2015 recommended by Pauline Frommer is Belgium. They are commenorating the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo and the 100th anniversary of WW I battles. In addition, Mons, Belgium, is celebrating as the joint capital of culture with over 300 events and a major VanGogh exhibition.

      Since most of us are doing our own bookings online these 
days, here are some suggested websites:

GIVERNEY GARDENS 

dohop.com
hipmunk.com

hotelscombines.com

trivago.com

venere.com

booking.com

hotelpower.com

tingo.com

hotel tonight (an app not a website) Best time to check: 3 pm day of arrival

airbnb.com

zonder.com

homeaway.com

flipkey.com

vrbo.com

globalfreeloaders.com

couchsurfing.com

Insuremytrip.com (travel insurance)

squaremouth.com (travel insurance)

homeexchange.com

       Most importantly go to Frommers.com for ideas on places to travel and the best deals around. Note that Pauline Frommer does not receive any kickbacks from the travel industry for her recommendations.

       Another informative and entertaining speaker is Josh Gates, who stars in the new travel channel program Expedition Unknown. The popular Thursday night show chronicles the adventures of Josh as he investigates mysteries and legends around the world. He is a believer in adventurous travel that knocks you out of your comfort zone because it affects you more and stays with you longer. He also loves to travel in Asia and recommends a visit to one of his favorite places, Cambodia.

       I'm headed to Europe in May—now I have to figure out how to add some adventure to the journey so I can remember it and become a techie so I can listen to Rick Steves while on the go. Then, of course, always remember my dad's advice: “Go while you can.”

CHRISTMAS IN ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA

ADELAIDE ARCADE

      After spending a week each in Sydney and Melbourne, we arrive in Adelaide on December 23, just in time to celebrate Christmas with my nephew Bill. He is as vibrant and entertaining as ever and a great tour guide. It was decided that we would have Christmas Eve dinner together at our rented home, and Bill would host Christmas Day at his lovely new home in the Norwood section of Adelaide, which was about three miles away from us.

COTTAGE IN ADELAIDE

      The cottage we rented through airbnb.com was located on a quiet block of sandstone brick homes that were built in the late 1800s with colorful red sandstone. It was spacious and worked well for the week.

      A few blocks away was the 140 year-old Central Market, often referred to as the “Heart of Adelaide.” Anna and I rose early on Christmas Eve morning to head over to the crowded market with its eighty-plus colorful stalls and huge selection of local fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. We started the day with a cup of flat-white (something like a cappucinno or latte that the Aussies are very proud of) at one of the local cafes. Then we spent the entire morning peering at the stalls before getting serious about the final food choices for our special Christmas Eve dinner. Finally, we decided on a leg of lamb and rolled pork roast for the main course. This would be accompanied by Anna's spinach and strawberry salad, roasted asparagus and fresh breads. We couldn't decide on just one dessert so settled for a variety of irresistible cakes and cookies—the gluten-free decadent chocolate cake took first place.

ADELAIDE XMAS

      Preparing a meal for seven in a new kitchen with limited utensils and space was a bit of a challenge, but the meal was delicious. Most importantly we all fit around the table and had the privilege of a first Christmas dinner with a grandchild sitting proudly in her high chair. Thanks to secret Santa's and hundreds of nearby wineries there was no shortage of beverages to accompany the meal. It was truly a great and blessed Christmas “down-under” that we will remember forever.

NORWOOD

      Bill continued the celebration on Christmas Day when we joined him at his new Adelaide home in Norwood for a Swedish buffet (thanks to the local Ikea). Norwood is close to the city center and full of charming sandstone homes and churches from the 1800s—great for walking and biking. Add to that the convenience of Parade Avenue with its many restaurants, cafes, shops, and theaters, and it doesn't get much better.

      Adelaide, located in South Australia, is the fifth largest city in Australia. With a population of over one million it is surrounded by open spaces which include miles of beaches and wineries in the nearby hills. One could visit a new and unique winery every weekend for many years before running out of new places to go. With its park lands, squares, old architecture, museums and River Torrens meandering through, it is truly a very pleasant place to visit and live.

GLENELG BEACH

TORRENS RIVER

TORRENS RIVER ADELAIDE

FLAT WHITE ON PARADE AVENUE

VINEYARDS-SOUTH AUSTRALIA