Where the Magic Happens
By Miranda Noelle Plume
Where the Magic Happens
By Miranda Noelle Plume
Embrace a West Coast state of mind at Hotel del Coronado.
Idyllic seaside vacations begin and end at San Diego’s legendary Hotel del Coronado. This National Historic Landmark, set on one of the country’s most iconic beaches, has been welcoming guests from all over the world since 1888, including movie stars, presidents, dignitaries, and even royalty. A thorough, detailed restoration over the past seven years has made this gem sparkle more brightly than ever before. Come to The Del for its historic beauty, prime location, and contemporary luxury, stay for its world-class dining, exceptional service, and plethora of unique experiences.
California Dreamin’
The carefree Southern California lifestyle has inspired many a song, movie, and book; it’s also inspired generations of travelers to venture out west to the glittering waters of the Pacific. Can you blame them? The surf, the sand, the sun! It’s what dreams are made of. California is also very diverse. With that in mind, The Del resort is separated into five distinct neighborhoods, each with its own irresistible charm. The Victorian neighborhood is the original beachfront hotel, with all of its nostalgic magic, transporting guests back in time thanks to its Queen Anne architecture and grand Victorian lobby.
When it’s time to hit the beach, you’ll feel like a movie star in the half-moon cabanettes or plush daybeds with fringed umbrellas available for half-day or full-day rental (Marilyn Monroe filmed scenes from Some Like It Hot here). The Del owns its own beach, making it possible for guests to enjoy food and beverage service (including alcoholic beverages) right on the sand. Done relaxing? It’s time to enjoy other beach activities, like complimentary Beach Yoga, 45 minutes of Beach Spin led by San Diego’s best spin instructors, and surfing lessons with world-famous pro surfer Jamie O’Brien.
“The surf, the sand, the sun! It’s what dreams are made of.”
California Soul
No matter where you’re from, the soul of California will grab you and never let go. Modern luxury awaits at The Cabanas neighborhood, the social and musical hub of The Del. Choose from beachside rooms with terraces and fire pits or poolside rooms that pretty much serve as private cabanas with walk-in showers. Then there’s The Views neighborhood, tailor made for those who can’t resist a gorgeous vista. It’s also the perfect embarkation point for activities and adventures galore—sail the seas, surf the waves, or take a bike ride along the scenic route. Want more? Guess what, it gets better. Guests who are accustomed to a certain amount of exclusivity will find themselves at home in the Beach Village Neighborhood. This gated community offers beachfront cottages and villas with private balconies and stunning views. What luck!
California Love
Nobody leaves The Del without a huge amount of love in their hearts for that SoCal lifestyle. Often imitated, never duplicated, Southern California’s charm and culture have influenced the whole world. The Shore House neighborhood is precisely the place for those seeking a full immersion into SoCal cool. This oceanfront residential experience is basically a modern beach house setting that invites and encourages socialization. Gather with friends old and new to partake in experiences specifically crafted to promote authentic connections. It’s only steps from the shore, but you’ll also have your very own pool and private cabanas where you can work on your tan, take a dip to cool off, have a cocktail or two while you lounge and converse with friends. Congratulations—you’re officially a thread in the everchanging tapestry of The Del.
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I have always been a Geography and Map Fanatic. I own a very large and well-utilized National Geographic Atlas in which I have recorded many notes and personal trips and routed out my journeys by ships, planes, trains, and cycling. I refer to it frequently in putting together my clients' trips and itineraries, as well as my own.
Going back to the time when I was a little girl, I have either lived just a few yards from the ocean or relatively close to it. I liked watching ships and wanted to know what life was like on the other side of the ocean. I was fascinated that my Grandmother came to the US on a ship as a teenage girl together with her sister from Ireland. Before my grandparents met in the US, my Grandfather from Ireland worked as a cowboy and copper miner in Montana at the turn of the 20th Century. They had many National Geographic issues at their home which I loved looking at. These impressions, plus taking my first cruise, all eventually led me to the cruise and travel ...