About Jamie A
In addition to writing and taking photos during her trips, Jamie loves to find hidden gems, cheap eats, and kitschy Americana attractions. She hails from Oil City, Pennsylvania, went to college in the Finger Lakes Region of New York, studied abroad in Norwich, England, and moved to Boston in May of 2007. She also enjoys writing poetry and lyric essays, reading lots of books, being a foodie, listening to girl group tunes from the 1960s, crafting, and dinner parties with her friends.
Blog posts written by Jamie A
December 4th, 2007 by jamie a
Here’s a quick guide to at the . With ever-changing events and new traveling exhibits, there’s always something interesting to see and do!
On Friday, December 7 and Saturday, December 8th, the museum will open its doors from 5- 9 pm for . There will be free general admission to visitors.
December is your last chance to see the , which the largest and most comprehensive exhibition of the scrolls ever assembled. The Ten Commandments, the oldest of the scrolls, are on display, as well as a section of the Copper Scrolls. Walk through exhibits of the text on display with translations, authentic artifacts, excavation equipment, as well as photography and scientific studies.
Until January 1, explore a collection of , which compliments the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit. Using interpretive and modernistic color imagery, the traditions and culture of Israel come alive on film. Wood, ceramic, and glass sculptures will also be featured, representing additional modern-day interpretations of Israel.
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November 27th, 2007 by jamie a
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With the holiday season upon us, everyone’s scrambling for gift ideas for family, friends, and co-workers. Why not buy your favorite jetsetter something for their many journeys? Here’s some of our favorite picks for travel gifts this season from fashionistas to techies to kids.
For the techies…
If you know someone who takes all their gadgets on vacation with them, this charges up to three devices at once. This handy invention keeps all gadget chargers organized and easy to keep track of so nothing gets left behind.
For the fashionista…
With the , your fashionista won’t have to miss a minute of beauty sleep while she travels. The mask will keep light and distractions out, the comfy blanket will keep her cozy, and the disposable pillowcase will help keep the airline pillows germ-free.
For kids…
The is a perfect way to learn about historical landmarks and be creative at the same time! Kids can sketch on the black coated pages revealing rainbow colors and facts about places like Mount Rushmore and the Statue of Liberty underneath.
For the nostalgic…
With this vintage-inspired , you can relive the glory days of travel. Made of water resistant vinyl with a nylon lining, this bag is certainly durable enough for all those jaunts across the country.
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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Go San Diego Card.
November 20th, 2007 by jamie a
The Aero Club is just one of the many San Diego places offering free wi-fi
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Wherever your travels take you, we know you love to stay connected. Here’s our list of San Diego Wi-Fi hotspots to help you out! From hotels to delis and cozy dive bars, you’ll find plenty of places to get your internet fix.
Lucky for you, the offers free wi-fi (unlike many airports) so no more waiting to find service when you arrive!
To begin your trip, here are some hotels that offer free wi-fi so you won’t have to stray very far at all if you need to be connected. There’s the , any of the locations, or .
If you’d like to grab some breakfast, coffee, or lunch, there’s a myriad of choices! There’s , , , and , which serve everything from coconut lattes to quiche and top-notch espresso. also serves breakfast burritos, paninis, signature sandwiches, salads, and soups.
If you like to treat yourself while you work, head on over to the , a fabulous dive bar with free wi-fi, pool and 20 beers on tap. is also a great choice with a cozy atmosphere and delicious comfort food.
For dessert, check out for fresh Korean-style fro-yo with eclectic toppings like pomegranate seeds and coco pebbles!
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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Go San Diego Card.
November 12th, 2007 by jamie a
Kono’s Cafe
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No matter what cuisine strikes your fancy, this guide to restaurants in San Diego will keep both your stomach and wallet happy!
A stroll away from Pacific Beach lies an American cuisine hotspot with a patio overlooking the ocean. Hang out with the local beach bums while you chow down on “Kono’s potatoes” and piping hot stacks of pancakes. Hailed the quintessential San Diego breakfast, it’s also amazingly cheap.
For a delectable bowl of amazing noodles, check out for Vietnamese cuisine. At $6 a bowl, this place attracts families and twenty-somethings alike, both out to get their fill of beef pho with delicious green onions, Sriracha sauce (made from chile peppers, vinegar, salt, sugar, and garlic), or Hoisin sauce. Get ready for a traditional Vietnamese dining experience with all the authentic flavors you can imagine.
Look no further than for some yummy Mediterranean flavors. From homemade hummus and falafel to beef shawarma and stuffed grape leaves, this place has something for everyone. Enjoy the lovely outdoor seating and top off your meal with some homemade baklava.
Voted one of the best Italian delis in the city, give a try! Known for their huge portions, freshly baked bread, and entirely homemade ingredients, try the sopressata, salami, and sweet Italian sausage on any of their torpedo sandwiches.
A great local bar right by the beach, is known as a perfect hangout spot. With amazing fish tacos, peel & eat shrimp, oysters, steamers, and tostadas, you won’t leave hungry! Bring your friends, grab some drinks and stop in for happy hour from Monday-Friday from 3-6 pm and save with the . After dinner, you can even take a stroll down the beach.
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San Diego?
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November 6th, 2007 by jamie a
dining in Old Town
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Being from the East Coast, I’m sure my experiences with Mexican cuisine pale in comparison to those of the West Coasters. While you’re in San Diego, do yourself a favor and try some authentic Mexican fare. Once you’re home, who knows when you’ll be able to have a handmade tortilla or carne asada fajitas again!
At Cafe Coyote & Cantina in Old Town, you can sit on the patio and watch tortillas being made right before your eyes. A colorful restaurant brimming with vibrant personality, this spot’s got everything from breakfast margaritas to tamales made on site!
Since 1933, Las Quatro Milpas (”The Four Cornfields”) has been delighting guests with homestyle Mexican food at low, low prices. This hole-in-the-wall is known for its Chorizo con Huevos for breakfast and the rolled tacos and carnitas burritos are said to be heavenly. This spot attracts a line down the block, so it’s best to go early so you don’t have to wait in line very long.
Voted both “Best Mexican” and “Best Margarita” in 2007, El Agave serves the finest in Mexican Nouvelle cuisine. This impressive spot also has specialties such as mole, a European and Asian influenced curry, and over 1700 different kinds of tequila. If you’re in the mood for the best margarita of your life, head on over here! The wait staff is also familiar with giving suggestions for your drinks if you’re up for trying something new.
For 24-hour cravings, hit up Roberto’s Taco Shop, an authentic hole-in-the-wall taco stand. The locals recommend ordering your burrito “wet.” It costs a bit more, but comes out ready for your fork covered in delicious cheese and enchilada sauce. There’s a drive-thru for those on the go, or you can eat your carne adsada fries loaded with guacamole right there on the side of the road.
At El Zarape, you’d be crazy not to order their scallop, lobster, or fish tacos and burritos. With meat, health-concious, and vegetarian options, any palate will be pleased. There’s also a salsa bar to test your spice-level tolerance, so of course you have to try them all.
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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October 24th, 2007 by jamie a
photo uploaded by Gary J. Wood
A botanical wonder just to the north of San Diego, this park is home to many of the city’s museums. Balboa Park was established in 1886, so you can enjoy the Spanish colonial architecture that most of the modern buildings have also followed. Along the El Prado pedestrian mall, you can spend the day hopping from one attraction to the next!
Start off by spending some time at the San Diego Zoo, rated one of the best in the world. With more than 4,000 animals, you can meet creatures from every corner of the globe. Known for their Giant Panda Research Station, you can stop by and meet Gao Gao, Bai Yun, and little Mei Sheng, the resident pandas.
Be sure to visit the Japanese Friendship Garden, built in 1915 for the Panama-California Exposition. Experience the beautiful Zen design of this garden, complete with sand and stone gardens, koi ponds, and a shishiodoshi, a bamboo pipe waterfall that is meant to scare away evil spirits.
With more than 9,000 images chronicling the art of photography, the Museum of Photographic Arts is a sure stop for any shutterbug. Tackling the political, social, and cultural topics of the art, this museum provides a wonderful all-inclusive view of the medium. From September 15, 2007 to January 13, 2008, you can see the exhibition entitled Picturing Eden, a study of all things related to the idea of paradise.
For a luxurious dinner in the heart of Balboa Park, make a reservation at The Prado. Known for his unique California cuisine, chef Jeff Thurston is a risk-taker. With stunning architecture and atmosphere, enjoy a lovely dinner on the patio overlooking the park.
An exact replica of Shakespeare’s original theater, The Old Globe is a Tony award-winning regional theater. There are a dozen performances a year at this magnificent venue, with a Shakespeare Festival that delights audiences every summer. For all the thespians in the group, there’s even a backstage tour!
For even more excellent attractions, be sure and look through our expansive list of museums!
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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October 22nd, 2007 by jamie a
Comfort Inn & Suites at the Zoo
Photo courtesy of Hotels.com
Whether you’re traveling with your furry four-legged friend or with your three kids, we’ve got your bases covered on finding the right hotel in San Diego.
For family…
Just 3 miles from Sea World and the San Diego Zoo, the Comfort Inn & Suites at the Zoo is great for family traveling. It’s also near Old Town and Mission Beach for outdoor fun! The kids will enjoy the deluxe complimentary breakfast to start their day out right as well as the beautiful outdoor pool.
For pets…
The pet-friendly Dana Hotel on Mission Bay is wonderful for those traveling with their pets. It has beautiful waterfront views and is less than a mile from the beach. You can also check out San Diego’s Wild Animal Park, which is minutes away. A complimentary shuttle also runs from the hotel to the airport, Amtrak, and Sea World.
For business…
The Sofia Hotel, just 8 minutes from the airport, is perfect for any business traveler. With top-speed internet connections, a 24-hour business center, and meeting rooms to suit any need, it is also steps from downtown. With the Gaslamp Quarter, Museum of Contemporary Art, and Rock Bottom Brewery close by, you can even have time for some fun!
For a romantic trip…
Voted one of the top ten resorts in the world, the Hotel Del Coronado is perfect for a romantic getaway. Known for having incredible beaches and stunning views of the Pacific, this hotel is also served as the backdrop for the film Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon. Enjoy the best brunch in San Diego in the famed Crown Room, with chandeliers designed by L. Frank Baum, author of The Wizard of Oz.
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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October 16th, 2007 by jamie a
San Diego Zoo
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Do you bring your camera with you everywhere you go, waiting for that perfect shot? Do you love to capture the memories of your vacation on film?
Though we can’t bring the beach back home to Boise or the sunshine back to Providence, these wonderful memories can always be revisited through photographs.
If you fancy yourself a great photographer, we’d love to see your vacation photos. You could even be the next lucky winner of our Go Card Photo Contest!
You could be the winner of:
1st Prize (Best Overall Photo):
Canon PowerShot SD 1000 7.1 MP digital camera
2nd Prize (Best Fun Photo):
Phillip 7-inch Digital Picture Frame
Send us your son posing next to a tank of sharks, your wife wiping out on the slopes of Attitash, or a photo of you and your family smiling, bright as a lobsters with your sunburns.
Deadline for submissions is November 1, 2007, so start snapping those photos and you could be a winner!
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go San Diego Card.
