If you have never skydived before, you are definitely missing out on the most amazing experience! This is an activity that everyone must do at least once in their life. If you have participated elsewhere then you already know how exhilarating it is, but chances are good that wherever you jumped before did not provide the beauty that this area does. 

Where to Go 

Jumping from an airplane is a little more extreme than taking a horseback riding tour or surfing lessons. You only want to go to the most reputable company. Pacific Coast Skydiving is the place to go here. The instructors here are extremely experienced, professional and friendly. They have a natural way of making you feel comfortable. If you read their Yelp reviews, you will see that people have nothing but positive things to say about them. 

• Extraordinary Desserts – There are a couple locations to choose from, and both offer an incredibly upscale atmosphere. Not only are the desserts here delicious, they are gorgeous. When you walk in, you grab a clipboard and write down the desserts you want from the display case. Then you take a seat and they are delivered with a beautiful presentation. They have everything from homemade ice cream to cupcakes to morning pastries. There are even vegan and gluten-free options, so everyone can indulge. 

• Babycakes – Despite the name, you will get a lot more here than just cakes. There actually is a wine bar inside, and you can indulge in the most amazing cupcakes you will ever eat in your life. The Chunky Monkey is an absolute must-try! They even have some extraordinary desert cocktail options like White Chocolate Martini and Chocolate Cake Shot. Who says you can’t drink your dessert? 

If you are moving to downtown San Diego, or simply new to the area, or new to Pilates, you will be thrilled to learn that there are some truly exceptional studios here. Whether you are an experienced practitioner, or if you are a senior who is finally ready to strengthen your core and find your balance, there is a phenomenal selection of classes with exceptional instructors in San Diego.

What is Pilates?

If you are newly being introduced to Pilates, you are certainly not alone. Although nearly everyone is familiar with yoga, there are still many who have not had the opportunity to see firsthand what Pilates is all about. This method of exercise was developed in the early 1900s by Joseph Pilates to condition the body by concentrating on proper alignment, breathing, control, concentration and proper movement. Classes are available, but some prefer private instruction. Below are seven of the best studios. Don’t be afraid to try them all before committing to one.

Horizons by Bosa located at 555 Front and 510 1st Avenue

Horizons is the first downtown San Diego building built by Bosa in 2001. Two towers with two separate addresses, 555 Front and 510 1st Ave., contain 211 units. A unique factoid for me is that Bosa built "trash rooms" on each floor. Turns out San Diego owners prefer "trash shutes" and Bosa made that correction in newer buildings.

Dragons Den is located at 315 10th Avenue. East Village and close to Petco Park.

Nobu is located in the heart of the Gaslamp at 207 5th Avenue.

If you want to eat in Old Town, this is the place. Old Town Mexican Cafe is located at the southerly end of Old Town.  Cafe Coyote is across the parking lot, and we have to say, it is also a great place to eat. Check out 2489 Old Town Avenue, just across the street from the Diamond Source.

If you are in the South Bay, TJ Oyster Bar is the place to visit. Located at 4410 Bonita Rd, this is the second TJ Oyster Bar restaurant. The first TJ Oyster Bar is a tiny hole in the wall located 1/2 to the west of this second location.

The Details 

The park is located at 15500 San Pasqual Valley roads. Admission is $42 for adults and $32 for children, plus parking fees. You can visit the park year-round, even on holidays, so now you have somewhere to go even on those days when everything else is closed.

Park Exhibits 

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is set up in zones. They may seem a little confusing at first glance, but once you start walking through you will see the way the animals are grouped, and discover it all makes very good sense.

Traditional Neighborhood Alehouse 

There is a very good chance that Hamilton’s Tavern has one of the oldest liquor licenses around. It was first open more than 75 years ago, and it received its name from an American patriot and South Park resident named Mr. Herman Hamilton who served his country with the Montford Point Marines. 

About the Beer 

Where to Go 

There are quite a few places around that offer lessons but this is an activity that should only be taught by the best instructors. Keep in mind that a super cheap rate is not a good deal when your safety is at stake. 

The best place to learn how to surf is at San Diego Surf School. Although they do offer private lessons, sometimes the most exciting way to learn is with a bunch of other newbies just like you. You might even meet a surfing buddy to enjoy the water with in the future. Not to mention, these summer camps are so much less expensive than private lessons. 

What is Disc Golf? 

Surprisingly, there are still a lot of people who have no idea what disc golf is. It is actually a lot like regular golf only instead of using balls and clubs, you use a flying disc, which is thrown the same way a Frisbee® is. There are tees where you start, and the disc needs to eventually get to the target rather than a hole in the ground. The target is generally an elevated metal basket called a Pole Hole®.