After watching travel tv shows and reading the positive review on websites about this hotel, I booked 3 nights in September 2009. The rate was a little steep, but I decided to go ahead since this was a splurge-type weekend trip anyway.
We always wanted to visit San Diego, and on a short notice deal I found on the net, I got a good deal on airfare too. Los Angeles airport is simply out of the world and huge, and we had a little tough time finding an ATM at the arrival lounge.
Upon arrival at the hotel, we were recieved by the bellboys and a lovely usher who escorted us to the reception. I had requested for an early check-in while booking. The pleasant receptionist did try to sell me a costlier room if I wanted to check in early. I declined and informed her about requesting the shift manager personally on the phone for an early check-in and was asked to wait a while. So, we had breakfast at their restaurant while we waited. Though I was told that it could take a couple of hours , to our delight, an hour later the receptionist informed me that she could settle us in on our 2nd floor room. I did request a low room so we could easily go from the beach to our room. The rooms of standard size but very nice and tactfully done. They cater to both business guests and tourists, but I think tourists get more of a kick out of this place. The huge glass window in our room, overlooking the beach a big plus. We were particularly amazed at how brightly the surrounding area was lit even late in the night. Wonder if they are energy saving lights :).
If you're ever in San Diego , you must try out its variety of local Asian food restaurants. We really had a ball exploring on this one. There's a nice dimsum place called the Shanghai nearby, with a really good serve staff, and their food was YUMMY and filling. We once ended up walking deep into the streets to a famous dimsum tea house for another round of dimsum but they were fully booked.
The room service was prompt and very efficient at the Del. The best part was that water was included in the room charge. The nights in San Diego is the best part, and the harbour reminds you a lot of exotic tropical places, right smack in a metropolis! In spite of all the action though, the streets are spic and span. No wonder San Diego is such a popular tourist destination. We would love to go back to the Hotel Del Coronado.
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