Travel Guide San Diego

With 1.4 million inhabitants (3.2 million for the agglomeration), San Diego is the second largest Californian city. It is also the birthplace of the entire region. It was here that the explorer Rodriguez Cabrillo set foot in 1542, proclaiming Spain's control over these lands. Then came the era of religious missions, whose first link in a chain of 21 missions was established in San Diego by Junipero Serra in 1769.Originally populated by Indians, San Diego was successively governed by Spain and Mexico, only to become an American territory in 1864. The city underwent a major expansion during the 20th century thanks to the creation of Balboa (a place to host international exhibitions in 1915 and 1936), but also because it was a major military port of the US Navy during the Second World War.It offers many possibilities to spend a very pleasant stay, between its beaches, its historic districts and the famous Balboa Park with its many museums. The city centre, neglected for many years, now represents the heart of San Diego's entertainment with its countless restaurants, bars and cafés. It is also a good place to visit. Those who have time can spend a week in and around the city without getting bored. For the more adventurous, don't hesitate to take a day trip to Mexico, the border being only 25 minutes away by car.