Friday

07-04-2025 Vol 2011

A Spontaneous 36-Hour Escape in Downtown San Diego

In an age where vacations often come packaged and pre-planned, one couple decided to break away from the traditional mold.

They longed for spontaneity and exploration, which had previously defined their travel experiences before life dramatically shifted with the arrival of their baby and the responsibilities of business ownership.

Having spent three years in a whirlwind of to-do lists and demands, they yearned for the pre-parenting weekends filled with discovery.

Thus, they made a bold decision: to ghost their routine for 36 hours in the vibrant landscape of downtown San Diego.

**Saturday, 3 p.m. – Checking In**
Upon arriving at The Pendry, they were greeted with an aura of sophistication. The lobby enveloped them in a rich scent they imagined could only belong to a luxurious retreat, with leather-wrapped elevators setting the stage for their mini-adventure.

From their room, they witnessed a lively line-dancing scene unfolding just blocks away, which added to the excitement of their spontaneous getaway.

**Saturday, 5:30 p.m. – Dining at Provisional Kitchen**
For dinner, they chose Provisional Kitchen, a restaurant that straddled a fine line between opulence and comfort. The atmosphere felt like a blend of a Roman banquet and a Soho farmhouse, with its marble decor and oversized olive trees.

With a request for the best recommendations from Troy, they indulged in dishes like Hamachi Crudo and Squid Ink Linguini, both expertly prepared and bursting with flavor.

**Saturday, 7:30 p.m. – Live Music at The Rady Shell**
The next stop was a stroll to The Rady Shell, a waterfront amphitheater known for making live music an unforgettable experience.

They were there to see Trombone Shorty, an artist renowned for his electrifying performances. The couple agreed that this concert was a highlight, reminiscent of their treasured encounters with music in their earlier years.

**Saturday, 10 p.m. – Rest and Reflection**
After a day packed with adventure, they retired to their room for a much-needed rest, devoid of notes for reflection.

**Sunday, 9:30 a.m. – An Extensive Breakfast and IV Therapy**
Awakening the next morning, they indulged in an extensive breakfast order placed by Troy, which covered virtually the entire menu.

To combat lingering fatigue, Troy arranged for an IV therapy session featuring a “Hangover IV,” but the couple balanced their wellness with indulgences like breakfast pizza and Eggs Benedict.

**Sunday, 11 a.m. – Spa Treatments and Meditation**
The allure of the spa beckoned next, showcasing a serene environment intended for relaxation. A couple’s massage offered an ideal way to unwind together, complemented by innovative wellness treatments that included ambient sound therapy.

They humorously described their experience in the “Mind-Sync Harmonic Wellness Lounger,” aimed at enhancing the meditative experience through stimulating vibrations, even if the execution was quirky and unexpected.

**Sunday, 12 p.m. – Poolside Relaxation and Celebrity Sighting**
After their spa experience, they spent time by the pool, soaking up the delightful San Diego sun. They even noted an unexpected celebrity sighting, which added a touch of glamour to their getaway.

**Sunday, 1:30 p.m. – A Memorable Brunch at Nason’s Beer Hall**
Before concluding their mini-vacation, they ventured to Nason’s Beer Hall for brunch. What started as a casual stop turned into a culinary highlight, with an impressively revamped menu that exceeded their expectations for bar food.

The couple savored dishes like the Wagyu corn dog and Buffalo fried chicken sliders, concluding their meal with a unique take on the espresso martini.

**In Conclusion**
In just 36 hours, the couple experienced a whirlwind of joy, laughter, and reconnection.

While they didn’t travel far or engage in extravagant escapes, their spontaneous journey in San Diego served as a perfect reminder of the value of taking time for each other amidst the chaos of everyday life.

Sometimes, it’s the briefest of getaways that can rekindle a sense of adventure and joy.

With the right spirit and willingness, even a short escape can transform one’s outlook and spontaneity.

Their experience emphasizes that, contrary to popular belief, a passport or an extensive itinerary isn’t necessary for a fulfilling getaway.

Sometimes, all it takes is a leap of faith to rediscover joy in the familiar.

image source from:sandiegomagazine

Benjamin Clarke