San Diego

San Diego

When you have a companion pass and Southwest is having a sale it is the best time to find direct flights for great deals.  In October I booked direct flights to San Diego for 7K each way – since I have a companion pass total was 14K plus $22.40 for taxes/fees.  I was able to use a free night certificate with Hyatt that I have from holding their card and 30k points for two additional nights to stay at the Hyatt Grand Manchester.  This saved us about $1500 total.   The hotel is well located near the waterfront and has a beautiful pool and several pickleball courts!  

Highlights of our trip included:  hiking at Torrey Pines National Park; seeing sea lions, seals and pelicans in La Jolla;  visiting Coronado Island; doing a fun food tour in the Gaslamp area (booked it through Rakuten so earned 13x towards my Amex points); visiting the USS Midway; strolling through the farmers market; enjoying a harbor cruise that was free with a pass from hotel; and eating fantastic food.  Overall it was a really enjoyable getaway. 

-Erin