By on April 19th, 2017

International Students City Guide: San Diego

San Diego is one of those cities that locals absolutely swear by. They can’t say enough good things about it. This includes transplants who never want to leave. The vast majority of international students who have lived there will tell you the same thing.

While there is more to do in San Diego than we could ever list here, the following examples should be enough to get international students started

The San Diego Zoo

International students who love animals are in for a real treat as the San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,700 of them. This includes the giant panda, and this is one of the few zoos in the entire world that holds this distinction.

You can also find polar bears, elephants, gorillas, Malaysian tigers, hippos and much more here, as well. Give yourself an entire day to make the most of this amazing facility.

The San Diego Coast

For international students who aren’t from a warmer climate, the beaches here may feel surreal. The weather in San Diego is legendary and it transfers to the nice, warm waters. You can simply lie out and enjoy the sun or jump in the water to swim, surf or even snorkel. The vast kelp forests that surround the coasts here support all kinds of marine life.

Take to the Sky

The tame weather in San Diego also means you can experience the city from the sky in a one-of-a-kind way. With the assistance of a professional, you can go hang gliding or paragliding. For international students who want something slightly tamer, hot air balloons are very popular in the area, as well.

Check Out Northpark

If you’ve heard of the legendary American hipsters and want to observe them in their natural habitat, spend a day walking around Northpark. Forbes called it one of the best hipster neighborhoods in the country.

You’ll find countless locations to grab coffee, beer and brunch. When the sun goes down, you won’t have any trouble finding a place to catch live music.

Like Mexican Food?

When it comes to the cuisine here, San Diego is probably best known for its Mexican food. Lucha Libre and other taco shops serve up menus that include authentic original recipes and plenty of eclectic options unique to each restaurant.

Check Out the Craft Brew Scene

America is currently in a craft brew craze with no signs of slowing down. If you love these sorts of artisanal brews, then explore what San Diego has to offer. Stone Brewery, for example, not only serves amazing beer, but also offers a court for bocce ball and a lawn to sit down on while movies play on the wall at night.

Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum in San Diego will give international students a great source to learn about local history. You’ll have an easy time finding it, thanks to the 100-foot high masts of the Star of India, an iron-hulled square-rigger built in 1863 on the Isle of Man.

Other vessels you’ll find at this museum include two submarines, the Californian and America, both of which will take you on cruises that last a few hours or even go as long as overnight.

The Waterfront

Finally, for another – literal – taste of old San Diego, head to The Waterfront. It’s the oldest bar in the city and was opened just after prohibition was finally repealed. This place has the “dive bar” feel to it without being located in an unsafe part of town. The burgers receive rave reviews, too.

Moving to San Diego as an international student? You’ll have all kinds of things to do and see, but be sure you make time for these very special options.