San Diego Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Key companies include AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Prepaid SIMs are available from these carriers or MVNOs.

Options for Connectivity

Purchase prepaid SIM cards at carrier stores, electronics retailers, or online. Your Unlocked phone must be compatible with U.S. Frequencies.
Many ESIM providers like Airalo have options for compatible phones, allowing activation without a physical SIM card.
Portable WiFi devices from Solis Wi-Fi can also keep you connected.

Internet Access and Wi-Fi

Internet access and Wi-Fi are widely available in San Diego. Free Wi-Fi is common in many public locations.

Where to Find Wi-Fi

Hotels, cafes, restaurants, public libraries, and many attractions.
San Diego International Airport offers free Wi-Fi.
Mobile hotspots can be purchased or rented for continuous connectivity.

Postal Services

For sending mail and packages, several options are available.

Shipping Options

United States Postal Service (USPS): Post offices are widely available. Services include Priority Mail and First-Class Mail.
Private Carriers: FedEx and UPS additionally have service centers for shipping needs.
Package and letter shipping are straightforward.

Language Barriers & Translation

While The main language spoken is english, Spanish is also common.

Language Assistance

Main Language: English. Spanish is widely spoken and understood, notably by the border and in Old Town and Barrio Logan.
Rosetta Stone or Google Translate and other translation apps Assist with less common languages.
Standard English greetings and courtesies are universally understood. Good manners are appreciated.

Important Phrases

Common Greetings

Hello
Please
Thank you
Excuse me

Common Courtesies

Sorry
You're welcome
Can you help me?
Where is...?

Pro Tip

Learning a few basic Spanish phrases may add to your experience, especially in culturally rich neighborhoods.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and how holidays impact services to plan your activities effectively.

Retail Stores

Generally open from 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (malls) or 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (boutiques). Expect reduced hours on Sundays.

Restaurants

Breakfast (7:00 AM - 11:00 AM), Lunch (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM), Dinner (5:00 PM - 10:00 PM, later in Gaslamp/Little Italy). Bars and Nightclubs typically open until 2:00 AM.

Banking & ATMs

Banks generally open from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM on weekdays (some Saturday mornings). ATMs are ubiquitous at banks, convenience stores, and gas stations.

Public Holidays

Public holidays bring changes to operations.

Holiday Impact

New Year's Day, Memorial Day, National Day of independence, May Day (in many countries), Thanksgiving, Christmas Day.
Banks, government offices, and some businesses close.
Public transport may operate on a reduced schedule. Popular tourist spots and restaurants typically remain open, perhaps with special hours.

Seasonal Closures

Seasonal changes influence some business schedules.

Off-Season Adjustments

Some smaller attractions or tour operators may have reduced hours or seasonal closures during the low season (winter).
Always check specific operating hours for attractions and businesses you plan to visit.
Religious holidays generally do not change business hours in a secular context.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Social Interactions

A handshake is a common greeting for formal introductions. Casual greetings are considered a simple "Hello" or "Hi."
Maintain polite personal space during conversations.
Casual dress is prevalent. For fine dining, "smart casual" suits. Beachwear belongs at beaches and pools only.

Dining & Photography

Tipping (15-20%) is standard for service staff in restaurants and bars.
Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. Always ask permission before photographing individuals.
Avoid discussing politics, religion, or personal finances with strangers. Do not comment on people's appearance unless a compliment.

Local Acceptance

San Diego is generally open and accepting. Discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation is illegal in California. Hillcrest is a prominent LGBTQ+ hub.

Accessibility Information

San Diego strives to be an accessible city for all travelers. Information on infrastructure, accessible attractions, and services will guide an inclusive trip.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

California and U.S. Federal laws (ADA) mandate accessibility.

Public Space Accessibility

Sidewalks generally have curb cuts.
Many public buildings, businesses, and parks are designed for accessibility.
Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are common at attractions.

Accessible Attractions & Transportation

Major attractions and public transit are generally accessible.

Getting Around

Attractions: San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park museums, USS Midway Museum, and SeaWorld.
Transportation: MTS buses and trolleys are fully accessible. Accessible taxis and ride-share options (Uber WAV) are available.
San Diego International Airport is also accessible.

Services for Sensory Impairments

Services for visitors with visual or hearing impairments.

Support Options

Audio descriptions, braille signage.
ASL interpretation upon request.
Call ahead to confirm availability and make arrangements.

Accessibility Resources

Organizations providing accessibility information.

Support & Information

Access San Diego: Information on accessible attractions and services.
San Diego Regional Center: A resource for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Individual Attraction Websites: Often have detailed accessibility information.