The major airport is San Diego International Airport (SAN) (PHONE: 619/231-2100, www.portofsandiego.org), called Lindbergh Field locally. If you need travel assistance at the airport, Travelers Aid has three information booths, one in Terminal One (east) and two in Terminal Two (west), open daily 8 AM-11 PM. Because of congestion, delays of 20-30 minutes in baggage claim are not unusual.

Major airlines depart and arrive at Terminal One and Terminal Two; commuter flights identified on your ticket with a 3000 sequence flight number depart from the commuter terminal. A red shuttle bus travels between terminals.

Coastal fog can delay landings and take-offs, and a delayed flight or two can jam the small boarding areas. During inclement weather call your airline to see if there are delays.

Flying time to San Diego is 5 hours from New York, 3½ hours from Chicago, 3 hours from Dallas, ¾ hour from Los Angeles, 10-11 hours from London.

Carriers

All major and some regional U.S. carriers serve San Diego International Airport. British Airways, Aero Mexico, and Air Canada are the only international carriers to San Diego. All others require a connecting flight, usually in Los Angeles. Other connection points are Chicago, Dallas, and San Francisco.

Major Airlines

AeroMexico (PHONE: 800/237-6639, www.aeromexico.com).

Air Canada (PHONE: 888/247-2262, www.aircanada.ca).

Alaska Airlines (PHONE: 800/426-0333, www.alaska-air.com).

America West (PHONE: 800/235-9292, www.americawest.com).

American (PHONE: 800/433-7300, www.americanairlines.com).

British Airways (PHONE: 800/247-9297, www.british-airways.com).

Continental (PHONE: 800/231-0856, www.continental.com).

Delta (PHONE: 800/221-1212, www.delta.com).

Frontier (PHONE: 800/432-1359, www.frontierairlines.com).

Hawaiian Airlines (PHONE: 800/367-5320, www.hawaiianair.com).

Northwest (PHONE: 800/225-2525, www.nwa.com).

Southwest (PHONE: 800/435-9792, www.iflyswa.com).

United (PHONE: 800/538-2929, www.ual.com).

US Airways (PHONE: 800/428-4322, www.usairways.com).

From the U.K.

American (PHONE: 0345/789-789).

British Airways (PHONE: 0345/222-111).

Delta (PHONE: 0800/414-767).

United (PHONE: 0800/888-555).

Virgin Atlantic (PHONE: 01293/747-747) via Los Angeles.

Transfers Between the Airport and Town

Ground transportation services include shuttle vans, buses, and taxis. All services operate from one of three islands in front of the terminals.

By Bus

The cheapest and sometimes most convenient shuttle is the San Diego Transit (PHONE: 619/233-3004, www.sdcommute.com) Transit Flyer, red- and blue-striped express buses equipped with luggage racks that cruise the airport's terminals at 10- to 15-minute intervals between 5 AM and 1 AM. These buses will drop you at most downtown businesses and hotels. The fare is $2.25, including transfer to local transit buses and the San Diego Trolley, and you should have exact fare handy. If you're heading to North County, the Flyer can drop you off at the Santa Fe Terminal, from which you can take the Coaster commuter train as far north as Oceanside for $3.75-$4.75.

By Car

If you rent a car at the airport, take Harbor Drive, at the perimeter of the airport, to downtown, which is 3 mi east. Take Harbor Drive west to reach Shelter Island and Point Loma. To reach I-5 and I-8, take Harbor Drive west to Nimitz Boulevard, then right on Rosecrans Street. You can reach La Jolla and North County via I-5 North. I-8 East leads to Hotel Circle, Fashion Valley, Mission Valley, and Qualcomm Stadium. To reach Mission Bay continue on Nimitz Boulevard, which intersects with Sunset Cliffs Boulevard. To reach Coronado, take Harbor Drive east and turn left on Grape Street to reach I-5 South. Take the Hwy. 75 exit to cross the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge.

By Limousine

Limousine rates vary and are per hour, per mile, or both, with some minimums established. Most offer bilingual guide service.

Try LJL Transportation/La Jolla Limousines (PHONE: 619/232-6533).

By Shuttle Van

Cloud 9 Shuttle (PHONE: 800/974-8885 San Diego County; 858/974-8885 elsewhere, www.cloud9shuttle.com) can accommodate wheelchairs and offers an extensive fleet of vehicles.

Premier Ride (PHONE: 619/234-7433) offers transportation in vans and limousines.

By Taxi

Taxis departing from the airport are subject to regulated fares -- all companies charge the same rate (generally $1.80 for the first mile, $1.20 for each additional mile). Taxi fare is $7-$9 plus tip to most downtown hotels. Fare to Coronado runs about $15 plus tip. Fares vary among companies on other routes, however, including the ride back to the airport. If you call ahead and ask for the flat rate ($8), you'll get it, otherwise you'll be charged by the mile (which works out to $9 or so).

Taxi companies include:

Silver Cabs (PHONE: 619/280-5555).

Crown City Cab (PHONE: 619/437-8885, www.driveu.com).

Orange Cab (PHONE: 619/291-3333).

The Transportation Network (PHONE: 619/239-8061, www.driveu.com) is comprised of companies that serve the greater San Diego area including the airport.

Yellow Cab (PHONE: 619/234-6161, www.driveu.com).

If you're arriving in San Diego by private boat, keep in mind that many hotels, marinas, and yacht clubs rent slips short-term. Call ahead as available space is limited.

Marinas include:

Best Western Island Palms Hotel & Marina (2051 Shelter Island Dr., PHONE: 619/222-0561).

Dana Inn & Marina (1710 W. Mission Bay Dr., PHONE: 619/222-6440).

Hyatt Regency Islandia (1441 Quivira Rd., PHONE: 619/224-1234).

Shelter Pointe Hotel and Marina (1551 Shelter Island Dr., PHONE: 619/224-7547).

San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina (333 W. Harbor Dr., PHONE: 619/234-1500).

Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina (1380 Harbor Island Dr., PHONE: 619/291-2900).

Both the San Diego Yacht Club (1011 Anchorage La., PHONE: 619/221-8400) and the Southwestern Yacht Club (2702 Qualtrough St., PHONE: 619/222-0438) have reciprocal arrangements with other yacht clubs.

Greyhound (120 W. Broadway, PHONE: 619/239-8082 or 800/231-2222) operates 26 buses a day between San Diego and Los Angeles, connecting with buses to all major U.S. cities. Many buses are express or nonstop; others make stops at coastal towns en route. Smoking is prohibited on all buses. Boarding is on a first-come first-served basis.

One-way fare to Los Angeles is $13, round-trip is $22. You can buy tickets at the depot or in advance by phone.

Interstate 5 stretches from Canada to the Mexican border and bisects San Diego. Interstate 8 provides access from Yuma, Arizona, and points east. Drivers coming from Nevada and the mountain regions beyond can reach San Diego on I-15. To avoid traffic on I-5 and on I-15 between I-805 and Escondido steer clear of rush-hour periods.

Several cruise-ship lines make San Diego a port of call. Holland America and Royal Caribbean use San Diego as a regular point of embarkation for seasonal cruises to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, and the Panama Canal. Other lines including Princess, Celebrity, Cunard, and Norwegian Cruise Line originate repositioning cruises from San Diego throughout the year. For more information, contact the cruise lines:

Carnival (PHONE: 800/327-95021, www.carnival.com).

Celebrity (PHONE: 800/437-3111, www.celebrity-cruises.com).

Cunard (PHONE: 800/528-6273, www.cunardline.com).

Holland America (PHONE: 800/426-0327, hollandamerica.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line (PHONE: 800/327-7030, www.ncl.com).

Princess (PHONE: 800/774-6237, www.princess.com).

Royal Caribbean (PHONE: 800/327-6700, www.royalcaribbean.com).

Seabourn (PHONE: 800/929-9391, www.seabourn.com).

Amtrak (PHONE: 800/872-7245, www.amtrak) offers daily trains to and from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo. Connecting service to Oakland, Seattle, Chicago, Texas, Florida, and points beyond is available in Los Angeles.

Many Amtrak trains require advance reservations, especially for long-distance transcontinental routes. Advance reservations are suggested for trains running on weekends between San Diego and Santa Barbara. For security reasons, Amtrak requires ticket purchasers to appear in person with photo ID.

Amtrak frequently offers discount passes that are good for travel within a specific geographic region of the United States, but you must book your schedule when buying the pass. If you want sleeping-car accommodations, in off-peak season you often can get a better price for a room by contacting the conductor after you board the train. Amtrak vending machines accept all major credit cards.

The Coaster (PHONE: 800/262-6883, www.sdcommute.com) runs between Oceanside and San Diego about every half hour during the rush hours on weekdays. There are four trains on Saturday, none on Sunday. One-way fares are $3.50 to $4.75, depending on the distance traveled.

You can pick up Coaster flyers or brochures with detailed itineraries for each stop, including walking directions and connections to local bus service. Trains are typically on time. No smoking is allowed. Coaster vending machines accept all major credit cards.

Metrolink (PHONE: 800/371-5465) operates high-speed rail service between the Oceanside Transit Center and Union Station in Los Angeles. Metrolink requires cash.

Train Stations

Santa Fe Depot (1050 Kettner Blvd., PHONE: 619/239-9021) is in downtown San Diego.

Oceanside train station (PHONE: 760/722-4622).

Solana Beach Amtrak station (PHONE: 858/259-2697).

The Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Solana Beach stations have beach access.

Most banks are open weekdays 10-4. Some open for several hours on Saturday. Most other businesses are open Monday-Saturday 9 or 10 AM to 6 or 9 PM. Many others are also open Sunday from noon to 5 or 6.

Museums and Sights

Most museums are open Tuesday through Sunday 10 to 5. Major attractions are open daily 9 to 5, later in summer.

Pharmacies

Most pharmacies in malls are open daily from 8 or 9 AM to 9 PM; some may close at 6 PM on Sunday.

Shops

Mall and shopping center stores are open daily from 9 or 10 AM to 9 PM; some close at 6 PM on Sunday. Shops and boutiques in neighborhoods such as Hillcrest and La Jolla keep somewhat erratic hours, so it's a good idea to call first. Shops in rural areas such as Julian may close mid-week.

Arriving in the United States

Non-U.S. residents ages 21 and older may import into the United States 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 2 kilograms of tobacco, 1 liter of alcohol, and gifts worth $100. Meat products, seeds, plants, and fruits are prohibited.

For additional information, contact the U.S. Customs Service (for inquiries, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229, www.customs.gov, PHONE: 202/354-1000; for complaints, Customer Satisfaction Unit, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Room 5.5A, Washington, DC 20229; for registration of equipment, Office of Passenger Programs, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Room 5.4D, Washington, DC 20229, PHONE: 202/927-0530).

The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts/60 cycles AC. Foreign visitors traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.

Australia

Australian Embassy (1601 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036, PHONE: 202/797-3000, FAX: 202/797-3040).

Australia Visa and Immigration Service (2049 Century Park East, 19th Floor, Los Angeles, PHONE: 310/229-4840).

Canada

Canadian Embassy (501 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001, PHONE: 202/682-1740, FAX: 202/682-7726).

Canada Consulate General (300 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, PHONE: 213/346-2700).

New Zealand

New Zealand Embassy (37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008, PHONE: 202/328-4800, FAX: 202/667-5227).

United Kingdom

British Embassy (3100 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008, PHONE: 202/588-7800, FAX: 202/588-7850).

British Consulate General (11766 Wilshire Blvd., No. 400, Los Angeles, PHONE: 310/481-0031).

Ambulance (PHONE: 911).

Fire (PHONE: 911).

Police (PHONE: 911).

Emergency phone boxes can be found along most Interstate highways.

Hospital Emergency Rooms

Scripps Mercy Hospital and Medical Center (4077 5th Ave., PHONE: 619/294-8111).

Scripps Memorial Hospital (9888 Genesee Ave., La Jolla, PHONE: 858/457-4123).

UCSD Medical Center (200 W. Arbor Dr., San Diego, PHONE: 619/543-6222).

Veterans Administration Hospital (3350 La Jolla Village Dr., San Diego, PHONE: 858/552-8585).

Balloon Tours

Weather permitting, hot-air balloons lift off from San Diego's North County and Temecula; the average cost is $140 per person. Most flights float at sunrise or sunset and are followed by a champagne toast.

A Balloon Adventure by California Dreamin' (162 S. Rancho Santa Fe Rd., Suite F35, Encinitas, PHONE: 800/373-3359, www.californiadream.com).

A Skysurfer Balloon Company (1221 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, PHONE: 858/481-6800 or 800/660-6809, www.skysurfer.systemtree.com).

Boat Tours

Three companies operate one- and two-hour harbor cruises. These companies also operate during whale-watching season from mid-December to mid-March.

Classic Sailing Adventures (1220 Rosecrans St. No. 137, PHONE: 619/224-0800, www.classicsailingadventures.com) has morning and afternoon tours of the harbor and San Diego Bay and evening cruises in summer for $60 per person.

Hornblower Invader Cruises (1066 N. Harbor Dr., PHONE: 619/234-8687, www.hornblower.com) boats depart from the Broadway Pier. No reservations are necessary for the $13-$18 voyages, and the vessel has a snack bar.

San Diego Harbor Excursion (1050 N. Harbor Dr., PHONE: 619/234-4111 or 800/442-7847, www.harborexcursion.com) boats depart from the Broadway Pier. No reservations are necessary for the $13-$18 voyages, and the vessel has a snack bar.

Other boat tour operators are:

H&M Landing (2803 Emerson St., Point Loma, PHONE: 619/222-1144, www.hmlanding.com).

Seaforth Sportfishing (1641 Quivera Rd., PHONE: 619/223-1681, www.seaforthboatrental.com).

Bus and Trolley Tours

Free two-hour bus tours of the downtown redevelopment area, including the Gaslamp Quarter, are conducted by Centre City Development Corporation's Downtown Information Center (225 Broadway, Suite 160, PHONE: 619/235-2222, www.ccdc.com). Groups leave on the first and third Saturday of the month at 10 AM and noon. Advance reservations are necessary. The tour may be canceled if there aren't enough passengers.

Coach USA (3500 Estudillo St., PHONE: 619/527-4644, www.sightseeingusa.com) in San Diego runs a fleet of open-top, double-decker buses. For $25, you get an unlimited day pass that lets you hop on and off the bus at any of the stops, which include Old Town, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, SeaWorld, and the harbor. Purchase tickets at Old Town, Horton Plaza, Seaport Village, or from the bus driver.

Old Town Trolley (2115 Kurtz St., PHONE: 619/298-8687, www.trolleytours.com) takes you to eight sites including Old Town, the Cruise Ship terminal, Seaport Village, Marriott Hotel near the Convention Center, Horton Plaza near the Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado, the San Diego Zoo, and El Prado in Balboa Park. The tour is narrated, and you can get on and off as you please at any stop. An all-day pass costs $24 for adults and $12 for children 4-12; under 4, free. The trolley, which leaves every 30 minutes, operates daily 9-4 in winter. It takes the trolley two hours to make a full loop. The company also offers several special-interest tours, like Ghosts & Gravestones and Seal Tour, aboard an amphibious vehicle which cruises Mission Bay and the San Diego Harbor. The San Diego Passport is good for the trolley tour plus admission to the zoo, Maritime Museum, San Diego Museum of Art, one Hornblower cruise, and other goodies. The cost is $69.95 per person, and the passport is available at visitors centers and is good for one year.

Gray Line Tours (1775 Hancock St., No. 130, PHONE: 619/491-0011; 800/331-5077 outside CA, www.graylinesandiego.com) offers a number of half- and full-day city tours, which may include trips to the zoo, SeaWorld, Wild Animal Park, Legoland, or Mexico. Rates are $25-$52, admissions included.

Contactours (1726 Wilson Ave., National City, PHONE: 619/477-8687, www.contactours.com) is another operator that offers guided excursions to area attractions, including Barona and Viejas casinos and Mexico. Prices start at $25.

Walking Tours

Several fine walking tours are available on weekdays or weekends; upcoming walks are usually listed in the Thursday Night and Day section of the San Diego Union-Tribune. Those by Walkabout are free; location and contact phone numbers vary week to week.

The Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation (410 Island Ave., PHONE: 619/233-4692) leads two-hour historical walking tours of the downtown historic district on Saturday at 11 AM ($8).

Every address in the United States belongs to a specific zip-code district, and each zip code has five digits. Some addresses include a second sequence of four numbers following the first five numbers, but although this speeds mail delivery for large organizations, it is not necessary to use it. Each zip-code district has at least one post office, where you can buy stamps and aerograms, send parcels, or conduct other postal business.

Occasionally you may find small stamp-dispensing machines in airports, train stations, bus terminals, large office buildings, hotel lobbies, drugstores, or grocery stores, but don't count on it. Most Americans go to the post office to buy their stamps, and the lines can be long.

Official mailboxes are either the stout, royal blue steel bins on city sidewalks or mail chutes on the walls of post offices or in large office buildings. A schedule posted on mailboxes and mail slots should indicate when the mail is picked up.

Staff at most U.S. Post Offices are efficient and helpful. Letters headed overseas take 10 days to two weeks to reach their destination. Private mailing services such as Mail Boxes, Etc. will pack and ship items for you. Most are authorized shippers for United Parcel Service (UPS), Federal Express (FedEx), and the U.S. Post Office.

San Diego post office locations include:

San Diego Downtown post office (815 E St., PHONE: 619/232-8612, weekdays 8:30-5).

La Jolla Main post office (1140 Wall St., PHONE: 858/459-5476, weekdays 7:30-5, Sat. 8:30-1:30).

Coronado Branch post office (1320 Ynez Pl., PHONE: 619/437-2470, weekdays 8:30-5, Sat. 8:30-noon).

Sending Mail Home

First-class letters (under one ounce) sent within the United States cost 37 cents; postcards are 23 cents. A one-ounce letter to Canada or Mexico takes a 60-cent stamp and a postcard 50 cents. Letters sent airmail to all other overseas destinations cost 80 cents for one ounce or less (this rate category is now called airmail letter-post, and surface mail is now called economy letter-post); airmail postcards to other overseas destinations cost 70 cents. For 70 cents, you can also buy an aerogram -- a pre-stamped sheet of lightweight blue paper that folds into its own envelope.

Receiving Mail

If you wish to receive mail while traveling in the United States, have it sent c/o General Delivery at the city's main post office (be sure to use the right zip code). It will be held there for up to 30 days. You must pick it up in person, and bring identification with you. American Express offices in the United States do not hold mail.

Average prices for accommodations, food, and in shops are comparable with those in Los Angeles. Expect to pay $1 to $2.50 for coffee, $6.95 for a sandwich, $4 for a beer, and $1.80 per mile for a taxi.

ATMs

Most ATMs in the San Diego area are linked to national networks that let you withdraw money from your checking account or take a cash advance from your credit card account for an additional fee. ATMs can be found at all banks and in many grocery and convenience stores. For more information on ATM locations that can be accessed with your particular account, call the phone number found on the back of your ATM or debit card.

Currency

The basic unit of U.S. currency is the dollar, which is subdivided into 100 cents. Coins are the copper penny (1 cent) and four silver coins: the nickel (5 cents), the dime (10 cents), the quarter (25 cents), and the half-dollar (50 cents). Silver $1 coins are rarely seen in circulation; a "golden" dollar coin was introduced in 2000. Paper money comes in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. All these bills are the same size and green in color; they are distinguishable only by the dollar amount indicated on them and by pictures of various famous American people and monuments.

For the most favorable rates, change money through banks. Although fees charged for ATM transactions may be higher abroad than at home, Cirrus and Plus exchange rates are excellent, because they are based on wholesale rates offered only by major banks. You won't do as well at exchange booths in airports or rail and bus stations, in hotels, in restaurants, or in stores, although you may find their hours more convenient. To avoid lines at airport exchange booths, get a bit of local currency before you leave home.

In general, U.S. banks will not cash a personal check for you unless you have an account at that bank (it doesn't have to be at that branch). Only in major cities are large bank branches equipped to exchange foreign currencies. Therefore, it's best to rely on credit cards, cash machines, and traveler's checks to handle expenses while you're traveling.

Exchanging Money

In the United States, it is not as easy to find places to exchange currency as it is in European cities. In major international cities, such as New York and Los Angeles, currency may be exchanged at some bank branches, as well as at currency-exchange booths in airports and at foreign-currency offices such as American Express Travel Service and Thomas Cook (check local directories for addresses and phone numbers). The best strategy is to buy traveler's checks in U.S. dollars before you come to the United States; although the rates may not be as good abroad, the time saved by not having to search constantly for exchange facilities far outweighs any financial loss.

Money Orders, Funds Transfers

Any U.S. bank is equipped to accept transfers of funds from foreign banks. It helps if you can plan dates to pick up money at specific bank branches. Your home bank can supply you with a list of its correspondent banks in the United States.

If you have more time, and you have a U.S. address where you can receive mail, you can have someone send you a certified check, which you can cash at any bank, or a postal money order (for as much as $700, obtained for a fee of up to 85¢ at any U.S. post office and redeemable at any other post office). From overseas, you can have someone go to a bank to send you an international money order (also called a bank draft), which will cost a $15-$20 commission plus airmail postage. Always bring two valid pieces of identification, preferably with photos, to claim your money.

Taxes

In San Diego County a sales tax of 7.75% is added to the price of all goods and services, except food purchased at a grocery store. Hotel taxes are 9-13%.

Tipping

At restaurants, a 15%-20% tip is standard for waiters, depending on the level of service provided. The same goes for taxi drivers, bartenders, and hairdressers. Coat-check operators usually expect $1; bellhops and porters should get 50¢ to $1 per bag; hotel maids should get about $1 per day of your stay -- $2 in upscale hotels. A concierge typically receives a tip of $5 to $10, with an additional gratuity for special services or favors. On package tours, conductors and drivers usually get $10 per day from the group as a whole; check whether this has already been figured into your cost. For local sightseeing tours, you may individually tip the driver-guide $1 if he or she has been helpful or informative. Ushers in theaters do not expect tips.

Entering the United States

Visitor visas are not necessary for Canadian citizens, or for citizens of Australia and the United Kingdom who are staying fewer than 90 days. A valid passport, a return-trip ticket, and proof of financial solvency are required; you'll be asked to fill out the Visa Waiver Form, I-94W, upon entry. Travelers who plan to stay more than 90 days can apply for the appropriate visa at the United States embassy or consulates in their home country. Canadian citizens need valid identification but neither a passport nor a visa to enter the United States.

At Home

If you live in the U.K.:

U.S. Embassy Visa Information Line (PHONE: 09068/200-290 recorded visa information; 09055/444-546 operator service; both with per-minute charges) for U.S. visa information.

U.S. Embassy Visa Branch (5 Upper Grosvenor Sq., London W1A 2JB) for U.S. visa information; send a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Contact the U.S. Consulate General (Queen's House, 14 Queen St., Belfast, Northern Ireland BT1 6EQ, PHONE: 028/9032-8239, www.usembassy.org.uk) if you live in Northern Ireland.

Contact the United States Consulate General (MLC Centre, 19-29 Martin Pl., 59th floor, Sydney, New South Wales 2000, PHONE: 02/9373-9200; 1902/941-641 fee-based visa-inquiry line, www.usis-australia.gov/index.html) if you live in Australia.

If you live in New Zealand:

Embassy of the United States (29 Fitzherbert Terr., Thorndon, Wellington, PHONE: 04/462-6000 usembassy.org.nz).

U.S. Consulate General (Citibank Bldg., 3rd floor, 23 Customs St. E, Auckland, PHONE: 09/303-2724, usembassy.org.nz).

Passport Offices

The best time to apply for a passport, or to renew your old one, is in fall or winter. Before any trip, check your passport's expiration date, and, if necessary, renew it as soon as possible.

Australian Citizens

Australian Passport Office (PHONE: 131-232; www.dfat.gov.au/passports).

Canadian Citizens

Passport Office (PHONE: 819/994-3500 or 800/567-6868; www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/passport).

New Zealand Citizens

New Zealand Passport Office (PHONE: 04/494-0700 for information on how to apply; 04/474-8000; 0800/225-050 in New Zealand for information on applications already submitted; www.passports.govt.nz).

U.K. Citizens

London Passport Office (PHONE: 0870/521-0410; www.ukpa.gov.uk) for fees and documentation requirements and to request an emergency passport.

U.S. Citizens

National Passport Information Center (PHONE: 900/225-5674; calls are 35¢ per minute for automated service, $1.05 per minute for operator service; travel.state.gov/passport_services.html).

U.S. Citizens

National Passport Information Center (PHONE: 900/225-5674; calls are 35¢ per minute for automated service, $1.05 per minute for operator service).

Major attractions and parks have public rest rooms. In the downtown San Diego area, you can usually use the rest rooms at major hotels and fast-food restaurants.

San Diego is generally a safe place for travelers who observe all normal precautions. Dress inconspicuously, remove badges when leaving convention areas, know the routes to your destination before you set out. At the beach, check with lifeguards about any unsafe conditions such as dangerous rip tides or water pollution. San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau publishes a Visitor Safety Tips brochure listing normal precautions for many situations. It's available at the International Visitor Information Center in Horton Plaza and at racks in tourist areas throughout the county.

The country code for the United States is 1. The area codes for San Diego are 619, 858, and 760.

All U.S. telephone numbers consist of 10 digits -- the three-digit area code, followed by a seven-digit local number. If you're calling a number from another area-code region, dial "1" then all 10 digits. If you're calling from a distance but within the same area code, dial "1" then the last seven digits. For calls within the same local calling area, just dial the seven-digit number. A map of U.S. area codes is printed in the front of most local telephone directories.

Four special prefixes, "800," "888," "877," and "900," are not area codes but indicators of particular kinds of service. "800," "888," and "877" numbers can be dialed free from anywhere in the country -- usually they are prepaid commercial lines that make it easier for consumers to obtain information, products, or services. The "900" numbers charge you for making the call and generally offer some kind of entertainment, such as horoscope readings, sports scores, or sexually suggestive conversations. These services can be very expensive, so know what you're getting into before you dial a "900" number.

Directory & Operator Information

For assistance from an operator, dial "0". To get a local or national telephone number, dial 411; in a few places it is necessary to dial 555-1212. If you want to charge a long-distance call to the person you're calling, call collect by dialing "0" instead of "1" before the 10-digit number, and an operator will come on the line to assist you (the party you're calling, however, has the right to refuse the call).

International Calls

International calls can be direct-dialed from most phones; dial 011, followed by the country code and then the local number (the front pages of many local telephone directories include a list of overseas country codes). To have an operator assist you, dial "0" and ask for the overseas operator. The country code for Australia is 61; New Zealand, 64; and the United Kingdom, 44. To reach Canada, dial 1 + area code + number.

Long-Distance Calls

Competitive long-distance carriers make calling within the United States relatively convenient and let you avoid hotel surcharges. By dialing an 800 number, you can get connected to the long-distance company of your choice.

For details, contact AT&T (PHONE: 800/225-5288), MCI (PHONE: 800/888-8000), or Sprint (PHONE: 800/366-2255).

Public Phones

The most common pay phone in operation today is the coin-operated type. To use one, pick up the receiver, deposit your money (50¢ for local calls), wait for a steady tone before dialing, and then dial the number. An automated message will alert you to deposit more money, if needed.

Telephone-card phones, so popular elsewhere in the world, are becoming increasingly common. Grocery stores, newsstands, and other establishments sell the disposable phone cards, available in varying amounts from $5 and up. To activate the card, dial the code number and follow the instructions printed on the card.

Tourist Offices

San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau For general information and brochures before you go, contact the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau (401 B St., Suite 1400, San Diego, 92101, PHONE: 619/236-1212, www.sandiego.org), which publishes the helpful San Diego Official Visitors Guide and San Diego Visitors Pocket Guide. When you arrive, stop by one of the local visitors centers for general information. There is a second location at Herschel Ave. at Prospect St.

Local Information

Balboa Park Visitors Center (1549 El Prado, PHONE: 619/239-0512, www.balboapark.org), open daily 9-4.

International Visitor Information Center (11 Horton Plaza, at 1st Ave. and F St., PHONE: 619/236-1212, www.sandiego.org), open Monday-Saturday 8:30-5; June-Aug. and also Sun. 11-5.

San Diego Visitor Information Center (2688 E. Mission Bay Dr., off I-5 at the Clairemont Dr. exit, PHONE: 619/275-8259, www.infosandiego.com/visitor), open daily 9-dusk.

San Diego County

Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center (786 Palm Canyon Dr., 92004, PHONE: 760/767-5555, www.borregosprings.org).

Carlsbad Convention & Visitors Bureau (400 Carlsbad Village Dr., 92008, PHONE: 800/721-1101, www.carlsbadca.org).

Coronado Visitor Center (1100 Orange Ave., 92118, PHONE: 619/437-8788, www.coronadohistory.org/visitorcenter/).

Greater Del Mar Chamber of Commerce (1104 Camino del Mar, 92014, PHONE: 858/793-5292, www.delmarchamber.org).

Julian Chamber of Commerce (2129 Main St., 92036, PHONE: 760/765-1857, www.julianca.com).

La Jolla Town Council (7734 Herschel Ave., 92038, PHONE: 858/454-1444).

California Welcome Center Oceanside (928 N. Coast Hwy., 92054, PHONE: 760/721-1011 or 800/350-7873, www.oceansidechamber.com).

San Diego East Visitors Bureau (5005 Willows Rd., No. 208, Alpine 91901, PHONE: 619/445-0180 or 800/463-0668, www.visitsandiegoeast.com).

San Diego North Convention & Visitors Bureau (360 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 92025, PHONE: 760/745-4741 or 800/848-3336, www.sandiegonorth.com).

State-Wide

California Division of Tourism (801 K St., Suite 1600, Sacramento, CA 95814, PHONE: 916/322-2882 or 800/862-2543, www.visitcalifornia.com).

At Home

Canadian travelers can contact Travel USA (PHONE: 905/890-5662; 800/268-3482 in Ontario).

In the United Kingdom, contact the United States Travel and Tourism Administration (Box 1EN, London W1A 1EN, PHONE: 020/7495-4466).

California-specific information is available in the United Kingdom from the California Tourist Office (ABC California, Box 35, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 4TB, PHONE: 0891/200-278). Calls cost 50p per minute peak rate or 45p per minute cheap rate; send check for £3 for brochures.

For the most part, any time of the year is the right time for a trip to San Diego. The climate is generally close to perfect. Typical days are sunny and mild, with low humidity -- ideal for sightseeing and for almost any sport that does not require snow and ice. From mid-December through mid-March gray whales can be seen migrating along the coast. In early spring wildflowers transform the mountainsides and desert into a rainbow of colors. In fall these same mountains present one of the most impressive displays of fall color to be found in southern California.

The annual high temperature averages 70°F with a low of 55°F, and the annual rainfall is usually less than 10 inches. Most of the rain occurs in January and February, but precipitation usually lasts for only part of the day or for a day or two at most.

The following are the normal daily temperature ranges for San Diego:

January 46-62°F (8-17°C); February 48-62°F (9-17°C); March 50-64°F (10-18°C); April 53-66°F (12-19°C); May 55-66°F (13-19°C); June 59-69°F (15-21°C); July 62-73°F (17-23°C); August 64-73°F (18-23°C); September 62-73°F (17-23°C); October 57-71°F (14-22°C); November 51-69°F (11-21°C); December 48-64°F (9-18°C).

Holidays

Major national holidays include New Year's Day (Jan. 1); Martin Luther King, Jr., Day (3rd Mon. in Jan.); President's Day (3rd Mon. in Feb.); Memorial Day (last Mon. in May); Independence Day (July 4); Labor Day (1st Mon. in Sept.); Thanksgiving Day (4th Thurs. in Nov.); Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (Dec. 24 and 25); and New Year's Eve (Dec. 31).

Most of San Diego was laid out after the invention of the automobile; a car is a necessity for most visitors. Though public transportation serves most of the major attractions, getting from one place to another -- from downtown to the beaches north of La Jolla, for instance -- can take rather a long time. Two exceptions are the San Diego Trolley, which can save you time if you're heading from downtown to Old Town or Qualcomm Stadium, or to the Mexican border, and the Coronado Ferry, the scenic route from the harbor to Coronado. Public transportation agencies have integrated their services in an effort to provide convenient connections between rail and bus travel throughout San Diego County.

Downtown San Diego streets are on a grid divided largely in alphabetical and numerical order. Numbered avenues and streets run on the north-south axis. East-west streets are alphabetical. North of Ash Street, streets continue as Beech, Cedar, Date, through Upas Street. Below Ash Street is A Street, followed by B Street, etc., with a few named streets in place of letters.

San Diego County is served by a coordinated, efficient network of bus and rail routes that includes service to Oceanside in the north, the Mexican border at San Ysidro, and points east to the Anza-Borrego Desert. There are two major transit agencies, San Diego Transit and North County Transit District (NCTD), plus some smaller ones which connect to cities such as Chula Vista, National City, and Campo. Smoking is prohibited on all forms of public transport in California.

San Diego Transit (PHONE: 619/233-3004; 619/234-5005 TTY/TDD, www.sdcommute.com) buses connect with the San Diego Trolley light rail system at the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Lindbergh Field, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and regional shopping centers.

North County Transit District (PHONE: 800/266-6883) routes serve from Del Mar North to San Clemente, inland to Fallbrook, Pauma Valley, Valley Center, Ramona, and Escondido, with transfer points within the city of San Diego. NCTD also offers special express-bus service to Qualcomm Stadium for select major sporting events.

Northeast Rural Bus System (PHONE: 760/767-4287) serves backcountry areas such as Ramona, Julian, and Borrego Springs.

In Coronado, the ATV Van Co. operates a bus service. The staff at the downtown Transit Store (102 Broadway, PHONE: 619/234-1060) can help plan your travel.

San Diego Transit fares range from $1.75 to $2. NCTD fares are $1.50. Community and rural bus routes charge from $1 to $3.75. Discounted fares of $.75 are available for seniors and for people with disabilities. Most transfers are free; request one when boarding. You must have exact change in coins and/or bills. Pay upon boarding; Day Tripper tickets must be purchased in advance. Schedules are posted at each stop, and the buses usually are on time.

Chula Vista Transit (PHONE: 619/233-3004) serves the Chula Vista area.

National City Transit (PHONE: 619/474-7505) serves National City.

Southeast Rural Bus System (PHONE: 619/478-5875) serves communities such as Campo.

A car is essential for San Diego's sprawling freeway system and comes in handy for touring Baja California (though the trolley serves the border at Tijuana).

Car Rentals

Rates in San Diego fluctuate with seasons and demand, but generally begin at $30 a day and $230 a week for an economy car with air-conditioning, automatic transmission, and unlimited mileage. This does not include tax on car rentals, which is 7.5%.

In San Diego

Enterprise (900 F St., PHONE: 619/696-5000) picks up at area hotels.

At Home

Alamo (PHONE: 800/327-9633; www.alamo.com).

Avis (PHONE: 800/331-1212; 800/879-2847 in Canada; 0870/606-0100 in the U.K.; 02/9353-9000 in Australia; 09/526-2847 in New Zealand; www.avis.com).

Budget (PHONE: 800/527-0700; 0870/156-5656 in the U.K.; www.budget.com).

Dollar (PHONE: 800/800-4000; 0124/622-0111 in the U.K.; where it's affiliated with Sixt; 02/9223-1444 in Australia; www.dollar.com).

Hertz (PHONE: 800/654-3131; 800/263-0600 in Canada; 020/8897-2072 in the U.K.; 02/9669-2444 in Australia; 09/256-8690 in New Zealand; www.hertz.com).

National Car Rental (PHONE: 800/227-7368; 020/8680-4800 in the U.K.; www.nationalcar.com).

Insurance

For about $15 to $20 a day, rental companies sell protection, known as a collision- or loss-damage waiver (CDW or LDW), which eliminates your liability for damage to the car; it's always optional and should never be automatically added to your bill. In most states you don't need a CDW if you have personal auto insurance or other liability insurance. Some states, including California, have capped the price of the CDW and LDW.

Requirements

In California you must be 21 to rent a car. Some agencies will not rent to those between 21 and 24; check when you book.

When picking up a rental car, non-U.S. residents need a reservation voucher for any prepaid reservations that were made in the traveler's home country, a passport, a driver's license, and a travel policy that covers each driver.

Road Conditions

Highways are generally in good condition in the San Diego area. Traffic is particularly heavy on I-5, I-8, I-805, and I-15 during morning and afternoon rush hours 6-8:30 AM and 3:30-6 PM. Before venturing into the mountains, check on road conditions; mountain driving can be dangerous. Listen to radio traffic reports for information on the lines waiting to cross the border to Mexico.

Parking

Balboa Park, Cabrillo National Monument, and Mission Bay all have huge free parking lots and you are likely to find a space, though it may seem as if you've parked miles from your destination. Lots downtown are plentiful and cost $3-$35 per day. Old Town has large lots off the Transit Center. Parking is more of a problem in La Jolla and Coronado, where you generally need to rely on hard-to-find street spots or expensive by-the-hour parking lots.

Parking at meters costs $1 an hour; enforcement is 8 AM-6 PM except Sunday. Be extra careful around rush hour, when certain street-parking areas become tow-away zones. In the evenings and during events it can be difficult to locate parking spaces downtown. Car renters are liable for parking tickets and towing charges incurred.

Rules of the Road

Speed limits are 35 mph on city streets and 65 mph on freeways, unless otherwise indicated. Seat belts are required at all times and tickets are given for failing to comply. Right turns are permitted at red lights after stopping unless otherwise indicated. Driving with a blood-alcohol level higher than 0.08 will result in arrest and seizure of driver's license. The law is strictly enforced, and fines are severe.

Always strap children age six and under, and weighing 60 pounds or less, into approved child-safety seats. Children must wear seat belts regardless of where they're seated (studies show that children are safest in the rear rather than the front seats). In San Diego, be alert for one-way streets, "no left turn" intersections, and blocks closed to car traffic.

Many California freeways have High Occupancy Vehicle lanes, usually restricted to vehicles carrying two or more persons. There is no law against using radar detectors, but they're not common.

The small San Diego-Coronado Ferry (PHONE: 619/234-4111) leaves from the Broadway Pier daily, every hour on the hour, Sunday to Thursday 9 to 9, until 10 PM Friday and Saturday. The fare is $2 each way and 50¢ for each bicycle.

Fares vary among companies. Taxi stands are located at shopping centers and hotels, otherwise you must call and reserve one. The Transportation Network is comprised of companies that serve the greater San Diego area, including the airport. The companies listed below do not serve all areas of San Diego County. If you're going someplace other than downtown, ask if the company serves that area.

Taxi companies include:

Crown City Cab (PHONE: 619/437-8885, www.driveu.com).

Orange Cab (PHONE: 619/291-3333).

Silver Cabs (PHONE: 619/280-5555).

Transportation Network (PHONE: 619/239-8061, www.driveu.com).

Yellow Cab (PHONE: 619/234-6161, www.driveu.com).

The San Diego Trolley light rail system connects with San Diego Transit buses. The bright-orange trolleys service downtown San Diego, Mission Valley, Old Town, South Bay, the U.S. Border, and East County. The trolleys operate seven days a week from about 5 AM to midnight, depending on the station, at intervals of about 15 minutes. Bus connections are posted at each station, and bicycle lockers are available at most. Trolleys can get crowded during morning and evening rush hours. On-time performance is excellent.

San Diego Trolley tickets are priced according to the number of stations traveled. Quick Tripper tickets good for two hours are $1 to $2.25; Round Tripper tickets good for a return trip on the date purchased are $2 to $4.50. Tickets are dispensed from self-service ticket machines at each stop; exact fare in coins is recommended, although some machines accept bills in $1, $5, $10, and $20 denominations. Transfers between buses and/or the trolley are free or require an upgrade if the second fare is higher.

Day Tripper Passes are available for one, two, three, or four days ($5, $8, $10, and $12, respectively), which give unlimited rides on regional buses and the San Diego Trolley. They may be purchased from most trolley vending machines, at the Transit Store, and some hotels.

For trolley information, contact San Diego Transit (PHONE: 619/233-3004; 619/234-5005 TTY/TDD, www.sdcommute.com) for city transit and San Diego Trolley.