Beaches. Buzzy restaurants. Breweries. San Diego has them in spades, not to mention an average of 284 days of sunshine a year. Hands down, it’s one of the best places in the U.S. to vacation. It’s also the top spot for meetings and events. With Kimpton Hotel Palomar as your home base, you can host a gathering that hits just the right work-play note.
Warm Hearts, Happy Arrivals
Business is a pleasure in sunny San Diego. Image Credit: iStock.
Of course, it all starts with a true spirit of hospitality, which can be felt not only at a Kimpton hotel but across the entire city. The San Diego Tourism Authority inspires us all with its tagline: “Find Your Smile in San Diego.”
That I’m-so-happy-to-be-here feeling first hits you at what could be the most unlikely of places: the airport. San Diego Airport is ranked as the No. 1 in the U.S., according to Forbes, standing out for being pleasant, efficient and close to the downtown action (transport from the heart of the city to the airport usually takes a breezy 5-10 minutes).
A Hotel That Shines
Kimpton Hotel Palomar, located in the Gaslamp Quarter entertainment district, sits in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of the San Diego Convention Center. Compared to the larger convention hotels, it has a more intimate vibe so you’ll feel a real sense of ownership. Anywhere up to 60 attendees is the sweet spot for meetings and events here — and everyone gets individualized, and undivided, attention.
Site visits are events unto themselves, as the Kimpton meeting team goes beyond the average reveal. They actually pre-set spaces to your needs and desires. And they provide a chance to get a real taste of the experience, with detailed proposals and menu samples up for grabs. Anywhere leading up to and including the meeting days, KIPSU technology—texting and digital messaging—is used to keep the event team and you as the client totally in sync.
The Level Four Pool Deck & Lounge at Kimpton Hotel Palomar offers a swank setting to soak up the sun. Image Credit: Whit Preston.
It’s all about going beyond box-checking. There’s a personal, human element to everything Kimpton does. And it’s all with the effort to truly connect and get to know guests. Kimpton Hotel Palomar is invested in the success of events, and the dedication comes from the very top. General Managers are highly involved, from initial inquiry to execution. The goal: the best possible experience that both the hotel and you can take pride in.
Personalized and curated experiences are key, especially when it comes to menus. Chefs create local experiences that draw from San Diego flavors, from spices to local seafood. Beyond that, anything is game. Need gluten-free bread? No problem. Craving boozy milkshakes? Done.
Beyond the Hotel Walls
Home to more than 150 microbreweries, San Diego has something on tap for every beer enthusiast. Image Credit: Kimpton.
There’s always something to do outside of meeting time in San Diego. Whether it’s a quick break, evening excursion or full-day outing, make sure it includes an authentic San Diego experience.
The region’s craft beer and distillery scene is the best in the U.S.—bar none. There are more than 150 craft breweries surrounding you. In fact, a whole new IPA, the West Coast IPA, originated in San Diego. On the must-visit list: Kairoa Brewing Company, which is inspired by the New Zealand countryside and specializes in English-style ales; and Escondido Brewing Company, San Diego’s smallest brewery that makes an award winning Hopcondido IPA.
With 70 miles of coastline, beach time is a given and there are lots of opportunities for adventure on the water. Head out to the island of Coronado for four distinct beach scenes—one of them pet friendly—and the chance to see where Marilyn Monroe filmed “Some Like It Hot.” You can also hit Pacific Beach, between Mission Beach and La Jolla, for beautiful views and the chance to rent scuba diving equipment.
Mexico is an easy day trip away and just 78 miles south you’ll find yourself in wine bliss at Valle de Guadalupe, nicknamed “The Napa Valley of Mexico.” Also in Baja California is Ensenada, a picturesque landscape of desert, tropics and mountains; and also the best place in the world to see white sharks.
No doubt about it: Your plate (and glass) will always be full in San Diego. And your group is bound to stay busy, productive and smiling when you host your meeting at Kimpton Hotel Palomar.
—Kelly Aiglon
