San Diego lays out welcome for UK travellers

After closing in March 2020, US borders have reopened and San Diego is ready to welcome back UK and Irish travellers again.

Its top attractions, distinct dining scene, and 70 miles of coastline are accessible once more.

The city has seen a host of new hotel and attraction openings throughout 2021, from new exhibits at San Diego Zoo to the opening of Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Diego Pacific Beach.

This November will see the first phase opening of the new Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park, and iconic Hotel Del Coronado is on track to complete the next steps of its $400 million multi-phase renovation.

Paired with a thriving events calendar, visitors will find plenty of new discoveries in San Diego this winter and beyond.

This month, construction also began on the new Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport to include 30 gates, new restaurants and retail, and improvements to the airport’s roadways system.

Terminal 1 is served by domestic carries including JetBlue and Southwest Airlines, making it easier for international travellers to journey onwards in the US.

The first 19 gates at T1 are expected to be operational in July 2025 and the project will complete in June 2028.

In a boost to the local economy, the project will create between 15,000 – 20,000 new jobs for local workers.

Benjamin Eastman, Director of Tourism Development at San Diego Tourism Authority, said: “We’re delighted to welcome back travellers from the UK and Ireland to San Diego after so long. There are lots to see across the city – exciting new openings as well as favourite old haunts – and our hotels, restaurants and attractions are waiting for guests with open arms.”

“The direct British Airways flight from London to San Diego only cements the city’s status as an easily accessible destination for UK and Ireland travellers looking to grab a slice of Southern California sunshine.”

Staying safe

To visit San Diego, travellers from the UK and Ireland must be double vaccinated and show proof of a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours before departure. A mask is required at the airport, on all public transport, and in some restaurants and attractions. at the discretion of the organisation.

Getting here

British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Fares from £384 return.

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