MBKU is the only optometry school in Southern California, its location in Orange County and its close proximity to San Diego and Los Angeles was a significant factor in my decision to attend.
Orange County in itself has much to see, do, and eat but sometimes after a long or/and hard week or quarter, a little get away is the best medicine.
San Diego
1. Balboa Park
Balboa Park is my favorite place in San Diego for its architecture, exhibits, and stunning views. The park is home to 17 museums, including the San Diego History Center, the Museum of Us, and the Museum of Photographic Arts. Additionally, you can explore beautiful gardens like the Japanese Friendship Garden of San Diego (General Admission $14, Student $12) and the Botanical Building with its picturesque Lily Pond.
2. Little Italy Farmers Market or Hillcrest Farmers Market
My favorite place to take anyone visiting San Diego is the farmers market! The Little Italy Farmers Market is open on Saturdays, and the Hillcrest Farmers Market is open on Sundays. The markets have fresh produce, flowers, small business creations, and a variety of food vendors. Baba Foods for hummus/pita chips and Masala Cottage for the huge samosas filled with eggplant or lamb is my go to every time.
3. Convoy Asian Cultural District
The Convoy District, located in Kearny Mesa, offers a large variety of Asian foods, drinks, and desserts. The area features Korean barbecue, seafood boils, Japanese skewers, ramen, and an assortment of desserts. Additionally, there are Japanese stores worth exploring, like Marukai Market and Mitsuwa. After a long day of exploring, check out Min Sok Chon and Thang Thang for soju and Korean food.
4. Del Mar
The stretch of Del Mar beach has so much to do! You can go to the Powerhouse Park and sit on the grass next to the train track and enjoy the views of the beach. About a mile down, you can explore Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for a moderate difficulty hike that will lead you to the beach. If you have a dog, there is also a dog beach.
Los Angeles
1. The Getty
The Getty has a variety of world-class art museums including Monets and Van Gogh pieces and beautiful gardens. Admissions is free but parking is $20 and it is recommended to make reservations. From the parking garage, you take a tram up the complex which is accompanied by the view of Los Angeles. I got a little tired after looking through all the exhibits so bring a blanket to sit on the grass area and watch the sunset.
2. Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo spans five blocks in Los Angeles and has many food options, streetwear, manga, and anime shops. My favorite place is Little Tokyo Mall and my favorite dessert place is Fugetsu-Do Bakery Shop for fresh mochi. Go early because the shop sells out by the end of the day. Check out stores, restaurants, and things to do in the area!
3. Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory gives you the best views of Los Angeles including the Hollywood sign. You can either park at the bottom of the park and walk up or park up at the Observatory. Parking is free but can be a hassle if it is busy. You can go inside the exhibits and look through the telescopes, see the Planetarium show, or just walk around outside. Admissions to the Griffith observatory is free and the Planetarium show is $10.
