I recently stayed at this quaint B&B on my recent extended stay in San Diego. I was looking for something different since I was in SD for about a month, and Up Front definitely fit the bill. The price was very reasonable, the location was awesome, and the house/property was beautiful. The rates are very reasonable because the owner does not the provide any food to the guests so if you're looking for a home-cooked meal every morning this is definitely not your place (his ad describes this as well).
The house itself is beautiful ... it's an old Victorian house that has been restored, but not to the point where it loses its authentic feel of being an older, historic home. The house is clean, and my room was very comfortable ... it's never sleeping away from your own bed, but the mattresses were better than anything you'd get in any hotel anywhere. As a previous review mentioned, the house is in the flight path which is definitely not for some people. The house itself is soundproof - you can barely hear the airplanes while inside, and they never woke me up. Outside they're much louder, but I loved watching the planes land into the sunset from the deck... I remember my uncle taking me to airports to do that as a child so it brought back memories of the little quirky things in life we never take the time to do anymore.
The location is great though - there is ample street parking and the house is very convenient to the 5 freeway, the 163, Balboa Park, the Zoo, and downtown. Although I was there for work and didn't get to enjoy the city as much as I would have liked, I loved hearing the owner (Michael) gives out tips and tricks for the city to other guests. He really took the time to not only be the owner of a beautiful house, but was also a concierge for guests that requested any information. The other guests were another reason I enjoyed my stay - they were so friendly, and a few of us went out to dinner one night ... it's just a very laid back, peaceful environment here which is exactly what I was looking for. The house is big enough that there is somewhere to sit and relax by yourself - the media room, living room, or any of the three levels of decking out back. I was there in the summer time so I never utilized the hot tub, but it looked very inviting... there is also a nice grill outside that you are encouraged to use.
I would recommend this place to anyone visiting San Diego - whether for an extended stay or just for a long weekend. A word of caution to families: the rooms are rooms just like in your own home (except with amazing views of San Diego Bay and downtown!) so if you have a couple of kids it could get cramped in one room, but if you're visiting SD you're not spending much time in the house anyway, right? I think it's a perfect place for couples - especially for those on a budget. You definitely get your money's worth here...
This place is definitely not for everyone - it all depends on what you're looking for so just be aware of that before you book. But if you want a "home away from home" type atmosphere with friendly people who make you feel welcome in any room in the house I think it's a perfect place. Some people prefer hotels, I prefer homes and real people. I would definitely stay here again if the Navy ever sends me back to San Diego! read more