Vista, CA

North of San Diego, the small town of Vista, California has been quietly attracting notables like Oprah, Michelle Obama, Natalie Portman, Julia Roberts, and Tyra Banks for decades. They come for Cal-a-Vie, an expansive 450-acre destination designed like a French village. From the charming grounds dotted with lavender fields and vineyards to the historic chapel (now a meditation center) rebuilt stone by stone from Dijon, France, the meticulously designed estate will transport you to the Provincial countryside.

Stay at a luxe health resort

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Within the 32 captivating suites and villas at Cal-a-Vie, find old-world charm like antique writing desks along with modern touches like towel warmers. With a 5 to 1 staff-to-guest ratio, your every need will be attended to from your curated activity schedule to any whims—like fresh fruit following an afternoon swim. The holistic approach to health offers everything from hikes to fitness classes, Labyrinth meditation to star-gazing.

Savor nutritious meals

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While meal portions are individually tailored to your desired caloric intake, with the incredible flavors, colors, and variety in the gourmet dishes, you might just forget they are supposed to be healthy! Produce and herbs are grown in their onsite organic gardens and greenhouse for three daily meals and two official snack and smoothie breaks (though you can get additional snacks brought to you whenever you feel peckish).

Turn your yoga practice upside down

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From ashtanga yoga to aerial yoga, you can expand your practice (or learn in a beginners' yoga class!). At Cal-a-Vie, yoga is used for everything from building strength to restful stretching, creating a mind-body practice that will channel energy and set a foundation for your day.

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Taste the estate wine

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The 16 acres of vineyards at Cal-a-Vie produce Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Currently, the intimate 17th-century parish house from the Burgundy region that was rebuilt in Vista houses the Château Cal-a-Vie wine tastings. In the future, plans for a much larger tasting room across the street will allow more people to sample the estate-grown varietals.

Get pampered at the spa

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Daily spa treatments are a hallmark of Cal-a-Vie, with rest and relaxation being just as important as movement and activity. Each package comes with a range of treatments from facials to massages to beauty services, with additional spa services available to add onto your package, like watsu aquatic massage or a lavender honey wrap.

Take a cooking class

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Within the L’Orangerie, a 300-year-old French reception hall, is a state-of-the-art cooking demonstration kitchen where you can learn the art of healthy cooking from accomplished chefs. With techniques, tools, and ingredients that are easy to replicate at home, the hands-on cooking class is a turnkey way to make delicious meals out of healthy recipes.

Get crafty

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Creating small art projects can help open up your mind in a new way. At Cal-a-Vie, they have daily opportunities to get crafty, from designing jewelry like chakra energy bracelets to journaling classes.

Taste the beer of the region

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Belching Beaver is one of the favorite breweries of the area. At their Vista tavern, try the Peanut Butter Stout—the fan favorite—and a few of their other beers in a design-your-own tasting.

Chula Vista, located in San Diego County, is a charming city that offers natural beauty, cultural richness, and proximity to San Diego’s top attractions. With its beautiful parks, outdoor activities, diverse population, and friendly environment, Chula Vista has become an increasingly popular destination for people looking to live in Southern California. However, like any city, living in Chula Vistacomes with its unique set of pros and cons that should be considered before making a decision to call it home. Whether you’re considering moving into a house, renting an apartment, or just exploring Chula Vista’s housing market, it’s important to take a closer look at what life is really like in this beautiful city.

Pros to living in Chula Vista

Chula Vista is blessed with natural beauty, and residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and swimming. One of the most popular destinations in the city is the Chula Vista Nature Center, which features a beautiful waterfront location, exhibits, and educational programs. Additionally, the city boasts of several parks and open spaces, such as the Otay Valley Regional Park, Sweetwater Regional Park, and the Chula Vista Bayside Park.

“Chula Vista can be the place for you if you live an active lifestyle outdoors,” suggests The Grom Life. “Ocean lovers will find world-class surfing 16 miles away at Sunset Cliffs and snorkeling with leopard sharks 22 miles away in La Jolla Cove. There is also fantastic hiking options right in Chula Vista, including the scenic Mother Miguel Mountain.”

Chula Vista is a city known for its diversity and vibrant culture that residents can enjoy and appreciate. The city celebrates cultural heritage through various cultural festivals and events such as the Chula Vista Mariachi Festival, a festival that draws visitors from all over the region to enjoy music, dance, and food in a lively and festive atmosphere, and the Fiestas Patrias festival which is a free event celebrated in Chula Vista every year. In addition, Chula Vista boasts a lively arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performance spaces for people to explore

“Chula Vista is a diverse, growing community that has taken positive steps to develop by ongoing construction of new homes in the eastern half, focusing on community safety initiatives, and reconstructing the Bayfront Marina that is currently in progress,” says Cannabis Real Estate Consultants. “With Homes in charming neighborhoods are very accessible to public transit, highways, quality schools, entertainment, and numerous authentic Mexican restaurants.”

Chula Vista benefits from a temperate climate that is favorable for year-round outdoor activities, making it a highly desirable location to reside in. With an average of 266 sunny days per year, the weather is pleasant and mild, ideal for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. The city experiences a low average temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring that residents can enjoy comfortable temperatures throughout the year. During summers, Chula Vista’s weather is warm and dry, providing ample opportunities to partake in outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, biking, or swimming. Winters, on the other hand, are mild with occasional rainfall, providing a much-needed break from the dry weather and offering a lush and green environment for outdoor enthusiasts.

Chula Vista’s strategic location near San Diego makes it an ideal place to live for those who want to enjoy the attractions the city offers, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The city is only a short drive away from downtown San Diego and other popular destinations, such as Seaport Village. For outdoor enthusiasts, Chula Vista has several parks and golf courses to explore, including Sweetwater Regional Park and Eastlake Country Club. Overall, Chula Vista’s location offers many things to do and provides easy access to a range of activities, making it a desirable place to live.

“Chula Vista is a convenient place to live near the city of San Diego at a lower price than other towns in the area, with a thriving community with a long heritage,” says Cannabis Real Estate Consultants. “With new development at the harbor, it is expected to have an influx of new residents and businesses within the next 5 years.”

Chula Vista is home to a growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries that offer unique and flavorful brews. Some of the most popular breweries in the city include the Chula Vista Brewery, Thr3e Punk Ales Brewing Co, and Novo Brazil Brewing Co. These breweries often host events and tastings, making them great places to hang out with friends and try new beers. Additionally, the breweries are a great way to support local businesses and connect with the community.

Cons of living in Chula Vista

Chula Vista’s proximity to San Diego can also be a disadvantage, as the city experiences heavy traffic congestion during peak hours. Residents who work in San Diego often face long commute times, which can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, traffic congestion can also make it difficult to navigate the city during rush hour.

“There is a lack of public park space in the old part of Chula Vista (west of the 805). Third Avenue should be more popular but parking is inadequate and many businesses are outdated and overpriced,” suggests Cannabis Real Estate Consultants.

While Chula Vista’s location provides access to a range of activities, it’s important to note that the city has a relatively high cost of living compared to other cities in California, but considered more affordable for the San Diego area. As of January 2023, the median home price was $675,000, according to current housing market trends. However, there are other options for affordable suburbs around San Diego if you’re looking to move to the area and just not sure yet where to settle. In addition, the city has a robust economy, with opportunities in healthcare, education, and technology, among other sectors, which may help offset some of the higher living costs. Despite the high cost of living, many residents feel that Chula Vista’s many amenities and pleasant climate make it a worthwhile place to call home.

Chula Vista is a coastal city, and as such, it is home to a large number of seagulls. While these birds can be fun to watch and are an iconic part of the beach experience, they can also be a bit of nuisance for residents. Seagulls are known for their loud squawking, and they can often be heard in residential areas near the beach. Additionally, seagulls are known scavengers, and will often scavenge through trash cans and dumpsters in search of food. This can create a mess and an unpleasant odor in public spaces. Lastly, seagulls are known to leave droppings on cars, sidewalks, and outdoor seating areas, which can be unsightly and difficult to clean.

Chula Vista has struggled with poor air quality in the past, primarily due to the city’s location near several busy highways and the Port of San Diego. While air quality has improved in recent years due to state and local efforts to reduce pollution, the city still experiences occasional air pollution issues, especially during periods of high traffic or wildfires in the surrounding areas. This can be a concern for residents with respiratory conditions.

To address this issue, the city has implemented a number of measures to improve air quality, including promoting public transportation and alternative transportation options, encouraging the use of electric and hybrid vehicles, and working to reduce emissions from industrial sources. Residents can also take steps to protect their health by monitoring air quality reports, avoiding outdoor activities during times of high pollution, and using air purifiers and other devices to improve indoor air quality.

Chula Vista is located near several major tourist attractions, such as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, which means that the city can attract a large number of tourists during peak seasons. While tourism can be beneficial for the local economy, it can also be a hassle for residents who may have to deal with crowded streets, busy restaurants, and long lines at local attractions. Additionally, some tourists may not be familiar with the area, which can lead to confusion and congestion on the roads. Overall, while tourism can be a positive aspect of living in Chula Vista, it can also be a drawback for residents who prefer a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle.

“Getting to and from the beach can get congested especially during the summer months. Desert hikers will want to get out first thing to avoid too much sun exposure. Whichever activity you prefer, your best bet is to start the day early. We think setting the alarm for six in the morning is a small price to pay for getting the best out of Southern California,” recommends The Grom Life.

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Nestled in North San Diego County, Vista is a charming and vibrant city with a plethora of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, you can't help but fall in love with Vista's small-town charm, friendly community, and year-round sunshine. In this article, we'll explore some of the top benefits of living in Vista, from its scenic parks and outdoor activities to its eclectic restaurants and shops.

The Great Outdoors

One of the most significant advantages of living in Vista is its proximity to natural wonders. With an average temperature of 70 degrees and over 3,000 acres of parks and open spaces, Vista is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. From hiking and biking to fishing and picnicking, there's no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Cultural Attractions

Another perk of living in Vista is its diverse cultural scene. The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into its rich heritage. The Moonlight Cultural Foundation is a non-profit organization that presents world-class productions at the Moonlight Amphitheatre, an open-air theatre set in a picturesque park. The Avo Playhouse is another cultural hub that hosts plays, musicals, and comedy shows throughout the year. Additionally, the Vista Historical Society Museum is a great place to learn about the city's fascinating past.

Delicious Dining

Vista's culinary scene is another reason why it's a great place to call home. The city is a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you're craving a juicy burger, fresh seafood, or authentic Mexican cuisine, you're sure to find it in Vista. Some of the top restaurants in the area include Urge Gastropub and The Yellow Deli.

Unique Shopping

Shopping in Vista is an adventure in itself. The city is home to a variety of specialty shops, antique stores, and artisanal boutiques that offer one-of-a-kind items you won't find anywhere else. The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in vintage machinery and Americana. The Art Beat on Main Street is a funky art gallery that features local artists' works, while the Rancho Vista Nursery offers an array of exotic plants and succulents.

Family-Friendly Activities

Vista is a family-friendly city that offers plenty of activities for kids of all ages. The Boomers Vista is a popular amusement park that features mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and laser tag. The Wave Waterpark is another favorite destination that boasts multiple water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.

In summary, Vista, California, is a hidden gem that offers a high quality of life, an abundance of natural beauty, and a welcoming community. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, delicious dining, or unique shopping, Vista has something for everyone. So why not plan a visit and see for yourself why this city is such a special place to live and play?

VISTA — The Vista City Council approved a controversial housing development during a Dec. 6 special meeting.

Mayor Judy Ritter and council members John Franklin and Joe Green supported California West Communities’ proposal, known as the Camino Largo project, to build 46 single-family homes at 2123 N. Santa Fe Avenue.

The council’s action also included a zoning change of the parcel, located east of Guajome Regional Park, from agricultural to residential.

But the meeting turned contentious after council members Corinna Contreras and Katie Melendez questioned Franklin’s motivations for approving the project by pointing to donations from the developer applicant to the newly-elected mayor’s campaign.

“I’m not surprised I’m receiving information that this project has campaign financing motivations related to it,” Melendez said. “I’m a community-based representative. It’s not an appropriate change to our general plan.”

In March, Robert Thorne, CEO of California West Communities, and his wife Marcia donated a total of $1,000 to Franklin’s campaign, according to city records. Franklin, who said he had known Thorne on a “personal level” for at least a decade, explained this is the first project Thorne’s company has brought forward in Vista.

These comments came on the heels of Contreras’ remarks about California Senate Bill 1439, which expands the 1982 Levine Act by prohibiting local officials from voting on contracts 12 months before and after accepting a donation of more than $250 from an involved party.

The new state law goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2023.

“This vote should not be happening today,” Contreras said. “This meeting should’ve happened on Dec. 13. I’ll leave it to the public why this meeting was rushed.”

Contreras and Melendez also questioned whether Ritter and Green, who both work in real estate, have ever taken advantage of their positions on the council to sell homes based on council-approved projects.

When Contreras asked the outgoing mayor how many homes she had sold, Ritter responded sharply, “zero.”

Franklin responded to the allegations across the dais by pointing out that Contreras’ and Melendez’s campaigns had received tens of thousands of dollars from independent expenditures, which serve to assist a candidate without their knowledge through advertising, mailers, social media posts and other forms of courting votes.

“It is absolutely the opposite of respect to impute motives that are others than stated by your colleagues, which is what you and others have done,” Franklin said. “I do not go to the lengths of bringing campaign statements. You’ve received tens of thousands of dollars in independent expenditures from a single industry trying to change the law.”

Melendez said she received money from independent expenditures related to marijuana but has never been in contact with those groups or individuals.

Residents living near the proposed development echoed Contreras’ and Melendez’s displeasure and contempt for the project, and by extension, Ritter, Franklin and Green, noting the city’s Planning Commission had unanimously voted against the project. Opponents also cited concerns about negative impacts on riparian habitats, loss of agriculture, open space, and increased traffic.

Contreras and Melendez also stressed their opposition to sprawl development, suggesting higher-density projects with more stories would create more green spaces.

But Ritter and Franklin stressed the city is in a housing crisis, and these homes can help with inventory. Additionally, the project comes with a down payment assistance program for lower-income residents.

Green said the project is next to Sandalwood, which is twice the density and has worked well for the city.

As a parent or student looking for the best high schools near Vista, California, you're in luck! The region is home to several outstanding schools with impressive academic records, excellent extracurricular programs, and rich histories. In this guide, we'll introduce you to some of the best options and provide you with key information to help you make an informed decision.

Located just 2.8 miles from Vista, Rancho Buena Vista High School is a top-rated school in the Vista Unified School District. The school has a rigorous academic program with strong Advanced Placement (AP) courses and an impressive graduation rate. RBVHS also has an award-winning music program, a successful athletic program, and a thriving theater program.

Vista High School, located in the heart of Vista, is another top-rated school in the Vista Unified School District. With a diverse student body and a commitment to excellence, VHS has a variety of programs to help students succeed, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, Career Technical Education (CTE) programs, and an award-winning agriculture program. The school also has a strong athletic program with numerous league championships.

Mission Vista High School is a newer school located approximately 6.3 miles from Vista. Opened in 2009, MVHS has already established itself as a top-performing school in the Vista Unified School District. With a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education, MVHS has a variety of specialized programs, including a Robotics program and an Engineering program. The school also has a strong athletic program and a thriving music program.

Located approximately 6.9 miles from Vista, San Marcos High School is part of the San Marcos Unified School District. The school has a strong academic program with numerous AP courses and a 95% graduation rate. SMHS also has a strong athletic program with numerous league championships, as well as a successful performing arts program.

Located approximately 10.2 miles from Vista, Escondido High School is part of the Escondido Union High School District. The school has a diverse student body and a strong academic program with numerous AP courses and a 94% graduation rate. EHS also has a variety of extracurricular activities, including a successful athletic program and a robust performing arts program.

In conclusion, there are several great options for high schools near Vista, California. Whether you're looking for a rigorous academic program, specialized programs, or strong extracurricular programs, you'll find it in the region. We hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the best high school for you or your child.