Posts by Denise Shively

Let's face it – being alone without a special someone during the holidays can be quite lonely. Not only that, but you oftentimes have to field questions from well-meaning friends and relatives about why you aren't bringing a date to the Christmas party. Sheesh.

I remember last Christmas vividly because of such an experience. I failed to bring a date to my family's annual Christmas get-together. Unfortunately, I was the only one without a significant other, which of course had to be the topic of conversation several times throughout the evening.

Let's just say this year, I'm bringing a date!

In any case, if you are bound and determined to get in some holiday dating in San Diego this year, there are a number of options available to you.

Forget the traditional bar scene… how depressing does that sound to spend the holidays? Instead, go for something unique – something that's low-key and an enjoyable way to spend your holiday.

Ice skating is popular, fun – and a great way to make a fool of yourself if you've never done it before (like me…!) Horton Plaza mall in downtown San Diego offers an inexpensive skating rink every holiday season, and it's a great place to have fun and mingle with other San Diegans this winter.

Personally, my favorite way to spend the holidays is a nice, cozy car ride through various parts of San Diego to look at – what else – Christmas lights!

Bring a hot thermos of coffee or tea, bundle up and hit the road for a night-time extravaganza of lights and Christmas cheer. It's an intimate way of getting to know your date, and it's cheap – fun, too!

If you're feeling adventurous (or crazy), hit the local malls for some Christmas window shopping. A few years ago, I braved the mall crowds to browse all the hottest Christmas items of the season with my sweetie.

Even though it was crowded, stuffy and hot, we had a blast messing around with the latest Christmas toys and games we came across. This holiday date idea works better if you've already been on a few dates with your significant other – otherwise, the noise and crowds may be too much to bear!

Honestly, I love this time of year. There are so many fun things to see and do that it takes you away from the traditional, often monotonous dating scene.

Don't let friends or family get you down this season because you don't have a date. Make it happen, and when you do, try one of these holiday dating ideas in San Diego on for size. You'll have a great time, and who knows – maybe you'll even have a partner for next year!

Advertised as the "finest gaming and entertainment venue in Southern California," Sycuan Casino offers a world of fun for casual gamblers and high rollers alike.

Whether you prefer penny slot machines or Poker, Sycuan Casino has something for everyone. Try your luck at the Blackjack table or play a few rounds of Bingo. You're guaranteed to find a game you love!

In addition to gaming, Sycuan offers a luxurious resort complete with tennis courts, fine dining and golf.

Sign up for a Club Sycuan card once you arrive to be eligible for exclusive discounts and promotions only available to members. Registration is free, and you can gain access to a slew of special offers such as bonus cash, discount show tickets and much more.

Sycuan Resort and Casino couples amazing gaming with fabulous resort accommodations and fine dining to create a relaxing and fun atmosphere you'll want to return to time and again.

A visit to the Hotel Del Coronado should be a must on any vacationer's list.

With beautiful accommodations, delicious food, a full-service spa and shopping galore, you can experience the height of luxury.

Additionally, the new Beach Village resort accommodations affords breathtaking views of the ocean, with private access to the beach and other amenities.

Dine at one of several amazing restaurants or have a drink at the Babcock and Story bar - which looks like no bar you've ever been to before!

You can also shop at one of 15 stores located within the Hotel Del, from clothing to eyewear, spa products to toys, you can find whatever you need - or want!

With so many things to see and do, and beautiful accommodations, a trip to the Hotel Del Coronado will be a visit you'll remember forever.

The perfect place for a night on the town with friends, Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery offers a friendly atmosphere coupled with handcrafted beers and a unique menu you won't find anywhere else.

Their on-site brewery ensures you'll get a fresh, delicious beer time after time. With over 100 beer awards to their name, Rock Bottom Brewery definitely knows what they're doing!

You can also peruse their diverse menu, where you'll find everything from soups and salads, to hamburgers and homemade desserts.

Try their Buffalo Fajitas or Honey Rosemary Chicken for a delicious twist on the evening. Or you can always throw back a delcious brown ale and chow down on a Hickory Burger.

Whatever your taste buds crave you'll be sure to find something that'll have you coming back for more.

Originally called the Del Mar Fair, the San Diego County Fair offers fun for the entire family.

The fair opened on June 8th this year and will continue until July 4th. The event usually lasts about a month, and each year brings new surprises.

Adult admissions are only $12, while senior and child admissions are $6. Children under 5 years old are admitted to the fair for free.

The San Diego County Fair literally offers something for everyone! Take a casual stroll through the exhibit hall or take a gander at the Flower & Garden Show.

Children will enjoy the live animals that are present at the fair each year and the interactive petting zoo. There's also a special section of the fair specifically for children called Kiddieland, which houses age-appropriate rides and games for the little ones.

For older kids (and adults who like thrills!), the Fun Zone offers a vast selection of attractions, from mild to thrill-inducing. Duke it out against your date in the Dodge'em Bumper Cars or find out what the new ride The Experience can do for YOUR fair experience!

Of course, you may want to consider sampling the fair's delicious food before you attempt to ride any of the attractions in the Fun Zone. The San Diego County Fair offers one of the largest selection of traditional "fair food" around, as well as a few dining establishments.

You can find food to satisfy literally every taste from popcorn to pretzels, snow cones and ice cream and even the unusual treats like pineapple on a stick or dessert fruit egg rolls. Yum!

And of course, a trip to the fair would not be complete without shopping. There are a wide variety of places to pick up some unique and wonderful things, so be sure to stop by the merchant hall before you leave.

Whatever your pleasure, the San Diego County Fair offers affordable fun for the entire family this summer.

Show that special someone you care by taking them to dinner at the romantic Cafe Pacifica.

Located in the heart of San Diego's Old Town district, Cafe Pacifica offers a variety of fresh seafood cuisine, as well as a selection of pasta, lamb and steak.

Voted "Best Seafood Restaurant" in San Diego Magazine's reader's poll again and again, Cafe Pacifica cannot be beat.

Start off your evening with one of several delicious appetizers, including grilled portobello mushrooms stuffed with crab meat or a shrimp quesadilla.

If you like, you can add one of seven hearty salads or soups to your meal. But I suggest leaving room for the seafood entrees!

From grilled mustard catfish to cafe shrimp scampi, Cafe Pacifica caters to all taste buds.

Plan your next romantic evening at Cafe Pacifica!

Whether you are a native to San Diego or visiting from out of town, a relaxing cruise aboard a yacht from Classic Sailing Adventures is an absolute must.

The yact departs from Shelter Island and offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay.

You can choose to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery or actually take part in the sailing yourself!

In order to maximize your enjoyment, beverages and hors d'oeuvres are typically included on a cruise. During the summer, you have your choice between an afternoon sailing cruise or a wonderful champagne cruise at sunset.

Plus, during late winter and early Spring, you can enjoy the once in a lifetime experience of watching the gray whales migrate past San Diego.

Whatever your pleasure, take a cruise aboard a yacht from Classic Sailing Adventures. You will be very glad you did.

For the perfect romantic getaway, look no farther than L'Auberge Del Mar.

This beautiful seaside resort offers Four-Diamond luxury nestled within the coastal town of Del Mar. Enjoy gourmet dining, amazing spa treatments and enjoy a game of golf or tennis.

Their website allows you to view special package deals to help you make the most of your stay at L'Auberge Del Mar, whether you want a romantic rendezvous with a loved one or a weekend with the girls.

Plan your trip to this fantastic resort and spa soon. You've never been pampered like this before!

If you are looking to have a night out on the town or a rowdy rendezvous with friends, Dave & Busters will be the perfect fit!

A restaurant that's like the adult equivalent to Chuck E. Cheese? Who wouldn't be stoked to play a few games, have a nice meal and throw back a cold one or two?

You might think you'll have trouble sitting down to a meal with all the fun things you can do at Dave & Busters, but trust me - with such amazing food, you'll have no trouble packing on the pounds!

Whether you go for the classic Philly Cheesesteak or try something new with Black Jack BBQ Chicken, there's something for even the pickiest eater.

Then it's time to hit one of two fully-stocked bars where you can choose from a wide assortment of drinks including margaritas, martinis, beer and wine and other delicious beverages.

Whether you choose to play games at their exciting midway before or after you've had a few is up to you, but either way you'll have a blast! Choose from over 200 games ranging from classic arcade-style of old and the latest and greatest video games. You'll feel like a kid again!

For over 70 years, San Diego's Old Globe Theater has drawn crowds from all over the world. The year-round season hosts 14 plays and musicals, including the much-loved Shakespeare Festival.

You can also enjoy several special events the Globe hosts each year, including their famous Gala. The public are invited to come and participate in these events - check their website for further details.

If you want to plan a romantic night on the town, take in a show at the Old Globe. Your date will be thrilled, and both of you can cherish the experience for a lifetime.

California's oldest professional theater, the Old Globe has had a long and exciting history as one of the country's leading regional theaters!

Here's hoping the Globe will continue to showcase excellent talent for many years to come.