Just finished a month-long stay in Tara's Balboa Park condo. I actually hadn't been to San Diego for 30 years, and didn't remember it at all, so I wasn't really sure of the neighborhood ahead of time. Did we luck out! The neighborhood was perfect -- away from the bustling tourist areas yet close to everything. We loved being a block from Balboa Park and walked over there frequently. It was a peaceful, residential neighborhood with small local restaurants and shops nearby. The Roots market two blocks away was perfect for getting fresh fruit and vegetables and bread, and a 7-11 was a block away. Whole Foods about 7-8 blocks. We didn't have a car and didn't need one. We'd walk or take Uber or Lyft, generally around $5.00 to anywhere within San Diego.
As far as the condo itself, it definitely met our expectations. It was in a very modern, safe building with a community room and gym. The condo was really perfect. A compact, tidy apartment, perfect for two people. The kitchen was spacious and the living room and balcony provided all the space we needed. Our daughter spent part of the time with us, and Tara provided an extra mattress which we placed in the corner of the living room.
The bathroom had two doors, accessible from both the bedroom and the main living area, which was convenient.
I cannot stress enough how clean, modern, safe, and really perfect it was.
And Tara was a terrific host. She always responded quickly to any questions and made sure we had what we needed, but otherwise gave us our privacy to enjoy our temporary home away from home.
A parking space is available if necessary in the garage.
A perk was the Cafe Bassam on the first floor of the building. A charming coffee/wine cafe with an old exotic flair, with seating both inside and outside. (Their espresso is great!)
We would certainly stay here again if we find our way to San Diego in the future!