Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Halloween in San Diego: 13 Recommendations for International Students (PART 2)

By TOEFL Nick

Part 2 of our Halloween recommendations blog is here! Connect English wants the international students in San Diego to understand how great this cultural celebration can be, IF they plan at least a little. Take a look at recommendations 7 - 13 today and start thinking about what you and your friends will do for Halloween in San Diego in 2015. Make sure that you get a good costume, know when great events are happening, plan some good times with your friends, and follow the rest of this advice so you can be a Halloween expert right away.

[<---RETURN TO PART 1]


7. Don't choose a costume that has big fake props.

Most people spend their Halloween walking, dancing, giving high-fives and sometimes holding beverages. All of these things are a lot harder to do when you have to carry around a fake knife, a rubber chicken, a fruit basket, or some big, heavy parts of your costume. Anything that makes it difficult to walk or stand is also a bad idea. Here is one good example of a costume that is probably not very smart. Can you see why? And can you imagine walking around with all this stuff all night? Forget it.



8. Wear costumes with wigs, makeup, funny hats, pockets, etc. instead.

All of these things make your Halloween much more fun and manageable than if you wear a bad costume with a mask or fake weapons and toys that you have to carry around all weekend (#s 6 and 7 above). A purse or a backpack is always a great idea for you or one of your friends to have as well. This way you can keep your wallet, your ID, your credit or debit cards, your camera (see #9 below) and your cell phone secure. Can you imagine trying to carry all of those things around while wearing this tiny costume? Be prepared for event security guards to search your purse or backpack, though. Remember, Halloween is fun because you can talk and walk and laugh with good people. If your costume makes these things difficult, you will not have as much fun. Wear a costume that is light and flexible, not heavy and cumbersome.



9. Bring a camera, of course!

You are definitely going to want to take pictures of the events you'll attend, the costumes you'll see, the people you'll meet, and the hilarious things you and your friends will do. Want to see some pictures of regular people having tons of fun on Halloween? Here is a website full of Halloween photo albums from all around San Diego. Imagine how jealous your friends back home will be when they see how fantastic your experience in San Diego has been, and the culture that you have experienced as you learn English. You will want to remember Halloween in San Diego forever.



10. Carve pumpkins!

If you have the chance to carve pumpkins, do it! You'll have a lot of fun. Pumpkins can be bought at your local Vons, Ralphs or Albertsons any time in the month of October. Connect English will have a pumpkin carving event/contest later this month, so keep your eyes open. You will never forget it!

Last year's pumpkin-carving day at Connect English [YouTube] was a fresh and educational experience for all of our students.

[RELATED PHOTO ALBUM: Carving Pumpkins at Connect English]



11. Try pumpkin-flavored everything.


Pumpkin pie is amazing. Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes are delicious. Pumpkin bread, pumpkin soup, pumpkin beer, pumpkin ice cream, and just plain pumpkin seeds are seasonal foods that you'll remember for a long time. But you won't remember them if you're afraid to try them, and many of them are not available once October ends. You can't afford to wait!



12. Be adventurous. Don't be afraid of the fun!


Participate in the student activities that your school offers. They'll help you understand and become more comfortable with how to celebrate Halloween in the USA. It is understandable that international students are a little bit uncertain about this unique season in the USA. But don't let your uncertainty ruin your opportunity to have one of the best experiences of your life. Ask a teacher, a roommate or any American friend about Halloween and we will be happy to tell you more. I promise!


13. Join Connect English Activities!


If you are in a school that is not offering many fun activities for Halloween, join Connect English! The whole month of October ("CONNECTober") is full of activities with costumes, pumpkins, food, friends and fun. Check out our CONNECTober calendar here to see the dates, times and locations of activities this year. Check out our Facebook photo albums from parties past. And contact Connect English if you want to be part of the San Diego language school that students enjoy the most at Halloween, and throughout the year!

-Nick


[<---RETURN TO PART 1]

Do you have more advice for San Diego international students this Halloween? Please write a comment below. With your recommendations, we can make sure that even more people have as much fun on Halloween as I have had in my life. Wow, I'm getting excited!

Pass this information along to your friends.

It's the goal of Connect English for all international students to have a fun, memorable and safe Halloween in San Diego.

Are you looking for a school that gives you the complete experience in San Diego? Connect English Language Institute is more than just a basic language school. Our events and activities help students explore and enjoy San Diego, and our special services assure that your education investment will help you improve your English. When you want a school that does more but costs less, contact Connect English.

www.ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
E-mail: info@connectenglishsandiego.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/ConnectEnglish
Phone: (619) 283-2811
MSN:
ConnectEnglishSanDiego@live.com


READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Halloween in San Diego: 13 Recommendations for International Students (PART 1)

By TOEFL Nick

[GO DIRECTLY TO PART 2--->]

San Diego is the best Halloween city in the United States. The perfect October weather allows everyone to celebrate both indoors and outdoors, while our friends in Northern California and on the East Coast are already starting to freeze in the autumn and winter weather conditions there.

I've been teaching English and TOEFL to international students for years in San Diego, living in San Diego even longer, and celebrating Halloween even longer than that. Over this time I've learned some valuable lessons about how to make sure that everyone is aware of super-fun and safe Halloween events for international students. As always, I want to make sure that San Diego International Students have the knowledge to enjoy this fantastic cultural event in the USA. Here are my thirteen Halloween recommendations for you and your friends this year:


1. Wear a costume. Really.

Dressing up in a funny costume may seem embarrassing at first, but I have surveyed hundreds of students in my time as a teacher. Students who wear costumes have a lot of fun and they tell all of their friends back home about all of the Halloween good times they experienced. Students who don't wear costumes frequently regret it after Halloween is over. Believe me. Costumes don't have to cost a lot of money and don't have to be complicated. There are a lot of options that are not embarrassing at all, but are still a lot of fun. For example, a baseball player could be a great costume that's not embarrassing, not complicated, not expensive, and totally comfortable. Here's a good little list of costume shops and Halloween stores in San Diego.

[RELATED PHOTO ALBUM: Halloween Store Scavenger Hunt for Connect English Students]



2. Decide early which events you'd like to visit.

Don't wait until Halloween weekend to make your plan. There are many, many events happening around town. One of my biggest regrets of Halloweens past is having to argue with my friends on Halloween night about which event will be better. It's much smarter to decide a few days before the weekend. Here is a 2015 San Diego Halloween events list for international students and for locals:

Through October - The Haunted Trail, The Haunted Hotel & The Scream Zone

Friday, October 9th & Saturday, October 10th - Ocean Beach Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 17th - The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Kensington)

Sunday, October 18th - Trick or Trot 5k and 3k run (Balboa park)

Friday, October 23rd - HauntFest on Main (El Cajon)

Wednesday, October 28th - San Diego Experiences Halloween Pub Crawl (Gaslamp)

Friday, October 30th - Rock 105.3 Boo Ball (House of Blues)

[RELATED PHOTO ALBUM: Halloween Party 2014 at Connect English]

HALLOWEEN NIGHT - Saturday, October 31st - Massaquerade Ball (Lafayette Hotel - University Heights)

HALLOWEEN NIGHT - Saturday, October 31st - Hard Rock Horror Story (Gaslamp)

HALLOWEEN NIGHT - Saturday, October 31st - San Diego Zombie Crawl (Parq Nightclub)

HALLOWEEN NIGHT - Saturday, October 31st - Monster Bash (Downtown)

HALLOWEEN NIGHT - Saturday, October 31st - The Nightmare on Normal Street (Hillcrest)

Sunday, November 1st and Monday, November 2nd - Dia de los Muertos (Old Town)


*These events will be updated regularly, so visit this page again for more information, dates and locations.


3. House parties are good, but officially sanctioned events are safer and are still a lot of fun.

Organized events around town have security staff and are properly planned so that they can accommodate large numbers of people. If you go to a house party, be prepared for long bathroom lines and the possibility of the police arriving and telling everyone to leave. Most organized events are pretty centrally located, too. This means that they're easy to reach by public transit, and taxis are easier to find afterward.



4. Organize your transportation plans early.

Make sure you have a designated driver or a bus/trolley/taxi plan. Do not drink and drive (ever!). There are so many people walking around town, and so many police. Don't take your chances. It's too easy to hurt yourself, your friends, or even strangers if you decide to drink and drive. There are plenty of safe ways to get around on Halloween if you plan just a little bit. Talk with your friends and decide who will be the sober driver, or plan with them to use San Diego MTS services to reach your destination. Also, research the schedules of buses and trolleys because the schedule changes after midnight on most days for many routes. Many parties in Downtown San Diego offer special admission deals that include discounted hotel rooms nearby so that you don't have to worry about returning to your house after their Halloween party.



5. Keep a few ride service telephone numbers in your phone.

Taxi companies are very busy over Halloween weekend. Frequently it will take more than an hour to arrange for a pick-up. If you have three or four numbers saved in your phone, you'll be able to get home easily.

Here are some taxi company phone numbers that you can program into your phone now:

Orange Cab - (619) 223-5555
USA Cab - (619) 231-1144
Yellow Cab - (619) 444-4444
San Diego Cab - (619) 226-8294
Or download the Uber app on your smart phone. It's great!


6. Don't wear costumes with masks.

Do you like to eat? Do you like to drink? Do you like to talk? Do you like to see? Do you like to breathe? Imagine how difficult all of these things are when you have a mask covering your face. It's especially sad when the mask really completes the costume, but the person has to keep the mask pulled up over the top of their head most of the time so that they can breathe. You may find some excellent-looking masks at the Halloween store, but believe me: you'll regret choosing them.



[GO TO PART 2 FOR MORE RECOMMENDATIONS--->]

Friday, May 29, 2015

Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs (SIP) class is open at Pacific Beach Campus

Pacific Beach campus offers S.I.P. skills class!

Students at Connect English’s Pacific Beach campus now have two options for upper-level skills classes – Viewpoint 2, or SIP.

What is SIP?

SIP stands for Slang, Idioms, and Phrasal
verbs. It’s a class where we focus on the more informal ways of speaking that students often encounter when talking with friends, listening to music, and watching TV and movies. It’s a fun, relaxed environment where students get to learn lots of new vocab that will help them sound more like a native English speaker.

What do you do in SIP class?

In SIP, students get a chance to practice every aspect of language learning: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Classes almost always start out with a speaking activity to get students warmed up and ready to learn and practice new vocab. We focus on different groups of phrasal verbs and idioms each week, and students get a chance to practice their new words by playing games, reading articles, writing stories, and listening to music.

What’s the best thing about SIP?

Raphael from Brazil, one of our most advanced students, immediately started using the new vocabulary that he learned in the class. "Butter someone up" is a phrasal verb that means to say nice things to someone in order to get special treatment from them. Raphael finished one period of SIP class in his first week and immediately started asking our teachers if he can butter them up for good grades. It was great to see him use his new vocabulary in the real world right away!

Teacher Jocelyn likes that she gets to incorporate her love of music into SIP class also! Every Thursday, students listen to a song that relates to one or more of the phrasal verbs they’ve been practicing that week. Students discuss the meaning of the song, listen for missing words, and try to figure out any new vocab they might hear while they listen.

Who can take SIP?

SIP is an upper-level skills class, so students who test into Level 4 or Level 5 have the option to take either SIP or Viewpoint 2 as their skills class. Most students start out in Viewpoint in order to get a good basis of grammar and vocab skills, then transfer into SIP when they feel ready. If you want a chance to increase your slang vocabulary and sound more like a native English speaker, SIP class at Pacific Beach campus is the perfect opportunity for you!

APPLY NOW!

Address:
3565 Del Rey St., Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92109
[GOOGLE MAPS]


E-mail: info@ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
Phone: (619) 283-2811
Fax: (619) 283-2866
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ConnectEnglishPacificBeach
Website: Connect English, Pacific Beach

READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

IELTS Preparation Courses Have Started in Pacific Beach!

New IELTS program will help San Diego international students get into REAL universities in the USA!

There are really two choices of exams for international students who want to get into real universities in the USA: the IELTS or the TOEFL. Connect English already offers high-quality TOEFL programs at all of our campuses. Starting on May 4th, 2015, Connect English is offering IELTS training too!

When students want test-preparation training in San Diego, everyone seems to recommend Connect English. This is why we are excited to announce that new IELTS classes are starting at Connect English, Pacific Beach on Monday, May 4th. Pacific Beach students were already asking for this program option, and many other San Diego international students are contacting Connect English every day to ask when we can offer the IELTS program at our new Pacific Beach campus.

The Pacific Beach IELTS class will include strategy sessions in all of the important areas of the IELTS, including:

All four sections of listening
Academic and general reading
Academic writing, types 1 and 2
General writing, types 1 and 2
Speaking, parts 1, 2 and 3
Academic and general vocabulary

APPLY NOW!

Of course, the instructors of the IELTS classes are intelligent, experienced, and motivated to help you get into the universities that you have dreamed of attending.

Thanks to Connect English, the hard-working and financially savvy students of San Diego can reduce education expenses, not expectations.

Details of the new IELTS program in Pacific Beach:

Program start date: Monday, May 4th, 2015
New-student orientation date: Thursday, April 30th
Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 12:10pm to 4:40pm, no classes on Fridays!
Cost for initial classes of applicants: $199/four weeks
APPLY NOW!

Contact information

Address:
3565 Del Rey St., Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92109
[GOOGLE MAPS]


E-mail: info@ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
Phone: (619) 283-2811
Fax: (619) 283-2866
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ConnectEnglishPacificBeach
Website: Connect English, Pacific Beach

READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Monday, April 27, 2015

Pacific Beach Campus - New TOEFL Classes Start on May 4th!

New program will help San Diego international students get into REAL universities in the USA!

When students want TOEFL training in San Diego, everyone seems to recommend Connect English. This is why we are excited to announce that new TOEFL classes are starting at Connect English, Pacific Beach on Monday, May 4th. Pacific Beach students were already asking for this program option, and many other San Diego international students are contacting Connect English every day to ask when we can offer the TOEFL program at our new Pacific Beach campus.

The Pacific Beach TOEFL class will include strategy sessions in all of the important areas of the TOEFL, including:

Academic Reading
Listening
Independent Writing
Integrated Writing
Independent Speaking
Integrated Speaking
Vocabulary

APPLY NOW!

Of course, the instructors of the TOEFL classes are intelligent, experienced, and motivated to help you get into the universities that you have dreamed of attending.

Thanks to Connect English, the hard-working and financially savvy students of San Diego can reduce education expenses, not expectations.

Details of the new TOEFL program in Pacific Beach:

Program start date: Monday, May 4th, 2015
Textbook: Oxford TOEFL (Delta TOEFL is too easy)
Schedule: Monday through Thursday, 9:00am to 1:30pm, no classes on Fridays!
Cost for initial classes of applicants: $199/four weeks
APPLY NOW!

Contact information

Address:
3565 Del Rey St., Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92109
[GOOGLE MAPS]


E-mail: info@ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
Phone: (619) 283-2811
Fax: (619) 283-2866
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ConnectEnglishPacificBeach
Website: Connect English, Pacific Beach

READ ANOTHER CONNECT ENGLISH STORY ---->

Sunday, April 5, 2015

Connect English Summer Events & Activities Guide

San Diego has so many event options for students at English schools in San Diego, and everyone else as well. Check our calendar frequently to see the new events that we recommend for you. These are the events that our teachers, students and friends have enjoyed in the past, and that we think international students in San Diego will love in the future.

If you want more real advice and recommendations about these events, contact Student Services Director Nick Sacco at Connect English in Mission Valley: info@ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com.

If you want to recommend other events (concerts, festivals, etc.) that you have heard about, please notify Connect English. You can submit event information through the Connect English website.



Events in yellow are organized by Connect English, for our students.


Golf with Connect English!
Date/Time: Thursday, May 28th, 2015
Location: Mission Bay Golf Course, San Diego
Price: $10
Why should I do this? Want to be like Tiger Woods? Well, you've got to start learning and practicing then. Connect English will take students to the friendly and convenient Mission Bay Golf Course, right next to the new Connect English, Pacific Beach. This event includes free lessons on driving and putting, taught by the friendly professionals of the course. Connect English students first took golf lessons together in February of 2015 (see album on Facebook) and had a lot of fun in the sun together, learning new skills. It was so easy and interesting, we decided we needed to do it more often.
Website: http://www.sandiego.gov

San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon
Date/Time: May 29th - 31st, 2015
Location: All around San Diego
Price: $105 to run, FREE to watch!
Why should I do this? In addition to the excitement of watching a major sporting event on the streets of your city, you also get to listen to a great variety of local and national bands that add energy to an already energetic event. Thousands of people run, and tens of thousands of people come to watch the action. You can be one of them!
Website: http://runrocknroll.competitor.com

JUNE:

AWOLNATION at House of Blues
Date/Time: Wednesday, June 3rd, 2015
Location: House of Blues
Price: $35+
Why should I do this? Back with their first release since SAIL, AWOLNATION will be playing the old favorites and their new material including Hollow Moon. House of Blues is a great venue for medium-size shows, and this show is open for all ages.
Website: http://www.houseofblues.com

91X-Fest
Date/Time: Sunday, June 7th, 2015
Location: Sleep Train Amphitheater
Price: $25+
Why should I do this? One of the numerous multi-act concerts in San Diego, this event has your favorite bands that you hear on the 91X radio station. This year's show includes Modest Mouse, Pennywise, Public Enemy, Yelawolf and Cold War Kids. It will be awesome. Take your friends with you to one of the most anticipated music events of the summer.
Website: http://www.91x.com

San Diego Greek Festival
Date/Time: June 5th - 7th, 2015
Location: Hillcrest, San Diego
Price: $3, but free if you arrive early enough (see website)
Why should I do this? Treat yourself to an enjoyable Friday evening with delicious Greek food, imported beer, live Greek music and dancing.
Then come back the next day for more fun. On Sunday, repeat as needed!
Website: http://www.sdgreekfestival.com


The San Diego County Fair
Date/Time: Friday, June 5th through Wednesday, July 4th, 2015
Location: The Del Mar Fairgrounds
Price: $8-15
Why should I do this? Live music, tasty food, carnival games and rides, and fantastic weather make the San Diego County Fair one of the best family events of the summer in San Diego. You can arrive early in the day and stay late to see some great musical performances. You can visit the beaches of Del Mar while you're in the neighborhood, too!
Website: http://www.sdfair.com/

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

Potato Chip Rock Hike with Connect English
Date/Time: Friday, June 12th, 2015
Location: Lake Poway/Mt. Woodson, San Diego
Price: FREE for Connect English students
Why should I do this? For sure you've seen photos of people on Potato Chip Rock. The photos are on Facebook every weekend, when adventurous friends and students decide to take the big hike up to one of the tallest mountains in the city. If you're physically fit, it's a great day of exercise and beautiful views. The hike takes about four hours total, so be ready to sweat!
Website: http://www.gohikeit.com

San Diego Oysterfest
Date/Time: Saturday, June 13th, 2015
Location: Embarcadero, San Diego
Price: $35 - $75
Why should I do this? This 6th year of San Diego Oysterfest is going to be a great one. Attendees can show up, eat up, and rock out. Excellent bands like Thievery Corporation and Little Hurricane will be there, along with DJ Mikey Beats. This is quickly becoming one of San Diego's favorite early-summer events.
Website: http://www.sandiego.org

Root Beer Float Day at Connect English
Date/Time: Wednesday, June 17th, 2015
Location: All Campuses!
Price: FREE for Connect English students
Why should I do this? Don't worry, be happy! It's not beer, it's root beer (no alcohol), a classic American soda drink. In many countries a similar drink is called a "black cow" and is made with Coca-Cola instead of root beer. Some students think it's strange, but mix it with ice cream and it becomes everyone's favorite dessert, a cool and refreshing beverage on a hot and sunny San Diego day. Why say no to this goodness?



San Diego Zoo with Connect English
Date/Time: Friday, June 19th, 2015
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: $20 (discounted for Connect English students)
Why should I do this? The best zoo on the West Coast is an excellent all-day event for international students. It's a must-see attraction for all visitors to San Diego, and especially for those who love animals. Attractions and exhibits include Panda Canyon, Elephant Odyssey, The Lost Forest, The Outback, Africa Rocks, and The Polar Rim. Why not get great prices on your tickets then? Join us!
Website: http://www.sandiegozoo.org

San Diego International Beer Festival
Date/Time: Friday, June 19th through Sunday, June 22nd, 2015
Location: The Del Mar Fairgrounds
Price: $52+
Why should I do this? In just the past decade, the San Diego International Beer Festival has become one of the largest beer festivals in the country, with more than 150 breweries and more than 400 beers from around the world. Many tickets for this event include admission to the San Diego County Fair as well, so you can "kill two birds with one stone" while you're up in beautiful Del Mar. Plan your rides to and from this event ahead of time, with either Uber or Lyft, the best rideshare apps for your smart phone.
Website: http://www.sdfair.com/

San Diego Brew Festival
Date/Time: Saturday, June 20th, 2015
Location: Liberty Station (Point Loma)
Price: $40 - $50
Why should I do this? San Diego Beer Fest (Summer) will have 60 breweries, 150 beers, 10 food trucks, two bands, and thousands of people. Centrally located in Point Loma/Liberty Station, transportation to and from this event will be easy. San Diego is a famous beer city, and this event is your opportunity to learn why. Early birds can also get a $10 discount on their tickets by visiting their Facebook page and finding the promotion codes. Don't wait or you'll miss your opportunity to save money on a great experience.
Website: http://sandiegobeerfest.com/

La Jolla Festival of the Arts
Date/Time: June 20th & 21st, 2015
Location: UCSD Warren Field, La Jolla
Price: $11
Why should I do this? Enjoy paintings, sculptures, jewelery, glass work and much more from local artists and artists from all around California. This event features live music as well, so this day is going to entertain all of your senses. Other good news: parking is completely free too.
Website: http://lajollaartfestival.org/

International Student Soccer (football) Match
with Connect English
Date/Time: Wednesday, June 24th, 2015
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? Put on your kit and let's get on the pitch! Connect English students from all three of our San Diego campuses will come together to see which campus and perhaps which country is the best. A simple afternoon of playing the world's most popular sport will be a great chance for students to get some exercise, make new friends, and show everyone who is the best.

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

Ocean Beach Street Fair
Date/Time: Saturday, June 27th, 2015, 10:00am - 8:00pm
Location: Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? Try tasty chili, see all of the funky people of Ocean Beach, listen to music and hang out at the beach, all in one day! The OB Street Fair is a great event for everyone from everywhere, especially international students. You won't see people like this in many other places. Only in Southern California. Vendors sell unique clothing, artwork, jewelery, food and more. Spend the whole day in the streets and beaches of one of San Diego's most laid-back communities and enjoy the sights and sounds.
Website: http://www.oceanbeachsandiego.com

JULY:

4th of July
Date/Time: Saturday, July 4th, 2015
Location: San Diego, California
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? The best summer holiday in the USA, 4th of July celebrates America's independence and freedom. There are fireworks shows, barbecues, parties and much more. The beaches are an excellent place to hang out, but San Diego's parks are a lot of fun too.
Website: http://www.sandiego.org

USS Midway Tuesday Museum with Connect English
Date/Time: Tuesday, July 7th, 2015
Location: Seaport Village, San Diego
Price: $15 for students
Why should I do this? Get an up-close look at San Diego's naval history as we see the ship that defended the USA from World War II through the 1990s. The museum visit includes a tour that shows the aircraft, the crew areas, the kitchens, and many more interesting areas that made the ship a floating fortress for five decades.
Website: http://www.midway.org

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

One Direction
Date/Time: Thursday, July 9th, 2015
Location: Qualcomm Stadium
Price: $52+
Why should I do this? Zayn may have quit the "band", but you know these guys will still melt your face off with their amazing vocals, lyrics, dancing and handsomeness. A band this big can only play at San Diego's biggest possible venue, Qualcomm Stadium, right next to Connect English, San Diego. Bring your ear plugs to protect you from the piercing cacophony of pop-dance-love songs and screaming teenage girls. We're so excited.
Website: http://www.ticketmaster.com

San Diego Zoo with Connect English
Date/Time: Saturday, July 11th, 2015
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: $20 (discounted for Connect English students)
Why should I do this? The best zoo on the West Coast is an excellent all-day event for international students. It's a must-see attraction for all visitors to San Diego, and especially for those who love animals. Attractions and exhibits include Panda Canyon, Elephant Odyssey, The Lost Forest, The Outback, Africa Rocks, and The Polar Rim. Why not get great prices on your tickets then? Join us!
Website: http://www.sandiegozoo.org

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

Comic-Con
Date/Time: July 8th through 12th, 2015
Location: San Diego Convention Center, Seaport Village
Price: $TOO MUCH for a four-day pass
Why should I do this? This world-famous convention brings together an interesting mix of movie stars, TV show stars, video game characters and themes, directors, bloggers, fans, party animals and other "geeks" like those on The Big Bang Theory. Attendees dress in costumes of their favorite characters too. It is an opportunity for students to get extra insight on the most exciting movies and TV shows of the past, present and future. Make sure to get on the lists to go to all of the theme parties at the downtown clubs that weekend too.
Website: http://www.comic-con.org

International Student Soccer (football) Match
with Connect English
Date/Time: Tuesday, July 14th, 2015
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? Put on your kit and let's get on the pitch! Connect English students from all three of our San Diego campuses will come together to see which campus and perhaps which country is the best. A simple afternoon of playing the world's most popular sport will be a great chance for students to get some exercise, make new friends, and show everyone who is the best.

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

Festival of the Bells
Date/Time: July 18th & 19th, 2015
Location: Mission San Diego de Alcalá
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? The Festival of the Bells is an opportunity to look deep into the history of the city of San Diego. The Mission San Diego de Alcalá is the oldest historic building in San Diego, built in 1769. It is actually older than the USA! All five Mission bells are rung during the weekend festivities, including an original bell dating back to 1802. The Festival of the Bells is a great family event with activities and entertainment for the whole family and is a great opportunity for everyone to visit and learn more of this historic landmark. The festival will have mariachi music, activities for kids, and lots of food. This interesting site is very close to Connect English, San Diego, so transportation is going to be easy.
Website: http://www.missionsandiego.org/

Over The Line (OTL)
Date/Time: July 11th - 12th, 2015 and July 18th - 19th, 2015
Location: Fiesta Island, Mission Bay
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? The San Diego OTL event is the world championship of Over the Line events. Three-person teams come from all around the world to compete in this two-week event featuring players, crazy fans, sunshine, beer gardens and the beach.
Website: http://www.ombac.org

[RELATED STORY: THE CONNECT ENGLISH BIKE-LOAN PROGRAM]


Connect English Student Bowling Day
Date/Time: Tuesday, July 14th, 2015
Location: East Village Tavern & Bowl
Price: $20
Why should I do this? Have you tried bowling before? Well, even if you haven't or you already know that you're terrible at bowling, you'll have a great time with your Connect English classmates. We have done this activity every summer and the students always love it. You can see pictures of past Connect English bowling events on the Connect English Facebook page.
Website: http://tavernbowl.com/

Del Mar Horse Races
Date/Time: Thursday, July 16th - Monday, September 7th, 2015
Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds
Price: $5-$40
Why should I do this? The rich and famous are here, and so are the regular fun-loving citizens of San Diego. Wear your fanciest summer outfit (including a big hat), bet on the horses to win money, or just enjoy the sun and music of beautiful Del Mar, in North County San Diego. On Fridays of racing season, some excellent bands play shows at the Del Mar Race Track too. The list of these bands will be announced in the spring. Come back to our blog to see the list once it is available.
Website: http://www.dmtc.com

Pride
Date/Time: July 17th - 19th, 2015
Location: Hillcrest & Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: Main festival - $20, other events - various prices
Why should I do this? The annual San Diego LGBT Pride Parade is the 5th largest in the United States attracting 150,000 cheering spectators and significant media participation. Celebrate alternative lifestyles at this high-energy, high-volume festival in one of San Diego's best city parks.
Website: http://www.sdpride.org

Imagine Dragons and Metric
Date/Time: Tuesday, July 21st, 2015
Location: Viejas Arena (San Diego Sports Arena)
Price: $49+
Why should I do this? After their 2012 album Night Visions sold more than 7,000,000 copies, Imagine Dragons is back to support their second studio album, Smoke + Mirrors. The new album features popular singles "I Bet My Life", "Gold", and "Shots".
Website: https://www.imaginedragonsmusic.com

Mission Bay Kayaking with Connect English
Date/Time: Wednesday, July 22nd, 2015
Location: Mission Bay, San Diego
Price: $25
Why should I do this? One of the largest water recreation areas in the USA is right here, in our front yard in San Diego. If you're not enjoying Mission Bay aquatic activities, you're missing your chance to enjoy one of the most beautiful and relaxing areas of America's Finest City. Connect English students will meet at the kayak rental shop, learn some methods and safety rules, and then paddle all around the bay on a beautiful sunny day.

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

AUGUST:

Disc Golf at Balboa Park with Connect English
Date/Time: Tuesday, August 4th, 2015
Location: Morley Field, Balboa Park
Price: $10 (including rental)
Why should I do this? It's like golf, but it's even easier than golf. Male and female students have played disc golf with Connect English and had so much fun every time. Instead of hitting a golf ball (hard to do) accurately, you just throw a Frisbee-like disc. Students enjoy disc golf even if they're beginners and they play terribly. It's just a good opportunity to be out in the sunshine with your friends, trying new things.
Website: http://http://morleyfield.com

Vans Warped Tour
Date/Time: August 5th, 2015
Location: Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego
Price: $48.50 and up
Why should I do this? We Came as Romans, Attila, Memphis May Fire and more rock bands are playing a show of one of the biggest rock tours in the USA, here in San Diego. See so many bands for just one price. This year there is also a comedy tent at the event, for some laughs mixed in with great music.
Website: http://www.vanswarpedtour.com

International Student Soccer (football) Match
with Connect English
Date/Time: Wednesday, August 12th, 2015
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? Put on your kit and let's get on the pitch! Connect English students from all three of our San Diego campuses will come together to see which campus and perhaps which country is the best. A simple afternoon of playing the world's most popular sport will be a great chance for students to get some exercise, make new friends, and show everyone who is the best.

San Diego Spirits Festival
Date/Time: August 22nd & 23rd, 2015
Location: Broadway Pier, Downtown San Diego
Price: Prices TBA
Why should I do this? San Diego Spirits Festival is a nationally acclaimed celebration of cocktail culture and is the premiere West Coast spirits festival held on the beautiful San Diego bay. With bartender competitions, tastings, seminars and parties, the festival offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for brands to be supported and gain recognition among San Diego’s cocktail and culinary community and beyond.
Website: http://www.sandiegospiritsfestival.com/

Torrey Pines Hike with Connect English
Date/Time: Tuesday, August 25th, 2015
Location: Torrey Pines State Reserve
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? Active students will love the chance to get some exercise, make new friends, and see one of the most beautiful natural attractions of San Diego. Torrey Pines State Reserve and Torrey Pines State Beach give students opportunities to hike to the top of the cliffs, and then stroll down one of the nicest beaches in the city. Wear your athletic shoes and bring your camera for sure.
Website: http://www.torreypine.org

Birch Aquarium Field Trip with Connect English
Date/Time: Thursday, August 27th, 2015
Location: Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Price: $15 student-discounted price
Why should I do this? Explore where the wonders of the ocean come alive! The mission of Birch Aquarium is to provide ocean science education, to interpret Scripps Institution of Oceanography research, and to promote ocean conservation.
Website: http://www.torreypine.org

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

San Diego Zoo with Connect English
Date/Time: Friday, August 28th, 2015
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: $20 (discounted for Connect English students)
Why should I do this? The best zoo on the West Coast is an excellent all-day event for international students. It's a must-see attraction for all visitors to San Diego, and especially for those who love animals. Attractions and exhibits include Panda Canyon, Elephant Odyssey, The Lost Forest, The Outback, Africa Rocks, and The Polar Rim. Why not get great prices on your tickets then? Join us!
Website: http://www.sandiegozoo.org

Taylor Swift, Shawn Mendes and Vance Joy
Date/Time: Saturday, August 29th, 2015
Location: Petco Park
Price: $45+
Why should I do this? OMG, it's seven-time Grammy winner Taylor Swift, paying a visit to San Diego on The 1989 World Tour. Surely the 25-year-old pop sensation will be performing some of her latest and greatest, including "Shake it Off" and "Trouble" (click for best remix), which have invaded our ears for the past few years. Add Shawn Mendes and Vance Joy to the lineup, and you've got yourself a major concert that is sure to please.
Website: http://www.taylorswift.com

SEPTEMBER:

American Football Class at Connect English
Date/Time: Wednesday, September 9th, 2015
Location: Connect English, Pacific Beach
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? In early September, you'll see that everyone in the USA is going crazy about American football. San Diegans will be talking all the time about the San Diego Chargers, the best team in the AFC West division of the NFL. This free class is your opportunity to learn what everyone is so excited about, and especially to be able to understand the games as they happen on television. This way you can have conversation your American friends who are football fanatics, and will be going crazy about the sport between August, when the season begins, and February, when the world championship happens.
Website: http://www.ConnectEnglish.edu

Brazilian Day
Date/Time: Sunday, September 13th, 2015
Location: Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? Celebrate one of the most fantastic cultures in the world with some of the most fantastic people in the city of San Diego. This street party features Brazilian food, music, dance and more.
Website: http://www.braziliandaysandiego.com

San Diego Bayfair/Thunderboat Races
Date/Time: September 12th through 14th, 2015
Location: Mission Bay, San Diego
Price: $15-$45
Why should I do this? See some of the fastest boats in the world compete against each other from the beautiful beaches of Mission Bay. These races and the festival that surrounds it bring people from all over California to experience the sound the the fury of Thunderboats. Major event sponsors will also present exciting exhibitions in the fair/pit area of the race course.
Website: http://sandiegobayfair.org/

San Diego Chargers' First Home Game of 2015
Date/Time: Sunday, September 13th, 2015
Location: Qualcomm Stadium
Price: $55+
Why should I do this? America's favorite sport begins in September, with the San Diego Chargers playing their first home game of the season against the Detroit Lions. Go for the game, but make sure you arrive early for parking and the American tradition of tailgating (barbecuing, hanging out, having a few beers, etc. in the parking lot).
Website: http://www.chargers.com/

Iggy Azalea
Date/Time: September 18th, 2015
Location: Valley View Casino Center
Price: $40 - $70
Why should I do this?After years of honing her signature style on hip-hop’s underground circuit, Iggy Azalea burst onto the charts with her critically acclaimed debut album, The New Classic, and emerged as the breakout story of 2014, with one of the year’s most-streamed albums globally. Now she visits San Diego!
Website: https://www.axs.com

KAABOO Del Mar Music Festival 2015
Date/Time: September 18th through 20th, 2015
Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds
Price: $199+ for all three days
Why should I do this? This is going to be a totally amazing event. Here's who is playing at the first-ever Kaaboo Music Festival: No Doubt, The Killers, Zac Brown Band, Snoop Dogg, Foster the People, 311, Ben Harper, Spoon, Dirty Heads, AWOLNATION, Girl Talk, Slightly Stoopid, Tribal Seeds, OK Go, Michael Franti & Spearhead, The Roots, Counting Crows and tons of others.
Website: https://www.kaaboodelmar.com

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

San Diego Restaurant Week
Date/Time: September 20th through 26th, 2015
Location: All around San Diego
Price: Usually $10 to $40 per meal
Why should I do this? The best restaurants in San Diego create special taster menus and pre-fixe menus to give everyone a chance to try a variety of tasty dishes at new places. Most restaurants' Restaurant Week menus include a choice of appetizers, entrees and desserts. Have you ever been curious about trying that restaurant that everyone tells you about? Well, Restaurant Week is the best reason to finally eat there.
Website: http://www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com/

International Student Soccer (football) Match
with Connect English
Date/Time: Tuesday, September 22nd, 2015
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? Put on your kit and let's get on the pitch! Connect English students from all three of our San Diego campuses will come together to see which campus and perhaps which country is the best. A simple afternoon of playing the world's most popular sport will be a great chance for students to get some exercise, make new friends, and show everyone who is the best.

Foo Fighters
Date/Time: Thursday, September 24th, 2015
Location: Sleep Train Amphitheater
Price: $55 - $95
Why should I do this? Do you need much convincing? It's the Foo Fighters. One of the greatest American rock bands of all time. They've been rocking together for two decades now, and now they stop in San Diego to play a show in support of their latest album Sonic Highways. Will they have enough time to play their entire arsenal of mega hits?
Website: http://foofighters.com/

Pacific Islander Festival
Date/Time: September 26th & 27th, 2015
Location: Ski Beach, Mission Bay
Price: FREE!
Why should I do this? Enjoy a day of sunshine and relaxation with the culture of San Diego's Pacific islander population. The mission of the Pacfific Islander Festival Association is to promote charitable and educational projects for the benefit of everyone, but with emphasis on the Indigenous People of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia; to provide educational resources to everyone; and to perpetuate traditional cultures. No matter where you are from, you can love and learn from this event.
Website: http://www.pifasandiego.com/

Paddle for Clean Water
Date/Time: September 27th, 2015
Location: Ocean Beach Pier
Price: TBD
Why should I do this? Get your surfboard and support San Diego's chapter of the Surfrider Foundation by paddling around Ocean Beach Pier. This event raises awareness for clean oceans and clean beaches. Have a great time, get some great waves, meet some great people, all for an excellent community organization.
Website: http://paddle4cleanwater.blogspot.com/

OCTOBER:

Miramar Air Show
Date/Time: October 2nd through 4th, 2015
Location: Miramar Marine Corps Air Station, San Diego
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? Hundreds of thousands of people have enjoyed the three-day Miramar Airshow every year as the US military shows off some of its most amazing airplanes and most skilled pilots. You can get an up-close look at US Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps equipment, plus plenty of private aircraft. Pilots and planes from around the world also come to this event to show off their abilities for the world to see. You'll hear and see jet fighter planes roaring over San Diego all weekend. Best of all, the whole thing is totally free for you and all of your friends.
Website: http://www.miramarairshow.com

[RELATED STORY: The Slang, Idioms & Phrasal Verbs Class is now available at the Pacific Beach Campus]

Pacific BeachFest 5K Run
Date/Time: October 3rd, 2015
Location: The Pacific Beach Boardwalk
Price: Completely FREE!
Why should I do this? A 5-kilometer run from Pacific Beach into Mission Beach startes the day, and then the rest of the day is full of the best shops, restaurants, community groups and bands of Pacific Beach joining forces to give San Diegans a day at the beach to remember. Great food, beautiful beaches and good people mean a guaranteed good time in the sun of one of San Diego's coolest neighborhoods.
Website: http://wpacificbeachfest5k.com

Contact Connect English

E-mail: info@ConnectEnglishSanDiego.com
Phone: (858) 412-5131
Fax: (619) 283-2866
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ConnectEnglishPacificBeach
Website: Connect English, Pacific Beach

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