travel store san diego california

About TravelStore

A LEADER IN CLIENT-FOCUSED BUSINESS TRAVEL MANAGEMENT

Company Profile

• How We Are Different

Chairman's Message

Established in 1975, TravelStore is unique in being an employee-owned company . Our team of dedicated, customer-focused travel professionals are invested in the success of your business, and demonstrate their passion for service every day.

TravelStore is the largest independently owned travel agency headquartered in California, and consistently ranked among the top 50 largest in the United States.

• Meet our Executive Leadership team here
• Meet our Corporate Travel Managers here
• Meet our Client Service Managers here

What Makes Us Different

Employee-Owned

We are unique being an employee-owned travel agency, with a high bar for our integrity and dedication to customer service. Our strong company culture is anchored  by our mission and values.

Award-Winning

Our award-winning company consistently ranks among the best agencies in the country ( Travel Weekly, Business Travel Weekly ). Our passion for our profession has resulted in being named multiple years as one of the "Best Places To Work" in Los Angeles County and Sacramento.

Our management team is active on various travel advisory boards and committees for travel organizations, travel magazines ( Afar, Travel+Leisure ), major hotel brands, and airlines. We are engaged with our industry and our opinions continue to be sought across the broad spectrum of our industry.

TravelStore is a top member of the prestigious Signature Travel Network, a highly regarded worldwide partnership allowing us to provide our customers unmatched benefits and additional value when you travel. We are a Premium Member of ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors), CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) and an affiliate of BCD Travel.

Our first office was located near UCLA in Westwood Village, California, because I thought professors planning sabbaticals would make for great clientele. With a developing reputation in the travel industry, the company grew and I opened a second office in 1980, followed by more branches across the Golden State. 

As Chairman and [former] CEO of TravelStore, my goal has always been to make sure our company is operating with the most sophisticated technology, while ensuring we continue to deliver a personalized level of service to each of our clients.

In 2005, I made the decision to create an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), allowing our employees to benefit from being part owners in TravelStore.

Though my initial hope that professors would be our best clients didn’t exactly prove to be true, TravelStore has become much bigger and more successful than I ever imagined.

We have always been guided by values like humility, integrity and respect in how we work with each other and we have strived to treat others the way we wish to be treated. This is the philosophy that has brought us much success. As we look to the future, it gives me great confidence and pride to know that no matter how much the world may change, you can rely on TravelStore to act in accordance with these values.

My sincere thanks to all of our professional agents and staff, the preferred suppliers we work with, and to our respected clients without whom our success would not be possible.

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Retail Therapy

Take home your perfect san diego treasure, don't forget to save time to shop.

Whether you're window shopping, picking out a souvenir to bring back home or buying an entirely new wardrobe, you won't be disappointed with the abundance of shopping choices that San Diego has to offer. Stroll the many outdoor shopping malls and outlet centers, poke around at vintage antique stores and quaint neighborhood boutiques, or discover hand-crafted artisan treasures at the weekly farmers markets. However you like to shop, be sure to add a little "retail therapy" to your itinerary the next time you're in town. You won't be disappointed.

Shopping Malls

Accomplish all of your shopping needs at one of our many shopping malls, from luxury to family-friendly and everything in between. Department stores such as Bloomingdale's, Macy's, Neiman  Marcus and Nordstrom anchor inviting upscale malls, including Westfield UTC  and the Fashion Valley shopping center. And those malls also offer a wide array of designer and specialty shops, from Gucci to Ann Taylor to the Apple Store. A variety of dining options, from takeout to fine restaurants, make these shopping destinations a complete experience.

Outlet Centers

If you're looking for some great deals on designer and brand names, then try one of our outlet centers located throughout San Diego County, Explore outlet options from North County Coastal to South Bay  to centrally located Mission Valley  and everything in between and enjoy discounts up to 25%-65%. Stores such as Off 5th Saks, Nordstrom Rack, Kenneth Cole, Barneys New York, DKNY, Elie Tahari, Juicy Couture, Michael Kors and more will add to your bargain-hunter's experience.

Neighborhood Shopping Communities

There are a number of must-see shopping neighborhoods  to explore throughout San Diego, featuring one-of-a-kind local boutiques, antique stores, art, home goods, furniture, local restaurants, wine bars and beer pubs. You'll want to spend at least a day visiting some of these vibrant and welcoming communities.

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If you're looking for the perfect bottle of wine or specialty cheese to complete your picnic basket, or locally sourced olive oils or chocolates to take home, stop by one of the many specialty shops sprinkled throughout San Diego.

San Diego Destination Spas

San Diego is home to a collection of world-renowned spas that offer indulgent and effective treatments to soothe aches, revitalize cells, unwind ravaged nerves and help you ease into a San Diego state of mind.

Meditation & Self-Realization

San Diego's natural beauty always seems to spark a quest for the spiritual side of life in people.

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Whether your attitude is "Shop 'Til You Drop" or more “Are We Done Yet?," these shopping experiences — based on the neighborhood vibe — can satisfy any personal style while taking in some of San Diego’s most go-to restaurants and bars.

From tree-lined streets with small boutiques, to shopping blocks with worldwide brands, to expansive outdoor malls, the following San Diego shopping destinations can help you accomplish your retail mission while providing some fun along the way!

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Walnuts sold in some San Diego stores linked to E. Coli outbreak

By city news service • published 24 mins ago • updated 15 mins ago.

A multi-state food safety alert was issued Wednesday for an E. coli outbreak possibly linked to organic walnut halves and pieces sold in bulk bins at natural food stores and food co-ops in Southern California and elsewhere.

The Gibson Farms walnut pieces were distributed at stores in cities including San Diego, San Marcos, Escondido and Encinitas, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The walnuts have expiration dates between May 21, 2025, and June 7, 2025.

So far, six people have reported possible E. coli illness in California, the CDC said. Gibson Farms, based in Hollister, has initiated a product recall, the public health agency said.

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The CDC said almost all the sick people reported purchasing organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores.

These are the stores in San Diego that had the walnut pieces:

• Jimbos Naturally- 10511 4-S Commons Drive, 12841 El Camino Real and 1633 S Centre City Parkway
• Lazy Acres Market- 422 W Washington St., San Diego and 150 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas
• Ocean Beach Co-Op- 4765 Voltaire Street, San Diego
• Sun Organic Farm- 411 Las Posas, San Marcos
• Super GP Foods & Associates- 110 E Olive Dr. San Ysidro

Symptoms of  E. coli

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Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and/or vomiting. Symptoms begin anywhere from a few days after consuming contaminated food or up to nine days later.

The severity or presence of certain symptoms may depend on the type of pathogenic  E. coli  that is causing the infection. Some infections can cause severe bloody diarrhea and lead to life-threatening conditions, such as a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), or the development of high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurologic problems.

More details on the outbreak, click here .

This article tagged under:

Times of San Diego

Local News and Opinion for San Diego

Outbreak of E. Coli Linked to Organic Walnuts

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A multi-state food safety alert was issued Wednesday for an E. coli outbreak possibly linked to organic walnut halves and pieces sold in bulk bins at natural food stores and food co-ops in Southern California and elsewhere.

The Gibson Farms walnut pieces were distributed at stores in cities including San Diego, San Marcos, Escondido and Encinitas, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The walnuts have expiration dates between May 21, 2025, and June 7, 2025.

So far, six people have reported possible E. coli illness in California, the CDC said. Gibson Farms, based in Hollister, has initiated a product recall, the public health agency said.

The CDC said almost all the sick people reported purchasing the organic walnuts from bulk bins in food co-ops or natural food stores.

A list of affected stores is available at http://fda.gov/media/178182/download?attachment fda.gov/media/178182/download?attachment.

— City News Service

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The 12 Best Hotels in San Diego

Choose from our list of editor-loved properties and T+L award winners.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Hotel Coronado

California’s second-largest city — and the eighth-largest in the country — San Diego is a sprawling metropolis with lodging options for every traveler. The urban center and its environs are home to wide-ranging accommodation options, from iconic hotels of historical and architectural significance to meandering beachside resort properties that beckon visitors with world-class golf and tennis.

Ready to plan your next getaway in sunny San Diego? Read on to discover the best hotels and resorts in the region, from beachy retreats to walkable city stays. A Southern California-based and -bred travel writer, I curated this list with expert recommendations from Travel + Leisure editors, contributors, and readers, along with winners from our World’s Best Awards and It List. (Bonus: almost all the hotels on our list are pet-friendly, too).

Kona Kai San Diego

Also available to book at Hotels.com

This intimate and unfussy hotel has a welcoming vibe, a private beach, and bikes for rent to explore the area.

Rooms may be noisy, and added costs (such as parking and a resort fee) can add up.

This pet-friendly contemporary hotel located at one end of Shelter Island has easy access to a non-swimming private beach for bean bag tossing, sandcastles, and nightly bonfires (ask for a s'mores kit at the front desk).

It features an adults-only pool and Zybra bikes (including helmets and locks) available to rent for two hours free of charge; the hotel is located in a super bike-friendly part of town, so it's a great way to explore. SpaTerre offers a unique alpha-quartz sand bed, plus a fitness center if you prefer to get your sweat on indoors. Kona Kai San Diego ranked in our World’s Best Awards in 2023.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Shelter Island
• Distance from Airport: 3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, USS Midway Museum, Liberty Public Market
• Accessibility: Accessible guest rooms and most property features
• Rates : Starting at $134
• Wi-Fi : Included in the $45 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $45 per night
• Pet Policy : Two dogs up to 65 pounds with a non-refundable pet charge of $100 for up to 3 nights or $150 up to 7 nights

Pendry San Diego

Pendry’s vibe and amenities are luxurious, stylish, and just plain cool, and its location can't be beat for access to Petco Park and the convention center.

Rates are steep, especially on peak dates, and extra fees like parking add up to a hefty folio.

This luxury hotel located in the Gaslamp Quarter scored a place on our World’s Best Awards in 2023 and 2021. Situated just blocks away from the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, and a variety of restaurants and nightlife, the vibe here is cool and luxurious. There are 317 guest rooms including 36 suites, plus six restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool with private cabanas, a fitness center, and the full-service Spa Pendry. Rooms start at 350 square feet, and feature top-end linens from Fili D'Oro and views of the bay and downtown.

• Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
• Distance from Airport: 3.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Petco Park, Maritime Museum, Balboa Park
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and suites
• Rates : From $334
• Parking : Yes (valet only), $60 per night
• Pet Policy : Two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $100 per stay

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

This iconic property is comprised of standalone casitas and has posh resort amenities including a high-end spa, tennis, and excellent golf access.

The location is serene and sprawling, but not walkable or convenient to sightseeing attractions. Plus a hefty daily resort fee of $60 adds to the overall cost.

This iconic Spanish Colonial Hacienda-inspired resort property in Rancho Santa Fe is long established and frequently awarded; it’s even ranked on our World’s Best Awards in 2023, 2022, and 2021. Here, there are 49 luxe guest casitas with their own patios and fireplaces, plus three opulent private residences, all situated across 45 acres of verdant gardens and citrus groves.

Highlights include the Spa at Rancho Valencia, tennis and pickleball courts, easy access to golf, an array of resort activities on the daily schedule, and The Pony Room restaurant showcasing fresh and sustainable coastal ranch fare with outdoor dining.

The Details: 

• Neighborhood: Rancho Santa Fe
• Distance from Airport: 18 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Farms golf course, Hiking trails, Del Mar Racetrack
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and public spaces
• Rates : From $524
• Parking : Yes, valet only, included
• Pet Policy : A $250 pet fee applies to all pet reservations

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

This hotel is historically significant and well-located near Little Italy and the Gaslamp District.

Rooms are on the smaller side without abundant storage space.

Downtown's century-old Armed Services Building houses this hotel, which blends historic and modern touches for a comfortable and well-located stay. Steps from Little Italy, the Bayfront, the USS Midway Museum, and near the Gaslamp District, the building features high ceilings, original tilework, and exposed brick walls with rooms that are sparse and chic. The Guild dishes up craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine. This hotel also featured on T+L’s World’s Best Awards in 2023.

• Neighborhood: Downtown San Diego
• Distance from Airport: 1.8 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Museum of Contemporary Art, Santa Fe Depot train station, Gaslamp Quarter
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• Rates : From $135
• Parking : Yes, valet only, $56 per day
• Pet Policy : Pets permitted up to 40 pounds max per room (if you’re bringing more than one pet, that’s the combined total weight). A $250 cleaning fee applies to any rooms requiring extra pet cleanup at the end of the stay.

Park Hyatt Aviara

This property recently underwent a total overhaul; among the standout features are large, graciously appointed rooms and the Miraval Life in Balance Spa.

This family-friendly resort may not appeal as much to those traveling without kids who are seeking a serene stay.

Sprawling over 200 green acres along the sea and adjacent to the natural wetland preserve Batiquitos Lagoon, this wellness-driven property offers adults-only and family pools, excellent tennis facilities, and Southern California’s only coastal Arnold Palmer signature golf course, Aviara Golf Club.

The resort recently unveiled an updated look following a $60 million overhaul, in which it updated all of the public spaces and guest rooms and suites, and added new amenities such as a Topgolf Swing Suites and the recently debuted Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara.

• Neighborhood: Carlsbad
• Distance from Airport: 33 miles
• Nearby Attractions: State beaches, Legoland California, Museum of Making Music
• Rates : From $375
• Parking : Yes, $65 overnight or $55 day rate (valet only)
• Pet Policy : $150 per pet, per stay. Dogs may not exceed 50 pounds each or 75 pounds combined (up to two dogs per room).

The US Grant, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

The US Grant

This property dates back more than 100 years and radiates historic charm.

Although the rooms have been updated, they may feel dated, with underwhelming views from the windows.

This century-old property located downtown near the lively Gaslamp Quarter exudes historic significance and charm; opened in 1910, it has hosted its share of presidents and dignitaries. Its on-site restaurant, Grant Grill and Lounge, dates back to 1951, with fleur de lis banquettes and mahogany wood details in an Art Deco setting; the space also hosts live music. Rooms here are stately and opulent.

• Distance from Airport: 2 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Symphony, USS Midway Museum
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and features, including elevators
• Rates : From $303
• Parking: $60 per night (valet only)
• Pet Policy : $150 non-refundable pet fee required, maximum pet weight is 35 pounds.

Hotel Del Coronado

This sprawling resort with recognizable Victorian architecture is an icon with a storied history dating back to 1888.

The resort is currently undergoing renovations.

This iconic Victorian-style hotel, now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has welcomed visitors for 135 years. The resort features five distinct neighborhoods; Beach Village and Shore House are the hottest places for a stay right now. On site are a full suite of amenities including a full-service spa, private pool cabanas, a retail collection, and an array of resort activities.

The property is currently undergoing a massive $550 million restoration — a comprehensive five-year project. Among the exciting new additions slated to emerge in 2025 include a Nobu restaurant and the overhauled Victorian building.

• Neighborhood: Coronado Island
• Distance from Airport: 3.7 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, Glorietta Bay Marina
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and resort features
• Rates : From $314
• Wi-Fi : Included with $35 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $55 overnight for self-parking or $75 overnight for valet
• Pet Policy : Pets weighing up to 40 pounds with a maximum of 2 per guest room and a non-refundable pet charge of $125 per stay

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

This intimate property recently debuted a luxurious overhaul.

This property is 20 miles from the airport and generally not walkable to other attractions; it’s useful to have a car.

Set in Rancho Santa Fe in North County, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe debuted a total property overhaul across its 11 lush acres in November 2023. The reimagined inn offers 85 luxurious suites, bungalows, and residences, plus Lilian’s restaurant and Bing’s Bar.

In the first-ever hotel partnership from a celebrity-favorite spa owner and luxury skincare line founder, the property is also home to The Mila Moursi Spa at The Inn. Here, there’s also world-class golf, tennis, and other outdoor activities. Hollywood heavyweights known for stays here include Bing Crosby, Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and Mary Pickford.

• Neighborhood: North County
• Distance from Airport: 20 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, San Diego Botanic Garden, Del Mar Dog Beach
• Rates : From $481
• Parking : Yes, valet and self-parking available ($25)
• Pet Policy : Two dogs up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $125 per stay

La Valencia

You can’t beat this prime La Jolla location, walkable to beaches, shopping, and restaurants; it’s one of La Jolla’s only hotels located within walking distance to both the beach and downtown.

The room sizing can feel cramped, and noise can be an issue.

With a nearly century-long history, this recognizable hotel with a signature pink facade and Spanish-tiled tower, remains a landmark in La Jolla. Situated on distinctive Prospect Street, atop the bluffs with views of the ocean and La Jolla Cove, the location is prime for exploring beaches and local businesses. On site are the Mediterranean Room ocean-view restaurant as well as the La Sala Lounge and a Peloton-equipped fitness center.

• Neighborhood: La Jolla
• Distance from Airport: 9.3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Caves, village of La Jolla
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and property features
• Rates : From $242
• Wi-Fi : Included with $39 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, valet ($30 overnight or $18 for the day)
• Pet Policy : Maximum of two pets per room with a fee of $50 per pet

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

With a location ideally situated for visitors to the University of California, San Diego, this recently renovated property is verdant and peaceful.

While we love the mission-style architecture of the property, the room design is a bit underwhelming in comparison.

This La Jolla property recently completed a major renovation of its 210 guest rooms and suites, plus its multiple lawn spaces, and added a new apiary and chef’s garden. The sprawling property includes 10 acres of gardens, stone pathways, serene courtyards, and fountains. The hotel also features a full-service spa, a large pool deck and cabanas, wellness programs which include outdoor yoga and barre classes, and three on-site dining destinations.

• Distance from Airport: 11 miles
• Nearby Attractions: UC San Diego, Black’s Beach, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines State Reserve, Salk Institute
• Rates : From $257
• Parking : Yes, valet parking is available for $48 per night and self-parking at $40 per night for overnight guests
• Pet Policy : Any size or breed is welcome, $150 non-refundable pet fee required at check-in

Alila Marea Beach Resort

Alila Marea

Most rooms in this tranquil oceanfront property feature views of the Pacific.

The hefty $55 resort fee does not include parking.

This beachfront resort in the World of Hyatt portfolio has 130 guest rooms — and most of them feature Pacific Ocean views. The resort fee covers a range of properly appealing inclusions, such as transportation within a 3-mile radius, a daily yoga class, and rentals of e-bikes, surfboards, and wetsuits. First-floor fire pit rooms feature spacious patios with cozy seating for all-season enjoyment.

• Neighborhood: Encinitas
• Distance from Airport: 25 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Ponto Beach, Encinitas Town, San Diego Botanic Garden
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and most hotel features
• Rates : From $497
• Wi-Fi : Included with the $55 daily resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $60 per night (valet only)
• Pet Policy : No pets permitted.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Cory Bjork / The Lodge at Torrey Pines

This charming property offers excellent access to golf, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Some visitors noted aging finishes and rooms in need of updates.

Set atop the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla, The Lodge offers views of the ocean as well as the Torrey Pines Golf Course. With its post-and-beam construction, The Lodge is modeled after Pasadena’s Gamble and Blacker houses, exemplary of early-1900s Craftsman architecture.

Here there are 170 guest rooms and suites, as well as the 9,500-square-foot Spa at Torrey Pines. There’s also a croquet lawn, heated outdoor pool and cabanas, whirlpool, and terrace with chaises, plus access to hiking at the state reserve and golf at the iconic 36-hole course that hosts the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.

• Distance from Airport: 15 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, Scripps Aquarium, La Jolla Playhouse, Torrey Pines Golf Course
• Rates : From $422
• Parking : Yes, self-parking ($55 per day) or 24-hour valet service ($65 per day)
• Pet Policy : One dog weighing 50 pounds or less, or two smaller dogs (with a combined weight of 75 pounds or less) are permitted; a non-refundable room cleaning fee of $150 on the day of check-in is required.

Know Before You Go

Don’t expect beach weather year-round.

While San Diego is much warmer than most of the country during the winter months, it still may not be warm enough for lounging at the beach — think daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit — so plan for some non-beach activities if you’re traveling in cooler months. That said, even January surprises with the occasional beach day. Layers are always a good idea.

Consider renting a car

While the downtown area is very walkable, San Diego is a sprawling and spread-out city where many residents rely on cars. If you’re looking to go hiking or explore other parts of the county, you may want to have your own car for easier access. Do expect traffic, and build it into your timeline planning.

What’s the best way to get to San Diego?

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located near the city’s downtown, and its manageable scale makes arriving and departing relatively sane. If you’re coming from elsewhere in California, Amtrak’s Surfliner is one of the country’s most scenic routes. It travels over 350 miles along the coast between San Luis Obispo to the north and San Diego to the south. If you’re arriving by car, the major freeways into the city include the 5, 8, and 15.

How We Chose These Hotels

Alesandra Dubin is a travel and lifestyle journalist currently based in and also raised in Southern California. The hotels on this list were chosen based on her expertise and research as well as the firsthand accounts of Travel + Leisure editors and other contributors. Many of these hotels have also been voted into their respective categories in the World’s Best Awards by T+L readers. All of our hotel recommendations also align with our T+L Hotel Values .

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Pair of giant pandas set to travel from China to San Diego Zoo under conservation partnership

A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the US, where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations.

This photo released by the San Diego Zoo shows giant panda Yun Chuan on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the Sichuan province of China. A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations, officials said Monday, April 29. (Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo via AP)

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This photo released by the San Diego Zoo shows giant panda Xin Bao on Thursday, April 25, 2024, in the Sichuan province of China. A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations, officials said Monday, April 29. (Ken Bohn/San Diego Zoo via AP)

SAN DIEGO (AP) — A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations, officials said Monday.

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance said its caretakers recently visited China to meet the giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, ahead of their planned trip to Southern California. An exact date for the handoff hasn’t been set.

Yun Chuan, a mild-mannered male who’s nearly 5 years old, has “deep connections” to California, the wildlife alliance said. His mother, Zhen Zhen, was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007 to parents Bai Yun and Gao Gao.

Xin Bao is a nearly 4-year-old female described as “a gentle and witty introvert with a sweet round face and big ears.”

“Our conservation partners in China shared photographs and personality traits of Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, but meeting them in person was so special,” said Dr. Megan Owen, the alliance’s vice president of conservation science. “It’s inspiring as people from around the world come together to conserve, protect, and care for these special bears, and we can’t wait to welcome them to San Diego.”

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has a nearly 30-year partnership with leading conservation institutions in China focused on protecting and recovering giant pandas and the bamboo forests they depend on.

Pair of giant pandas set to travel from China to San Diego Zoo under conservation partnership

SAN DIEGO — A pair of giant pandas will soon make the journey from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of an ongoing conservation partnership between the two nations, officials said Monday.

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance said its caretakers recently visited China to meet the giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, ahead of their planned trip to Southern California. An exact date for the handoff hasn’t been set.

Yun Chuan, a mild-mannered male who’s nearly 5 years old, has “deep connections” to California, the wildlife alliance said. His mother, Zhen Zhen, was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007 to parents Bai Yun and Gao Gao.

Xin Bao is a nearly 4-year-old female described as “a gentle and witty introvert with a sweet round face and big ears.”

“Our conservation partners in China shared photographs and personality traits of Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, but meeting them in person was so special,” said Dr. Megan Owen, the alliance’s vice president of conservation science. “It’s inspiring as people from around the world come together to conserve, protect, and care for these special bears, and we can’t wait to welcome them to San Diego.”

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has a nearly 30-year partnership with leading conservation institutions in China focused on protecting and recovering giant pandas and the bamboo forests they depend on.

The Associated Press

The UN’s nuclear watchdog chief will visit Iran next week as concerns rise about uranium enrichment

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The head of the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog will travel to Iran next week as Tehran’s nuclear program enriches uranium a step away from weapons-grade levels and international oversight remains limited, officials said Wednesday.

Rafael Mariano Grossi’s visit will coincide with a nuclear energy conference Iran will hold in the central city of Isfahan, which hosts sensitive enrichment sites and was targeted in an apparent Israeli attack on April 19 . It also coincides with wider regional tensions in the Mideast inflamed by the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip, including attacks on shipping by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen .

The director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency will visit Iran on May 6 and 7, the Vienna-based agency said. It did not elaborate on his schedule or his meetings.

Iranian state television has described the conference in Isfahan as an “international conference on nuclear sciences and techniques.” The broadcaster quoted Mohammed Eslami, the head of Iran’s civilian nuclear program, as saying on Wednesday that Grossi will attend the conference and meet with him and other officials.

“I am sure that the ambiguities will be resolved and we can strengthen our relations with the agency within the framework of safeguards and” the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty , Eslami said.

Tensions have only grown between Iran and the IAEA since then-President Donald Trump in 2018 unilaterally withdraw America from Tehran’s nuclear deal with world powers. Since then, Iran has abandoned all limits the deal put on its program and now has enough enriched uranium for “several” nuclear bombs if it chose to build them, Grossi has warned .

IAEA surveillance cameras have been disrupted, while Iran has barred some of the agency’s most experienced inspectors . Iranian officials have increasingly threatened they could pursue atomic weapons, particularly after launching an unprecedented drone-and-missile attack on Israel last month.

Iran has always denied seeking nuclear weapons, saying its atomic program is for purely civilian purposes. However, U.S. intelligence agencies and the IAEA say Iran had an organized military nuclear program up until 2003.

The latest American intelligence community assessment says Iran “is not currently undertaking the key nuclear weapons-development activities necessary to produce a testable nuclear device.”

Associated Press writer Amir Vahdat in Tehran, Iran, contributed to this report.

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