I really don't have a budget. I got money to spend .
I'm just cheap more than anything .
I just don't believe in paying $250 a night just to lay down for 6hrs. But if it's dangerous not to then I guess I will.
El Cajon and La Mesa aren't really dangerous. It's just a pretty grim view of San Diego, if you are just visiting. if you have the choice and budget not to, DO NOT stay out there. Strip malls and that kind of thing. Not very scenic. I'm from that area, but live in Little Italy area now. So, can't say that this will be the most diverse place, but this is the by far the hottest spot in the city at the moment, if this is a wife/kids thing, then probably not the right move, probably $250 a night, with multiple bars and new spots
lafayettehotelsd.com
Pendry: if you want spend a little, has a nighclub that's popular
Carte: in Little Italy is probably a good option, might be like $250 too, like a 4 star spot, with rooftop bar
Hyatt Manchester is tired and old, but impressive in its own way
La Valencia in La Jolla might be a good spot too, could be more like $400
The really high end spots are in Del Mar/Rancho Santa Fe, but you probably won't want to bother, as it's like 30 minutes from rest of city
greens lincoln park, blood set from Southeast but unless you are like doing something extreme in Bay Vista apartments, which no tourist would ever even see, really doubt anyone would try to press you over a green t shirt.