Hotel
The site of the 2009 Gemological Research Conference is the Town & Country Resort and Convention Center. The resort is centrally located in Mission Valley, about 8 miles (13 km) east of the San Diego airport; it is close to shopping and public transportation. A limited number of rooms will be available at the Town & Country for conference attendees at reduced rates: $164 single/double, $179 triple, and $194 quad. These rates are exclusive of taxes, and are guaranteed for three days before and after the GRC. There are also many additional hotels located nearby.San Diego, California’s second largest city, boasts 70 miles of sunny beaches along the Pacific Ocean. Among the many local attractions are the famous San Diego Zoo, Sea World, championship golf courses, and vibrant nightlife. Just north of the Mexican border, San Diego is a two-hour drive south of Los Angeles.