Luxury Travel Advisor - December 2007 - (Page 47) ADVISOR INSIGHT: Marilyn Stanek of Bee Line Travel in Green Valley, AZ says the state has a lot to offer. “One of the most surprising things about Tucson is how naturally green it is,” she says. “One of your clients’ first stops should be Tohono Chul Park, a 40-acre desert oasis in the middle of the city.” Stanek says volunteer guides take clients through the green desert gardens, explaining along the way how Tucson’s flora stays so colorful and lively year-round without much water. Stanek adds that a great way to experience a piece of Tucson’s history and cowboy culture is to stay at Hacienda del Sol Guest Ranch Resort and try its restaurant, The Grill, most notable for its Southwestern cuisine. Another good choice is Terra Cotta, which also serves up delectable, regional culinary creations. “Be sure to try a slice of chef Donna Nordin’s Chocolate Mousse Pie,” Stanek recommends. After dinner, clients should venture to new nightclub Pearl, which houses a restaurant, lounge, oxygen bar and realpearl-inlaid bars. “Be sure to dress to the nines, and come ready to dance,” says Stanek. As Tucson has such a great outdoor climate and averages 350 sunny days a year, Stanek recommends visitors take a hike in one of the mountain ranges to experience the various types of ecosystems that Tucson supports. “In Sabino Canyon, which is in the Santa Catalina Mountains north of the city, the Seven Falls hike stretches from the cactuses of the desert floor up to a series of natural pools and waterfalls where hikers can swim and relax before the hike back down,” she says. which uses fresh herbs and vegetables from the resort’s garden. For nearby dining off-site, we recommend reserving a table at Elle (520-327-0500) or Café Poca Cosa (520-622-6400). For singles or couples looking to stay overnight, insiders suggest requesting one of four Historic Rooms (number 29, 30, 31 or 32), each of which offers a tranquil courtyard and mountain views. For families, book a 1,200-square-foot Casita Suite (number 48 or 49) offering a king-size bed, sleeper sofa, living room, fireplace and private porch, perfectly placed to face the sunset each evening. We found out that the 1,600sqaure-foot Casita Grande was Hepburn’s and Tracy’s most favorite getaway, featuring two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a full kitchen. We loved its large back patio, which offers stunning views of the mountains, and the front porch, which will dazzle clients with its charming city views. For VIPs, contact Front Office Manager Larry Padilla (lpadilla@haciendadelsol.com; 520-901-1334). Padilla and his team can handle such unique requests as arranging a wagon ride or throwing a champagne party in the desert. Wedding arrangements are handled by Mary Ann Confrey (520-901-1399). The resort is at its busiest from mid-January to mid-May, and it’s especially tough to book rooms when there are exhibitions and festivals in town. Dates to note are the Annual Tucson Gem and Mineral Show taking place February 14-17, 2008, the Tucson Rodeo Parade on February 21, 2008 and Helldorado Days, from October 18-20, 2008. For room reservations at those times, book at least four weeks in advance. Situated adjacent to the renowned Weiskopf & Morrish-designed courses of Troon North, the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale (www.fourseasons. com/scottsdale) features guest rooms arranged in one- and two-story territorial-style buildings with breathtaking views of Pinnacle Peak and the Valley below. We loved its secluded location and tranquility, which has attracted Oprah and other celebrities. The resort’s guest rooms are currently undergoing a facelift and will reveal new looks in 2008, with custom furnishings and technological advancements like MP3 player docking stations and electronic private bars. The resort’s large spa and fitness center features 14 treatment rooms, including two Deluxe Spa Suites. Request the Jojoba and Prickly Pear Body Polish treatment, which includes a pear sugar scrub, a Vichy shower and an essential omega-3 and jojoba www.luxuryta.com December 2007 | LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR 47 http://www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale http://www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale http://www.luxuryta.com
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