Recommend February 2011 - (Page 48)

starry ARIzONA north america The Royal Palms Resort and Spa, in Phoenix, is home to the intimate Alvadora Spa. S 48 february 2011 In Arizona, it’s hard to keep your eyes off the copper-colored desert landscapes that fly off eternally into the horizon or the stars that light up the night sky like a shimmering shower of diamonds, but beyond those heavenly panoramas, there are a few man-made gems luring travel connoisseurs to this Southwest state. paloma villaverde de rico something new Located 10 minutes from downtown Scottsdale, Talking Stick Resort has created quite a buzz in recent months since its opening in mid-2010. Its design is sleek and it has 497 deluxe rooms, with 15 luxury suites and 30 executive kings—offering you more than plenty of booking options for your more discerning clients. Add to that a 13,000sq.-ft. spa with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the Sonoran Desert, more than a handful of dining options, not to mention gaming, and two golf courses—in other words, as Talking Stick Resort’s hotel director, Robb McCreary says, “a one-stop destination for entertainment. The amenities we offer are truly matchless. In addition to our luxurious rooms, we have five restaurants, six lounges, a casino with more than 700 slots—no other resort or hotel in Scottsdale boasts a gaming floor—two pools.... Once you’re there, there is no need to leave.” The resort is owned and managed by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and as such is steeped in area culture. Its design and ambiance, in fact, does a phenomenal job of honoring Native American culture and reflecting its natural surroundings with the use of native stones, plants and earth-tone color schemes. Indeed, this is a veritable showplace for the community’s rich Native American heritage. History buffs and art aficionados will appreciate the collection of Native American art displayed throughout the resort. For example, the cultural center, located in the lobby, features native pottery and a talking stick, as well as historic photographs, textiles, paintings, baskets, and jewelry. And that’s just the art collection. “Talking Stick Resort offers much of the fun of Las Vegas in a relaxing Scottsdale and Southwestern setting,” McCreary explains. Adding that, “Talking Stick Resort has something for everyone. The dining atmosphere will satisfy any mood from casual to chic or quick to leisurely. Our lounges also cover the gamut, whether you want artfully paired flights of wine and cheese or a martini and cigar. And should you just want to relax, nothing tops the Spa at Talking Stick.” And that spa, according to McCreary is definitely unique. “It’s very different from the others in town,” he says. “It’s located on the 14th floor with floor-to-ceiling windows in many of the rooms, including the showers,” though he’s quick to point out that it’s also very private, so no need to fret over “peeping toms.” “Rooms like the manicure and pedicure room have huge windows that open for fresh air and I’ve been told in many cases guests refuse magazines as they just want to look out onto the desert.” The facility features 11 treatment rooms, some with in-room showers and tubs, a steam room and sauna, as well as a 24-hour fitness room. McCreary’s favorite spot, though, is the North balcony. “It’s one of the most peaceful areas of the entire property.” What to recommend spacontinued on page 50 recommend.com http://www.recommend.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Recommend February 2011

Editor's Notes/Agent Speak
Hotel Desk
Tour Talk
Crystal Cruises' Serenity
Flights of Fancy With One&Only Cape Town
South African Airways
South Africa Set to Score Big in 2011
Fantastical Fiji
Luxury Lands in Puerto Rico
Grenada
Barbados: High-End, Low-Key
Bermuda Scales Back
Peru is Gaga Over Luxury
Starry Arizona
Acqualina Resort & Spa, Florida
Baden-Baden, Germany
New Choices in Luxury Tweak Mexico's Landscape
Invigorating Girl Escapes

Recommend February 2011