Into the Sonoran Sunset

As I’m blasted by yet another gust of frigid air, I can’t help but think longingly of my Christmas vacation: the warm sun, the sand… the cacti? This winter I gave up the beach in favour of a trip to the Arizona desert, and as a recent Florida-convert, I encourage you to try the same.

Scottsdale, Arizona offers the best designer shopping, art galleries, dining and luxury accommodation in the Valley of the Sun. Interspersed among the breathtaking scenery, perfectly maintained golf courses beckon and trails up the mountains hint at hikes for the more adventurous.

As a professional’s playground, Scottsdale caters to every vacationer. The golfers, the naturalists, the spa-goers and the shoppers are all provided for. Fashion Square, located in the downtown core, is the largest mall in the western United States with more than 200 stores. It includes our department-store favorites Macy’s, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom, as well as a host of familiar designers such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

Nestled in the middle of this designer paradise is Old Town, Scottsdale’s shout-out to its Western history. This adorable district is modeled after cowboy towns of old, and features local jewelry and artisan products of the highest quality.

Throughout Old Town is a marked pathway known as the “Art Walk” that leads you from gallery to jeweller to studio, taking the guesswork out of deciding what to do and see. The gallery owners are quick to offer glasses of delicious local wines to sip as you browse and admire.

Scottsdale has perfected the art of blending Western culture with the comfort of a pampering vacation. This fusion is evident even in the local restaurants. Old Town’s culinary gem is Cowboy Ciao, an unlikely combination of Western and Italian flavours. One taste of their famous mushroom and polenta entrée made it an immediate favourite.

With replenished vacation days, cheap airfare and freezing temperatures, January couldn’t be a better time to plan your next vacation. Get inspired by visiting Arizona’s tourism website.

— Stephanie Maris