Phoenix is the perfect warm weather getaway for winter. (Photo courtesy of iab.net)
If the thought of the impending winter is giving you the chills, then plan a trip to sunny, sumptuous Phoenix. With its unseasonably warm weather, world-class sports stadiums (it was just named the home of Super Bowl 2015), outdoor adventure, art and culture, and a wealth of spas, resorts and hotels, Arizona’s largest city is as inviting as a gorgeous sunset over the desert. Oh, it has those too!
Phoenix passionately embraces its Wild West past and desert surroundings. Wander among an ancient adobe village at Pueblo Grand Museum and Archaeological Park, or mosey down the dusty streets of a Wild West theme town. Beginning in January, you can bring a picnic basket to outdoor concerts at the Scottsdale Center for the Arts. By foot, by bike, even by horse there is so much to do in Phoenix; or do nothing but relax in one of the areas renowned spas.
Here are a few of the current happenings at Phoenix Hotels. Thanks to my friends at the Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau for the scoop on these specials!
For the Girlfriend Getaway
The Arizona Biltmore has launched the Winemaker Dinner series, which runs through May 3, 2012. On eight separate occasions, guests can taste bold, innovative menus paired with wines from California and France as they watch haute couture fashion shows sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue. Arizona Biltmore Executive Chef Todd Sicolo and Sous Chef Conor Favre will create the four-to-six course menus. The wines’ creators will attend to socialize and answer any questions. Admission- Single Ticket: $95, Season Pass: $665.
Cocktail lovers can get expert teaching from “Good Libations” cocktail-making class at JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa. The class starts with a tour of the resort’s organic herb gardens, where guests can pick their own herbs. It ends with a cocktail class taught by one of the resort’s mixologists, incorporating the handpicked herbs into a freshly made cocktail. This “how-to” class highlights the resort’s extensive variety of desert botanicals, organic herbs, and highly regarded beverage program. This class is an exciting way to learn more about spirit and herb pairings, desert ingredients and at-home herb gardening. A complimentary seed packet brings the fun home. Price- Guests: Free, Non-Guests: $25.
For the Golf Enthusiast
The Four Seasons Resort at Troon North offers time-crunched golfers the new Monument Express, a 9-hole golf course designed within the layout of the famous Monument course. The course is short and offers two PAR options based on skill level. Beginners, juniors, active adults, and children are all perfect fits for Monument Express, and at just $20 per player. Reservations can be made seven days in advance.
Golfers should attend one of Boulders Resort’s new Golf Academy Programs taught by PGA and LPGA professionals. The programs encourage golfers to get back into the swing of things and include a Ladies Only Mini School, Golfers Guide, Buddies Share Day, and even a 2-day “Golf Academy Vacation package”. A new ‘short’ course will be offered beginning Nov. 1 and is ideal for amateurs or professionals with a tight schedule.
Need a few more ideas about things to do in the Valley of the Sun? Check out these Phoenix travel guides from hotels.com. And if you haven’t done it yet, be sure to download the new Hotels.com App for iPhone®, iPad® or Android® that makes planning and booking your next trip simply convenient.
Have you been to Phoenix? What other attractions would you recommend?
If you have questions or comments for the author of the Travel Smart Blog, Nicole Hockin, please email: 
