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Phoenix, AZ
No longer the dusty Old West town of its origins, Phoenix is the fifth-largest city in the United States. Greater Phoenix is located smack in the center of the Sonoran Desert and is marked by towering Saguaro cactus surrounded by exotic desert scrub, craggy mountain-scapes and the signs of a modern growing city including a rail systems and a revamped, bustling downtown area. The city is painted with southwestern, Mexican, Native American, wild west and retro influences that nod to the melting pot of people who built this once wild and woolly territory. In the sports arena, the Phoenix is home to the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, Arizona Cardinals, Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Coyotes among others. Phoenix still stakes claim to the largest municipal park in the world and biking, hiking, camping and backpacking are top recreational pursuits. With tourism as its second major industry, greater Phoenix is ranked consistently among the nation's top cities in the number of award-winning resorts. You'll find it all in the Valley of the Sun -- amazing restaurants, shopping galore, lavish hotels, art galleries, museums, outdoor recreation, and last but not list -- some of the top spas in the county.
Scottsdale, AZ
In 1956 -- just five years after being incorporated as a city -- Scottsdale, Arizona was proclaimed "one of the most desirable communities in the West" by Life magazine. Flash-forward 50 years and this dusty, one-horse town that was once little more than orange groves and roaming cattle ranches has blossomed into a thriving vacation destination. Amidst a landscape dotted with enchanting saguaro cactus and Sonoran desert vegetation, Scottsdale and its surrounds is home to more than 200 meticulously groomed golf courses, 600 dining destinations, a bevy of upscale boutique shopping and most enticing of all -- a hot seat of top resort and day spas.
Sedona, AZ
From the very first glimpse of Sedona red rock, you'll feel the majesty and mystery of a place sacred to its earliest settlers. Sedona is surrounded by vast stretches of national and state forestlands. Oak Creek Canyon, a spectacular 16-mile gorge with streams and waterfalls between sheer rock walls, beckons hikers, campers, mountain bikers and fishing enthusiasts. Some SpaGirl must-go places include Chapel of the Holy Cross, Center for the New Age, TlaQuePaque marketplace and Heartline Cafe (request garden seating if the weather's good). And don't leave without a trek through Oak Creek, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Broken Arrow or Boynton Canyon for a hike like nowhere else in the world. TIP: Stay at a Best Western, Quality Inn or motel of the like; they are especially nice here and besides, Sedona is too beautiful to stay indoors.
Tucson, AZ
Surrounded by rolling mountains and speckled with Saguaros, Tucson captures the spirit of the authentic southwest. This laid-back city is known for its mild weather, breathtaking views and world renowned spas. Drive the curvy foothill roads for a hike up Mount Lemmon or stroll the streets of hippie-dippy 4th Avenue for a light lunch, cup of coffee or original piece of art. Wildcat sporting events, spring training games and the annual Tucson Gem Show are the heartbeat of this western town.
