Phoenix
Arizona’s capital celebrates the state’s centenary and offers
summer month bargain packages, says Roger St. Pierre
events and nowhere are the smiles bigger than in the fast-growing, fun- addicted metropolis of Phoenix. This is the heart of the Old West, a
I
once lawless frontier town that sprang up amid a wilderness of red rocks, big mountains and vast deserts. A one-time hotbed of cattle rustling, gun fights and sleazy saloons has now matured into a vacation hot spot where the only gentle resistance guests are likely to meet is the
kneading of their bodies by the skilled hands of a masseur at one of the many luxury resort spas for which Phoenix, and next- door Scottsdale, are renowned.
Phoenix is the
sixth largest US city and the largest
state capital – the only one with a
population of more than a million. Some
4.2 million live in and around what is deservedly
dubbed ‘The Valley of the Sun’.
Golfers and sportsmen are immediately at home while cowboy legends and Native American heritage have a special appeal for British
visitors, especially those with a love of the great outdoors.
28 May 2012 •
www.sellinglonghaul.com
ON THE RISE
t’s a big year for Arizona as it celebrates 100 years of statehood with a year-long calendar of special
What’s New
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has completed its $10.6-million North Runway project to serve its rapidly growing traffic, which welcomed 40.6 million passengers in 2011. Opened two years ago, the two-
storey Musical Instrument Museum, with nearly 5,000 artefacts on display, is proving to be a major attraction. MIM is divided into five galleries, which each focus on a distinct global region. Recently lauded as one of the top 10
new US hotels, the 242-room Westin Phoenix Downtown Hotel is the latest addition to the urban core of the country’s sixth largest city. Set to open on June 5 is the boutique Hotel Palomar Phoenix, sited in the heart of the entertainment district at CityScape while the Kimpton hotel group is also set to bring its signature style to downtown Phoenix and Joie de Vivre’s Saguaro Hotel recently opened its doors in Scottsdale. Audley Travel has joined those operators featuring the destination.
Tourism Talk
KIMBERLEY FREER Director of Travel Industry Sales Visit Phoenix
“Set against a desert and mountain backdrop, and enjoying near constant sunshine, Greater Phoenix is not only a world-class destination, with more than 3,000 shopping outlets to hand and all manner of activities and attractions, but it represents outstanding value for money, especially in high summer. “A friendly welcome and a strong service ethic make it a great place for
individual travellers and family groups alike. The weak UK economy, UK airport taxes and strong promotion for Brits to holiday at home in Olympic year are hurdles for us to overcome but we feel we have a strong story to get across. Next month Arizona will be launching a new training programme with Online Travel Training."
From The Front Line JAMES WHITE
Product Executive USA and Canada Hayes & Jarvis
"Phoenix and neighbouring Scottsdale are firmly focused on providing a complete relaxation experience. "Enjoying more than 300 days of clear
blue desert skies, the area’s superb Spa resorts are infused with Native American tradition and also provide more than 200 emerald green golf courses. "With a pleasant climate, even in the depths of winter, it’s a haven of peace but there’s plenty of action on offer for the more energetic visitor, with activities including exhilarating hiking and biking trails to satisfy even the most die-hard trailblazer.”
Where To Book It NORTH AMERICAN TRAVEL SERVICE 0113 246 1466
www.northamericantravelservice.co.uk A seven-day package in September is priced from £1,165pp based on two sharing, with accommodation at the Royal Palms Hotel and Spa. Also included is an AlamoGold intermediate-size hire car for the duration of the stay.
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