Arizona
Arizona is one of the jewels in the USA’s crown: a wondrous land containing some
of the country’s most spectacular scenery - from the jaw-dropping Grand Canyon and
Monument Valley to extensive red deserts, pine forests, alpine meadows and even
snow-capped volcanoes - as well as a number of thriving cities, ski resorts and
small towns with Old West charm.
Situated in the American southwest and aptly nicknamed ‘The Grand Canyon State’,
Arizona is the sixth biggest state and it sure crams enough to see and do inside
its extensive borders. It’s here that you can hike a kilometre or two down into
the base of the Grand Canyon for awe-inspiring views and emotional highs, join in
with traditional dances around a fire with the Navajo tribes out in Monument Valley,
ski down the scenic mountains near Flagstaff and rattle down the scenic Route 66
on a road trip bound for California.
Whilst the north of the state is criss-crossed with mountain streams and canyons,
the south and west offer eye catching red deserts with stunning rock formations,
Native American tribes and ghost towns from gold- and silver-mining days.
Phoenix is both the capital and the largest city in the state (and indeed the Southwest)
and this sunshine city - over 300 days per annum - boasts not only scorching rays
but first class shopping, restaurants, museums, art galleries, over 200 spectacular
golf courses and a thriving nightlife. Phoenix borders the swanky Scottsdale, one
of the primary resort destinations in Arizona and a big draw for the high-living
crowds. With a high number of trendy hotels and spas, it’s a good place to relax
as well as dance the night away.
Tucson is Arizona’s second biggest metropolis, and it’s a city full of life and
color. Chock-a-block with students from the University of Arizona, Tucson feels
hip and culturally vibrant, surrounded by ragged mountains and with a lively nightlife,
heavy Hispanic influence and distinctive downtown area. Head south of the city to
marvel at the magnificent Mission San Xavier del Bac, a 1692 Jesuit church nicknamed
“The White Dove of the Desert”.
Outdoorsy types should head to Flagstaff, with mountains to hike, plentiful trails
to bike and great potential to ski when the snow falls in winter, but for sheer
jaw-dropping beauty Sedona takes some beating. Stunning red sandstone formations
surround this small city in Yavapai County, making it an ideal stop off for those
wishing to explore Arizona’s natural beauty whilst also being in close proximity
to fine restaurants and great hotels (as well as alternative medicine practices
set up by New Agers in the 1980s). For an authentic taste of the Wild West, head
to the notorious frontier town of Tombstone, and stroll down the historic district
lined with saloons and wagons before watching a daily re-enactment of the famous
shooting at O.K. Corral.
The Grand Canyon is the main attraction, but from its stunning national parks (where
you’ll find Late Triassic fossils and imposing cacti) to its vibrant cities, Arizona
is truly a state which rewards those who dig a little deeper.