Scottsdale - Sunny Side Up

Scottsdale Sunny Side Up

Blinking slowly in an effort to adjust my vision in the bright sun, I silently rode the airport shuttle to my hotel gazing upon the muted landscape of brown and beige mountains surrounding me. Accent colors of green, yellow, and white were sprinkled throughout as cacti, wildflowers, and other hearty plants stood proud, resistant to the sweltering heat. I noted that the weather was not uncomfortable for me; in fact the climate was very similar to my hometown, so adapting was quite easy. As I pulled into the driveway of my resort, I realized my spirit was peacefully sedated. When making my initial travel plans, I vacillated between destinations. Relaxation was top priority, so a hop, skip, and swipe of a credit card later...voilà - I’ve arrived in Arizona.

Many others are making the move as well. According to a recent census poll, Nevada and Arizona had the highest rates of net immigration, people moving in from other places, than any other states. Most disclose their reason for escape was due to the attractive and reasonable cost of housing, and others are beckoned because of the steady climate. Whatever the reason, Arizona is showing tell-tale signs of growth and diversity. I decided to be a short-term visitor and scope out the scenery.

Scottsdale Arizona is centrally located in the state best known for its most celebrated feature – The Grand Canyon. The comfortable year-round weather makes the town of Scottsdale a prime location for resorts, golfing, and spa goers.

The people mimicked the tempo of the city – casual and tranquil with a style similar to southern hospitality. Despite my fast-paced standard of life, I couldn’t help but slow down and smell the wildflowers. I inquired about area shops, restaurants and events and a common theme shared by my ‘tourist guides’ was “blank is a comfortable and relaxing place to go.”

My first quest in a new city always begins with local eateries and shopping centers. After unpacking, I was directed to The Borgata. Once I stepped onto the perimeter of this 23 year old shopping center, it transformed into a small town reminiscent of an Italian village. Its castle façade, courtyard, stone walls, and fountain provided an elegant ambiance as shoppers casually browsed through its many specialty stores. Nearby, local consignment stores and boutiques offered the opportunity to dress like the upscale residents without the burden of a high price tag.

This affluent community is noted for the best spas and golf resorts in the United States. Preparations were underway for tourist season which starts in October and ends in April. Locations such as the Four Seasons, Scottsdale Princess, and Camelback Inn offer a variety of pampering services such as facials, massages, and complete body treatments. I took advantage of a relaxing facial and massage at Salon Pucci. The welcoming staff took great care of my needs – and my back feels much better!

For those who prefer to roam the landscape the weather appears to be ideal. To many Scottsdale natives, August was unseasonably cool due to monsoon season. A visit to Fountain Hills is a must as its natives claim to possess the tallest, man-made continuous flowing fountain. Art lovers will greatly enjoy Scottsdale’s ArtWalk located off Main Street in the Old Town District. Over 100 galleries are open for tourists to browse traditional fine and contemporary art as well sculptures and photography. I had the opportunity to meet Carol Sabo, a gracious and pleasant fine art consultant. In Simic Galleries she gave me a tour of the variety of paintings and described in great detail, the work and love each artist invests in their work. Her life and love of art brought her to Scottsdale from the east to further her love of painting and to work within one of the top communities for fine art galleries.

The dining experience at The Italian Grotto was reminiscent of the old TV sitcom, Cheers. With one glance around the comfortable, but intimate restaurant, a feeling of familiarity resonates with all who enter. The restaurant host and staff were extremely fun and friendly to the regulars and visitors alike. The food was well prepared and reasonably priced.

A trip to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is a must as patrons browse through modern and contemporary sculptures, paintings and photography. The exhibition calendar has something to please the most distinctive art connoisseur.

At the end of each day, I dove into the local pool. Even at 1:00 AM the water was as clear and comfortable as bathwater. The temperature was comfortable even still at 98 degrees. There is something to be said for floating on your back in the pool, gazing upon the diamond-like stars twinkling in the sky. Other hotel visitors quietly slipped in the pool silently acknowledging each other with sleepy, relaxed smiles. This is what a weekend get-away should feel like. It’s an opportunity to recharge and rejuvenate our mind, body, and spirit. I’ll definitely be back and you should go too.

Published by SoulMag

Karen Harold, Principal of Conflict Coaching Company and also known as The Conflict Coach, consults with and coaches individuals, corporations, law enforcement agencies, and non-profit organizations to assist in providing turnkey educational solutions, Domestic Violence awareness and response strategies, and conflict resolution initiatives with the intended result of more enhanced personal living and establishment of efficient and cooperative workplaces. Karen is a national trainer to patrol officers, training officers, social service providers, healthcare professionals and victim advocates. She is called upon to facilitate workshops, present as a keynote speaker, and a panelist for educational forums regarding conflict, domestic violence, and anger.

Karen Harold is the host of the Internet radio program, Unraveling Conflict, which creates the opportunity for real conversation about issues of conflict, anger, stress, and relationships. She can be reached at karen@conflictcoachingco.com. To subscribe to the newsletter, Commitment to Conquer, email newsletter@conflictcoachingco.com.