Welcome to The Phoenix Traveler

As a somewhat new resident to The Valley of the Sun (7 years and counting), I’ve grown to love my adopted home and enjoy trying new restaurants, hiking with my dog, watching the amazing Arizona sunsets, relaxing at spas and venturing out to museums, live music events and theatre. There are so many amazing things to see and do around that I’ve had a difficult time knowing where to start.

I guess if I were asked how I would spend “my perfect day” the following places would make my list:

Hike Pinnacle Peak a most picturesque part of the desert kept in pristine condition by local volunteers and a great way to begin your day

Breakfast at Morning Glory Café at the Farm at South Mountain offers a casual outdoor experience with homemade muffins and pastries and tasty mimosas. The Farm grows their own organic produce, has an art gallery and spa on the property along with rows of picnic tables under the pecan trees for picnicking.

A round of golf at Rancho Manana golf course in Cave Creek. No, I don’t play I drive the cart and enjoy the beautiful landscape. In July and August, locals can play for $29 – $39 per player – Monday thru Thursday.

For a light lunch and even better wine, Postino Winecafe in offers wine by the glass or pitchers of beer for $5, seven days a week from 11am – 5pm. Great bruschetta and panini.

As any Phoenician will tell you, true bliss is spent poolside.  When you rent a cabana at the Arizona Biltmore Resort you have entered true decadence. Cabanas accommodate seven people and include table and chairs. For shaded cabanas the cost is $75 on weekdays, $150 on weekends.

Barrio Café, named the best Mexican restaurant by the Arizona Republic since 2003, has tableside guacamole to die for. Need I say more?

My perfect day would end with non-stop laughter courtesy of the Tempe Improv on University Drive It’s an affordable way to see live comedy.

With these suggested locales, I’m just scratching the surface. As the fifth largest city in the Phoenix has an endless amount of corners to be explored. My goal is to share these uncovered jewels and hope you join me in the adventure.