Holiday Magic at the Little America Hotel

When I lived in Flagstaff, one of my favorite things to do over the holiday season was to visit the Little America Hotel at 2515 Butler Avenue. The hotel puts on a holiday lights display on the grounds that's not to be missed! Kids and adults alike brave the wintry weather to wander through the twinkling wonderland. Complimentary hot cider and a visit to the festive hotel lobby and fun gift shop complete the visit. Take your time strolling through the gorgeous lighted trees, letting the cider warm you.

The Christmas Champagne Brunch, every December 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., is really at steal at $29.95 (believe it or not!). Treats such as king crab legs, eggs Benedict, prime rib, and a delicious selection of desserts make this brunch a holiday meal to remember.

If you want to go:
Little America Hotel, Flagstaff
2515 East Butler Avenue
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
Telephone: (928)779-7900
Fax: (928)779-7983

Haunted Arizona: Fun Things For Halloween

So many Arizona activities for Halloween are available. Stop by Jerome for a delicious avocado sandwich at the famed haunted Asylum Restaurant. Check out Prescott for amazing neighborhood decorations. Or cruise down to Tucson to get the daylights scared out of you at Old Tucson Studios' Nightfall celebration. For kid- friendly fun, the corn maze and tour of the pumpkin patch at Buckalew Farms is always a best bet. Happy Halloween!

1.The Asylum Restaurant, Jerome Grand Hotel:
http://www.theasylum.biz/aboutus.html

2. Prescott
http://eventful.com/prescott/events/halloween-happening-/E0-001-033678000-8

3. Old Tucson Nightfall
http://www.nightfallaz.com/

4. Buckalew Pumpkin Farm
http://buckelewfarm.com/

Old Town Artisans: A Tucson Treasure Box

Whether you're searching for Oaxacan art, southwestern pottery, ornate jewlery designed and created by local artists, Day of the Dead dolls, or just chili pepper lights and scorpion tee shirts, you'll find it at Old Town Artisans.

Located in colorful downtown Tucson at 201 N. Court Avenue, this collection of shops in a historic adobe building is a local staple. You can wander through the building at leisure, moving seamlessly from shop to shop. There is also a small cantina, La Cocina, which features Southwestern and American menu choices. You can sit in the small dining room or the charming, beautiful courtyard.

My favorite shop is Toteca Tlacuilo. This space is a feast for the eyes. I literally cannot go to this shop without purchasing one of the many eclectic items. I've purchased gorgeous woodcarved, handpainted candlesticks, a Virgin of Guadalupe illuminati, a bit of Oaxacan art, and more. You have been warned!

Cheap Arizona Getaways

As many Arizonans know, summer is the best time for quick, cheap staycations. Resorts drop their rates, and it's time to take advantage! These rates often extend into early fall. I think that a great spot for a resort-style getaway is the Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort. The casita-style rooms are private and sprinkled among rolling green hills; my chihuahua went nuts running around freely in the grass. The hammocks hanging about between the palm trees beckon you to relax, and there is plenty of shade. It's a nice contrast to the hot desert trails and cacti that surround the property. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with your own minifridge and sofa.

The pool is large, with a nice bar. The concierge gave us a coupon for complimentary chips and salsa at the pool bar upon check in, which was a nice bonus! You can easily walk next door to shops and restaurants, and Old Town Scottsdale and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art are a short drive away.

HINT: Check out their Specials and Packages tab on their website. The have some great amenities, like fruit and cheese plates, or beer and chips 'n salsa, for reasonable prices. You can also get a package with a breakfast at Moriah's Restaurant next to the lobby. This restaurant is open, airy, nothing fancy--but with delicious food and super friendly service. I adore the Belgian waffles with fruit.

If you want to go:
http://www.scottsdalecottonwoods.com/