July 14th 2024.
Scottsdale, Arizona has always been a popular destination for the rich and famous, offering a peaceful retreat for Hollywood's elite. This year, the music scene exploded with excitement as Beyoncé released her surprise country album, "Cowboy Carter." And let's not forget the ongoing craze for Taylor Swift, who has been dominating the music industry with her tours for the past year. With Shania Twain headlining shows at major festivals like Glastonbury and British Summer Time, it's safe to say that cowboy hats and sparkly boots have become essential items for any music fan.
But while Beyoncé hails from Texas, you don't have to travel to the Lone Star state to live out your yee-haw dreams. In fact, the superstar herself is a fan of Scottsdale, Arizona - one of the best-kept secrets in the USA. It's where she and Jay-Z chose to honeymoon, and it's easy to see why. Nestled in the serene Sonoran Desert, just east of Phoenix, this city exudes subtle style and sophistication, standing out from its surroundings like a designer dress at a rodeo.
Scottsdale has been a haven for the Hollywood elite since the 1950s, with stars like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable seeking solace in its peaceful desert landscape. And it's not hard to see why. The city boasts stunning architecture, luxurious spas, and an exceptional food scene. Plus, with an average of 330 sunny days per year, it's no wonder that Scottsdale is considered a hidden gem in the desert.
So, as someone who's always up for an adventure, I couldn't resist the opportunity to visit this picturesque city and see what all the fuss was about. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
First on my list was the Mountain Shadows Resort, where Beyoncé and Jay-Z stayed during their honeymoon in 2008. While a $2000-per-night casita may not be feasible for everyone, a room at the iconic Mountain Shadows Resort at the base of Camelback Mountain is a great compromise. This hotel, originally built in 1959, seamlessly blends sleek mid-century design with the breathtaking 1.5 billion-year-old landscape.
For those wanting to explore cowboy culture, a visit to Scottsdale Old Town is a must. The charming saloon-style buildings house independent shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a delightful dose of western kitsch. I even stumbled upon a stagecoach-style tavern called the Rusty Spur, where live music and whiskey flowed all day long.
But what truly sets Scottsdale apart is its great outdoors. And when in cowboy country, the best way to explore is on horseback. So, I took a guided trail ride with Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch through the Tonto National Forest. As we traversed the landscape, I was amazed by the vibrant colors of the desert plants and the majestic 100-year-old Saguaro Cactus adorned with delicate white flowers.
But the most surprising part of the ride was coming across the Lower Salt River, where water flowed through the arid plains. From the highest point on horseback, I could see the 200-mile-long waterway winding its way through the desert. Later, I traded in my trusty steed for a kayak with Arizona Outback Adventures, where I let the current carry me past towering red cliffs and lush green riverbanks dotted with vibrant yellow Palo Verde trees.
As I paddled along, I was greeted by a band of wild horses strolling along the water's edge, and for a brief moment, I was transported to another world. It was a truly magical experience.
Back in the city, I couldn't resist exploring the colorful streets, adorned with striking wall murals and Native American art. And of course, I couldn't leave without trying some of the delicious food options. Brussel Sprout nachos at Diego Pops and modern Latin-American cuisine at The Mission Kierland were just a few of my favorites.
Kierland Commons is another must-visit area, where the beautiful weather and outdoor spaces are utilized to their full potential. I highly recommend taking a guided e-bike tour with Segway of Scottsdale on the designated bike path known as the Greenbelt.
For my final few nights, I checked into the legendary Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, a luxurious 65-acre resort that locals rave about. With six outdoor pools and a luxury spa, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy all that Scottsdale has to offer. And let's not forget the amazing food at La Hacienda, where I sampled creative and beautifully-presented Mexican cuisine and learned about the different varieties of tequila from their in-house "Tequila Goddess."
But my trip wouldn't be complete without one last breathtaking experience - a hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions. As the sun rose over the desert, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to see Scottsdale from a different perspective. As the desert turned shades of pink and orange, I couldn't help but think that this was the perfect place to be crazy in love.
So, whether you're a music fan looking for a taste of the Wild West or seeking a peaceful retreat in the desert, Scottsdale, Arizona has something for everyone. And as I boarded my flight back home, I couldn't help but plan a return trip, maybe even for my honeymoon. After all, what better place to be crazy in love than in this sanctuary of eternal summer?
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