Arizona Vacation Rentals

Frank Lloyd Wright in Arizona

Mark Macias — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 17:42:31 +0000

When discussing the works of Frank Lloyd Wright, the images most often conjured up are those of his Prairie School homes, primarily located in Wisconsin and Illinois. While much of Wright’s childhood, adult life, and career took place in the Midwest, a monument to his artistry still stands in Arizona*: Taliesin West in Scottsdale.

Despite having only constructed one edifice in the state, Wright lived there for the final 22 years of his life, founded the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture here, which also houses the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and, after initially being interred at Taliesin in Spring Green, Wisconsin, his remains found their final resting place in the gardens at Taliesin West.

According to the official Frank Lloyd Wright website, “Wright began building this desert masterpiece in 1937 as his personal winter home, studio, and architectural campus. Located on the beautiful Sonoran desert in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains in northeast Scottsdale, the site offers a broad range of guided public tours. Visitors experience Wright’s brilliant ability to integrate indoor and outdoor spaces.”

Some of the architect’s best-known buildings were designed at Taliesin West: the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, and Grady Gammage Auditorium at Arizona State University, Tempe.

Clearly, Wright was inspired by his surroundings in Scottsdale, stating “Arizona needs its own architecture… Arizona’s long, low, sweeping lines, up-tilting planes. Surface patterned after such abstraction in line and color as find ‘realism’ in the patterns of the rattlesnake, the Gila monster, the chameleon, and the saguaro, cholla or staghorn – or is it the other way around—are inspiration enough.”

Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1982, a range of tours lasting from one to three hours long are offered to the public every day, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, from 9 am to 4pm. Tours of Taliesin West can be booked online.

*The Biltmore Hotel, which is often mistakenly attributed to the architect, was only the subject of four hours’ consultation by the man; while the hotel is maintained to have the look and feel of a Wright construction, the real architect was Albert Chase McArthur.

MLB Spring Training in Arizona

Mark Macias — Thu, 13 Feb 2014 17:20:41 +0000

It’s a thing: the thought of waiting one more day for the first MLB match-up can make some fans so crazy that they need to go somewhere to be physically close to the action. Fortunately, there’s an easily solution. Between Tucson and Phoenix, fifteen MLB teams come to Arizona for spring training. Known as the “Cactus League” (as opposed to the “Grapefruit League” whose camps are located in Florida), teams come from Chicago, Kansas City, Milwaukee, and Seattle; from Ohio, Colorado California, Texas, and, of course, Arizona.

The origins of the Cactus League, according to MLB.com, began in part following a “visit made by Giants owner Horace Stoneham in the late ’40s to a place called the Buckhorn Mineral Wells and Baths in Mesa, not far from the current location of HoHoKam Park.” The history goes on to say,

Originally the site of a gas station, the Buckhorn location was converted into a motel that offered mineral baths and massage treatments after a hot-water aquifer containing significant deposits of potassium, silica, magnesium and iron was discovered on the property. Stoneham was introduced to the Buckhorn baths by officials from the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce while scouting for possible training sites, and was so enticed by the rejuvenating effects of the baths and therapy treatments that he thought it might make an ideal place for players to get in shape.

Around the same time, he received a call from Bill Veeck, the owner of the Indians who had a winter home in Tucson. Veeck had already been thinking about moving his team to Tucson for Spring Training, and thus, the Cactus League was born.

Different teams train at different venues, with teams sharing a venue in certain instances:

Arizona Diamondbacks: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
Chicago Cubs: HoHoKam Stadium, Mesa
Chicago White Sox: Camelback Ranch, Glendale
Cincinnati Reds: Goodyear Ballpark, Goodyear
Cleveland Indians: Goodyear Ballpark, Goodyear
Colorado Rockies: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
Kansas City Royals: Surprise Stadium, Surprise
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim: Tempe Diablo Stadium, Tempe
Los Angeles Dodgers: Camelback Ranch, Glendale
Milwaukee Brewers: Maryvale Baseball Park, Phoenix
Oakland Athletics: Phoenix Municipal Stadium, Phoenix
San Diego Padres: Peoria Sports Complex, Peoria
San Francisco Giants: Scottsdale Stadium, Scottsdale
Seattle Mariners: Peoria Sports Complex, Peoria
Texas Rangers: Surprise Stadium, Surprise

There are myriad benefits for the teams to train in Arizona – and for fans to catch up with the teams pre-season: the temperate climate, the breathtaking scenery, the laid-back vibe of training in Minor-League venues. There’s also a culture that has grown up around the brief residence of the teams.

In addition to the legendary eating and drinking destinations which have become synonymous with Spring Training, the annual event’s history has been well documented with the Cactus League’s Legacy Trail. With thirteen memorabilia collections in Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Goodyear and Phoenix, the trail is a self-guided tour, telling the story of the Cactus League from its “barnstorming beginnings to the state-of-the-art complexes of today.” Re-telling notable stories, and sharing photos and memorabilia, the Legacy Trail is a must for even casual baseball fans. Another site reliving baseball history is the Scottsdale Historical Museum’s Spring Training exhibit, featuring original wooden lockers from the Scottsdale Stadium, historic photos, and vintage video footage.

What better way to enjoy Spring Training than by staying at an Arizona Vacation Rental! Specializing in by-owner Arizona vacation rentals, homes, condos, villas and apartments, we offer a unique alternative to a hotel stay. Visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com to learn more about featured properties, and to securely book your next Arizona vacation.

Diamonds are Still a Girl’s Best Friend

Mark Macias — Wed, 05 Feb 2014 20:05:42 +0000

Once a year, Tucson plays host to the best gems, minerals, and jewelry from across the US, hand-selected by dealers collectors, with displays from private collections and world-renowned museums including the Smithsonian Institution and the Carnegie Museum of Natural History. To celebrate entering into their seventh decade, Tucson Gem & Mineral Show has chosen the theme 60 Years of Diamonds, Gems, Silver and Gold to highlight the unique character and lasting nature of the showcase. The culminating event, the Saturday Night Program & Dinner on February 15, includes a silent auction, buffet, awards ceremony, slide competition awards and a live auction. And with school visits, junior education, and lectures and seminars planned throughout the show’s February 13-16 run, education is still of paramount importance at this event.

The Tucson Gem & Mineral Show began in 1955, as a small exhibition in an elementary school. It was later moved to a Quonset hut at the Pima County Fair and Rodeo Grounds, then eventually moved to its current location at the Tucson Convention Center Arena. Though still planned and executed by volunteers, it’s grown from a local club show to a major show for collectors and enthusiasts, drawing attendance from around the US and abroad.

While the “main event” takes place the second full weekend in February, due to the show’s popularity, satellite shows have popped up all over the city. Catering to the variety of interests of those visiting the area, these satellite shows are scheduled January 31-February 16, located at 39 locations. More than just stones and beads, there’s something to suit every taste (and wallet) at the many open-to-the-public shows, from gold and diamonds to granite bookends and glass beads, and from fine specimens of dinosaur fossils to opals dug from the Australian Outback.

While visiting the 60^th Annual Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, enjoy your own hidden gem by staying at an Arizona Vacation Rental! Specializing in by-owner Arizona vacation rentals, homes, condos, villas and apartments, we offer a unique alternative to a hotel stay. Visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com to learn more about featured properties, and to securely book your next Arizona vacation.

Required Relaxation: Phoenix-Scottsdale Day Spas

Mark Macias — Tue, 28 Jan 2014 16:34:09 +0000

With the beginning of a new year usually comes a chance to exhale, with the holidays concluded for another year and the daily routines back in effect. But after a few short weeks of winter, cabin fever can start to set in, with its telltale symptoms of boredom and restlessness. Suddenly, you may not feel quite as relaxed as you’d thought. It may be time for a getaway – and what better way to escape the doldrums than pairing an Arizona Vacation Rental with the pampering of a day spa retreat?

Arizona boasts myriad world-class spas, with many based right in the Phoenix-Scottsdale region. Whether it’s relaxation and pampering you’re interested in, or a more focused medical-grade procedure, the region’s day spas can cater to your needs. From Vichy showers, lounging pods, and bronzing services to facials, mani-pedis and massages, this list details some of the top spas and services in central Arizona.

There’s so much to see and do in Scottsdale! Make the most of your Arizona stay by visiting one of these – the cream of the day spa crop!

Spa du Soleil

Relaxation is second nature at this downtown Scottsdale retreat, blanketed in a nurturing European ambience. Boasting seven treatment rooms, Spa du Soleil features a hydrotherapy tub, Vichy shower room and outdoor tropical escape area. This “Scottsdale Spa Oasis” is the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life, where health and beauty treatments from around the world await you in a relaxing and nurturing atmosphere. Relax your mind, renew your energy.

This spa features: private specialty showers, sauna and steam, wet rooms (where gentle streams of water radiate down to rinse your polished body), private specialty baths, the rain forest massage room, the garden terrace, and the Chinese tonic bar where you can choose from a wide array of exotic, health enhancing elixirs.

The Lamar Everyday Spa

The Island-inspired ambience of The Lamar Everyday Spa is an unexpected oasis in the Sonoran Desert. This spa’s knowledgeable staff combines exotic therapies from around the world to create an unparalleled place of rejuvenation.

Whether you need to relax, rejuvenate or just reconnect with yourself, The Lamar’s friendly staff can help. The spa’s menu includes an array of memorable massages, luxurious facials, decadent body treatments as well as waxing, permanent makeup, acupuncture and a full hair & nail salon.

The Lamar’s staff is dedicated to supporting you on your journey to well being. Conveniently located in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona, the 14,000-square-foot resort-style spa is large enough to host groups of 100 or more, yet intimate enough to be the perfect “girls spa day” destination.

Mozaik Skin & Body Studio

Mozaik Skin & Body Studio is Scottsdale Arizona’s premiere day spa featuring customized skin care and body treatments including signature and oxygenating facials, skin rejuvenation, microdermabrasion, body facials, waxing, dermal leveling and airbrush tanning.

Mozaik was founded on the philosophy that everyone’s skin is a unique work of art that deserves to be treated with personalized care and attention.

Because of this philosophy, spa services are customized to precisely match the individual character of the client’s skin and bring out the very best in its beauty and health. When visit Mozaik, clients can rest assured that their skin truly rests in the best hands.

The focus at Mozaik is uncovering the highest level of health and beauty, and improving the health of the client’s skin. Staff is educated and trained on the use of the most current products and techniques to restore skin to its optimum health. Estheticians are trained with up-to-date technology from microdermabrasion, light therapy and Lam Probe to treat skin.

Prefer to stay in Phoenix? Pamper yourself at these exclusive spa retreats.

Madison Avenue International Salon & Day Spa

The staff at Madison Avenue Salon & Day Spa recognizes that fast-paced lifestyles mean that clients are in dire need of balance. Only when mind, body, and spirit blend in harmony can radiant health, beauty and relaxation be achieved. Our salon and day spa encourages clients to attain that glorious balance.

The professional staff at Madison Avenue is dedicated to the enhancement of every client’s well-being and pleasure: Women, men, young and old. Offering an array of services – whether it’s an individual treatment or a complete spa package, patrons are treated to the finest quality care and products. The ultimate goal is treating the client to the highest level of serenity and balance possible in just a few hours. Madison Avenue offers a range of traditional body therapies, facials, wraps and exfoliations, or professional hair service.

Red Door Salon & Spa

Guests are invited to lavish themselves in the impeccable personal pampering and professional expertise of the all-new state-of-the-art Red Door Phoenix day spa and salon. There is no doubt that the Red Door’s all-encompassing spa menu and superior guest service has something to do with the Salon & Spa’s long-time, top-notch reputation.

The all-encompassing menu of salon and day spa services includes skincare, body treatments, massage, nail care, hair design, makeup artistry and more. Health and wellness-centered treatments include reiki, and aromatherapy techniques, as well as desert hot stone and pregnancy massage. In addition to the Spa’s distinct facial services, also offered are enhancing treatments like collagen, glycolic peel and microdermabrasion, plus a deluxe collection of premium skincare products. Visit our Red Door spa and salon in Phoenix for unsurpassed service, sophistication and serenity.

Suddenly Slimmer Day and Med Spa

Suddenly Slimmer Spa in Phoenix offers the best in Day and Med Spa treatments, Weight Loss, Hair Removal and Wellness services in the Phoenix area since 1988. Guests will enjoy the finest spa services, wellness treatments, med spa procedures, weight-loss, and skin-tightening treatments, laser hair removal, massages, facials, body treatments, waxing, body scrubs, acupuncture, botox and other fillers, detoxifying and slimming body wraps, and laser treatments.

Suddenly Slimmer’s skincare and wellness boutique offers the most exclusive skincare, beauty and wellness brands. At Suddenly Slimmer Day Spa, MedSpa, Weight Loss and Wellness Center in Phoenix, clients can enjoy spa treatment package specially customized for them. With over 75 spa and wellness treatments to choose from, the spa experts at Suddenly Slimmer have carefully selected those which will benefit (and of course, relax) the most stressed client, with a day of pampering, relaxation and rejuvenation at the spa.

Winter Be Gone – Spring Break Ahead!

Mark Macias — Thu, 23 Jan 2014 15:27:25 +0000

Between the gripping cold of the Polar Vortex and the unceremonious snow-dump of Winter Storm Hercules & others, it’s no wonder half the country is already daydreaming about that revered and magical time of year, Spring Break. With the top destinations reserved for theme parks, tropical islands, and national monuments, choose a family getaway that’s outside the norm! In an Arizona Vacation Rental property, you’ll be close to countless activities and attractions – while giving you the space and privacy to commune as a family.

With our reasonable rates, the cost of lodging will give you a bit extra in your pocket to spend – though you’ll find attractions to fit any budget in family-friendly Phoenix. Kids love visiting the animals at the Phoenix Zoo, and seeing the fish and marine life at SeaLife Arizona in Tucson, and Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium.

The area boasts several waterparks and pools, for cooling down when the weather heats up. For a day trip, visit one of the area’s amusement parks, take a ride on the beautiful Verde Canyon Train, or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, white-water raft the Salt River!

For those looking to keep spending to a minimum, however, there are myriad appealing outdoor activities. Phoenix and the surrounding areas are known for their beautiful hiking trails – some with petroglyphs – and several are appropriate for children, too. Fishing the urban lakes can be a fun way to pass an afternoon. Explore some of the city’s playful, beautiful parks, or get contemplative at the Japanese Friendship Garden.

For the ultimate low-key family day, stay in and enjoy the luxury and comfort of your Arizona Vacation Rental home-away-from-home. With amenities including swimming pool, barbecue, billiards table and putting greens, our rentals are perfect for taking a day off, to relax as a family.

The Best in Luxury Scottsdale Vacation Rental Homes

Mark Macias — Tue, 14 Jan 2014 16:27:15 +0000

Are you getting tired of winter yet? If you are looking for a great warm weather destination, think Arizona!

Right now in Scottsdale, Arizona, the weather is wonderful. It is perfect for getting outside, enjoying a round of golf or perhaps a hike. Sounds great, doesn’t it?

You will need a place to stay during your Arizona getaway. Arizona Vacation Rentals has the answer.

Regardless of whether you are visiting Arizona for the first time or are a seasoned Arizona traveler, Arizona Vacation Rentals offers the finest in professionally managed vacation homes in Scottsdale.

Arizona Vacation Rentals offers a wide selection of fully furnished vacation rental homes, condos, villas and town homes which are all equipped with kitchens, spacious bedrooms with bathrooms, vaulted ceilings and a wide variety of amenities such as private pools, BBQs, pool tables, large screen televisions and much more.

Additionally, AZ Vacation Rental properties are often located near the most popular Scottsdale tourist attractions; shopping areas; the top area golf courses; fantastic dining; and of course our spectacular sunny weather and amazing Arizona scenery.

Arizona Vacation Rentals – Scottsdale Homes for Rent

Mark Macias — Tue, 07 Jan 2014 15:46:27 +0000

Thinking about a taking a trip to sunny warm Scottsdale, Arizona? Why don’t you join me for a quick tour inside of one of our luxurious vacation rental homes.

Here in the master dining area you will see that there is always plenty of room for you to enjoy home cooked meals with your friends or family. Our kitchens come equipped with a microwave, oven, blender, toaster, coffee machine, and dishes. So everything you need is right here.

Our homes offer entertainment such as pool tables, swimming pools, putting greens and flat screen TVs for you to entertain yourself and your guests.

Welcome to the poolside master bedroom. As you can see there is an entrance from the bedroom to the pool, and pool towels ready for you to use. California king beds with beautifully decorated bedrooms and master suite bathrooms are some of the options in our luxury vacation rental homes.

We also have rental homes with multiple master bedrooms and our homes are always kept beautifully decorated.

Check out our Scottsdale vacation rental homes: http://www.arizonavactionrentals.com

Kicking Off the New Year in Arizona

Mark Macias — Mon, 30 Dec 2013 16:40:47 +0000

Nothing says winter like a desert sunset and saguaros, right? While the mountains, desert and sun of the Arizona landscape may not be quite what you’re accustomed to seeing on a January morning, it’s a great place to kick off a new year!

An Arizona Vacation Rental is the perfect place to enjoy winter in Phoenix and nearby cities of Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Tempe, Glendale, Paradise Valley, and Tucson.

Our rentals offer a wide selection of vacation rental homes, villas, condos and town homes which are fully furnished, equipped with kitchens, spacious bedrooms with baths, vaulted ceilings and a variety of amenities including private pools, pool tables, BBQs, big screen televisions and putting greens.

With an average nighttime temperature of 45 degrees, Jack Frost won’t quite be nipping at your nose, but it’s certainly cool enough to nestle in by the fire after the sun goes down. Daytime temps average in the upper 60s – perfect for enjoying a lunchtime barbecue, practicing your strokes on the putting green, or soaking up the sun poolside.

Phoenix and the surrounding areas average nearly 300 days with sunshine annually, and, since many of our properties are located near the most popular Arizona tourist attractions, the top area golf courses, and superb shopping and dining, there are countless ways to get out and enjoy all the area has to offer. Uncertain where to go, or need a ride home after a night on the town? Contact our exclusive concierge service for advice or transportation.

Last Minute Winter Arizona Vacation Deals

Mark Macias — Mon, 23 Dec 2013 16:30:43 +0000

In colder regions, you’ll never know when bad weather might strike in winter or – no matter how well you think you’ve prepared for the inevitable – how you’ll react to it. With this in mind and because, at times, our beautiful properties are unexpectedly vacant due to cancellation or other turns of events, we offer Last Minute Deals on our website.

Think it can’t be done? That the logistics are too much to manage in a short period of time, or that airfare is too expensive? Not so. In the time it takes to scrape the ice from your windshield and warm up the car, you can have an affordable warm-weather weekend getaway planned in beautiful Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Tucson, and surrounding areas.

Booking is simple. Visit the Last Minute Deals page on our website and choose your date and location. Choose from waterfront, mountain view, single-family home or townhouse, in the area that suits your fancy. Click the calendar link below each listing to determine dates, then click through to reserve your rental through our 100% secure booking engine.

Next, book your flight. Major online travel retailers like Expedia, Hotwire, and Orbitz offer search engines designed specifically for the last-minute traveler. Once you’ve arrived, enjoy discounted golf at some of the best courses in the country, see the sights around town, or relax poolside and soak up the heat and sunshine. After all, you will eventually have to go back to winter.

Auction Week 2014 in Scottsdale

Mark Macias — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 15:47:41 +0000

Mid-January is a busy time in Scottsdale with hundreds automobiles – collector, antique, custom, one-offs, and more – will be rolling into town. The week of January 12-19 is one for any car collector or “automobilia” enthusiast to mark on their calendar, when market values for collector cars are established for the rest of the year. In addition to the world-famous Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (January 12-19), Scottsdale plays host to the Russo and Steele Sports and Muscle auction (Jan. 15-19, 2014), Gooding & Company Scottsdale Auction (Jan. 17-18, 2014), and the Silver Auto Auctions (Jan. 17-18, 2014).

Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction

Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson, the world’s leading collector car auction and automotive lifestyle event, specializes in providing products and services to astute classic and collector car owners and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions™ in several locations, where hundreds of world’s most sought-after, unique and valuable automobiles cross the block in front of a global audience. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. With an unprecedented expert staff, including Craig Jackson, Steve Davis and Gary Bennett who have over 130 years of combined experience in the automotive field, Barrett-Jackson offers the most diverse and desirable inventory accompanied with trustworthy and transparent customer service.

Russo and Steele Sports and Muscle
Scottsdale, AZ is the premier auction location that provides all of the fundamental essentials which attract car buyers and sellers from around the world. Russo and Steele’s Scottsdale auction is the primary destination for automobile enthusiasts to buy and/or sell the very best in European Sports, American Muscle, Hot Rods, and Customs. The Russo and Steele Scottsdale auction event has a reputation for wild, action-filled, auction block excitement earning the honor of being “one of the major players in the Scottsdale scene. Rapidly upping their game in the last half decade to become a one-stop shopping venue for lovers of all manner of post-war vintage machinery, both domestic and imported” according to Hemmings Sports and Exotic Magazine.

Gooding & Company Scottsdale Auction

An ideal winter destination, Gooding & Company has brought a refined approach to the well-established and thriving marketplace of Scottsdale. Adjacent to the Fashion Square Mall and charming Old Town Scottsdale, Gooding & Company consistently offers collections that stand apart with stunning examples across many marques and eras. Beginning Wednesday, view the diverse high-quality assortment of vehicles up for auction, and connect with Gooding & Company’s top-notch staff and fellow collectors. Over the past six years, Gooding & Company has consistently achieved the highest individual sale of the Scottsdale auction week and, in 2013, presented the highest sale in Arizona Auction Week history.

Silver Auto Auctions

Silver Auto Auctions focuses on auctioning affordable collector cars like a 1978 Chevrolet Camaro for $4,250 and 1979 F-250 Ranger XL for $4,000. Held at Fort McDowell Resort & Casino, it’s an auction that offers real cars at real deals. Silver has skillfully established a solid reputation for auctioning affordable collector cars in this January-in-Arizona extravaganza. Silver’s auction continues to grow each year because it is filling a much-needed auction alternative. Thousands of buyers and sellers want an auction where they can buy and sell in an arena that they are personally comfortable in. Silver provides that alternative for the greater Phoenix area since 1992. Silver’s Fort McDowell auction offers real buyers and sellers, real cars and real deals.

After a long day of the hustle and bustle of the car auctions, staying in an Arizona Vacation Rental property is a great way to unwind. In addition to all the indoor amenities your group could hope for, properties feature expansive outdoor living areas complete with pool, barbecue, as well as putting greens. Specializing in by-owner Arizona vacation rentals, homes, condos, villas and apartments, we offer privately owned properties through rental agencies and management companies. Visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com to learn more about featured properties, to securely book your next Arizona vacation, or to become an Arizona Vacation Rental property.

Almost Car Auction Season in Scottsdale

Mark Macias — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 16:18:23 +0000

Scottsdale’s car auction season is just around corner, and it’s a great place to network with potential out-of-state home buyers. Looking at the numbers, the kids on the Barrett-Jackson playground clearly enjoy a sizable expendable income: With an average selling price per car of $81,200, Barrett-Jackson’s 2013 sale boasted ten cars that sold for over $1 million. In addition, two world records were set last year – a 195 6 Chrysler Diablo Concept car sold for nearly $1.4 million, and a 1947 Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport which sold for over $2 million.

While a Scottsdale vacation home is an asset during car auction season, how do you advise your clients to care for the home when they’re not in-state? Working with a vacation home-rental company is one option. “When I was looking at investing in a second home for myself, I crunched the numbers and it made total sense to purchase a higher-end home, then work with Arizona Vacation Rentals,” said Arizona native and real estate expert Scott Grigg. “I got in at a good price, and I’m getting some equity built up. I’m getting the monthly income from the vacation rental, and also have the opportunity to use the property when I want – it’s the best of both worlds!” With interest rates low, the Arizona Vacation Rentals program offers a lucrative option for those looking to purchase a vacation home or investment property.

A go-to for Arizona vacations and getaways and top choice for Arizona vacation-specific rental options, Arizona Vacation Rentals combines personalized on-call customer service with a secure reservation engine. If questions or concerns arise, Arizona Vacation Rentals uniquely offers personalized attention and service by having a full‑time sales staff available to contact.

December Discounts on Tee Times in Scottsdale

Mark Macias — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 16:57:32 +0000

When the managing editor for GolfChannel.com’s travel section makes a recommendation, you can bet that it’s advice to heed. As editor Brandon Tucker explains, “Mid-December is a fabulous time for golf in Scottsdale if you can find room on your travel calendar… Despite temperatures and course conditions that are nearly perfect, green fees are a bargain; many are 30-50 percent off their spring peak-season rates.”

Even renowned courses like the TPC Scottsdale, home of the world’s largest-attended tournament, Waste Management Phoenix Open, offer early-winter reduced rates. The course, described as infinitely challenging yet playable, is set in the rugged Sonoran Desert, surrounded by the stunning McDowell Mountains, and is Arizona’s only PGA TOUR property.

Other notable courses offering discounted greens fees include Grayhawk Golf Club, formerly a “beehive for tour pros.” The Raptor course, designed by Tom Fazio, has hosted a multitude of big events, like the PGA Tour’s Frys.com Open. Another course, the Talon (created by David Graham and Gary Panks) features a dramatic swinging bridge on the back tee, and an island green surrounded by colorful flowers.

Gold Canyon’s Dinosaur Mountain also boasts significant savings – up to $40 – in the early-winter months. Located less than an hour from the Phoenix International Airport, this Ken Kavanaugh-designed course is a truly unique golfing experience in the high Sonoran desert. Poetically described as offering “a panoramic vista at every tee, the course takes you up, over and around Dinosaur Mountain with dramatic tee-to-green elevation changes and long, loping fairways,” this is as much a cultural experience as it is a golf outing.

Another great way to save while enjoying the best Scottsdale has to offer? Staying in an Arizona Vacation Rental property. In addition to all the indoor amenities your group could hope for, properties feature expansive outdoor living areas complete with pool, barbecue, as well as putting greens. Specializing in by-owner Arizona vacation rental homes, condos, villas and apartments, we offer privately owned properties through rental agencies and management companies. Visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com to learn more about featured properties, to securely book your next Arizona vacation, or to become an Arizona Vacation Rental property.

Out On the Open Road in Phoenix

Mark Macias — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 18:04:13 +0000

There’s no denying that, sometime in the no-man’s land of mid-winter, cabin fever starts to set in. Once the holidays have passed and a new year has commenced, distractions are few and far between, save the old standbys like television and food. Needless to say, it’s the perfect time to plan a vacation, and what better way to ban the blahs than hitting the open road?

Nothing says U.S. of A. like a road trip. But rather than packing up the car and tackling the mileage between you and the great Southwest, streamline your adventure by renting a vehicle once you arrive. The choices are numerous, from scooter-style bikes and Harley-Davidson’s to a sunshine-basking convertible.

Once you’ve chosen your ride, decide on your route. The website Arizona Scenic Roads suggests the following day trips out of the Phoenix area:

Apache Trail Historic Road

Route: State Route 88
Length: 41.5 miles
Limits: Milepost 201.0 to Milepost 242.5
Established: June 20, 1986

Considered one of the best scenic drives in the state, the Apache Trail was completed in 1905, during the construction of Theodore Roosevelt Dam. Following alongside a chain of man-made lakes – Canyon, Apache and Roosevelt – on the Salt River, these 48 miles of zigzagging road lead through the volcanic landscape of Tonto National Forest, Lost Dutchman State Park, and Tortilla Flat.

Gila – Pinal Scenic Road

Route: US 60
Length: 26.0 miles
Limits: Milepost 214.5 to Milepost 240.5
Established: June 20, 1986

Resting in the shadow of the Superstition Mountains through Queen Valley, the Gila – Pinal Scenic Road passes through several canyons – including Queen Creek and Devil’s – and features an array of desert flora, and biotic communities with seasonal, riparian areas. Along the route, travelers will find the Boyce Thompson Southwest Arboretum and the towns of Globe and Miami – fabled Old West mining communities, where many a prospectors found and lost their fortune.

Copper Corridor Scenic Road East

Route: State Route 77
Length: 38.0 miles
Limits: Milepost 124.0 to Milepost 162.0
Established: October 17, 2008

Copper Corridor Scenic Road West

Route: State Route 177
Length: 15.0 miles
Limits: Milepost 149.0 to Milepost 164.0
Established: October 17, 2008

Southeast of Phoenix, the Copper Corridor Scenic Byway passes through the Sonoran Desert, offering a unique look at the breathtaking scenery of the high desert areas of the state. The corridor crosses some of Arizona’s richest mineral areas, and is aptly named – in 2007, one of the largest copper deposits in North America was discovered one mile beneath the surface nearby. Featuring “tortuous” roadway curves, panoramic views, gigantic open mining activities, and diversity of desert ecology, the Copper Corridor is sure to be a drive to remember!

Arizona Vacation Rentals specializes in by-owner Arizona vacation rentals, homes, condos, villas and apartments, and privately-owned properties offered through rental agencies and management companies. For more information, or to talk to an Arizona Vacation Rental specialist, visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com or call 888-711-8105 to book your next Arizona getaway.

Vacation Rentals: Better than a Hotel

Mark Macias — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 17:15:30 +0000

The trend in vacation rentals has been growing in the past several years – and for good reason. With integrated websites and secure online booking, coupled with capable property management systems and a home-away-from-home feel, opting for a vacation rental is a much more comfortable way to explore new golf courses, visit family without imposing, detach from the throng of fellow convention-goers, or become reacquainted with an old haunt.

The homes offered by Arizona Vacation Rentals are for visitors looking, not just for the typical vacation resort, but a full‑blown Arizona vacation home with all the amenities. This trend is largely driven by cost, as visitors seek out the best value for their travel dollar.

And when you do the math, an Arizona Vacation Rentals home passes with flying colors.

From a price perspective, consider a group of six or eight professionals, friends, or college buddies. Instead of having to rent three or four hotel rooms, the group can book a nice four- or five-bedroom home and all stay under the same roof. The rental has all the amenities a hotel can offer, and more – private pool, barbecue, spa, pool table. With everyone under one roof, the home offers a social component, eases considerations like carpooling and meeting times, and further increases savings by allowing guests to eat in-house. As a bonus for golfing visitors, many of the Arizona Vacation Rentals homes offer putting greens.

Arizona Vacation Rentals offers a huge savings, if you compare pricing. For example, an average four- or five-bedroom home will book for about $400 a night. Compare that cost to booking three or four hotel rooms – ranging up to $250 a night. Choosing the hotel option would increase the nightly cost to $750 to $1,000 before taxes and all fees per night for three to four hotel rooms.

For added value, consider the timing for your visit. For example, October’s a great month to find some good deals on vacation rentals in Scottsdale, as the area transitions from the low to high season. Visitors can see significant savings during the autumn months, with beautiful four- and five‑bedroom homes, which can accommodate up to six or seven individuals, at a cost ranging from $1,500 to $2,200 a week.

Making the Most of your Stay with Professional Concierge Services

Mark Macias — Tue, 12 Nov 2013 16:30:05 +0000

Arizona Vacation Rentals offers so many amenities, conveniences, and unexpected perks you won’t find in an average hotel – private pools, barbeques, and even putting greens – but what about that most helpful of hotel staff, that angel in clerk’s clothing? He or she who helps you navigate the intricacies and unknowns of a new city, endless answerer of mundane questions? What about the concierge? It should come as no surprise that we offer that, too.

During your stay in one our rentals, not only is our staff on hand to answer any questions and respond to any concerns you might have, we can also make the services of a professional concierge available. Upon arriving at our guests will receive the card of one of our concierge professionals, someone they can call to ask questions and gather information about the local area.

These versatile pros can help our guests with anything from making recommendations and contacting local businesses, to picking up guests when they’ve enjoyed one too many at one of the area’s fine establishments. Rather than risking unsafe driving, our guests can get picked up wherever they are, and get dropped off to the front door of their Arizona Vacation Rental.

Arizona Vacation Rentals specializes in by-owner Arizona vacation rentals, homes, condos, villas and apartments. We also offer privately owned properties through rental agencies and management companies. Visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com to learn more about featured properties, to securely book your next Arizona vacation, or to become an Arizona Vacation Rental property.

Autumn Golf Specials in Scottsdale

Mark Macias — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 16:10:42 +0000

Autumn is a magical time in Scottsdale – the climate is comfortable, the leaves begin to change color, and some great activities and sporting events take place throughout the region. In addition, prices drop, as local business transitions from low to high season. Think of it as the best value of the year.

Autumn is a time of transition, going from low season to high season, and it’s reflected in the prices for area draws, like golf. For golf courses, the cost of tee times can drop significantly due to course maintenance, such as over‑seeding the grass. For those who focus on the aesthetic of the course and prefer their greens to be perfect, this time of year isn’t as appealing. However, those who are focused on playing a great course, and don’t mind dealing with a little yellow or brown grass can save up to 50 percent on tee times.

Autumn is also a great time of year to find some good deals on vacation rentals, as the area lies in wait for the beginning of the tourist season. This means that prices are incredibly reasonable – for example, Arizona Vacation Rentals has beautiful four- and five‑bedroom homes ranging from $1,500 to $2,200 a week. When you consider these homes easily accommodate up to seven or eight individuals, it’s very cost‑effective to book a home and visit during the autumn months.

While the majority of the groups we see are composed of men visiting to play golf, there are also many special events this time of year. In October alone, the Phoenix Suns have opening day, the Arizona Cardinals are finishing up their season at home, and the Phoenix Coyotes are in town – professional basketball, baseball, and hockey all happening in the same weekend.

With 60 vacation rental homes to choose from, and with around 60 percent of those located in the popular Scottsdale area (the other 40 percent are in surrounding areas, such as Gilbert, Chandler, Peoria, Glendale, and Paradise Valley), Arizona Vacation Rentals is your go-to for an autumn getaway.

Transcript: Best Golf and Vacation Packages in the Scottsdale area

Matt O’Brien: Today we’re going to talk about some of the best times to come to beautiful Scottsdale, Arizona, and some of the packages that are for the golfer and those that are looking for not just your typical vacation resort but a full‑blown Arizona vacation home with all the amenities. Hey, Mark, how’s it going?

Mark Macias: I’m doing great. Hello, everyone.

Matt: Mark, it seems like there’s a trend in the vacation rentals, in at least the Scottsdale area, that people are looking for homes versus just going to resorts. What do you see as some of the main things that are attracting people to this?

Mark: The most important is from a price perspective. You get a group of, say, for example, six or eight professionals, friends, or college buddies and so on and so forth. Instead of having to rent three or four hotel rooms, they can book a nice four or five bedroom home. They all stay under the same roof. They have all the amenities that a hotel can offer, such as a private pool, spa, or pool table, so it’s a hangout spot for them. A lot of our homes offer putting greens. If you can envision yourself in a backyard with a barbecue, some music, private pool, spa, and a putting green, there’s nothing that a hotel can offer that can compare to that.

Number one, I would say price. There’s definitely huge savings. If you compare pricing to, let’s say…Like, at this time of the year, on average a four or five bedroom home will book for about $400 a night. If you have to book three or four hotel rooms ‑‑ if you’re getting an average hotel room, that’s about $250 a night ‑‑ you’re looking anywhere between $750 to $1,000 before taxes and all fees per night to get four hotel rooms.

Matt: That’s significant. The weather just turned. It seems like October is the magical time when it really gets nice here in the Scottsdale area. What’s the impact on golf rates?

Mark: It’s huge. October is a transition month. You’re going from low season to high season. For golf courses, tee times are a lot less expensive because they’re over‑seeding the grass, so those who will focus on the green grass, the eye candy of the golf courses, it’s not too appealing. However, those who are focused on just playing a great course, having to deal with a little yellow or brown grass as opposed to the green grass can save up to about 50 percent on the tee times.

On top of that, October’s a great month to find some good deals on vacation rentals as well because it’s a transition month for us as well from the low season into the high season. So they can get some good quality four and five‑bedroom homes anywhere from $1,500 to about $2,200 a week. If you divide those costs up between five, six, seven individuals, it’s very cost‑effective to book a home and come out during the month of October.

Matt: Do you see a lot of guy vacations focused on golf? Is this the hot time for that?

Mark: Yeah, it sure is. It sure is. The majority of our groups are composed of men, primarily for golf, but there are also a lot of special events going on during the month of October. It’s a great sports month. A weekend from now, the next coming weekend, we have a huge sports weekend where the Phoenix Suns have opening day. The Arizona Cardinals are in town, the Phoenix Coyotes are in town, so it’s a huge sports weekend. We have a lot of men coming out to take advantage of that and also take advantage of the low golf tee times and great rates on homes. But primarily right now the majority of our groups are composed of men.

Matt: I remember talking to you before, that you guys hook up these golf groups with another great service, which is like a concierge driver, so that whether there’s cocktails or no one wants to be responsible to be the designated driver, there’s a great service for that as well?

Mark: That’s correct. We want to differentiate ourselves from the competition by offering that service, so they get a business card from one of our concierge professionals that they can call. One too many drinks is way too much. Instead of risking that, then they can just call him or her up and get picked up from wherever they’re at and dropped off to the front door of their home. That’s something we just recently started. It’s very popular and in high demand right now, especially with groups composed of primarily men.

Matt: Mark, if people are interested in looking further into some vacation options, what is the best way to reach out and get in touch with Arizona Vacation Rentals?

Mark: The best way is to visit our website, ArizonaVacationRentals.com. That is plural, with an S at the end. On the website we have a full online booking reservation process, and you can book directly from the website. There’s also the 800 number there to our sales staff. If you want more detailed information about the homes, where they’re located, the amenities, bed configuration, you can just call one of our sales professionals. They can give you detailed information. The best way is to go onto our website and visit ArizonaVacationRentals.com.

Matt: Fantastic. Well, it sounds like October’s a pretty darn good month for vacation rentals, deals.

Mark: I call it the best value of the year. I think hands down it’s the best value because you have great weather. You have some great events going on, social and sports events. Tee times at golf courses are about 50 percent off their normal fees. It’s just win‑win. I think it’s definitely the best value of the entire year.

Matt: Well, excellent. Well, hey. Mark, I appreciate you sharing such valuable information, and we’ll look forward to a next segment learning more about best deals and when to come to beautiful Arizona and take advantage of your vacation homes. How many homes do you guys currently have under your system?

Mark: Right now we’re at 60 homes.

Matt: 60 homes.

Mark: 60 homes. About 60 percent of those are located in the popular Scottsdale area, and the other 40 percent are in surrounding areas, such as Gilbert, Chandler, Peoria, Glendale, and Paradise Valley. But the majority of our homes are in the high‑demand Scottsdale area.

Matt: Good deal. We’ll catch you in your next segment.

Mark: Thanks, Matt. Appreciate your time.

Matt: Thank you.

Mark: Bye.

Fall Fun in Phoenix

Mark Macias — Fri, 01 Nov 2013 17:05:15 +0000

In Arizona, autumn begins a bit later, and can run into November or even December. With the cooler temps come more activities to partake in, and autumn is certainly the busiest season for taking in the sights in the greater Phoenix area, and a great time for a family-focused vacation!

Wild West Days, November 1-3

This gunslingin’ adventure takes place at Downtown Cave Creek with activities including gunfighter competitions, pig and bathtub races, and a mounted shooters’ competition. No festival would be complete without a beauty pageant, and the Miss Wild West Days contest fits the bill here. Wild West Days is a true Arizona adventure for the whole family! Admission is free to the Wild West Days. Visit www.wildwestdayscavecreek.com to learn more.

Chandler Chuck Wagon Cook-Off, November 8-10

To get a taste of the Old West while actually getting a taste of the Old West, plan your visit to coincide with the annual Chandler Chuck Wagon Cook-Off. With three days of historically-accurate culinary delights and fanfare, you won’t want to miss a minute! Admission and parking are free for the event. Visit www.chandleraz.gov/chuckwagon.

Chiles and Chocolate Festival, November 15-17

Sample gourmet chocolates, salsas and treats featuring the flavors of the Southwest enjoy dance performances, explore the garden paths and experience glass art creations by Dale Chihuly. Sample fire-roasted green chiles, as well as tacos, chicken mole, green-chile pork and roasted chiles. A true taste of the Southwest! The festival takes places at the Desert Botanical Garden. Visit www.dbg.org/events-exhibitions/chiles-chocolate for admission pricing and more information.

American Heritage Festival, November 23-24

This interactive festival brings history to life! Featuring period-specific costumed performers portraying citizens, craftsman, and soldiers from Colonial times to the Vietnam era, plan your experience with maps, view battle re-enactments, and dance to historical music. The American Heritage Festival takes place at Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek. Visit www.americanheritagefestival.com for more information.

Visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com to learn more about featured properties and to securely book your next Arizona vacation!

Planning Your Golf Getaway in Phoenix

Mark Macias — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 16:38:36 +0000

In Phoenix, you’ll see the sun nearly 300 days out of 365 – that’s upwards 82% of the time! A more impressive number is 320, which, in 2011 – no doubt that number has risen in few years since – was approximately how many golf courses you’d find in the state of Arizona. That’s just shy of one golf course for each day of the year! And with the moderate temperature of the autumn months, it’s no wonder that Phoenix is a golfer’s delight during the last few months of the year.

There’s little doubt that cities like Scottsdale and Phoenix – so deeply invested in golf that it’s grown far bigger than a cottage industry – are first-rate destinations for hitting the links. With more than 200 courses in the Phoenix area alone, traditional course layouts are interspersed with target courses, and the golf vacationer can challenge his skills and while enjoying unrivaled vacation leisure.

When planning a golf trip, your first thought may be to reserve a room at a resort or hotel. And while this can be a great option. A better, and more affordable, option, however, is staying in an Arizona Vacation Rental property. Our homes offer the opportunity for all members of your party to stay under one roof – with a pool, barbeque, full kitchen, multiple baths, and much more all included. It’s a no-brainer, when you check the math:

All this, and just minutes away from some of the best courses in the state – and in the country. For more information, please visit our comprehensive online guide to area golf courses.

Arizona Vacation Rentals specializes in by-owner Arizona vacation home, condo, villa and apartment rentals. We also offer privately owned properties through rental agencies and management companies. Visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com to learn more about featured properties, to securely book your next Arizona vacation, or to become an Arizona Vacation Rental property.

Vacationing in Tucson

Mark Macias — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 17:20:58 +0000

Tucson, with its mixed cultural heritage and international population, has traditions that span centuries of habitation from prehistoric Indian cultures to recent immigrants from all over the world. Tucson has become a destination for travelers from around the world. The accommodation choices available to the many visitors to southern Arizona’s largest city are numerous.

In Tucson, vacation rental homes are abundant and offer a wide range of choices to visitors from all over the world. The city of Tucson is comprised of many different neighborhoods and offers vacationers a large and varied selection of accommodations and activities. Like many cities, Tucson’s development was substantially impacted by the geography of the city. To a large extent Tucson is a story of its 3 major mountain ranges.

The Tucson Mountains are located approximately 8 miles west of interstate 10. The proximity to interstate 10 makes day trips to Phoenix, Tubac, and Nogales Mexico very convenient. Some of the most desirable luxury vacation rental homes in Tucson Arizona are located in this area. The vacation rental homes in this area boast some of the best city and mountain views in the state. Most of these luxury vacation rentals are located on acre plus lots with private pools and spas and offer an experience that is one with nature. Visitors staying in vacation rentals may have the pleasure of seeing a variety of desert wildlife.

Wild coyote, bobcat and javalina inhabit the area as well as a wide variety of birds. Hawk’s, doves, roadrunners, and Arizona’s state bird the cactus wren are plentiful and likely to be seen when visiting the Tucson Mountains.

While visiting the Tucson mountains, vacation rental guests will also have a wide variety of attractions to see such as the Sonoran Desert Museum, Old Tucson Studios, Wildlife Museum, Gates Pass, and the Saguaro National Park West. The west side of town appeals to the business traveler as well. Many of the finest vacation rentals in the Tucson Mountains are located less than 10 minutes from the Tucson Convention Center (TCC). During the first 2 weeks in February The TCC is home to the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show which has grown into the largest gem and mineral show in the world. When choosing a vacation rental home, parents of University of Arizona students often choose a west Tucson location for their vacation rental home because the area is only a short drive from the University and is very convenient for visiting their child during the holidays, graduation, or parents weekend.

The Catalina Foothills is the largest mountain range in the valley and a well sought after area of town for visitors looking to rent a vacation home in Tucson AZ. Several upscale resorts and spas have made the Catalina Mountains their home. The Catalina foothills area has a wide variety of restaurants as well as upscale shopping at La Encanta and St Phillips Plaza. For those looking for hiking and site seeing, the Catalina area offers the Sabino Canyon Recreational Park. For vacation visitors looking to escape the summer heat (temperatures average 20 degrees lower than the city) , you can take a 25 mile drive up to the top of Mt Lemmon. The Tucson vacation rentals located in this area consist of a large selection of ultra-luxury vacation rental homes and condominiums and moderately luxurious vacation rental homes on ½ acre lots with excellent mountain and city views .

Oro Valley has been one on the most rapidly growing areas in Tucson. Many of the vacation rental homes and condominiums in this area are new construction and offer very modern, upscale accommodations. The Oro Valley area features many fine restaurants to choose from as well as some of the best golf resorts in town. If you decide to select vacation rental accommodations in Oro Valley be prepared for challenges with regard to the traffic congestion. Commuting to and from Oro Valley during rush hour traffic can be quite a chore. Expect travel times to other areas of town such as the Tucson Mountains and the east side of Tucson to take to 45 minutes or longer.

Arizona Real Estate Expert Talks About the Benefits of Vacation Rentals

Mark Macias — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 19:46:39 +0000

Scott Grigg, an Arizona native and real estate expert recently was interviewed and said of the local market, “It’s on fire. The confidence is back, it’s very healthy out there right now.” Well known in the local real estate market, Grigg and company were featured on the cover of the “Arizona Republic” business section, ranked in the top 15 agents in the Arizona Business Journal, and highlighted two consecutive years in Real Trends, a Wall Street Journal annual, nationwide ranking for real estate agents. With interest rates low, the Arizona Vacation Rentals program offers a lucrative option for those looking to purchase a vacation home or investment property.

After years of uncertainty and speculation across the country, the real estate market has begun to improve in the past several years, indicated by an increase in both the amount of existing home sales and in new construction. The number of foreclosures has also been steadily declining – now hovering at a national average of less than 10 percent of the market share – which forces home sale prices to rise. Combined with mortgage rates currently at a nine-week low and a potential end-of-year buying lull, it’s a great time to purchase a second home.

“When I was looking at investing in a second home for myself, I crunched the numbers and it made total sense to purchase a higher-end home, then work with Arizona Vacation Rentals,” said Grigg. “I got in at a good price, and I’m getting some equity built up. I’m getting the monthly income from the vacation rental, and also have the opportunity to use the property when I want – it’s the best of both worlds!”

Wine Tasting In and Around Phoenix

Mark Macias — Tue, 08 Oct 2013 16:25:37 +0000

When you think of a bold red or refreshing white wine, your mind probably wanders to images of lush scenery – rolling hills in Tuscany, perhaps, or the unique countryside of Napa and Sonoma Valleys in California. The desert climate of Arizona is probably the last place you’d associate with wine! But while Central Arizona may not be the first location that comes to mind, the region boasts several tasting rooms that are easily accessible and perfect for a day’s activities.

During your Arizona Vacation Rentals stay, take time to enjoy the wines of Central Arizona, and schedule lunch or dinner at one of the wineries’ fine restaurants for tasty pairings of wine with a gourmet meal.

Casavino Custom Winery

For over a decade Casavino has been making hand-crafted customized wines and creating an unforgettable experience for those looking to taste great wine in Central Arizona. Casavino is unique, allowing you to take control of your wine. By working with their experienced staff, guests will be guided through the wine-making process from start to finish. And with great wine, comes great food. Casavino provides a seasonal gourmet menu – from small plates of artisan cheeses to full dinners. Stop by and meet Chef Nick and see what the Casavino kitchen is capable of creating!

Casavino is located at 12005 N. Saguaro Blvd Suite 101 in Fountain Hills, and is open by appointment Monday-Friday, Saturday 1pm to 9pm, and Sunday 2pm to 7pm.

Kokopelli Winery & Bistro

Following a summer-long remodel project, Kokopelli, the largest winery in Arizona, will reopen this month with “A New Fun Restaurant Concept Called Chop Shop.” With an esteemed history (the winery planted its first grapes in 1991, first harvested in 1994, and opened in 1995, producing 5,400 cases that year; founded in part by a sixth generation winemaker, with a family history of making wine in France and North Africa; recognized for developing methods for growing grapes in Arizona despite its heat), Kokopelli wines have won multiple awards in regional wine competitions. All is still very hush-hush, check their website for updated information!

Kokopelli Winery & Bistro is located at 35 West Boston St. in Chandler. Kokopelli reopens this month with new hours and a new restaurant partnership.

Studio Vino

Whether you are looking for a local winery to enjoy a bottle of wine, gather with friends for wine tasting, make your own wine or create custom-labeled bottles, Studio Vino has you covered! Tempe’s first and only winery offers a contemporary and comfortable tasting room. Wine tasting is available for a vast selection of Arizona wines such as Alcantara, Bitter Creek Winery, Charron Vineyards, Dribble Creek, Jerome Winery, Javelina Leap, Keeling-Schaefer, Kief Joshua. Kokopelli, Oak Creek Vineyards and Sultry Cellars. Wine can be purchased to enjoy on-site or take home, as well as menu items such as cheese boards, olive trays and assorted snacks, wine-making packages and individual bottles with custom labels.

Studio Vino is located at 1825 East Guadalupe in Tempe. Studio Vino’s hours of operation are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 3-10pm, Friday and Saturday 12-11pm.

Su Vino Winery

Su Vino Winery, Scottsdale is the second installment of the award-winning winery founded in Grapevine, Texas. An award-winning winery with a twist, Su Vino has won over 40 medals for their wines, and offer customers the opportunity to have wine made specifically for them and their palate.

This custom winery makes their own wines, specializing in unique and interesting varietals and blends, as well as customized wines to the customer’s palate. Customers participate in the winemaking process by bottling and corking their wine blend and placing a personalized label on the wine – perfect for holiday gifts, business promotional items, wedding favors, or simply to keep on hand.

Su Vino is located at 7035 E Main St., Suite 110 in Scottsdale. Su Vino is open Tuesday and Wednesday 12-8pm, Thursday through Saturday 12-10pm, Sunday 1-5pm, and is closed on Mondays.

A Trip Back to the Cold War in Tucson

Mark Macias — Mon, 30 Sep 2013 10:39:43 +0000

Tucson, Arizona is a great city filled with many fun and interesting things to do and see. One of the strangest and most interesting things to see in Tucson is about 20 miles south of the city.

The Pima Air Museum operates the deactivated Titan II missile site. Going on the tour brings visitors into the former top secret control room and missile area. Tours range from 1 to 5 hours in length. The 5-hour tour starts with a video about the missiles and their nuclear capabilities, and then visitors go down into the belly of the beast – eight levels down into the command center where the military overseers were poised to launch an attack or withstand one. Past the 3-ton blast doors and 8-feet thick walls of silo area, the missile stands in all of its steel glory.

The Titan II ICBM was the first liquid propellant missile that could be launched from underground. Equipped with a nine-megaton thermonuclear warhead, the Titan II was capable of reaching its target more than half a world away in less than thirty minutes. The preserved Titan II missile site was completed and turned over to the U.S. Air Force in 1963, and until 1987, when the last Titan II was deactivated, 54 Titan II missile complexes across the United States stood on alert 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Although its fuel has been removed, the Cold War-era weapon still seems menacing at 103-feet in height. It’s an unforgettable tour, and one in which only those 18 and older can do, and also people who are able to climb a 15-foot ladder and fit through holes two feet in diameter.

The Arizona Aerospace Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Tucson, Arizona, operates the Titan Missile Museum, the Pima Air & Space Museum and the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame. In addition, the Foundation manages tours of the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group and the military aircraft “Boneyard” located at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

Tucson is vibrant city with rich in history. Our Tucson vacation rentals are the perfect complement to your vacation whether you’re on a romantic getaway for two or a family vacation.

Ride The Trains that Built the West at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park

Mark Macias — Mon, 23 Sep 2013 09:20:33 +0000

When visiting the Scottsdale and Phoenix area, most people just see it as it is today and rarely think about the area before it was settled. But looking out at all of the beautiful mountains that surround the Phoenix metro area, you think back to the early settlers and the tedious and hard labor that went into building the railroads, which ultimately made the area what it is today.

Luckily that history has been preserved in an area of Scottsdale. The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park pays homage to that hard work and the locomotives that brought the people that inhabited the area and essentially helped make Phoenix the sixth largest city in the US. For a taste of the train travel that these people experienced, you do not want to miss this great spot.

The thing that draws Arizona Vacation Rental tourists to this park is undoubtedly the opportunity to hop aboard the train. The trains that parade around the track are built as a replica of the trains of those old days, but it is built at just 5/12 scale. That means anything that was one foot long on the trains of old, is just five inches on the Paradise and Pacific Railroad at Railroad Park. Nevertheless, the ride will give you the thrill you seek and the best part is, your destination will not be the unsettled west. Instead you will arrive back where you started and can begin your journey through the other great aspects of this park.

Aside from all the wonderful trains to see and ride on, near the center of the park sits a 1950’s carousel called the Scottsdale Charro Carousel. With thirty horses and two wheelchair chariots, this is definitely as aspect of the park that you and the little ones will not want to miss.

Finally, when your legs need a rest, but the kids are eager to keep going, make a stop at the playgrounds where you can take a seat and watch as the children play on the swings, slides, monkey bars, and other exciting features of the giant kid fun zone.

Another not to miss attraction is the Model Railroad Building. The parks newest attraction, is a one-of-kind 10,000 square foot building showcasing the park’s four model railroad clubs along with surrounding railroad displays, artifacts and hands-on amenities.

The rich real estate of the west would have had no value if the people were not able to get the food and supplies they need to survive. Settlers were able to get their supplies at general stores. And a visit to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park would not be complete without visiting Hartley’s General Store. For the best in souvenirs, snacks, and slushies, Hartley’s is the perfect place to wrap up a visit to the park.

Got a sweet tooth? Maybe then you should stop at the Southern Pacific Railroad Caboose, which is now renovated to serve the snacks you crave. Sweets, such as ice cream and yogurt, are served alongside hotdogs, hamburgers and drinks.

A trip to the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a trip back into the history of the old Scottsdale. For more information on this must visit family destination during your Arizona Vacation Rental time in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area visit http://www.therailroadpark.com/.

Take the Family Out on the Town in Scottsdale

Mark Macias — Thu, 19 Sep 2013 12:56:09 +0000

When you plan a family trip to Scottsdale, it seems like there is always a long list of things to do and places to see. Often time days are planned with big activities – sporting events, golfing, hiking etc. but there are also a large number of things you can do for if you only have a few hours. Arizona Vacation Rental homes are close to everything, from enjoying history to simply having a blast!

They say that children learn the best when they’re having fun doing it. One exciting place you can go to is the Out of Africa Wildlife Park. This park is a wildlife preserve where you can watch animals in very large habitats. You can join the safari and can even watch some animals be fed a diet of raw meat, although you may want to bring only older children to see this. You’ll find everything from tigers to giraffes and everything in between at this wildlife park. It’s a great place for young children to learn a bit about the world outside of Scottsdale, and for older children to learn more about habitats and specific breeds of animals.

The Scottsdale Historical Museum has a mission: to preserve the past and to research it as well. They do this by providing a number of exhibits for adults and children alike to enjoy, making it a great deal of fun for everyone in the family. There are always some exhibits that children tend to enjoy more than others, and this is a great place to bring pre-teens for some family bonding time.

Of course learning while on vacation is great, but one of the best things to do on vacation is just have some straight out fun. There are many Scottsdale hot spots where fun is the main objective, starting with CrackerJax. This is a great enjoyable family center that offers things like mini golf, bumper boats, go-karts, a shaded driving range, and much more. This is a great place for both adults and children alike to simply have a great time, and the best of all you don’t have to spend all day there if you don’t want, but can simply enjoy relaxing for a few hours of fun with your family.

It does not matter if your Arizona Rental Vacation home is in the city of Scottsdale, or right on the outskirts – you will certainly find many great fun things to do and see for the whole family.

Scottsdale is a Shoppers Paradise

Mark Macias — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 09:53:46 +0000

High atop many people’s lists of things to do on a Scottsdale vacation is some shopping. When it comes to shopping in Scottsdale, style is ever-present. No matter you are looking for, you can find every kind of store with every kind of price point can be found. Scottsdale offers all types of shopping venues from the traditional indoor mall and outdoor stores in Scottsdale Fashion Square to tropical outdoor areas friendly to foot traffic in Kierland Plaza, to blocks of one-of-a-kind boutiques and gift shops in Old Town.

SCOTTSDALE FASHION SQUARE

Located at 7014-590 Camelback Road, the mall features more than 180 stores, anchored by Nordstrom’s, Barney’s New York, Dillard’s, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus. There are so many great stores are among the many stores to lure shoppers to spend.

A place to see beautiful people and perhaps even some celebrities, the mall is decorated with falling water features and fountains, as well as live plants under a large atrium skylight. Its open, inviting and natural feel makes it seems as though the enormous space is as much outside as it is under a roof.

No matter if you are hungry for a whole meal or just a snack there are a plethora of unique restaurants no matter what you have a taste for. Along with shopping and dining, there are Scottsdale Fashion Square offers numerous spa/salons, and a movie theater offer additional entertainment and pampering options.

KIERLAND COMMONS

The palm tree-lined avenues of Kierland Commons, located at 15205 N. Kierland Blvd., is Scottsdale shopping at its most luxurious. A collection of resort-style stores – pleasing to the eye from the street-side window displays – the 38-acre Plaza encourages lingering in the open-air courtyard and on the green, where jazz groups play in the summer and Christmas songs are played on weekends in December while Santa is there to visit with children.

On any given day, town cars with drivers may be waiting for their shopping occupants, women coiffed and polished push high-end strollers with well-dressed babies in them and visitors staying in the nearby Westin Kierland Resort & Spa hit the designer bricks in golf wear and suits.

Kierland boasts over 70 upscale stores, clothing shops are most prevalent and run the gamut, for men’s and women’s clothing from conservative to chichi to hip and trendy. There are great specialty shoe stores, lingerie shops, jewelers and more to keep shoppers busy eyeing the wares.

Kierland Plaza is also a mecca for serious foodies who indulge in the casual gourmet restaurants for both lunch and dinner. The Zinc Bistro is one of the area’s most unique, yet traditional French food venues in a heavy wood-paneled space with brass fixtures that replicate an actual bistro in Paris. The Greene House is a nouveau cuisine spot with a large outdoor seating area.

OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE

Southeast of Indian School Road and Scottsdale Roads in Downtown Scottsdale, Old Town Shops span about four city blocks, and are adjacent to the Scottsdale Arts District to the West and the Scottsdale Center for the Arts to the East.

There are over 300 stores in Old Town Scottsdale and the vast majority are independent clothing shops, galleries and gift shops.

Antiques, galleries, bookstores and seasonal stores also add to the eccentric feel of the area. The Canal Concert series on Sundays from 2 to 5 pm. on Stetson Plaza, a Saturday morning Farmer’s Market and ArtWalk on Thursday nights are among the activities that keep crowds coming to the area.

There of course are many souvenirs at the great shops in Old Town, but you can also find Native American wares, Western clothing, tooled leather and Western art objects that are unusual and eye-catching.

At night, restaurants and nightclubs draw the crowds, but during the day shoppers rule in this artsy section of town, where museums and galleries often stay open late at night to lure those who prefer to take in paintings and sculpture while they imbibe in the wine or other libations offered.

Located along the “Scottsdale Waterfront” on the Arizona Canal, adjacent to Old Town, the 5th Avenue Shopping Area is something of a misnomer, since it is comprised entirely of independently-run boutiques and not upscale chain stores dominate the area. Some of the stores include the Indian Trading Post, where authentic Native American jewelry and sculpture can be found, the Charles Parkhurst Rare Books store and Fiesta Southwest Gifts, which features pottery, poster reproductions and figurines, among other items.

No matter where you choose to shop in Scottsdale, you will not be disappointed. And best of all is that every Scottsdale vacation rental home is close a great shopping destination!

Arizona Vacation Rental Announces Integration of 100% Secure Reservation Engine

Mark Macias — Fri, 13 Sep 2013 13:06:51 +0000

SCOTTSDALE, September 2013 – Arizona Vacation Rentals, a top choice for Arizona vacation-specific rental options, today announces the next level of service – 100% secure online reservations. Utilizing the innovative systems of multiple online security providers, combined with personalized on-call customer service, the secure reservation engine cements Arizona Vacation Rentals’ reputation as a go-to for Arizona vacations and getaways.

In today’s online world, security issues are at the forefront of a consumer’s thoughts. Integrating Norton Secured Seal, Authorize.net, and GeoTrust QuickSSL technologies, secure booking gives customers at www.arizonavacationrentals.com peace of mind, knowing that the highest level of transaction processing security is in place. This technology also serves to safeguard customer information and combat fraud, and offers the highest level of encryption and security possible. Customers are assured that communications between browser and the website servers are private and secure.

If questions or concerns arise, Arizona Vacation Rentals uniquely offers personalized attention and service by having a full‑time sales staff available to contact. “As opposed to other online booking engines, the difference is that Arizona Vacation Rentals is specifically focused on vacation rentals,” said Mark Macias, co-founder of the Scottsdale-based company. “Because we directly manage all the properties listed on our site, we’re able to help customers compare and contrast different areas and properties, and knowledgeably answer their questions – other websites don’t offer that personalized service.”

Vacation rentals offer an alternative to traditional hotel, motel, and resort accommodations, with the advantages of lower cost, more privacy, and larger space. Allowing the entire family to stay under the same roof in private vacation rental homes, townhomes or condos, Arizona Vacation Rentals offer more space and amenities, such as fully equipped kitchens and private swimming pools, putting greens, and hot tubs. For more information, or to talk to an Arizona Vacation Rental specialist, visit www.arizonavacationrentals.com or call 888-711-8105 to book your next Arizona getaway.

About Arizona Vacation Rentals:

Specializing in Vacation Rentals

Mark Macias — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 12:33:30 +0000

The vacation rental arena is booming across the US, and around the world. And with an expanding market comes a proportional increase in options – websites, management companies – to choose from. To ensure the best vacation possible for you and your family, it’s important to choose an experienced and responsive vacation rental management company. For your Arizona getaway, we’ve got the experience and emphasis on customer service to make it a great vacation.

What sets us apart is that, unlike other property management companies who have transitioned from long-term rental to vacation rental management, our 13 years of experience is vacation-rental specific. While these companies do have the management experience they claim, the products are completely different, and are managed differently – from how they’re booked, and accounting, to operations, pool service, and landscaping.

With 13+ years of experience in the Phoenix Metro area vacation rental market, Arizona Vacation Rentals boasts the largest inventory of single-family homes with private pools. The first company to offer an online reservation system with accurate calendars and immediate support, our online reservations system is 100% secure. Our offices are local to the area we serve, with a short-term goal to offer automated vacation rental experience statewide for guest and homeowner.

We are working to build a trusted brand name, and strive to offer consistently great products and services. Customer services is our number one priority, with agents constantly monitoring properties to ensure safety and security for the property owner, and comfort and convenience to the guest.

Best Phoenix Hikes for Beginners

akissinger — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 23:53:37 +0000

In Phoenix you can find hikes ranging from quick 30 minute strolls to vigorous 3 day excursions. If you’re looking for a good beginner hike you definitely want to try one of the hundreds of hikes around the Phoenix area. When you stay in a Phoenix or Scottsdale vacation rental, you have a great home base after a day out in nature! Here are few of the best hikes for beginners in Phoenix.

Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain is named for it’s resemblance to a kneeling camel. This is one of the more strenuous beginner hikes, but it shouldn’t take more than three hours to complete round trip. The Cholla trail is the one you want to try if you’re looking for a beginner hike. At 1.4 miles it is slightly longer than the other trails, but it offers a more leisurely path up the mountain compared to its more strenuous counterpart, Echo Canyon Trail. The scenery on this0 hike is beautiful and definitely shouldn’t be missed. These hikes are very popular so you’ll want to get there early in order to get a parking spot.

Piestewa Peak

This short but steep hike is a great way to get to know the locals in Phoenix and to meet new people. One of the more popular hikes in the area, there’s always hikers going up and down. With it’s step like layout it offers a more structured hike for the beginner. Just think of it like climbing a large staircase! This hike is located in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve in north Phoenix. Click here for a map of the area!

Papago Park

For those beginning hikers who’d like to stay within city limits, Papago Park is a great option. Distinguished by the beautiful red rocks, Papago Park is a local favorite hiking and recreation spot. Probably one of the easiest hikes you’ll encounter on your hiking venture, Papago Park Loop Trail is used by many people as a running trail. It is on the long side though – at 4 miles this might not be a hike you’ll finish if it’s your first time out on the trail, but the minimal elevation gain (only 50 feet) makes it ideal for a leisurely walk or even a jog or run.

North Mountain

Another Phoenix mountain with stunning views of the city, North Mountain offers many different hiking trails to satisfy everyone in your party – from short and simple to long and strenuous. Try the Penny Howe Nature Trail for a very short (.3 miles) and easy nature walk. Or for something a bit longer take a look at Maxine Lakin Nature Trail, which comes in at 1.2 miles. And this mountain park is equipped with ramadas and picnic tables so pack a lunch and make a day of it!

Arizona Roadside Attractions and Oddities

akissinger — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 20:01:33 +0000

Four Corners, AZ Photo courtesy of Navajo Parks and Rec

Every state has them – those strange roadside attractions that inexplicably draw people in. From Cadillac Ranch in Texas to the world’s largest ball of twine in Kansas you can find these oddities and anomalies just about everywhere. Arizona is no different – with roadside attractions in every city and in between there will always be something to catch your eye on any Arizona day trip. So make an Arizona vacation rental your home base and check out

Top Casinos in Arizona

akissinger — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 23:01:46 +0000

If you think Las Vegas is the only place to find great casinos you are definitely missing out. Not only do you get amazing views, a great climate and an exciting nightlife on an Arizona vacation, but you also get your choice of casinos. Many of the casinos in Arizona are located in Phoenix and Scottsdale on the Native American reservations in the area. Luckily this means that your Phoenix and Scottsdale vacation rentals are never far from the best gaming and gambling Arizona has to offer. Check out this guide to some favorite local casinos.

Casino Arizona

With two locations in Scottsdale, Casino Arizona is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This casino has over 1,600 slot machines, 46 poker tables, keno, blackjack and more. They also offer televisions for viewing live sporting events should you have a bet placed on an important game or race! With dining opportunities as well you can make a night of it when you visit this casino.

Gila River Casino

Gila River Casino has three locations throughout Phoenix and all are great places to get a taste of the Arizona nightlife while you enjoy a bit of gambling. With slots, table games and poker you’ll never get bored at these Phoenix favorites. While here visit some of their great nightclubs and lounges or try Shula’s Steak House, their famous restaurant.

Fort McDowell Casino

Located on the Yavapai Nation reservation, Fort McDowell Casino offers great gaming opportunities such as keno, slot machines, poker and blackjack. It is also home to the Lucky 7 Saloon where you can hear live bands while you sip on cocktails or other drinks. Be sure to try the Silver Platter while you’re here – this restaurant serves old fashioned American burgers and shakes.

So if you’re looking for a place to get away for a little bit of poker or blackjack, but you don’t want to deal with the crowds and hassle of Las Vegas then try an Arizona vacation.

Why You Should Make Scottsdale Your Next Vacation Destination

akissinger — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:09:09 +0000

When you vacation in Scottsdale, Arizona you’re getting more than just a getaway, you get an entire experience. From local culture, to nightlife to sports and weather this city is the perfect vacation destination. Scottsdale has something for everyone – golfing, dining, shopping, museums, sports and more! And when you stay in one of our vacation homes in Scottsdale you’re always near the action and the vibrant local culture.

Nightlife

Whether you’re looking for a trendy club, a quiet bar or a romantic dinner spot, Scottdsale has you covered. With plenty of great restaurants, clubs and bars to choose from there’s something to satisfy everyone here. Be sure to try some authentic Mexican cuisine while you’re here – you can’t beat Scottsdale for some good traditional food!

Weather

Tired of sweaters, scarves and cold weather? When you take a Scottsdale vacation you can break out the shorts, tank tops and sunglasses! Enjoy year-round beautiful weather and sunny skies, not to mention the gorgeous scenery. Surrounded by mountains, Scottsdale offers some of the best views you can find. And don’t worry about overheating either, all of our vacation rentals in Scottsdale come with a pool so you can lay out or go swimming and not have to worry about keeping cool!

Sports and Golf

With so many great golf courses you’ll never be able to hit them all in just one trip, Scottsdale is a great vacation spot for any golf lover, whether you’re a pro or it’s your first time playing the game. Be sure to stop by our golf deals page, to check out some Arizona golf vacation specials. And golf isn’t the only sport to be found in Scottsdale. If you like baseball then you are in luck. With a brand new Spring Training field, Scottsdale is a great place to take in a game!

Finding the Best Scottsdale Vacation Rental for You

akissinger — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 23:40:28 +0000

If you’re taking a vacation to Scottsdale there’s no better way to enjoy the city like a local than in a Scottsdale vacation rental. But how to decide what kind to get? One room? Two rooms? Five rooms? And then there’s the choice between condo, house and apartment and all the different amenities to choose from. Here’s a few tips that will help you get the most out of your vacation rental.

Plan Early

If you’re traveling during a heavy tourist season then it might be very hard for you to book last minute accommodations. Generally the very busy tourist season is in late winter and spring, but the weather is so great here that people love to visit year-round! So make sure you book your vacation rental in advance.

How Many Rooms?

Many of our Scottsdale vacation homes can sleep multiple people in a room. You should decide if you’re alright with sharing rooms or if everyone in your group wants a separate room. You can choose everywhere from 1 room to 5 rooms. Be sure to talk with your group and get a feel for what everyone wants!

Where Do You Want To Stay?

I know this question seems obvious, but Phoenix and Scottsdale are big cities! We have Arizona vacation rentals all over the valley of the sun so you should look at our Online Visitors Guide and see which attractions appeal to you. Then you can decide whether you’d like to stay in North, Central or South Phoenix or Scottsdale!

Amenities

What amenities would you like? All of our vacation rentals come with a fully equipped kitchen and a pool. But would you like a private pool? Make sure to read the description because some rental properties come with a private pool and some come with a community pool. Also, if it is winter and you’d still like to take a dip you can request to have the pool heated.

Just keep these things in mind as you are browsing our Arizona vacation rentals and you’re sure to find the perfect rental home, whether you’re traveling alone, with the family or with friends!

How to Go Green on Your Phoenix Vacation

akissinger — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 22:32:59 +0000

You can recycle, conserve energy and use solar panels, but how do you keep your carbon footprint down while you’re on vacation? Especially in a city like Phoenix? Luckily there’s many green activities and attractions in and around the city. And if you stay in a Phoenix vacation rental you have even more opportunities to be green!

Green Lodging in Phoenix

The best way to have green lodging in Phoenix is to stay in a vacation rental home. When you stay in a hotel you often aren’t in control of how eco-friendly your accommodations are. You can’t control how often they run the air conditioning or the heater and no matter how much research a lot of times it’s impossible to be able to tell how green their practices are. When you stay in a Phoenix vacation home you are in control of how green your lodging is. You can tone down the air conditioning, cook your own meals and make sure the electricity isn’t overused! Staying in a vacation home puts the power in your hands.

Green Activities in Phoenix

There are many great green activities and attractions in Phoenix, you just have to know where to look! For one, the Desert Botanical Garden is a great place to spend an eco-friendly afternoon. This beautiful display of well looked after desert plants is a can’t-miss for any eco-tourist. Or if you’re really looking for something truly impressive stop by Arcosanti. Arcosanti is an experimental town that was started in the 1970s in an effort to make urban spaces more eco-friendly. Come to this town and take a look at the recycled art and learn about how they are combating urban sprawl.

If you’re looking for a green vacation experience then Phoenix is definitely the choice for you. If not for all the great eco-friendly opportunities, then just to see for yourself how even a desert city can be green!

Take a Wine Tasting Tour of Arizona

akissinger — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 19:48:47 +0000

Not a lot of people know this, but Arizona is a great place to take a wine tasting tour. There’s plenty of beautiful vineyards and elegant wine bars for you to experience the best that this desert state has to offer. So make a Phoenix or Scottsdale vacation rental your home base and embark on your Arizona wine tour, just follow this helpful guide for getting the most out of your trip.

What kind of grapes are grown in Arizona?

You might be wondering to yourself if anything grows well in Arizona (besides the obligatory cactus), let alone wine grapes. The truth is that there are many types of grapes that grow very well here. The best grapes to grow in Arizona are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Sangiovese. You’ll find something you like whether you’re a fan of red wine or white wine!

Are there vineyards in Arizona?

Yes! Many of them, in fact. Sonoita, just about 50 miles from Tucson, Arizona, is a great place to visit some of Arizona’s finest vineyards. Sonoita Vineyards, Ltd., is a popular stop for many wine-lovers. They say that their soil is identical to that of Burgundy, France and they boast award-winning wines. Or you can try the Village of Elgin Winery, just a few miles from Sonoita. This vineyard still stomps their grapes and uses only wood casks to store it. Another great vineyard is Callaghan Vineyards. Founded in 1990, this vineyard has had the honor of having their wine served in the White House three times!

What about wine bars?

If you’d like to visit a wine bar then Scottsdale is definitely the place for you. One local favorite, Armitage Wine Bar, provides different wine tasting events throughout the year including blind tastings, wines from around the world and themed evenings (wines from California, “worldly whites,” etc.). Or if you’d like more variety in your wine bar then stop by Kazimierz World Wine Bar, adjacent to Cowbow Ciao. They offer wine from all over the world including Portugal, Lebanon, France, Italy, Spain – just about anywhere you can imagine!

Whether you want to take a day trip out to a vineyard or spend a more intimate evening in a wine bar, Arizona has you covered. And since we have vacation rental homes all over Phoenix and Scottsdale you’re never more than a cab ride away from the best wine bars in the city!

Learn More About Phoenix Culture on Your Vacation

akissinger — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 22:57:18 +0000

Photo courtesy of Heard Museum

Phoenix as a city has a history that stretches all the way back to 1861 and the history of the area itself goes back much much further. One of the best things to do when visiting this culture-rich city is to acquaint yourself with a little bit of this history. How to do this though? You could talk to a local, but everyone has different versions of favorite local legends and tales, so you’ll never really know if you’re getting the whole story.

Luckily the Heard Museum in Phoenix has taken on the task of presenting an accurate telling of the history and modern culture of Phoenix and Arizona Native Americans. And with three branches, one in downtown Phoenix, one in North Scottsdale and one in Surprise, you’ll always be near an Arizona vacation rental.

This museum was founded in 1929 by Dwight and Maie Heard and since then has grown from just housing a small personal collection of art to being host to festivals and over 40,000 items in 130,000 square feet of space. One of its most well known collections is the Barry Goldwater collection of 437 Hopi Kachina dolls.

The Heard Museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike and attracts over 250,000 visitors a year. One favorite among visitors is the yearly festivals held here. They host an annual Spanish market, World Championship Hoop Dance Contest and the most famous festival – the Indian Fair and Market. Visitors can also view the historic photographs and accounts of historic and modern Native American experiences.

If you’re looking to experience and learn about Native American culture on your Phoenix vacation then make sure you stop by the Heard Museum before you leave. Make a vacation rental in Arizona your home base as you embark on your cultural adventure!

Best Lakes to Visit on Your Arizona Vacation

akissinger — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 22:31:56 +0000

Photo courtesy of golakehavasu.com

You might not think so, but Arizona has some truly fantastic lakes. Whether you’re here for fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, camping or just going out on a boat for the day, we have you covered. And Arizona vacation rentals make a great home base to return to after a long day out on the water. Here are a few of our favorite lakes in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.

Lake Pleasant

Boating, fishing, viewing wildlife, hiking, swimming – those are just a few of the many opportunities for fun and activity at this popular Arizona lake. If you like to fish this is definitely the spot for you. Some of the varieties of fish found here are large mouth bass, white bass, striped bass, buffalo fish, tilapia, carp and sunfish. The lake and its accompanying park span over 23,000 acres and offer such activities as camping, barbecuing and hiking. When you visit this lake you might even get a chance to spot a bald eagle, they nest in certain areas of the lake!

Lake Havasu

Located on the border between Arizona and California, this lake is home to more than just one of the most popular spring break destinations around – when you visit Lake Havasu you’re also getting a little bit of England! The London Bridge was transported from its original home on the Thames in England and rebuilt brick by brick on this side of the “pond.” And if that isn’t enough, you can also visit the English Village, located beneath the London Bridge.

How Hidden Hotel Fees Add Up

akissinger — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 18:14:31 +0000

Have you ever wondered why the nightly fee for a hotel room adds up to so much? The rooms aren’t very large, the kitchenette (if there is one) is tiny and only comes with the barest necessities and often hotel rooms only come with one bed. So why does the bill end up being so huge? Here are a few hidden fees that help your hotel bill stack up so high.

Pool Towels

Did you know that oftentimes hotels charge for the use of pool towels? And not only that, but if you take one of those towels back to your room you will be charged an additional fee on top of the first one. When you stay in an Arizona vacation rental, linens and towels are provided for you, no need to worry about being charged!

Minibar Items

We’ve all been there – you walk into a hotel room and see a tempting array of water bottles, soda, food and other offerings. But be careful! Each time you take something from the minibar you are charged – sometimes as much as $6 for a bottle of water. And some hotel rooms even have a sensor that activates when you even move some of the food items.

Resort Fee

The “resort fee” that many hotels and resorts charge is a fee added on to your bill that can sometimes be as much as $25 a day. This is a charge for such services as the gym and business center – even if you don’t use them.

Parking Fee

Hotels will also sometimes charge for mandatory valet parking. This fee can be as much as $20 a night. At a Phoenix vacation home you get a private garage and don’t have to worry about dealing with valets or the fees that come with them.

Incorrect Charges

Who hasn’t been incorrectly charged on a hotel bill? Charged for a smoking room when they were in non-smoking, billed for movies they never requested or watched, made to pay for items from the minibar when they never took any and many more incorrect or false charges that take time and hassle to clear up.

If you’re looking to avoid all the hidden fees and hassle involved with renting and staying in a hotel room, you should look into a vacation home in Phoenix or Scottsdale on your next Arizona vacation. With a fully equipped kitchen, private rooms and no hidden fees, vacation rentals are a real home away from home.

Where to Find the Best Shopping on Your Scottsdale Vacation

akissinger — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 23:38:43 +0000

There are hundreds of great places to shop around the Phoenix and Scottsdale area. From craft fairs to farmers markets to upscale shopping venues, you can find just about everything here. If you’re looking for designer brands and beautiful scenery then Scottsdale is definitely the place for you. There’s no end to the great shopping here and with all the shopping centers it can be easy to get overwhelmed and not find the best place, whether you’re looking for a new wardrobe or just a little window shopping. Here is a quick list of some of the best shopping venues in Scottsdale.

Biltmore Fashion Park

This beautiful outdoor shopping center has been a part of the Scottsdale shopping scene since 1963, when it first opened. In that time it has been frequented by such celebrities as John Wayne, Bob Hope and Sophia Loren. In the early 2000s the fashion center underwent a major renovation and continues to be a premiere shopping destination in Scottsdale. Shoppers can find such favorites as Saks Fifth Avenue and Coach while diners will be delighted to see restaurants like Zinburger and the Capital Grille.

Scottsdale Fashion Square

This Scottsdale shopping staple is one of the 30 largest malls in the country and one of the top 10 most profitable. With just about 2 million square feet of retail space and over 40 individual stores, this is definitely one of the top shopping spots in not only the city, but the state. Featuring everything from high-end retailers like Barney’s New York to major stores like H&M and Forever 21, this shopping venue has something for everyone. And if you get hungry while you’re shopping don’t worry – there’s everything from food-court favorites like Paradise Bakery to sit-down eateries like Z’Tejas and the Yard House.

Kierland Commons

Kierland Commons, located on the edge of Phoenix and Scottsdale is another beautiful outdoor shopping venue. The charming city design of the shopping center provides lovely scenery for you shopping excursion. This shopping center was completed in 2000 and today it has about 75 retail shops and restaurants available for the determined shopper. You can stop in Anthropologie and grab some clothing or specialty items and then take a trip over to Banana Republic or BCBG Max Azria for some high-end fashion.

If you’re looking for some shopping on your vacation then you won’t find a better spot then Scottsdale. And when you stay in one of our Scottsdale vacation rentals you’ll have a great place to put your feet up after a long day of perusing the shopping centers!

How to Get the “Old West” Experience on Your Phoenix Vacation

akissinger — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 22:20:26 +0000

Gun fights. Cowboys. Saloons. All these things and more come to mind when someone mentions the “Old West” and they can all be found in Phoenix if you know where to look. This city has some of the richest culture you can find, with a history that goes all the way back to 1861 and earlier. Here are some of the best places around town to recapture that “Old West” spirit.

Pinnacle Peak Patio Steakhouse

The Pinnacle Peak Patio Steakhouse in Scottsdale has been a way to step back to the old west since 1957. Decorated in classic western style and famous for their “no necktie” policy, you’ll really feel like a cowboy when you stop here. And as for that no necktie policy, they don’t kid around so make sure you don’t wear one or they’ll cut it off and staple it to wall!

Rawhide Western Town

You can’t mention the Old West in Phoenix without someone bringing up Rawhide. Featuring gun fights, shows, a shooting gallery, stagecoach rides, a real blacksmith and more, this town will have something to entertain you no matter what age you are! Don’t forget to take a tour of the city or stop by the steakhouse for some grub. Admission to the town is free too, so you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank.

Cave Creek

This Old West throwback town was founded in the 1870s and began its life as a gold mining camp. A visit to this town offers a more sedate look at the Old West but you can still find the staples like horseback riding, rodeos and mining tours. Make sure you stop by the Cave Creek Museum before you leave for a look at the town’s rich history! And for even more Old West fun, check out Frontier Town and try the famous (but spicy!) Cave Creek Chili Beer.

If you’re looking to experience a little bit of the past in the present day, look no further than one of Phoenix’s great Old West towns! And when you stay in one of our Phoenix vacation rentals, you won’t be far from any of the gunslingers, cowboys and rodeos.

Top 5 Golf Courses in Phoenix

akissinger — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 19:59:33 +0000

Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale

Did you know there are over 400 golf courses to choose from in Arizona? And over 250 of those are in Phoenix and the surrounding areas? With that many golfing opportunities you could come here every year and never run out of great places to tee off. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed though, take a look at this list of the top 5 courses in the valley of the sun.

5. ASU Karsten Golf Course – Tempe

The ASU Karsten Golf Course in Tempe opened in 1989 and has been home to one of the best courses in Phoenix ever since. It was even given 4.5 stars by Golf Digest. The course is par 70 with a Scottish links design and four sets of tees. This is definitely a can’t miss on your golf vacation.

4. Arrowhead Country Club – Glendale

Also constructed in the 1980s, this Phoenix country club offers a putting green, two chipping greens, a practice bunker and a driving range in addition to the course. The course itself stretches up to 7,000 yards with 10 lakes and 60 bunkers. This club is a great place for more experienced golfers!

3. Stonecreek Golf Club – Phoenix

Stonecreek Golf Club, located in North Phoenix, is home to almost 7,000 yards of par 71 golfing. With 18 holes and a course rating of 72.8, this is a great place to stop on any Phoenix golf vacation. This course also offers on-site golf instructors and affordable club rentals.

2. Troon North Golf Club – Scottsdale

This club features two of the newest courses in the Phoenix area – Pinnacle and Monument. Pinnacle was rated #21 in the nation and Monument was rated #44 in the nation by Golf Magazine. The Monument course features 18 holes and over 7,000 yards of golf.

1. Grayhawk Golf Club – Scottsdale

The Grayhawk Golf Club in Scottsdale is definitely one of the best places to golf in Arizona. With scenic desert views and 7,135 yards of golf it is great for the golf enthusiast who’d also like a little scenery with their sport. Grayhawk has been host to PGA-tour sanctioned events and is also available for events like weddings, golf tournaments and group golf outings. Make sure you don’t miss this challenging course on your Arizona golf vacation!

There’s no doubt that Arizona is one of the best places in the country to take a golf vacation. Be sure to check out our Golf Packages to make sure you get the best deal out of your Phoenix vacation rental!

What Amenities do you Get with an Arizona Vacation Rental?

akissinger — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 19:05:43 +0000

Arizona vacation rentals offer the best way to experience Phoenix like a local. Packed with amenities and with all the convenience of home, these rental properties will make you feel like you never left – all while experiencing the fun and excitement of a brand new city. Here are just a few of the many great amenities you get when you rent an Arizona vacation home.

Pool and Spa

Our Arizona vacation rentals all come with a pool and spa and many of them come with a private pool and spa! A pool is a necessity on an Arizona vacation where some days are best spent lounging on the patio with a cool drink and some shades! Ask us about heating the pool too! It costs a little more, but it’s definitely worth it in the cool winter months.

Private Rooms

All of our vacation home in Phoenix and Scottsdale come with private rooms so you no longer have to worry about sharing a room with other people if you don’t want to. With anywhere from 1 to 5 rooms, you can have as many or as few people on your trip as you want. Whether you’re on a family trip or an Arizona golf vacation, we can provide for you.

Fully Equipped Kitchen

Who likes to eat out every single night? When you stay at one of our vacation properties you don’t have to! All of our Phoenix vacation homes come with fully equipped kitchens with updated appliances. All you have to do is make a quick stop at the grocery store and you can have a healthy home-cooked meal. We also provide a barbecue as well for those nights when a little grilling is in order.

Privacy

Not only do our properties come with private bedrooms for your convenience but we also provide private garages. No longer will you have to waste time finding a parking spot in a crowded parking lot or worry about keeping your car secure!

Space

Our vacation rentals in Phoenix offer 5 to 10 times as much space as a hotel room. Think about it, often all you get with a hotel room is just that – the room. If you’re lucky you might get a small kitchenette and lounge area, but those are often cramped and not a good place to relax. Generally you get 300-400 square feet of space with a hotel room or 475-600 square feet in a resort room, but with an Arizona vacation home or condo you could get anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 square feet of space.

These are just a few of the great amenities offered in our homes and the options for what you can get can vary from home to home. Be sure to check out our properties and decide for yourself! If you have more questions make sure you take a look at our FAQ.

Visiting the Grand Canyon on Your Arizona Vacation

akissinger — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 17:31:04 +0000

The Grand Canyon is something everyone should see at least once. More than just a giant hole in the ground, there’s a reason it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. 277 miles long and 18 miles wide, the Grand Canyon was carved by a single river – the Colorado River. People flock from all over the country to view this spectacular natural wonder and rarely are they disappointed. A visit to the Grand Canyon is a great day trip to take from your Phoenix vacation rental. Here are few quick tips for planning your visit to the Grand Canyon.

If this is your first visit to the Grand Canyon, you should schedule a tour: the canyon is massive and it is easy to be overwhelmed and not get the most out of your experience. Tours of the Grand Canyon range from quick donkey rides a short way into the canyon to a trek down to the bottom followed by a white water rafting trip to helicopter rides over the canyon.

Maybe you’ve been to the Grand Canyon before? Then you should decide whether you’d like to see the North Rim or the South Rim. Both rims offer vastly different experiences. The North Rim tends to be colder than the South Rim and often the road can be closed seasonally, so plan accordingly. The South Rim is generally a more popular area to visit with 90% of the Grand Canyon’s visitors going there. The West Rim, however is home to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a bridge with a clear bottom that stretches out over the canyon. You truly feel like you are walking on air when you step out onto this bridge – it’s not for the faint of heart!

Another important thing to remember is to check the weather! It can often get very cold at the Grand Canyon and sometimes it even snows and that can cause road closures. The official Grand Canyon National Park website offers weather and road closure information year-round so be sure to check there before you pack up the car. And be sure to dress accordingly if it is chilly – hats and scarves for all!

So make an Arizona vacation rental your home base as you embark on your Grand Canyon adventure. You definitely won’t regret making the trip to see this feat of nature. But remember – stay away from the edge!

Why You Should Stay in a Vacation Rental on Your Phoenix Vacation

akissinger — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 23:57:13 +0000

We’ve all had to deal with the hassle of planning a vacation – especially when it comes to booking and staying in hotel rooms. Luckily, when you stay in a Phoenix vacation home or condo, you don’t have to deal with hassle you would when staying a hotel room.

Our Arizona vacation rentals offer 5 to 10 times as much space as you would get in a hotel room. No longer do you have to worry about pull out sofas and tiny living spaces. When you stay in a vacation home you get all the same space you would at home while still enjoying the sights and attractions of a brand new city.

Top 10 Things to do in the Spring in Arizona

akissinger — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 23:29:30 +0000

Spring is one of the best times to visit Arizona. While the rest of the country is still thawing out from a harsh winter, Arizona is enjoying sunny skies and warm weather. It’s no wonder that people flock here during this time of year – with fun activities for people of all ages, you can’t beat an Arizona vacation in the spring. And when you stay in an Arizona vacation rental you don’t have to worry about booking a crowded hotel room and you’re always near the best attractions. Read through this list of our top 10 favorite things to do in the Spring to get some ideas for your next Arizona vacation.

Catch a Spring Training Game: March and April in Phoenix usually mean one thing over any other – Spring Training games. 15 Major League Baseball teams come from all around the country to play here and the 10 stadiums throughout the city offer the best way to catch your favorite baseball team in the off season.

Go Hiking: Spring time is the best time to go for a hike in Arizona – the weather hits that perfect spot between hot and cold and it’s comfortable enough to wear shorts, but you don’t have to worry about heat stroke either! With hundreds of hiking trails around the city, there’s something for every skill-level, from the beginner to the expert.

Visit Slide Rock: Slide rock is something of a local favorite in Arizona. This state park located near Sedona gets its name from the stretch of creek where the slippery bottom forms a natural “slide” down the rock. This park can get very crowded in the summertime so spring is the best time to visit without feeling like you have to fight through a crowd.

Take a Trip to the Zoo: Spring time in Arizona is a great time to take a trip to the zoo. Whether it’s the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium or the Phoenix Zoo in Phoenix or the Reid Park Zoo in Tucson. The weather is just right for the animals to be active and playful!

Explore Scottsdale: Scottsdale is home to some of the most vibrant culture that Arizona has to offer. With all the best nightlife and dining spots you’ll never get bored in this city. And in the spring time all the locals are out and about so you’ll get to meet and mingle with new people.

Take a Day Trip to Sedona: Sedona is home to the nationally renowned red rocks. These beautiful rock formations draw visitors from all over the country. And don’t forget to stop by some the famous “vortex” spots in this city for a little bit of the local superstition.

Matsuri Festival: This Japanese festival takes place every year in the spring time in Phoenix. It is a celebration of Japanese culture and is a great place to take in a live show, try some authentic Japanese food or view some traditional art. And don’t worry, admission is free!

Visit Lake Havasu: Lake Havasu is a bit of a famous spot in Arizona. You might not believe it but this desert lake is home to the London Bridge! The famous bridge was shipped over from England and rebuilt brick by brick over the lake. Be sure to stop by and check out this unusual sight!

Take a Jeep Tour: Jeep tours are a great way to explore the deserts of Arizona and the spring time provides beautiful weather for this interesting sightseeing experience. With opportunities stretching from Tucson to Scottsdale to Sedona, no matter which part of the state you want to see we’ve got you covered.

Spend a Day Golfing: Spring in Arizona is a great time to play a round of golf. The weather, the scenery, the beautiful courses – they all combine to provide the perfect golfing vacation. Be sure to try Troon North, voted the #1 golf course in Arizona!

Staying Healthy on Vacation: Alternatives to Eating Out in Phoenix

akissinger — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 22:05:01 +0000

Finding a healthy restaurant can be difficult. Especially in a strange city when you don’t know all the best local healthy eateries. Luckily, our Arizona vacation rentals come with fully equipped kitchens, so you don’t have to eat out all the time. You can cook healthy meals at home – that way you’ll know exactly what you’re eating and what ingredients went in to the dish. Try these fun alternatives to eating out at restaurants.

Eat a Home-Cooked Meal

You may have gone on your Phoenix vacation to try something new, get the flavor of an entirely different city, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the comforts of home while you do so. One great alternative to eating out every night is having a home-cooked meal, just like you would if you weren’t on vacation. This offers a nice break from choosing a restaurant every night and dining out, only to wonder how good for you the meal you just consumed was.

Pack a Picnic

A picnic in the park is a great way to get out of the house while still avoiding the cost and relative unhealthiness of eating out. Grab some cold cuts, bread and fresh fruit from the grocery store and you’ll have everything you need for a beautiful picnic in the park. This is also a great way to enjoy the beautiful desert scenery in Phoenix. Be sure to go in the evening for the full effect – Arizona sunsets can’t be rivaled!

Have a Barbecue

Barbecuing on the patio is an age-old Arizona tradition and if you really want to experience the city like a local, there’s no doubt that this is the best way to do so. Our vacation homes in Phoenix come equipped with barbecues so all you have to do is make a quick stop at the grocery store and you’ll be grilling in no time! This is a great way to spend some time with friends or family (or both) – whoever you’re traveling with they’re sure to love a quiet barbecue in the backyard.

No need to peruse a menu searching for something that sounds even the slightest bit healthy, when you stay in an Arizona vacation rental you are in control of your meals.

Keeping Active on Your Phoenix Vacation

akissinger — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 20:25:56 +0000

If you’ve ever tried to stay active on vacation you know how hard it can be. It’s all too easy to check into your Arizona vacation rental and just recline on the couch, go out to dinner or spend the days lounging around. For some people this may seem like the ideal vacation, but for those who’d like to keep a bit more active while away from home, this prospect can seem tempting but ultimately undesirable. What to do then? Joining a gym while on vacation is improbable and often times its hard to know what the locals do to keep fit. Luckily Arizona has many outdoor activities available for locals and travelers alike that are affordable or free.

Hiking, jogging and biking are three extremely popular activities in the valley of the sun. The beautiful weather makes it a great destination for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. The city features many gorgeous neighborhoods to stroll or jog through and it is surrounded by mountain ranges that are great for biking or hiking. For a nice jog where you’ll meet lots of friendly locals try Tempe Town Lake. The loop around the lake is just the right distance that you’ll get a good workout but won’t overtax yourself. Or for a more strenuous hike try North Mountain just north of the city.

You might not think so, but Phoenix has many lakes and waterways for fishing as well. Fishing is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the sunshine. Many locals enjoy Lake Pleasant for its beautiful scenery and for the opportunity to sometimes catch a glimpse of a bald eagle or two (they nest in certain areas of the lake). Another popular lake in Phoenix is Canyon Lake. This lake features bass and trout and opportunities for jet skiing, water skiing or wind sailing.

You can’t talk about outdoor activities in Phoenix without mentioning golf. With hundreds of golf courses, some of which are nationally recognized, golf lovers from all over come to play here. Troon North’s Pinnacle course was ranked #1 in Arizona and #21 in the country by Golf Magazine. Be sure to visit their courses for the absolute best that Phoenix has to offer! The Raptor course at Grayhawk Golf Club is another Phoenix favorite, featuring 7,135 yards of golfing with spectacular desert views.

So if you’re worried about keeping fit on your Phoenix vacation, worry no longer – there’s enough opportunities for jogging, hiking, biking and golf that you’d be busy for ten vacations! And with a Phoenix vacation rental as your home base you’ll have a great place to relax after a full day of outdoor adventures.

Vacations in Phoenix: Best Annual Events

akissinger — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 19:29:45 +0000

No matter what time of year you visit the valley of the sun there’s always great events for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a foodie looking for some great new cuisine or a car enthusiast who wants to view the finest antiques around – you’ll find what you’re looking for in Phoenix. No one wants to just sit around the house while they are on vacation, so get out of your Arizona vacation rental for the day and attend one of Phoenix’s many events. Here’s a month by month break down of our favorite annual events in Phoenix and surrounding areas.

January	July
February	August
March	September
April	October
May	November
June	December

January

Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Auction: This classic car event takes place every January in Scottsdale. The auction features some of the world’s finest collector and special interest cars and draws over 200,000 visitors.

Fiesta Bowl: This event is a can’t-miss for any college football fan. An Arizona tradition since 1971 this

Affordable Travel: Free Things to Do on Your Phoenix Vacation

akissinger — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 17:04:56 +0000

Want to get the most out of your Phoenix vacation, but don’t want to break the bank to do it? Luckily Phoenix is home to tons of great free or affordable activities and attractions. There’s something everyone can enjoy, from hiking to sightseeing to learning more about the city. With Phoenix vacation rentals all over the city, you’ll always be close to the best that the city has to offer. Here are our top picks for free or affordable things to do in Phoenix.

Explore Downtown Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix is home to some of the richest culture in the city, not to mention dining, nightlife, museums and sports venues. There are many public art installations throughout the downtown area that are not only beautiful but free to view and appreciate. The architecture is also something you should take a look at. With some buildings dating back to the 1920s, the beauty of the past is brought forward in downtown Phoenix.

Phoenix Art Museum

While usually the Phoenix Art Museum has an admittance fee, on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. entrance to the museum is free for everyone. This museum features everything from fashion exhibitions to southwestern art to modern pieces. Be sure to check out the pieces by Andy Warhol while you’re here!

First Fridays Art Walk

The First Fridays Art Walk is on the first Friday of every month and is an event in downtown Phoenix where artists and galleries open their doors and display their artwork. Entry is free and it is a great way to explore some of the local culture. This art tour is self guided though so be sure to check out the website so you know where to find all the best galleries!

Hiking

Finding a great hiking spot in Phoenix can be as easy as stepping outside your Arizona vacation home. The city and surrounding areas aren’t called “the valley of the sun” for no reason – surrounded by mountain ranges, Phoenix is the best place to get in a little bit of exercise. Try Piestewa Peak to meet some locals and maybe make a few friends, this hike is one of the most popular in the city. Or maybe you’d rather have a little bit of solitude? North Mountain is relatively uncrowded and offers some beautiful scenery.

Take a Day Trip

Other than the cost of gas, taking a day trip around Phoenix is completely free. With many great sights and attractions around the city, the only problem you’ll have is deciding where to go first! Try a trip to the Grand Canyon for its impressive views and scenery. Or maybe you’d like to head up to Sedona to view their famous red rocks? If an escape from the heat is what you’re looking for then you can’t beat Flagstaff or Prescott, both are much cooler than their southern counterparts.

Top 5 Ways to Beat the Heat on Your Phoenix Vacation

akissinger — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 23:52:08 +0000

Phoenix is a great place to visit if you’re trying to get away from cold weather. The city stays sunny with beautiful weather year-round, but during the summer it can get HOT. People close their doors, crank up their air conditioning and spend hours in the pool. But, you can’t spend your whole trip in your Phoenix vacation home, so here are the top 5 ways to beat the heat on your Phoenix vacation.

5. Be prepared

You don’t have to be a boy scout to follow this simple rule, there’s certain items you should never leave your vacation rental without when you’re on a Phoenix vacation. Hats are a great idea if you’re fair haired or worried about your scalp getting burned. Your head can take a beating from the sun so cover up! Sunscreen and sunglasses are must haves as well. Make sure you put on some sunscreen and cover up your eyes before you go out.

4. Go shopping

No, that’s not a joke. Phoenix and Scottsdale are home to some of best shopping around and with plenty of indoor shopping malls you’ll have no trouble getting out of the heat. In fact, they sometimes are so cold inside you’ll be wondering what people were talking about when they said Phoenix was hot! A local favorite is Scottsdale Fashion Square, featuring over 250 stores. You can find everything from small boutiques to big name designers.

3. Visit a museum

Phoenix has no shortage of great museums ranging from science to art and culture. Visiting one (or all) of these museums is a great way to get out of the sunshine while still enjoying a true Arizona vacation. For an educational experience, try the Arizona Science Center in downtown Phoenix. This museum features interactive exhibits that are fun for adults and children alike. Or for a look at the Native American culture in Arizona try the Heard Museum. This museum is a great way to find out more about the history and modern day experiences of Phoenix and Arizona Native Americans. Check their calendar for exciting events and festivals.

2. Visit a spa

Many Phoenix and Scottsdale spas feature summertime deals and specials for people looking to escape the weather. What better way to cool off than a relaxing day at a spa? Get a massage, a manicure, a facial – whatever your heart desires! The Arizona Biltmore Spa is a great place to spend the day being pampered while the sun beats down outside. Spend the day at a spa and then you’ll be done just in time to enjoy the Phoenix nightlife!

1. Swimming

Whether you’re enjoying the pool at your Phoenix vacation rental or splashing around at one Phoenix’s many water parks, there’s no doubt that swimming is the best way to beat the heat. Not only do you get to enjoy the cool clear water, but you also get to partake in the sunshine and outdoors. It’s the best of both worlds. Wet ‘n Wild is a favorite Phoenix water park. This relatively new park features innovative rides like the Maximum Velocity H2O Coaster – basically a water powered roller coaster. The only other place that claims this water park is Hawaii, so you know you’re getting a unique experience. So jump in your Arizona vacation rental pool or head to a water park for the best way to stay cool!

A Breakdown of the Phoenix Spring Training Stadiums

akissinger — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 22:35:51 +0000

It’s that time of year again – time to head out to Phoenix to catch some Cactus League Spring Training games! The weather is excellent, the scenery is beautiful and the games are exciting. With ten stadiums across Phoenix and Scottsdale you’ll never miss your favorite teams facing off. And with Phoenix and Scottsdale vacation rentals all throughout the Valley of the Sun, you’re never far from your team’s Spring Training field. Here is a quick breakdown of all the Phoenix and Scottsdale stadiums – who plays there, what amenities you can find and why you should visit.

Camelback Ranch	Phoenix Municipal Stadium
Goodyear Ballpark	Scottsdale Stadium
HoHoKam Stadium	Surprise Stadium
Maryvale Stadium	Tempe Diablo Stadium
Peoria Sports Complex	Salt River Fields

Camelback Ranch

Camelback Ranch Stadium is located in the west valley and is home to the Chicago White Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers. This stadium can seat 13,000 people and is one of the newer stadiums in Phoenix, having just opened in 2009. This stadium is a great place to take in some scenery with your game, there’s a scenic lake separating the two teams’ training fields and over 5,000 plants and trees. Be sure to check the Spring Training schedule before you go!

Goodyear Ballpark

Also in the west valley is Goodyear Ballpark, home to the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians. This field features a children’s whiffle ball practice area where the kids can play and a patio area and bar for the adults. It seats 10,000 and is located near Estrella Mountain Regional Park so try some horseback riding before or after your game!

HoHoKam Stadium

HoHoKam Stadium is located in Mesa, the Spring Training home for the Chicago Cubs since 1952. This stadium boasts the largest scoreboard in the Cactus League and seats over 12,000 people. Also available at this park are 7 concession stands, 5 soccer fields and 2 souvenir stores.

Maryvale Stadium

Maryvale Stadium is located just west of Phoenix and seats 10,000 people. Spring Training home of the Milwaukee Brewers, this stadium was built in 1998. It contains 1 main field and 5 practice fields on 56 acres of property. When the Brewers aren’t playing here it is open for community events such as adult community baseball leagues and minor league training programs.

Peoria Sports Complex

The Peoria Sports Complex, also to the west of Phoenix, is claimed by the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners as their Spring Training Home. Surrounded by a cluster of great dining and entertainment spots, this stadium is a popular destination on any Phoenix vacation. It is also home to concerts and festivals when Spring Training is not in season.

Phoenix Municipal Stadium

First constructed in 1964 the Phoenix Municipal Stadium is an 8,000 seat stadium that claims the Oakland A’s as its Spring Training team. Not just a baseball stadium this venue has been host to such famous bands as The Police and Pink Floyd. It is located in the heart of Phoenix and is surrounded by great food and fun attractions.

Scottsdale Stadium

Scottsdale Stadium is home to the San Francisco Giants and has a history that stretches over 55 years. The original stadium was built in 1956 and was the Spring Training field of

Spring Training: Why Phoenix is the Best Place to Catch a Game

akissinger — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:52:52 +0000

Did you know that 15 major league baseball teams from across the nation play their spring training games in Phoenix and Scottsdale? Teams from everywhere from Los Angeles to Chicago travel here and spend their spring in one of the 10 stadiums around the city and thousands of fans follow them here! And it

Welcome to Sunbelt Vacations Blog

Mark Macias — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:17:37 +0000

Here we will be looking to bring you Arizona attractions, news, events and things to do around town. Stay tuned.