Phoenix Skyline

In this issue….

RESORT NEWS

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS/GOLF

SPA

DINING

What’s New in Greater Phoenix?
January 2012

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH’S EDITION

“Celebrate the Arizona Experience,” culminates with Happy Birthday Arizona! on Arizona’s official centennial date, February 14, 2012.
Batter Up! 15 MLB teams return to the Valley for Cactus League Spring Training Baseball.
Frank Lloyd Wright is remembered in celebration of the 75th anniversary of Taliesin West at several Valley venues.
RESORT NEWS

Enjoy a “Spring Training Family Escape” at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Guests visiting during the 2012 Spring Training Season can expect the ultimate Family FUN experience, and still be close to the nearby ballparks. With the Chief FUN Officer at the helm of the “Family FUN Program,” guests will explore endless possibilities for a memorable family getaway. Learn about special programs and activities such as Kierland Kampfires, Phoenix Zoo presentations, Kids in the Kitchen, Digital Kid’s Club and more. When families aren’t at the ballpark cheering on their favorite team, they can enjoy the Adventure Water Park with a 900-foot lazy river and a 110-foot-long waterslide as well as poolside activities with the FUN Team. The “OK Corral” is adjacent to the Adventure Water Park with lawn chess, basketball, outdoor game tables, RC Car Race Tracks, and hosts Kierland Kampfires with a create-your-own s’ mores experience. The Westin Kierland has a memorable Resort experience to offer, whether looking for a relaxing getaway while taking in a few games, or a family FUN vacation poolside in the beautiful Arizona sunshine

Sheraton Crescent Hotel is a hidden gem for Phoenix wedding ceremonies and receptions. With the unveiling of its new Wedding Studio during the hotel’s annual Wedding Showcase, brides-to-be can have all their wedding desires tailor-made in one location. Whether the vision is a graceful garden ceremony under a canopy of lush ficus trees or a charming courtyard ceremony near sparkling fountains, unforgettable moments and new nuptials will transpire at Sheraton Crescent. This new boutique-style studio creates a charming and personable setting that allows brides-to-be time to relax and meet with a Wedding Specialist in the comfort of a warm and welcoming environment.

History will come to life in stark black and white at a special exhibit of images by Pedro E. Guerrero, the personal photographer of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, at the Arizona Biltmore. Presented in collaboration with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and held in honor of the 75th anniversary of Taliesin West, Wright’s Arizona home that Guerrero began photographing in 1939; The exhibit features his favorite shots of the famous property that became Wright’s architectural school. The exhibit is complimentary and the public is welcome through the duration of the display ending April 29, 2012. In addition, the Arizona Biltmore is offering a special art and history package including two tickets for the 90-minute Insight Tour at Taliesin West; two tickets to the Phoenix Art Museum’s “Frank Lloyd Wright: Organic Architecture for the 21st Century” exhibit; the Arizona Biltmore History Tour; and accommodations at the resort.

The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician and Phoenix Art Museum partner to create “Art of Luxury” guest experience. In celebration of the 75th anniversary of Taliesin West–the Arizona winter home, studio and architectural campus of American icon Frank Lloyd Wright–The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician and Phoenix Art Museum have joined together to design an exclusive and exquisite cultural experience of discovery for visitors to the Valley of the Sun. Available until April 29, 2012 the “Art of Luxury” package includes suite accommodations at The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician; Two tickets to the exhibition “Frank Lloyd Wright: Organic Architecture for the 21st Century”, at Phoenix Art Museum; 10 percent savings on any purchase at The Museum Store; and dinner for two at J&G Steakhouse at The Phoenician ($100 value) – featuring the mastery of James Beard Award-Winning Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. Rates start at just $999 per night.

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa was awarded “Most Luxe Accommodations” by Arizona Foothills Magazine in the 2011 “Best of our Valley” competition. The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, located on the Gila River Indian Community, is a total destination resort showcasing the heritage, culture, art and legends of the Pima and Maricopa Tribes. The resort offerings include: 500 culturally themed rooms, Forbes Five-Star/AAA Five-Diamond dining at Kai Restaurant, the Forbes Four-Star Native American Aji Spa, 36-holes of Troon-managed golf at Whirlwind Golf Club, the 1,000-acre Koli Equestrian Center and a boat cruise to nearby attractions. .

Enjoy parent’s night out with a free “Kids’ Pajama Party” for SPG Members at Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. Parents enjoy a dinner date in the Resort’s signature restaurant, deseo while kids receive a “Pajama Party complimentary. It is quick and simple. Parents stop by the Kierland Mining Co. or Front Desk to get signed up for a Starwood Preferred Guest membership. This complimentary loyalty program offers many benefits including exclusive, members-only specials and promotions, reward points for dollars spent on stays, and preferred status at Starwood Hotels and Resorts around the world. After dining in deseo, present your deseo receipt when picking up the kids from their pajama party and your session fee will be waived. This exclusive offer is valid for up to two children (a $100 value) simply by being a SPG member. This offer is also valid when dining on a Monday or Tuesday in Nellie Cashman’s Monday Club Café when deseo is closed.

Kimpton’s Firesky Resort earns green key certification further aligning with its parent company, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants’ 30-year commitment to sustainable travel and hospitality. Green Key is an international organization that specializes in the rating of lodging properties through its Eco-Rating Program, which recognizes lodging organizations that are committed to improving their environmental and fiscal performance. FireSky will join other Kimpton properties in the creation of a new Green Meetings program to align with Green Key’s programs that focus on eco-friendly practices while hosting large group meetings. In addition to Green Key initiatives, FireSky maintains Kimpton’s award-winning EarthCare program, adopted by the resort in 2007, which encompasses more than 80 eco-friendly products and operational practices. FireSky employees, as well as those at Taggia Restaurant and the all-organic Jurlique Spa, embrace EarthCare initiatives on a daily basis – recycling paper and collecting unused soaps and gently used bedding and sheets for donation to local shelters.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain has once again been recognized by the Arizona Hospitality and Lodging Association’s (AHLA) earning three coveted “Stars of the Industry” awards. The awards acknowledge the hard work of Arizona’s hospitality employees, and the exceptional programs offered by the state’s resorts and hotels. Sanctuary received top billing within the “small property” category for “Special Events, Ongoing:” Sundays in Paradise. Sanctuary’s “Sundays in Paradise” program is designed to give the local community a fun, festive and inexpensive opportunity to enjoy Sanctuary’s mesmerizing views and beautiful grounds. This ongoing weekend program features live entertainment from the region’s best performers as well as affordable a la carte lunch fare, prepared by Executive Chef Beau MacMillan. Its 2011 debut has created a great sense of community amongst Sanctuary’s guests and local residents.

Lady Gaga of Cakes will be featured at Hermosa Inn’s “Artist in Residence Series”. Colette Peters, described as Lady Gaga of Cakes, is the author of five books, a Food Network celebrity and owner of Colette’s Cakes in New York. After getting her master’s degree in painting, she went to work at Tiffany & Co. While there, she made cakes for her co-workers and in 1984 was asked to design cakes for the Tiffany Taste and Tiffany Wedding books, which introduced her innovative crooked cake and the gift box cake. With humor and passion, Colette Peters will share tales about her adventures, as well as impart some of her cherished trade secrets, creative culinary tips, and useful techniques during the dinner on Wednesday, February 22, 2012.

Tempt the senses this Valentine’s Day at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North as the resort offers myriad ways to capture the romance. On Saturday, February 11, 2012, the Resort will host a “Feast for the Senses” cooking class, highlighting a three-course menu ideal for taking the romance home on Valentine’s Day and beyond. The class will feature a menu meant for sharing, and will include a celebratory welcome cocktail and take-home recipe booklet.

For that special occasion, treat your significant other to a weekend of romance, adventure and pure relaxation at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort. The AAA Five-Diamond resort is the perfect retreat for your personalized romantic weekend getaway this Valentine’s Day. Book the “Couples Celebration Package” which includes one night luxurious room accommodations in a Fairmont room, champagne upon arrival and a $200 resort credit per room, per night, to be used towards the award-winning Willow Stream Spa or on food and beverage at any of the Resort’s outlets.

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

“Celebrate the Arizona Experience,” has been a year-long commemoration with activities and events culminating with “Happy Birthday Arizona!” on Arizona’s official centennial date. This day long series of events and commemorations will happen on Arizona’s 100th Statehood Day – Tuesday, February 14, 2012. Year-long events include “Centennial Best Fest”- a “Best of Arizona” series of festivals to honor the state’s diverse culture, art and more – as well as signature projects in Phoenix including Arizona Centennial Museum, an interactive museum showcasing the past, present and future of Arizona; and Washington Street being named as Centennial Way highlighting many of the historical elements and buildings along the path.

CityScape is now home to the downtown Phoenix central business district’s first electric car charging station with the installation of an NRG Energy eVgosm system in the underground parking garage at One E. Washington Street. The charging station will allow up to two electric vehicles to be charged at once. The 240-volt charging docks can provide an electric vehicle with up to 25 miles of range for every hour of charge. An additional charging station will be installed in the west parking garage in January. CityScape is providing the charging station at no cost to electric vehicle owners. The station is part of the eVgo network which is NRG Energy’s privately funded electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Celebrate Arizona’s 100th anniversary of statehood by getting married by the Chief Justice of the Arizona Supreme Court on the steps of the State Courts Building on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2012. All Clerks statewide are issuing licenses for this event and several of them will attend the ceremony in Phoenix. For the cost of a marriage license ($72), couples can have a wedding ceremony and be part of AZ’s history. Licenses are available to residents, non-residents and tourists alike who meet the requirements of Title 25 of Arizona’s statutes related to marriage.

Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona have teamed up with the Scottsdale Street Fair to create a truly unique weekly fair that continues to give back to its community. The Scottsdale Street Fair’s Grand Opening celebration is Sunday, January 8, 2012 at the Pavilions at Talking Stick Shopping Center. This weekly street fair not only will celebrate the character of the neighborhood and its community, it will also bring together many of the regions finest vendors curating fine arts and crafts, home and lifestyle accessories, jewelry, and local business services and offerings. Each week, this event is expected to draw thousands of Valley residents who will be enjoying a day of family fun filled with talented artists, kids zone, a variety of quality food options , live music, and so much more. As part of Scottsdale Street Fairs commitment to its community, their charity partner is Team Bemis, providing spiritual, financial and emotional support to Coach Scot Bemis, Notre Dame Prep Academy coach and mentor, and his family as they battle through a very challenging time in their lives. Scot has stage four non-small-cell lung cancer.

SPORTS/GOLF

Batter Up! It’s that time again. March will mark the start of Cactus League Spring Training Baseball for the 2012 preseason. Come enjoy beautiful weather and baseball at any of the Valley’s 10 stadiums featuring 15 MLB teams: The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians, Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Oakland Athletics, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies and Texas Rangers. Tickets are as little as $5.

Troon® announces its partnership with Lookout Mountain Golf Club at Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort. Troon®, the leader in upscale golf course management, development, and marketing, will offer popular Troon programs at Lookout Mountain Golf Club. Golfers staying onsite at the resort can enjoy a myriad of amenities and superior service consistent with Hilton Hotels & Resorts around the world. In addition to award-winning golf, the 584 all-suite, Spanish-Mediterranean-designed resort is ideal for either business or rest and relaxation with a variety of dining options, acres of swimming pools, extensive conference space and countless activities.

SPA

Valentine’s Day is made “For Your Sweetheart” in Agave, the Arizona Spa at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. This Valentine’s Day, pamper your Sweetheart with the ultimate relaxing spa experience. In the relaxing spa atmosphere, guests can celebrate the day of love with all-day access to the WestinWorkout, Aguamiel Adult Pool, and Spa Facilities, including a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, and relaxation area on the day of spa services. There is no better gift to say, “I Love You,” than the gift of rejuvenation and wellness. With two Valentine’s Day offers to choose from, the Agave Spa has found your perfect gift.

Tempt the senses this Valentine’s Day at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North as the resort offers myriad ways to capture the romance. For the month of February, the Spa and Salon will feature a special romantic twist on the “Tapas Tasting Menu”. The Tapas Tasting Menu is offered in the Spa from 3:00 to 8:00 pm and in the Salon from 3:00 to 6:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday. Spa guests can choose two specialty 25-minute tapas treatments inspired by the season for the special rate of USD 99.00. Salon guests can select from a seasonal Martini and Manicure or Margarita and Makeup option for USD 75.00.

DINING

Valley restaurateur Jimmy Carlin and restaurant veteran Ernie Vega have teamed up with entrepreneur David Loaney to create the Maven Hospitality Group. Their first concept together, The Strand Urban Italian recently opened to the public in downtown Phoenix’s CityScape. The Strand is a concept that this group believes will set a new standard in fast casual Italian dining. The Strand’s menu features a bruschetta bar, pizzettas, cooked to order pastas, stuffed sandwiches, fresh seasonal salads, grilled entrees, and their signature pizcotti and zeppolini desserts. The Strand offers a value-driven dining experience of average of about $10 per guest.

Known for breathtaking views and stunning patio sunsets, The Terrace Room lounge at Different Pointe of View has introduced happy hour specials on Sundays and Mondays, as the lounge extends their hours to seven days a week. The Terrace Room lounge is featuring a “5 at 5” happy hour, which offers $5 well, wine and beer selections starting at 5 p.m. through 8 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays. With the new business hours, guests can enjoy the incomparable luxury and atmosphere of the mountaintop dining destination of Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort when the full dining room is not open. In addition to the drink specials, The Terrace Room features delectable small bites including citrus-poached prawns, spicy braised Cedar River beef, and steamed Penn Cove mussels.

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa is proud to announce Kai and Ko’Sin Restaurants’ newest cocktail menus. With a wide array of offerings, many of the cocktails highlight native and local ingredients and all are sure to please the palate.

El Chorro offers one-of-a-kind venue for meetings. Following a multimillion dollar renovation in 2010 that resulted in the addition of nine distinctive meeting and event spaces, one of the Valley’s favorite places for dining and social gatherings has become known as one of its best locations for business meetings and special events. Located at the base of Camelback and Mummy Mountains in Paradise Valley since 1934, El Chorro now offers an unrivaled choice of flexible, on-site venues in an atmosphere that combines its rich history with stunning mountain views.

ZuZu at Hotel Valley Ho continues its tastings events through the spring featuring wines by Erath, Ferrari-Carano, and more, with alcohol from Jack Daniels, Sailor Jerry, and others. Chose from the “Ho Wine Experience”, every Wednesday night from 5:00 to 7:00 in the ZuZu Lounge, enjoy a tasting, meet a representative from a top winery, learn how the wine is made, and get the featured pour at a special price all night; or “Saturday SHOwdown”, from 5:00 to 7:00 on Saturday nights, enjoy tastings in the lobby bar. A different drink is featured each night, created by ZuZu’s expert mixologists. It’s also on special all night in the lounge. Singer/songwriter Jack Young will be performing on the patio from 7:00 to 9:30 most dates.

Arizona’s “Best New Restaurant” expands opening a hidden cocktail laboratory upstairs. Despite already solidifying a place on Esquire magazine’s esteemed restaurants “Not To Miss” list in 2011 and dozens of other local accolades, Citizen Public House continues to shake things up in Arizona. The gang is set to open a new intimate cocktail experience destined to catapult Sonoran culinary culture to stratospheric new heights. Part mad scientist’s laboratory, part hidden-entrance lounge, Citizen R+D (research and development) opens to the Mecca of upscale cocktails, a hidden gem that takes the art of mixology to an unprecedented level. In a sleek, remodeled upstairs lounge set apart from the “Public,” guests of Citizen R+D will imbibe mad mixologist/partner Rich Moe’s ambitious, constantly-evolving collection of concoctions. The opening menu is $9 – $15 per handcrafted drink.

The latest addition historic downtown Chandler’s dining and nightlife scene has barely opened its doors for business, and Valley foodies are already singing its praises. Vintage 95 is co-owned by Gavin Jacobs and partners Craig and Tricia. Vintage 95 offers a sophisticated-yet-affordable comfort food and an impressive global wine selection, the restaurant and lounge lures guests for ladies night out, a casual nibble ‘n nosh lunch, an intimate dinner or a comfortable midweek happy hour, as well as weekly live entertainment and regular live events. Chef Wahlberg’s menu items include eight varieties of bruschetta, gourmet flatbreads, soups, salads and sandwiches available for lunch or dinner.

For more information on any of these events or updates, please contact the
Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau Media Department.

Media Contacts:

Douglas MacKenzie
Director of Communications
(602) 452-6250
dmackenzie@visitphoenix.com

Trish Hendrickson
Communications Coordinator
(602) 452-6249
thendrickson@visitphoenix.com

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The Epicurean Explorer

President, International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association

Editor-at-Large, CityRoom

Contributor: The Epoch Times, Spa Review Magazine, Global Writes, JustLuxe

Columnist: Big Blend Magazines,

Blogs: Where and What in the World & Success with Writing

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What’s New in Greater Phoenix?
November 2011

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH’S EDITION

Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel was named a winner in the Smart Meetings

2011 Platinum Choice Awards.

The Valley celebrates Thanksgiving with a feast of options.

National Geographic rates Phoenix as one of the nation’s 15 best hiking destination.

RESORT NEWS

With three different celebration possibilities, the Arizona Biltmore caters to every Thanksgiving family gathering. Guests can choose between a five-course gourmet feast at Wright’s, a family-style dinner at Frank & Albert’s, or an extensive buffet in the Gold Room for their holiday gathering. Wright’s: Adults-$80, Children 12 and under-$40, Frank & Albert’s: Adults-$45 Children 12 and under-$21, Gold Room: Adults-$80, Children 12 and under-$40.

Sheraton Crescent Hotelgives couples and families the “Football Fun” and “Holiday Shopping” packages to cater to each of their wants for this fall season. Football

fanatics can attend an Arizona Cardinals football game with the “Football Fun” package, which includes transportation to and from the game. With a chips and salsa welcome amenity and $25 food and beverage credit, this package is perfect for a weekend guy-getaway. Rates start at $169, and beer is included upon arrival for those over 21. This package covers all the plays. Sheraton Crescent partners with MetroCenter Mall to give holiday shoppers a special treatment. Those who buy the “Holiday Shopping” package and spend $250 at the mall receive a $25 MetroCenter gift card, snacks to stay energized while shopping, and a Holiday Martini from Indigo Lounge upon return to the hotel. Rates start at $119 (single) and $149 (double).

The sixth annual “Storytelling & Song” shares ancient Pima and Maricopa cultures at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa. This program will open with a ceremonial blessing for guests on Nov. 17, 2011. Featuring storytellers from the Gila River Indian Community, the program showcases legends based on desert wildlife, personal stories and experiences, and Native American traditional songs. “Storytelling & Song” is one of the resort’s GeoGreen programs encouraging guests to connect with the local cultures, and it offers families a unique way to learn together. Developed by the resort’s cultural concierge Ginger Sunbird Martin, this series takes places from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., every Thursday through Saturday and lasts until March 2012.

Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort demonstrates guest gratitude with its Thanksgiving menus at AAA Four Diamond Different Pointe of View and Pointe in Tyme. Both restaurants weave elegant innovation into their traditional Thanksgiving feasts of seasonal vegetables, carved meats, and delicious desserts. Chef Anthony Demuro of Different Pointe of View takes visitors on a taste bud trip from noon to 7 p.m. Pointe in Tyme is available from noon to 6:30 p.m. Cost for Different Pointe of View: Adult-$59.95 Children 10 and under-$29.95 Cost for Pointe in Tyme: Adult-$47.95 Seniors-$38.95 Children 10 and under-$19.95.

The Residence Inn Phoenix Airport Hotel by Marriott has recently completed a major renovation of its meeting rooms and lobby space. The new design features contemporary décor; zones to support guest activities of eating, working and relaxing; the latest in technology; and engaging music and lighting schemes. To celebrate the new renovations, this Phoenix Airport hotel is offering a new extended stay hotel deal. Rates start at just $79 a night featuring great amenities like full kitchens, free grocery delivery and updated meeting rooms and work spaces.

The Phoenician completes its multi-million dollar suite renovation, capping a 3-year enhancement project of the property’s main and casita buildings. The extensive redesign boasts 25 suites with custom-designed wall coverings and unconventional features, two of which are presidential suites. They range in size from 1150 to 4000 square feet, pairing cool and warm colors such as navy blue and citron yellow for a classically bold ambiance. IPod docking stations, LCD high-definition televisions, and DVD sound systems make this renovation technologically sharp. The AAA Five Diamond resort’s new style is the work of Cadiz Design Studio of Costa Mesa, Calif.

The show-business and culinary fare celebration “Hollywood Bites” continues this fall at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Nov. 17, 2011, and offers an intimate setting for entertainment industry –socializing and Chef Beau MacMillan-provided feasting. Harkins Theatres owner Dan Harkins, the three-time Showman of the Year Award recipient, is the main speaker and discusses the organization’s rich history and theatre industry innovation. Tickets are $100 and include dinner, wine pairings, tax and gratuity. The “Hollywood Bites Casita” package offers guests two tickets to the dinner and a luxurious Mountain Vista Casita for just $495. The resort also welcomes “Fridays at jade,” music entertainment every Friday in November at jade bar. The fun begins November 4 with award-winning local artist Alice Tatum.

Valley residents can celebrate their gratefulness at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch on Thanksgiving Day with the Thanksgiving Buffet. The resort showcases a variety of festive favorites at SWB, including herb-roasted Carolina turkey, glazed Virginia ham, and prime rib of beef from their carving station. The sweet tooth-ers will melt over the made-to-order bananas foster or the caramel and chocolate dipped apple wedges. Family is important to Hyatt Regency, so there will be a special buffet for the kids. Come to the Breakfast Buffet before or the dinner a la carte after, in case you miss this exceptional feast. Cost: Adults-$62, Children 6 to 12-$31, complimentary for children 5 and under.

“Wine Wednesdays” brings the winery to the Hotel Valley Ho, allowing guests to meet with a top winery representative, learn about the wine-making process, and sip the featured pour, all in the comfort of the ZuZu Bar and Lounge. This weekly event is from 5 to 7 p.m. The hotel’s “Saturday Night Tastings” showcases the craft of the Valley Ho’s expert mixologists, featuring a different specially-concocted cocktail each night. Its special price is extra nice, but even more so are the sweet melodies of singer/songwriter Jack Young. These lively evenings last until Dec. 17, 2011.

With the “Desert Indulgence” package, guests at The Hermosa Inn can experience luxury accommodations, $100 dining credit to award-winning restaurant LON’s, two 60-minute spa treatments, and breakfast for two. For an additional seasonal experience, visitors can attend the “Holiday Cooking Class” Nov. 12, 2011, for just $49 per person. The discounts continue at The Hermosa Inn with their daily specials, featuring deals ranging from Muddled Monday’s $5 cocktails to Wednesday Wines’ $15 three-choice tapas. Package rates start at $550

The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess brings all the joy of holiday cheer this month with its Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 17. The resort’s “Christmas at the Princess” kickoff features a four-story Christmas tree with 65,000 LED lights and begins the Toys for Tots toy drive. “Saturdays with Santa”

begins November 26, bringing the kiddies the chance to meet Kris Kringle and take a picture with him! If families dine in any of the restaurants that evening, the $10 photo fee is waived. The resort’s signature restaurants and lounges are taking part in fall spirit with their special holiday cocktails starting November 17. Stone Rose Lounge boasts a mixture of Godiva caramel, Stoli vanilla, salt and cream with its Salted Carmel-tini and LV Bistro wins guests over with its Eggnog Latte. All special drinks and cocktails range from $8-$14.
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ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

Phoenix has become a destination escape spot from harsh winter temperatures, and even international airlines are noticing. More than 100,000 passengers flew from Edmonton International Airport in Alberta, Canada, to Phoenix this year, a statistic sparking higher demand in accessibility. US Airways and WestJet increased their flights and plane capacities, making it easier for travelers to have access to the countless possibilities of Greater Phoenix.

National Geographic rates Phoenix among the nation’s 15 best hiking cities due to its accessible hiking trails. The Phoenix Mountain Preserve covers more than 30,000 acres, giving residents 200 miles of hiking trails.

“Family Weekend” at the Pioneer Living History Museum brings guests two days of music, gunfights, Fast-Draw, trolley rides, and craft demonstrations Nov. 26-27, 2011. History lovers enjoy the historical preservation Pioneer offers, and the young ones gasp at the numerous building tours and crafts available at every corner of the Village.

The Herberger Theater Center Art Gallery presents “The End of an Era-Start of a New Age”, an exhibition displaying and selling artwork, three of which are new works by Renee Palmer-Jones. Art aficionados can discuss the notorious new year as they expand their artistic preferences. The demonstration begins Nov. 4, 2011, at 5:30 p.m. with its “Opening Reception” presenting 18 artists. The show ends Jan. 2, 2012.

Five new tenants recently joined the rapidly growing Scottsdale Quarter, a 28-acre shopping, dining and entertainment district at Scottsdale Road and Greenway-Hayden Loop. Industrie Denim, Galicia Fine Jewelers, Nambé and Kitty were the first to open their doors this month. Dominick’s Steakhouse is now open to the public with Pandora and Verdé Maison opening by the end of the year.

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SPORTS/GOLF

Golf gurus rejoice at the return of The RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup to the Wildfire Golf Club at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa on March 13-18, 2012. The event marks the 38th year of LPGA Tour competition in the Valley since 1962, promising an unexpectedly celebratory affair.

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DINING

To celebrate its 82nd season of dedication to a 200-year-old English pastime, the Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, presents its new and trendy Afternoon Tea menu beginning Nov. 4, 2011. Tea-timers are spoiled with this fresh menu and may have a difficult time choosing between the Prosciutto Melon Lollipops and the Lobster Dill Salad. Each month features a different scone and dessert menu and the vegetarian options are exceptionally extensive. Tea time at the Biltmore can be a uniquely festive affair with its seasonal holiday menus, and guests shouldn’t hesitate to sip on the Hazelnut Truffle blend with December’s Eggnog Spiced Pound Cake. Tea Sommelier Kevin Doyle welcomes each visitor personally before he uses his tea expertise to explain the menu’s pairing intricacies. Prices: Adults-$36 with cocktail-$46 Children under 12-$26 Gluten-free menu is available, and reservations are strongly recommended.

Guests can savor traditional Thanksgiving comfort foods with a three-course meal at District Kitchen and Wine Bar on Thanksgiving. What could be better than time-honored recipes like marshmallow yams, Andouille stuffing, and orange-scented green beans? Nothing. That’s why this Sheraton Phoenix Downtown Hotel restaurant is a must for a family holiday celebration. Attendees shouldn’t forget to try the Chocolate Pudding Chiffon Tart for dessert. Cost: Adults-$31 Children-$15.50 Wine Pairing-$15.

Rico’s American Grill eases holiday stress with their Thanksgiving buffet Nov. 24, 2011. Families can indulge in golden-basted turkey, herb-rubbed rib-eye, and bourbon-glazed ham from the buffet’s carving stations, and can create a pasta dish at the customizable pasta station. The decadence continues onto the side dishes, featuring honey-glazed carrots and sugar and pork-baked beans. Old-school cornbread stuffing and candied yams are a traditional complement to the restaurant’s creative menu. The buffet is available from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Adult-$45 Children 12 and under-$13.

Fox Restaurant Concepts partners with Chloe’s Corner to bring the gourmet market to Downtown Phoenix. Chloe’s Corner will be located at CityScape. Chloe’s Corner is an upscale deli and convenience market featuring breakfast items, baked goods and sandwiches.

Residents who dread the task of tedious holiday cooking should spend their Thanksgiving at Taggia Restaurant. The restaurant features a menu that pairs traditional Thanksgiving comfort foods with authentic Italian cuisine. Slow-roasted turkey, butternut squash ravioli, and carrot and saffron soup are only a few of the many holiday delights offered on the holiday. Guests should end the feast with the pumpkin budio, a guarantee they will leave happy and thankful.

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SPA

Those who relax with a Cashmere Spice Warm Embrace Holiday Body Wrap at the Willow Stream Spa of the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess benefit both their bodies and charity. Five percent of the proceeds from this 45-minute treatment benefit the Sugar Plum Fairies for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale. Should guests choose to sponsor a youngster from the Boys & Girls Club, they will receive a 10 percent discount on any spa service booked that day. The Pumpkin Vanilla Spice Pedicure sounds pretty enticing.

Pumpkin is the main ingredient of Spa Avania’s fall time treatments at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa. Guests can indulge in the Pumpkin Enzyme Facial to bring ourt their natural glows, or maybe the Pumpkin Body Polish is the best choice for rejuvenation. The spa’s festive offerings are perfect to relieve built-up holiday stress. Each 60-minute treatment is just $145 and comes with a complimentary Starbucks Pumpkin Latte.

Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa features the treats of the region with its “Falling for Arizona” package. A premium poolside room, a bottle of Arizona wine, and an in-room local dish of the day gives guests a complete sampling of Arizona’s great tastes and temperatures. With a 25 percent discount at Jurlique Spa, guests return to their daily lives locally impressed and physically refreshed. The offers last through Dec. 31, 2011.

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For more information on any of these events or updates, please contact the
Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau Media Department.

The Epicurean Explorer

President, International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association

Editor-at-Large, CityRoom

Contributor: The Epoch Times, Spa Review Magazine, Global Writes, JustLuxe

Columnist: Big Blend Magazines,

Blogs: Where and What in the World & Success with Writing

In this issue….

	RESORT NEWS
	ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT
	SPORTS/GOLF
	DINING
	CITY NEWS

Maralyn D. Hill, The Epicurean Explorer
President
International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association