Christine K. Bailey » Copywriting

Get Out of Town

Christine — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:51:55 +0000

As much as I love Phoenix and all of its glorious desert beauty, there comes a time when the hot is simply too hot and it’s time to hit the road, even if for just a few days. This week, I’m in San Francisco for a huge conference and I have to admit, I’m enjoying the cool (and sometimes even chilly) weather. Last night, I watched my hometown Chicago Cubs whoop the San Francisco Giants 5 to 2 at AT&T Park. It had a great view of ships in the Bay and, it was quite an experience. It always amazes me how cities incorporate their surroundings and culture into their ball parks. On the big screen, somewhere in the earlier innings, we watched two guys (one in a tux, no less) paddle it out on surf boards in the cold San Francisco Bay. The guy in the tux won. It was definitely something we would never see at Chase Field in Phoenix. Water, where? Not even in the Salt River. Oh, and no one wears tuxes in the desert either, unless they’re going to one of those rare holiday fundraisers. So, it’s okay to get away, even from the places you love. It makes for memorable experiences and the contrast can remind you just how unique the place where you live really is. And make you appreciate it even more. I missed the Diamondbacks’ jogging condiments.

	Even when it is hot outside, you can head to Chase Field to catch a Diamondbacks game in the nice cool air conditioning. Home runs, hot dogs and air conditioning make for a good cool Phoenix afternoon or evening.
	On the way to or from the the Diamondbacks game, you can always stop at the AZ Science Center for another cool indoor activity.
	For those who plan ahead, a stop at Pizzeria Bianco on the way to the ball park will not disappoint. This iconic downtown pizza joint is small and crowded but well worth the wait.

Been to the Grand Canyon?

Christine — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:11:15 +0000

Have you been to the Grand Canyon? You would be surprised to hear many who live here in the Valley of the Sun say, “no” to that question, even though millions visit the Grand Canyon every year from around the world. It’s like living in Chicago and never seeing the Sears Tower, but it happens. When we live somewhere it seems that some of its novelty wears off, and while we discover some of the hidden charms of our new home, we forget others. Even ones as big as the Grand Canyon.

So, if you live in this great state of Arizona, and you haven’t been to the Grand Canyon, why not make a trek up there to see that big, old hole in the ground. I’m sure you’ve seen pictures, but nothing is as impressive as seeing it first-hand. The South Rim even has a brand new website to help you plan your trip and navigate your way around this mile-deep national park.

If you go, let me know what you think!

Some things to check out while you are there:

	The Grand Canyon Railway is a relaxing way to see the Canyon without the traffic. What better way to see it than to let someone else do the driving. You can take the train to the rim, then take a bus tour to some of the most popular vistas in the southwest. And just think, using the train and bus helps the environment by reducing air pollution at one of our nation’s greatest natural treasures.
	If you want to go and stay for a while, there are three campgrounds at the Canyon that will accommodate tents to the largest RV. Remember that the weather on the rim is typical mountain weather. A mid April day can see temps in the low 30′s.
	For the adventurous spirit, hiking and backpacking the canyon will never disappoint. However, doing so must be done with skill and preparation. An unprepared hiker in the canyon can get into serious trouble very quickly. But for those who are prepared, cautious and responsible, a hike into the canyon is like no other hike on earth.

Chill Out This Summer!

techtoolsonline — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 20:28:11 +0000

It’s hot, we’re not going to try and tell you differently. As you go about your day, that triple-digit heat makes you rethink why you’re so enamored with Arizona. And while there are a few brave souls out there climbing mountains, running along the sidewalks and biking along our steaming thoroughfares, most of us are just trying to make it to fall (and we never know exactly when that relief will come – hopefully early October!). Here in
Arizona we recommend that tourists dress in layers because the mornings and evenings may be in the 60s and our afternoons in the 90s. The funny thing is that recommendation stands for the summer months, too. You’re just not wearing that sweater outside, you’re bringing it with you so you don’t freeze in the air conditioning. There are several places in town that really crank up the cool during the hot summer months, and with good reason, they attract those of us crazy enough to still be here when the temps hit 115-degrees. Where are they, you pant?

Here are a few you can check out!

	Musical Instrument Museum (www.themim.org): take the whole day to wander these cool halls checking out equally cool musical instruments and the beautiful sounds they make.
	Harkins Theaters (www.harkinstheaters.com) : A deliciously cool reprieve from the oppressive heat, Harkins jacks up the cold til you’re practically shivering. At the same time, you can relax in comfy seats and take in a movie, too.
	Westcor Malls (www.westcor.com ): Pick the one that’s closest to you and take a walk at some of the only places in town where you can exercise without suffering from heat stroke, and window shop, too.

Family-friendly Uptown Sedona Hotel

Christine — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 23:38:36 +0000

Thanks to Best Western Arroyo Roble Hotel in Uptown Sedona for a delightful two-day stay! As you know, an occasional perk to being a travel writer is the opportunity to indulge free of charge.

This past week my family and I stayed at hotel for two days. It was an ideal location. We parked once and walked everywhere. We were close to all of the shops and restaurants along 89A, plus we were only a short walk from Oak Creek and the Creekside Villas. As guests of the hotel, we had access to the steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi, indoor/outdoor pool and game room at the Villas, plus there was a play area along Oak Creek with lounge chairs for mom and dad. The hotel rooms were recently renovated and fit all four of us comfortably. And the red rock views from our balcony were a welcome sight each morning. Oh…and did I mention a hot breakfast each morning came with the room. Like I said…it was perfect and we look forward to staying there again in the future. On our own dime!

Additional things to do while in Sedona:

	You can’t say you’ve truly done Sedona without going on a jeep tour. One of the most popular is the legendary Pink Jeep Tours. The skilled drivers will take you on some of the most breathtaking trails anywhere. Broken Arrow is a favorite and will not disappoint.
	Cowboy Club is a must when visiting the beautiful town of Sedona. Is it gourmet? Is it southwestern cuisine? Is it desert dining? It is all of the above and then some!!! Enjoy!

Top Phoenix Resources for Meeting Planners

Christine — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 18:04:57 +0000

As a former meeting and event planner and a current travel writer, I have found local convention and visitor bureaus (CVBs) to be among the most accessible and useful resources for any given area. As an Arizona travel writer, I can say first hand that the CVBs listed below go above and beyond to help out-of-town planners make the connections they need to plan an event in the Valley. If you’re planning a meeting, conference, event or even a family vacation in one of these Arizona cities, contact the local CVB for assistance.

Glendale

Glendale Office of Tourism & Visitor Center (623-930-4500; www.visitglendale.com; 5800 W. Glenn Dr., Suite 140, Glendale 85301).

Mesa

Mesa Convention and Visitors Bureau (480-827-4700; www.mesacvb.com; 120 N. Center, Mesa 85201).

Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix Visitor Information Center (602-254-6500 or 877-CALL-PHX; www.visitphoenix.com; 50 N. 2nd S., Phoenix 85004).

Scottsdale

Scottsdale Convention and Visitors Bureau (480-421-1004; www.scottsdalecvb.com; 4343 N. Scottsdale Rd., Suite 170, Scottsdale 85251)..

Tempe

Tempe Convention & Visitors Bureau (480-894-8158; www.TempeTourism.com; 51 W. 3rd St., Suite 105, Tempe 85281).

Five Cool Ways to Enjoy Phoenix this Summer

Christine — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 16:53:53 +0000

Ice Cold Refreshments at Fogo de Chão

Fogo de Chão is serving up drinks cold enough to give you a chill despite the 3-digit heat. Try one of their two brand new batidas (a well-known blended frozen drink from Brazil) or their Tarragon Pineapple Tini. Fogo de Chão is located on Scottsdale Road south of Indian Bend.

One Last Hurrah at Trader Vic’s

It’s not a rumor, it’s a fact. Trader Vic’s will be closing July 30th. There’s just one week left to enjoy this iconic restaurant at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale before it closes its doors for good. Buy two or more entrees and enjoy a free bottle of hand-selected wine.

Get Sassy at the Salty Senorita

Screw the Skinny Bit@*s, I Wanna Eat. Excuse me?! No offense. That’s the tile of local author Sonya Zepeda’s break-up recipe book. Zepeda will be signing her book at the Salty Senorita in Old Town Scottsdale July 28th. Also on the 28^th at the Salty Senorita in Peoria, enjoy “Yappy Hour” with your favorite pooch who will enjoy doggie treats and a water bowl compliments of the Salty Senorita.

It’s Girls’ Day

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North is pampering local ladies with its “Girls’ Day Out” package. For just $109, ladies receive poolside lunch at Saguaro Blossom, all-day pool access, complimentary cabanas (with misters, chilled towels, fruit kebabs and smoothie samples), complimentary use of the Fitness Center and one class, sauna, steam room or 25-minute mini treatment. Yay! Make a night of it with $129/night room rates. For details click here.

It’s Guys’ Day

July is National Beer Month. Guys, if you haven’t taken advantage of National Beer Month; now is your chance. (Plus, it’s paired up with a very worthy cause.) Check out Rico’s American Grill, who teamed up with Beer for Brains Foundation and four local breweries to raise funds for the fight against brain cancer on Thursday, July 28^th. The $59/person ticket includes a six-course menu paired with beer from local breweries:

Sun Up Brewing Co.
SanTan Brewing Co.
Grand Canyon Brewing Co.
Sonoran Brewing Co.

The event begins at 6:30pm is at Rico’s American Grill, at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort. RSVP by calling 602-997-5850.

What’s on the Menu: Saguaro Cactus Fruit

Christine — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 01:15:55 +0000

The Saguaro Cactus is more than an Arizona icon; it’s also the bearer of the delicious saguaro fruit. Tonto Bar & Grill in Cave Creek and Desert Foothills Land Trust have joined together to bring this desert delicacy to the table. It doesn’t get any more local than this.

The annual harvest took place on July 9th at the P.A. Seitts Preserve at Go John Canyon – part of the trust’s preserve; guests of the Tonto Bar & Grill can enjoy the special menu now through July 31st.

Items include mouthwatering choices such as a Baby Romaine & Wild Arugula with Local Goat Cheese salad with a Saguaro fruit vinaigrette, wood-grilled salmon with a Saguaro Fruit Salsa and a Summer Peach Upside Down Cake with Peach, Strawberry, & Saguaro Fruit Compote.

The nonprofit Trust is dedicated to preserving 620 acres on 16 preserves within the communities of Cave Creek, Carefree, north Scottsdale, north Phoenix, Anthem and New River. Tonto’s is donating 10% of their specialty menu items to the Trust.

Be sure to include this native Arizonan treat on your dinner menu before its gone, and contribute to protecting what makes Arizona special.

Mid Summer Dining

techtoolsonline — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 05:25:13 +0000

The AZ Adventurer wants to know… what is your favorite Valley restaurant? I will start and you fill in the blanks with comments. Can’t wait to hear about great new eateries in the area.

The Mission: Downtown Scottsdale has many great dining options, but none any better than the Mission with its modern Latin cuisine. This beautifully decorated eatery has patio seating that is surprisingly comfortable even in mid-summer due to the outdoor air conditioners. Their signature tacos with handmade corn tortillas will not disappoint. The tacos are on the small side, so if you are hungry, opt for an additional taco. Enjoy!!!

Five Ways to Celebrate July 4th in Arizona

Christine — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 21:31:06 +0000

Celebrate the 4th of July despite the heat with these five way cool events!

	Cool off at 7,000 feet this 4th of July weekend in Flagstaff. July 1st, Flagstaff kicks off it’s wild weekend of events from art walks to parades to movies on the square. For details visit here: http://www.flagstaffarizona.org/fourth/index.html
	Celebrate the 4th like an old-timer at the World’s Oldest Rodeo in Prescott. This year marks the 124th annual rodeo and Prescott’s weeklong Frontier Days, which stretches from June 28th through July 4th. For more info visit online at http://www.worldsoldestrodeo.com/.
	Keep it close to home at Tumbleweed Park in Chandler with live music, a parade, kids’ carnival and all sorts of chances to get wet (water slide, dunk tank, water balloon toss) and stay cool. For more visit here: http://www.chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=162.
	Head north to Williams July 1st through the 3rd for the 2nd Annual Northern Arizona BBQ Festival where 27 professional teams compete for the $10,000 grand prize — reap the rewards of their efforts — tasty American BBQ fare. For details, check it out online: www.NAzBBQ.com.
	Freedom Fest 2011 marks Show Low’s four-day celebration of 4th of July events – hometown-style. Find movies in the park, kids activities, concerts, fireworks and a geocaching event. For more visit online: www.showlowaz.gov/recreation.

Exploring Northern Arizona

techtoolsonline — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 06:23:11 +0000

With temperatures in the Valley climbing it’s a perfect time to explore the diversity that Arizona has to offer. Phoenicians head north in droves to escape the heat and enjoy some mountain fun. Here are just a few options to consider:

At Lowell Observatory (www.lowell.edu) you can peek at the universe or enjoy a daytime view of the Sun (through a special telescope, of course). The Observatory is considered one of the nation’s top astronomical research facilities.

Just a short 14-mile drive north of Flagstaff and you’ll be able to experience Sunset Crater National Monument (www.nps.gov/sucr) firsthand. The results of the millennium-old volcanic eruption remain in the lava flows and cinder deposits found in the 3,000-acre park.

Discover the history of Northern Arizona through the artifacts and exhibits at the Arizona Historical Society-Pioneer Museum (www.arizonahistoricalsociety.org/museums/flagstaff.asp). Or peruse the historic Museum of Northern Arizona (www.musnaz.org). MNA features over forty buildings, many of them on the National Register of Historic Places, and more than 5 million artifacts, pieces of art and specimens showcase the Native American culture.

Explore the San Francisco Peaks. More than just a winter destination, Arizona Snowbowl (www.arizonasnowbowl.com), atop Mt. Humphrey’s, features plenty of hiking opportunities.

Hike the one-mile round-trip Island Trail through Walnut Canyon (www.nps.gov/waca) for a first-hand look at the area’s 700-year-old pueblo dwellings. Or visit the older and much larger Wupatki Pueblo at Wupatki National Monument (www.nps.gov/wupa). This 800-year- old, 100-room dwelling is easily accessible from the park’s visitor center via the paved, quarter-mile Wupatki Pueblo Trail.