“I’m so overdue to be sun-kissed, I need more of a sun-make-out.” – Me, that one time.
A preview of things to come…
The time has come to book spring vacations for a dose of vitamin D… If you’re looking for the perfect locale for a quick get away with the ladies, I highly recommend Scottsdale. Sure, it’s a middle-aged golfer’s dream and a bit of a college town in areas, but it’s also shopping heaven and offers some phenomenal restaurants and nightlife to balance out all of the relaxation. Pair that with some late-night drunk grocery shopping, way too much Taylor Swift, and not being able to buy booze because at thirty you ALL need ID, and you’ve got yourself the perfect recipe for girly bonding.
Although the summer is excruciatingly hot, and the winter can get a bit chilly – especially in the evenings – this time of year and fall are absolute perfection. Our girls trip, of course, included a lot of lounging poolside drinking wine, with our time split between the W Scottsdale and my family home. The W has a great, upbeat poolside ambiance, without getting too Vegas-y. (i.e.: you don’t feel like Snooki could be a table over from you.)
Starting our day off right… with wine. (RIP Chanel)
Taking in the last rays of the day’s sunshine.
Nightlife can be a bit tricky to navigate because, as I mentioned above, it has a college town vibe. So bear in mind you may have to cross a few men wearing jeans with flipflops in Old Town, but as one of the preppiest cities in America it’s not hard to find some great spots, too. Again in the evening, the W pulls in an exuberant, business-minded crowd and there are some great cocktail bars like Mastro’s City Hall that will put up with even the most high-maintenance margarita orders. “Patron silver, shaken with three ice cubes, salted rim, fresh lime juice, dash of OJ, and a Grand Marnier topper.” I’d love to poke fun at this order, but the girl knows how to order a drink! My favourite Scottsdale restaurant is a blend of Mexican and Asian fare (think: spicy sushi rolls with a cilantro bite!), Sumo Maya, where we ended up twice not just because of the food, but also the lively setting.
Sumo Maya
A girls trip to the US of A wouldn’t be complete without heaps of binge shopping, and I’d suggest hitting up Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter. If you’re looking to get in on the best American savings, you have to hit up the Tanger Outlets. Be sure to grab a coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab before going – you’re going to need your energy!
Fuelling up!
Want to round out your trip with a little health factor? Hiking Camelback will erase any guilt you feel from over-indulging. We opted for the easier Pinnacle Peak which still offers great views, and still has some areas with a pretty intense incline. Another off-the-beaten-path activity was hitting up Top Golf. This was a great way to start the evening with a couple of drinks, coupled with some activity.
The highest point on Pinnacle Peak.
I’m like the Tiger Woods of golf… wait, what?
Needless to say, we will be back soon… so Scottsdale, get ready for us!
@broad_world
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