Stuart Hood
Regulars Editor, FHM www.fhm.com, regular columnist in Fabulous, News of the World Magazine
"Scottsdale, Arizona. Scorching in the summer, clement the rest of the year, stunning any time you go. The climate, the proximity to the Grand Canyon, the hiking trails, the desert scenery... there are many reasons to go, but mine was for a golf holiday and in this market it's incomparable - a desert oasis with the widest choice of quality facilities, courses, restaurants and nightlife of any destination currently being marketed around the world."
Lying in the eastern part of Arizona, the city of Scottsdale is fast becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations for visitors to western USA. Seen by many as a gateway to the 'Old West', Scottsdale also boasts a lively and vibrant atmosphere which sees the region alive with bustling nightclubs, bars and restaurants well into the early hours.
Golf enthusiasts also flock into Scottsdale to tread the greens of some world-class golf courses. Having acquired a reputation as an upscale tourist destination, Scottsdale represents the modern and refined face of the USA. All this aside, the city makes a fascinating destination to discover, with modern and historic attractions in equal measure.
Grand Canyon: Although an expensive and long excursion, a flying visit to the mighty Grand Canyon will prove a rewarding and memorable experience. Predominantly contained within Grand Canyon National Park, this leading attraction is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking natural scenes in the USA.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art: Founded in 1999, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art houses a wide variety of artistic works dedicated to architecture and design of the modern era. From the cutting edge works of James Turrell to conceptual pieces by Wolfgang Laib, the museum has become renowned as one of the best in Arizona.
Tombstone: A trip to the town of Tombstone will be much more than just a journey across state, but also a journey through time. Here you can see the preserved location of the O.K. Corral where Wyatt, Morgan and Virgil Earp - along with Doc Holliday - infamously engaged in armed combat with Ike and Billy Clanton, Frank and Tom McLaury, and Billy Claiborne.
Did you eat at a fantastic restaurant or stay in a wonderful hotel in Scottsdale? Maybe you discovered a hidden sight or you have an Arizona travel tip that you want to share with other visitors?