The Phoenix Traveler

I was headed to Kierland Commons to meet my boyfriend for breakfast at the Corner–a breakfast and lunch counter that we’d been to before. Located in this upscale mall at the northwest corner of Scottsdale and Greenway roads, you can actually get a cup of coffee for 25 cents at the Corner (formerly The Counter). Unusual in this day and age, I know. But, it was closed at 7:30 a.m., wouldn’t open till 9 a.m. So I opted to meet him in the Cave Creek/Carefree area where he’d just finished an early morning run.
Perfect day to drive up north, I …read more

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On a diet that has more to do with green than lean? Then it’s okay to order the french fries at Fairmont Scottsdale. The grease used to cook them is now being converted into biodiesel fuel.
As part of its Green Partnership program, which the Canadian-based Fairmont initiated in 1990, the Scottsdale resort has partnered with a new local manufacturer, AZ BioDiesel, to convert the resort’s kitchen grease into an alternative fuel that will help save the environment.
What’s the motivation behind the process change? The hotel formerly contracted with a company that sent its used kitchen grease to California–to be used …read more

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I scour the news online to find out what headlines mention Phoenix–and where. From time to time, I’ll post my findings here at The Phoenix Traveler so you can stay updated as well. Here’s the latest:
Allegiant adding direct flight to PhoenixIf you live in Bismarck, ND, you’ll be able to fly non-stop to Phoenix–the fourth most popular destination for Bismarck travelers–beginning in October, when Allegiant Air begins scheduling bi-weekly trips to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, NOT Sky Harbor International. For a limited time, introductory rates are $114, each way.
Travelgirl recommends: Fab food in PhoenixI love it when writers find the hidden …read more

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A few days ago, I promised you more information on where you can play Olympic-like games in Phoenix, and here it is:
FENCING – You can learn to master the use of one of three weapons–the foil, epee or sabre–in this game. It’s a sport that was included in the original Olympic games in ancient Greece and has been played in every modern Olympics since 1896, according to the United States Fencing Association. If you decide to play, you’ll be joining the ranks of not only many Olympians and royalty but also celebrities, such as singer Neil Diamond, actress Catherine Zeta-Jones …read more

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Every big city has its unique neighborhoods, or the neighborhoods that define a specific culture or two. Being so close to the Mexican border, we have our fair share of ‘hoods that define the Hispanic culture.
One of them is in South Phoenix–not necessarily the safest place to play. But tucked away in a hidden corner, is something you might want to see–El Gran Mercado. For a little adventure and a place to practice your Spanish verbs, pick a weekend afternoon to drive over to 35th Avenue and Buckeye. That’s where you’ll find this secret gem. On the south side …read more

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I had the pleasure of being invited to attend a live performance by this local six-member band in Phoenix called Shallow Water. Click on the video above to hear a portion of my new favorite song called “Clap.” The group has a few CDs that you can purchase: the first called “2 Dollar Sailboat” was produced in 2002; the second called “What’s Her Name” was produced in 2006. “Clap” appears on that one.
The six-member band plays a rock, punk, ska and alternative mix of sounds, and has opened at concert performances for top touring groups, including Live, Smash Mouth and …read more

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Maybe you won’t be swimming world records, fencing your way to Gold, or cycling your way to Olympic history this week in Beijing, China. But aside from just watching the Olympic games on television like most of us mere mortals do, the world’s most celebrated games can be played at home, too.
Check out this short list:
ARCHERY–Archery Headquarters, 6401 W. Chandler Blvd., in Chandler offers a 30-yard indoor range where you can test your skills or practice your shot. The range fee is $6/hour. Don’t have a bow and arrow? You can buy them here brand new, along with accessories. Lessons …read more

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It was probably the most fun I ever had in class when I studied improvisational acting at Theater 168 in Scottsdale several years ago. And while you may not be able to sign up for a class (if you don’t live in town), you can attend one of their comedy shows if you happen to be here on a weekend.
Owned and operated by Jef and Shurlin Rawls, this family-friendly comedy theater is home to the Jester’Z comedy troupe–a really fun and lively bunch of comedians, ages 18 to mid-40s, who really put on a good show for their audiences …read more

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You’ve probably been hearing the word, staycation. It’s the new buzz word for folks who decide to stay closer to home for that next vacation. Rather than taking off to Europe or investing in a sea cruise, they plan a trip in-state, or even at a resort near the hometown. Summertime is the perfect time to do that in Phoenix. Valley resorts offer great deals at high-end properties. You can find a list of them here.
To make this kind of long weekend even more affordable, book a suite or a room with a mini kitchen and stock up on …read more

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Salsa music, hot salsa, hot air balloons…It’ll be an alliteration of good times this coming September in southeastern Arizona. Plan now to visit Safford (170 miles southeast of Phoenix, via the Old West Highway) in Graham County the weekend beginning Friday, Sept. 26, or you’ll miss out on the 2nd Annual Salsa Fest.
This year’s event will be combined with the 1st Annual Salsa Trail Balloon Festival that includes an evening glow and early morning take-offs.
Here’s a sample platter of what else is on the menu of fun:

Salsa-making competition
Marketplace
Walk for Kids to benefit Boy’s & Girl’s Club
Salsa music & dancing
Food …read more

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