The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Blog

Vibrant. Colorful. Vegan.

Karma Tsepal | Assistant Director of Food & Beverage

There are many compelling reasons to devote your life to being a vegan or vegetarian – and we celebrate you for that! There are also countless delicious recipes floating around tiktok and the internet that ensure proper nutrition with a banging taste, and can bring a fun, new energy into your weekly meal prep. However, do you often find while traveling or dining out that your meal options are quite slim and usually limited to a basic house salad with oil and vinegar or plain, tasteless, steamed broccoli? One of the most celebrated parts of traveling is getting to eat at new, sumptuous, and taste-defying restaurants – and you shouldn’t be limited to plain vegetables while enviously watching your dining companions chow down on their endless, butter-soaked, meaty options. Food brings us together, and enhances our moods and connections – and the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has a plethora of tasteful accommodations at all of our concepts on property to leave you feeling satisfied and not lacking.

Each of our restaurants has a menu specifically designed with dietary restrictions in mind, and many of the dishes have already been consciously created to be able to be modified without particular ingredients to make them compliant to any diet. This ensures that as a vegan or vegetarian, you won’t be met with, “let me go ask the chef”, and can simply enjoy one of the creative culinary dishes made specifically with you in mind! Let’s take a tour of the property and see some of the highlights at each outlet.

To satiate that classic American cuisine craving, head to Ironwood American Kitchen. For your breakfast needs, we recommend snagging the Purple Barley Waffle – made completely vegan, as-is. A heaping portion of Hayden mills purple barley waffles are then topped with fresh berries, smoked almonds, coconut shavings, and complimented with vegan caramel sauce and coconut butter. If you have less of a sweet tooth and seek a savory start to the day instead, perhaps you check out our avocado toast. Artisanal vegan bread topped with perfectly ripe avocados, zesty arugula, shaved heirloom carrots, watermelon radishes, preserved lemon, and an enticing English pea pesto. Pro tip: order the 24 Karat fresh pressed juice to complement your meal – carrot, Fuji apple, pineapple, turmeric and orange – or opt for a mimosa flight if you’d like more of a boozy-brunch. What more could you ask for?

For lunch, we recommend you head over to Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar overlooking the 18^th green of TPC Golf Course. As a pan Asian-Latin infusion restaurant, they focus on a seamless blend of both cultures resulting in delightfully surprising culinary creations. If you’re wanting to keep it on the light and refreshing side, check out Toro’s Watermelon Heirloom Tomato Salad. Juicy heirloom tomatoes and watermelon segments, topped with shaved fennel, baby watercress and finished with tajin and a balsamic reduction. The tang and spice of the tajin brings the acidity of the dish to the forefront of your palate and is then immediately tamed by the sweetness of the balsamic reduction. For something a little heartier, try the Vegan Fried Rice. Upon taking your first bite, you’ll have one thought: this is impossibly vegan. Filled with tangy, buttery, salty goodness, and just enough Asian greens to make you not feel guilty, it’s better than any takeout fried rice we’ve ever had. We promise, you’ll have a hard time putting down the chopsticks and refraining from licking up every grain of rice left in the bottom of the bowl. It starts simple with perfectly fluffy, sticky jasmine rice, adds snow peas, bean sprouts, carrots and is tossed in a Peruvian staple: sweet and savory Chifa sauce. This Asian-Latin infusion carries over into their wine and cocktail list, and we urge you to try one of the delectable rums from their extensive menu!

Dinner presents two very contrasting options: Bourbon Steak and La Hacienda. Since “steak” is in the title, you may think that you’ll be dragged by your dining partner to yet another restaurant where you’ll only be able to eat the side dishes – but we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. For the perfect vegan meal, start with the Farm Salad - yes, we know, a seemingly boring green salad, but Chef Michael Mina takes greens to the next level! A delightful mix of seasonal farm greens and vegetables mixed with crunchy Marcona almonds, fennel pollen and all tossed together in a luscious champagne vinaigrette. It’s just what you need to whet your appetite for the main dish: Seasonal Vegetable Risotto. Made with vegetable stock and with absolutely no dairy, this creamy risotto is then topped with all of the ripest veggies of the season. When we tried it, it was a colorful array of heirloom carrots, canoe-style sugar snap peas, a roasted mushroom medley and for the pièce-de-resistance, shaved black truffles. To kick this meal up a notch, explore Bourbon Steak’s Wine Spectator Award Winning wine list and pair your risotto with one of the world-class Barolos or Barbarescos in our wine cellar. Don’t worry – if the wine list intimidates you, one of our sommeliers will gladly help you select the most delicious bottle for your palate.

Finally, for an authentically southwestern vegan experience, head to La Hacienda. Only open for dinner, La Hacienda explores traditional Mexican cuisine, and puts an original and upscale spin on it. A surprisingly hearty dish we recommend is the Caramelized Cauliflower. Lightly browned rainbow cauliflower garnished with pistachios, pepitas, pomegranate seeds and micro greens sitting on a bed of notably velvety herbed avocado pesto. To contrast with this dish, executive Chef Forrest Hamrick created the Calabacitas Enchiladas. Calabacitas, or “little squash”, is a classic Mexican squash dish made predominately of squash and a variety of seasonal vegetables. In this rendition, Chef Forrest has chosen to feature zucchini, corn, mushrooms and spinach all tucked tightly into artisanal corn tortillas to create enchiladas that are then covered in a blanket of salsa roja, avocado crema and topped with zesty corn and tomato pico de gallo. Compliment your meal with one of our signature margaritas, or if you’re on the adventurous side, one of our Tequila Goddesses will pair your meal with the best tequila you’ve never heard of.

As many dishes as we highlighted here, this is not an exhaustive list by any means. There are so many more vegan and vegetarian dishes available at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princes, and we simply can’t wait to see you on property to try out all our delectable options for your wholesome diet.

Designing Menus Around the Flavors of Fall

Duck a l’Orange… Moqueca Baiana… Seafood Pozole Verde… with fall comes vibrant dishes from our top chefs. Discover the creative minds behind the Princess’ culinary geniuses, and get inspired for your next fall night out.

Bourbon Steak – A Conversation with Executive Chef Sara Garrant

Q: Chef Sara, you’re from a small commercial fishing town in south-central Alaska, attended pastry school in Ottawa, and now work for Michael Mina. How does your background show up in your cooking? What inspires your culinary creations?

A: For starters, I love fresh seafood, and make it a point to ensure we have nice product. We work with a purveyor from the East Coast that gets the freshest scallops I’ve seen in my life, and they are still reactive when they arrive at Bourbon. During halibut season, she will literally call and say they just landed a 30 lb. fish, and ask if we want it – and yes, we always do. 

As far as inspiration for dishes, it comes from many different things. Sometimes it’s a random food craving that I want to see incorporated into a dish, or it’s throwbacks and reinventions of dishes we’ve done in the past, but with a new twist. As the cooks in our kitchen develop, we do plenty of collaboration as well. They will have some ideas, and from there we work it through it as a team until it becomes a menu-worthy dish. I love this as a development tool, since it keeps them engaged with the restaurant as well. 

Q: What’s new at Bourbon Steak this fall?

A: I’m very excited about the fall offerings this year. You’ll see a play on some more traditional autumnal dishes like Duck a l’Orange and Butternut Squash Soup, which I think are some of the ultimate soul foods. It’s also prime truffle season, so how could we not include truffles on the menu! Our Spaghetti alla Chitarra features a parmesan truffle emulsion, black pepper caviar, watercress, and shaved winter truffle. 

Q: Which ingredients define the fall dining season to you, and how do they make an appearance on Bourbon Steak’s menu?

A: So many come to mind! Winter squashes, polenta, braised meats, quince, apples, truffles, duck, persimmons, scallops, and cranberries just to name a few. We do try to incorporate lots of the fall and winter seasonal items into the dinner menus, but try to highlight only one or two on a dish - like duck and citrus; squash and sage; scallops and cauliflower. We also look at the overall composition of the dish, and want it to be balanced. For instance, we want to avoid having a heavy parmesan polenta served with braised short ribs and garnished with a full-bodied sauce so it doesn’t overwhelm the palate. To create balance, we’ll keep it lighter and even add acidity to help cut thru the richness and warmth of those items. 

Q: What is your perfect food and beverage pairing on the new fall menu?

A: The dish I am most excited about is the Seared Scallop – roasted fennel jam, cauliflower, prosciutto, and a charred tomato vinaigrette. It goes incredibly well with a nice glass of Selbach-Oster Riesling Kabinett. The juicy, succulent texture and richness of the scallops are only enhanced by the racing acidity of a dry Riesling, and Selbach is one of the best producers out of Germany.  I really look forward to that first scallop bite and sip all year long. My mouth is watering thinking about it now!

Q: Your “can’t miss” fall dessert?

A: I spent some time in upstate New York when I was a teen, and to this day I have a love for Macintosh apples. Also, as basic as it may be, there is something about pumpkin spice that puts me in a happy place!  I’m hoping to incorporate them into the dessert menu in some way as soon as the temperature drops. Stay tuned!

Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar – A Conversation with Executive Chef Gage Smit

Q: Chef Gage, as you are new to the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, can you tell us about your background and how it has shaped your culinary work?

A: I was born and raised on a 10 acre Banana farm in Maui, HI, which instilled an enormous respect for the land, food and how to prepare it. We grew a lot of our own produce and I spent a lot of my formative years in the kitchen at home, which naturally led me to working in restaurants. Early on, I was encouraged by my chef to pursue culinary school, and that’s where all the real fun began. After school, I was part of the opening culinary team for the Andaz in Hawaii, then came to the Fairmont brand at Fairmont Orchid as the Chef De Cuisine. It was such a great opportunity and huge honor to work in some of the top restaurants in Hawaii. Speaking from a culinary perspective, Hawaii is such an interesting and diverse place. Asian flavors are abundant - bright acidity and fresh seafood – so it was a natural fit when I got situated at Toro at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

Q: What’s new at Toro this fall?

A: This season is all about gathering and dining together so we’d love you to stop by our new Social Hour, on Monday – Friday 3-5PM, featuring small plates, Latin cocktails and beer and wine specials.  Come November 1^st, we will be switching over completely to a new fall menu with dishes like Moqueca Baiana – a Brazilian stew with seabass, jumbo shrimp and calamari in a coconut forward broth. I’m also really excited about the Cuban bone-in pork chop, served with chipotle pumpkin puree, charred Brussel sprouts, fried sweet plantains and garnished with toasted pepitas.

 Other dishes we’re focusing on until then are the new shareable items. Here at Toro, we think dining together makes the experience better, so we have dishes that allow you to do just that. Take our chefs choice sushi board with 24 pieces of the freshest seasonal sushi chosen daily by our premier sushi chef for example. The fish is flown in daily from Santa Monica, so it’s the freshest catch you can get in Arizona. We also have a Churasco Jardin, a platter showcasing all different meats – steak, Argentinian sausage, chicken, prawns, etc. – complete with mouthwatering sauces and grilled vegetables. 

Q: Which ingredients define the fall dining season to you, and how do they make an appearance on Toro’s menu?

A: Squash, fall spices, pumpkin seeds, chai, and cinnamon are the usual holiday favorites. You’ll see them in a variety of ways on our menu, but of course we’ll still be paying respects to our Asian/Latin fusion culture. One dessert that’s a great example is our Sticky Toffee Pudding. It seems like a straightforward classic, but we change it up and choose to serve with a miso butterscotch, maple roasted pears and topped with a chai ice cream.

Q: How do you continue to play with the Latin-Asian fusion aspect of the Toro cuisine?

A: Almost every cocktail and dish on the menu is a hybrid of both cultures, but our sushi is a great illustration. Take the Havana roll – it’s got your typical Asian flavors like spicy crab, cucumber, and avocado, but we turn it on its head with crispy plantains and a maple-miso glaze on top. It brings all of our favorite Asian-Latin flavors together.

Q: What is your perfect food and beverage pairing on the new fall menu?

A: Our General Manager, Broderick Boren, has been very influential in shaping the current wine list, and we’re very excited to feature a variety of South American wines not typically seen on the dinner menu. He brought on this incredible Patagonia Pinot Noir, Wapisa. This isn’t the region you typically think of for Pinot Noir, and it’s no wonder considering Patagonia is one of the furthest south wine growing regions in the world. But this brings it such a bright acidity and vibrant juiciness that makes it the perfect food wine. Give me a glass of that, some good buddies and the Bone-In Pork Chop with a Chruasco Jardin to share; that’s a meal you can’t miss.

Q: Your “can’t miss” fall dessert?

A: The Sticky Toffee Pudding is to die for, but of course you can’t go without doing the La Bomba for an explosive tableside desert experience (if you haven’t tried it yet, it’s a must!). Just make sure to bring lots of friends and lots of spoons so you can taste everything!

La Hacienda – A Conversation with Executive Chef Forrest Hamrick

Q: Chef Forest, how has your background shaped your culinary creations?

A: My wife, Marcela, has been one of my greatest inspiration for the last 27 years. She is originally from Mexico, which has given me years of travel and experiences throughout the country and given me exposure to new ingredients – whether that’s at some of the most upscale Mexican restaurants in the world, or simply the mercados, or local markets. I love learning about the culture and its different cuisines from state to state, and pueblo to pueblo. Marcela and my travels have truly been an inspiration in my creativity.

Q: What’s new at La Hacienda this fall?

A: This fall we are collaborating with Richard Sandoval Hospitality in the celebration of Dia de Los Muertos, paying tribute to the memory of loved ones passed. Each of these dishes have cultural significance like the Tortilla Talavera, meant to be an edible Ofrenda (altar for the holiday). Made of seasonal harvest grains and pressed into a ceramic-like pattern, the tortillas are served with a variety salsas, grilled cheeses, cherry tomato salad, and shimeji mushrooms alajillo. We will also be launching a new dessert menu with some amazing items from Chef Joel Gonzalez which we can’t wait to feature.

Q: Which ingredients define the fall dining season to you, and how do they make an appearance on La Hacienda’s menu?

A: Fall here in The Valley is definitely where you begin to see apples, pears, pumpkin and squashes along with braised and comforting dishes. For our comforting dish, we’re adding a Seafood Pozole Verde with baby squid shrimp, clams, white corn, and cempazuchil oil. A new desert we’re excited to put out is “El Ritual”, which is a variation of a milhojas layer cake, and features flavors of pumpkin cooked with smoked sugar cane, layered with mandarin chocolate sauce and caramelized phyllo.

Q: Dia de los Muertos seems to be a major inspiration for the fall menu. What is the cultural significance and why choose to represent it with food?

A: Dia de Los Muertos is going to be celebrated for about a months' time here at the Restaurant. Traditionally it is recognized and celebrated November 1^st and 2nd. On these two days, families welcome in the spirits of loved ones that have deceased by elevating an altar and placing offerings that their loved ones once enjoyed which includes food, drink, music, etc... Very much celebrated throughout Mexico and also here in the states. Since food brings us all together, and is a great tool for expression, we only thought it appropriate to celebrate this way.

Q: What is your perfect food and beverage pairing on the new fall menu?

A: The Seafood Pozole Verde paired with a young Mescal would be my choice. I can’t think of a meal more comforting to the soul in fall.

Q: Your “can’t miss” fall dessert?

A: Besides the tableside experience of El Ritual, which will be served in a cloche filled with palo santo smoke meant to help with spiritual purification, I can’t wait to get a bite of Chef Joel’s Pan de Muerto with Champurrado, which is essentially a thick Mexican hot chocolate. I'm a true lover of all things bread.

Dine with us at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, and try all these creative, festive meals yourself!

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION

Top Tips to Plan the Best Scottsdale Getaway through Staytus

When a resort property is 65 acres and has as many unique offerings and events as the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess does, how do guests stay in the know about what not to miss during their stay? The answer is simple — Fairmont Staytus.

The signature app allows every user to look at the property from a bird's eye view and stay informed in real time, all from your mobile device. Let's take a look at the entire digital experience — from the moment you book your reservation to planning your next vacation with us.

What Is Staytus?

Included in your confirmation email, you'll find a prompt to download Staytus. Optimized for all smart phone users, we recommend downloading Staytus prior to your arrival to help plan your luxury escape. While not a mandatory step, this does allow you first access to book all of your spa, dining and golf reservations well in advance to ensure you lock in your preferred times.

Pro Tip: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess  is always a buzz with activity and prime time slots go fast, so get booking! Even if you don't book before your stay, Staytus ensures you don't have to pick-up the phone for reservations as well, meaning you'll bypass phone trees and hold messages creating a seamless and instantaneous experience that removes wait-times. Get back to enjoying your vacation!

How To Make The Best Of Your Scottsdale Vacation Through The App

When logging onto the app for the first time, sync with our property by searching for Fairmont Scottsdale Princess and inputting the duration of your vacation, or by selecting "I Live Here" if you're a local resident — meaning, no, you don't have to be a hotel guest to use the app and can stay up-to-date with your favorite hotel in the valley. The user-friendly interface greets you by landing on the SCHEDULE tab and greeting you by name. Each of the colored bars found on the page expand and showcase the hours of operation for all five delectable on-property dining concepts and bars, each of the six sparkling pools, four shopping outposts and all seasonal activities. If you're a planner, this is the screen for you!

Create A True Foodie Experience

To find more in-depth information about each outlet, let's explore the EAT DRINK tab. Aptly named, this page is the perfect visual representation of all the foodie experiences on property. Each outlet garners a carousel of pictures that perfectly encapsulate its cuisine and atmosphere, tantalizing you to dissect each one. A further probe into each restaurant reveals mobile booking from the app, as well as each and every menu offered at each location on property.

Dietary restrictions or picky eaters traveling with you? Utilize this function plan around any dietary obstacles you may face to make your dining experience more seamless!

For those who are serial brunch-goes, like those who book our Bed & Breakfast package, your daily breakfast vouchers will appear exclusively in the PRIVILEGES tab. Each day, a new voucher will arrive in Staytus that can be redeemed at either Toro or Ironwood American Kitchen. PRIVILEGES is also the place for ALL Loyalty guests who are silver, gold, platinum or diamond members to find their complimentary welcome drink voucher for use at Plaza Bar. Start earning points by creating a free account today! This easy, sustainable and paperless solution means no one has to carry physical vouchers that have a mysterious knack for getting forgotten or misplaced.

Find Resort Activities

Want to know what's happening at the property in real time? Sign up for push notifications to know about everything Fairmont and check out WHAT'S ON. Think of this tab like a highlight reel, showcasing our favorite adventures across property. This carousel scrolls through visuals that link out to our website for further exploration. We not only choose to show current on-goings at the resort but future specials and events we'd love to invite you back for as well.

Make Staytus Your Best Travel Companion

While the SERVICES button might seem covert at first glance, it expands into one of the best resources in the app. It includes the direct links to all high–interest points you may be looking for. A map of the property? Check. Links to book all reservations? We've got you covered. How to become an ALL member to get that complimentary welcome drink (and other excellent perks), read our blog, or find suggestions for authentically local experiences? Look no further. However, if you happen have any questions Staytus can't answer or you need help at any point during your stay, utilize SERVICES for one-tap calling to our hotel or opt to CHAT with one of our staff in real time, 24/7, directly from the app.

Whether this is your first, 500th stay, or you're a local resident, Staytus is the ultimate tool to help you create memorable moments that last a lifetime. We look forward to hosting you for your luxury desert getaway that becomes an adventure worth repeating.

Staytus helps you organize your vacation, from seeing all property activities, to booking any reservations or tee times, and chatting with property staff in real-time to assist with issues. Staytus is for Arizona local residents and travelers alike, offering push notifications for you to stay up to day with all things Fairmont at your favorite luxury escape destination.

• Use SCHEDULE to see property happenings and activities
• EAT DRINK walks you through all dining outlets on property and includes menus, pictures, and reservation booking links
• PRIVEILEGES holds your ALL welcome drink voucher and any breakfast vouchers you may have.
• WHAT'S ON showcases our "don't miss" features of the resort
• CHAT connects you with a service agent 24/7
• SERVICES offers a property map, one-touch reservation booking links, ALL membership registration, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Blog, resources for local experiences, and a tap-to-call button to connect you to guest services.

1,000 Hours of Outdoor Play in Scottsdale

Jessie Fletcher, Writer & Stay-at-Home Mom of 3

It shouldn't come as a surprise every year, but somehow it still does. Summer break.
How do I keep my kids off their devices and more active!?

I found myself Googling and looking on Pinterest for any suggestions other parents with this struggle might have. And that's how I stumbled on the 1,000 Hours Outside challenge. As the 1,000 Hours Outside website states, "The entire purpose of 1,000 Hours Outside is to attempt to match nature time with screen time. If kids can consume media through screens 1,200 hours a year on average then the time is there and at least some of it can and should be shifted towards a more productive and healthy outcome!"

While this speaks to my mama heart to the core, it also makes me a little anxious that I didn't even know where to start. Breaking this down, it's a little less than three hours a day outside.

Where To Start This Summer

With 330 days of sunshine per year, we are pretty lucky to have the perfect weather to get outside while living in Scottsdale. The only challenge in the summer is the heat, but I'm here to tell you that it's not only possible but also enjoyable.

1. Backyard Fun

Some of our favorite go-to backyard activities are simple but all-time classics, such as:

• (1-3 Hours) Water balloon fights: We love to get the super packs at Costco and fill 100 at a time, and you've got all the fun in your hands within a minute.
• (30 minutes to 1 Hour) Watermelon eating contests: We bought two watermelons and gave each kid a half to eat. Pro tip: Do this on grass or a place you can easily hose down since things get messy!
• (1-2 Hours) Glow stick bowling: This is such a fun nighttime activity and can get your kids outside even at night. Save 10 plastic water bottles and fill with water. Crack a glow stick and put in the water bottle. Use a soccer ball and have the kids take turns bowling!

2. Find Local Activities

There's only so much we can do at home before my kids are begging to go inside and get on technology. So we look forward to what the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess creates every year. It's always fun outdoor activities, specifically designed to get kids moving outdoors while still having fun. This year's Adventure Summer #AtthePrincess activities include:

• (1-2 Hours) For adventurer's of all ages | Relic Dig: This 40 foot squared sandpit is fun for all three of my kids – aged 3 to 13 because they all love a little adventure for something mysterious. My 3-year-old spent all of her time here and was just as happy as her two older siblings.
• (2 Hours) For adventurer's of all ages | Relic Rader's Laser Tag: While the younger kids won't know strategy, this activity was especially fun for my 10-year-old son. He took the challenge of defending The Lost Temple seriously and had his teammates hiding behind the Jeep, stone walls and trees.
• (1-2 Hours) For the more daring adventurer | Chalice Rock Wall Climb: My 13-year-old is terrified of heights but wanted to do something that challenged that fear, so she faced this 26 foot wall with all of the oomph she could muster. And after four attempts, she reached the top, and that elation was greater than the feeling of beating a level of Minecraft.

3. Get Outdoors Even When Traveling

Air Travel: (2-3 Hours) This can be a challenging feat because airports are indoors. So I may fudge a little on this one, and give myself grace to just allow my kids to get active while at the airport. This may include being outside in the airport drop-off area or finding a play area inside the airport.

Road Trip: (2-3 Hours) Getting all five of us on an airplane is hard enough, let alone adding in the issues airlines are having right now. So we've been doing little road trips with our crew, and one of the things we've recently gotten into is geo-caching! Why has it taken me so long to jump onto this bandwagon!? It's fun for ALL of us, which is a HUGE win. We aren't at the level of leaving our own goodies in a location or even creating our own, but I'm sure we'll get there.

To Fall & Beyond

I'm already dreaming up our Fall and Winter plans - shout out to all of my super-mom planners!

Fall is when the desert comes alive! We spend a majority of our time outdoors because of how many things there are to do. Here are some the hopeful items from our bucket list:

• (5-6 Hours) Hiking: We're working our way through this hiking list. Our favorite so far is Tom's Thumb, but pro tip for those with younger kiddos: if you choose to do this hike, either bring a backpack carrier and plan on carrying them or skip this hike altogether.
• (2-3 Hours) Glorious Dining: Al fresco dining is a way of life at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess - with so many restaurant and patio options for my clan. My kid's favorite: Ironwood American Kitchen, where a hawk handler comes and shows off the magnificent creature. My favorite: Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar, where we can overlook the beautiful views of the TPC Championship Golf Course.
• (5-8 Hours) Goldfield Ghost Town: Yeehaw! We're putting on our boots and a cowboy hat and making our way to a fun western town! There is a little restaurant, museum and even a zip line. And you better bet that we'll try our hardest to geocache along the way.

Winter Break

(5-10 Hours - more days, more play!) Christmas at the Princess: With 600,000 Christmas lights, a train, ice skating, fire pits for making s'mores, photos with Santa and SO. MUCH. MORE, we are continuing our tradition of going to Christmas at the Princess. It's the easiest way to share the Christmas spirit with our immediate family and friends and family from out of town. We'll also be following these insider tips closely this year to maximize our fun!

Park Hopping: We have a few favorite parks and playgrounds we love to go to, but we like to mix it up when we can!
Some of our favorite parks are:

• (4-6 Hours) McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Playground: This is a family favorite because you can ride a train! There is also a carousel as well as playground equipment.
• (4-6 Hours) Mesa Riverview Park: A little bit further away, but worth the extra time it takes to get there! There are zip lines, towers to climb, splash pads, slides and it's even close to where the Cubs practice for Spring Training.
• Some parks we have our eyes on:
• (4-6 Hours) Chaparral Park: At the heart of the park, there is a 10-acre lake for boating and fishing! And we can bring our bikes, skateboards and rollerblades.
• (4-6 Hours) McDowell Sonoran Preserve: This is a hiker's paradise! There are 115 miles of trails, so we'll never get bored of this area.

How It's Going

Nothing is more satisfying as a mom than getting more positive comments about the activities we hope will be a success to turn out to be just that: a success. While we've had our days of too much indoor TV time (I'm looking at you, Hunger Games marathon), the challenge to get outdoors everyday has been such a glowing part of our summer. If I don't bring up going outside, my kids do! They've complained less about even their daily chores – a feat any parent will gladly brag about – they've gotten even more creative with their indoor play and are ready for bed at a reasonable time.

And science backs this up! The National Recreation and Park Associate state that, "Greater access to green views and green environments yields better cognitive functioning; more proactive, more effective patterns of life functioning; more self-discipline and more impulse control; greater mental health overall; and greater resilience in response to stressful life events. Less access to nature is linked to exacerbated attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, more sadness and higher rates of clinical depression."

While we haven't been perfect at getting that outdoor time every day, just striving for that goal has helped our family go from immediately turning on the TV in the morning and watching it for far too long to enjoying an active morning outside. Starting our day off on the right foot helps set the stage for the rest of the day. School will be starting soon, and I can't wait to incorporate this level of outdoor time to our school year routine!

Tequila Goddesses Take a Trip to Mexico & Bring Home Custom Barrel

La Hacienda's Tequila Goddesses Hand-Select New Exclusive Barrel

Berkeley Alvarado, Tequila Goddess

A friend recently asked me about working at this restaurant: Do I spend all my time traveling the world, sipping on the finest tequilas available? Well, I answered, not all of my time. It's true though: as one of La Hacienda's Tequila Goddesses, I am very lucky to discover new drinks and dishes and be able to share those with our guests daily.

But one perk is in fact learning more about tequila and the beautiful regions and people from which it comes from—the most recent of which being a trip to Jalisco, Mexico with my fellow Tequila Goddess, Christine Lord. I look back on this time with fond memories, and look forward to the arrival of our new custom tequila barrel—exclusively available to guests who visit La Hacienda in our hometown of sunny Scottsdale, Arizona. Take a trip down memory lane with us to learn a little more about our very favorite spirit and exactly how we selected our private barrel.

Q: Tell Us More About Your Trip, Where Did You Go? A: "We flew into Guadalajara and our final destination was the town, aptly named, Tequila. We visited El Tequileno distillery and Fortaleza distillery." Q: Which Distillery Was Your Favorite, And Why? A: "To me, it is difficult to pick a favorite because they were both different and unique in their own ways. Fortaleza technique is the same exact way they started 150 years ago. To see the original ways of making tequila was amazing. El Tequileno uses yeast from 150-year-old mango trees that were right outside our hotel. So beautiful to see." -Berkeley

A: "Our barrel program is through El Tequileno and they have a close relationship with the distillery Fortaleza so we were fortunate to tour them both. What an experience! Our hotel, Casa Salles, was literally steps from the El Tequeleno distillery. We could smell agave cooking the whole time and see the pinas in the truck waiting to be cooked. Both are historic distilleries that have been in their families for generations. They are two of the four distilleries in all of Mexico that can use the volcanic spring water in their tequila making process. There was even a big meeting with really well-known names in the tequila industry about the water at our hotel the day we left! At Fortaleza, we were able to tour the property and see the use of the Tahona wheel (a volcanic stone wheel that is rolled over the cooked agave plant to extract the sugars) and finished the tour in underground caves for a tequila tasting. At El Tequileno, our tour was guided by Master Distiller Tony Salles (third generation) and we got to see the roller mill, autoclaves (ovens for cooking the agave) which used to be train cars. We were shown special areas in the distilleries that only employees get to see!" -Christine

Q: You Both Have An Extensive Knowledge Of Tequila. Was There Anything You Were Surprised To Learn? A: "When it comes to distilling tequila, it is always done at least twice. What I did not know is there is a 'head, body, and tail' that goes through the copper pots. You only want to use the 'body' of the tequila." -Berkeley A: "Prior to this trip I had never seen an open-air fermentation tank; it had yeast bubbling inside. I also saw a scientist with an entire state-of-the-art lab measuring the quality and consistency of the Tequila at El Tequileno. That was pretty cool, I had no idea that existed. Not all distilleries have the capability to do that." -Christine

Q: How Did You Select La Hacienda's New Barrel? What Makes It Special? A: "We had a tasting of six different tequilas. We all went through each tequila, smelling the aromas and tasting them blind. We compared and contrasted all to one another. Immediately we arrived at a favorite, which was barrel 9. It was exactly what we both wanted. This tequila is a Reposado aged for 4 months in Kendall Jackson Chardonnay French oak barrels. Amazing flavors of caramel, honey, and vanilla that gives it just the right amount of sweetness, but still allowing the cooked agave to continue to shine through. It is such a high-quality bottle—perfect for new tequila drinkers or the tequila connoisseurs. We are so proud and cannot wait for everyone to try! We chose this barrel with our guests in mind!" Q: What Do You Think Is The Most Interesting Part Of The Tequila Creation Process? A: "The most interesting part of the tequila process in my eyes is the crushing of the agave hearts or 'pinas'. When crushing, you are extracting the sugars which is the natural flavor of tequila." -Berkeley

A: "The most interesting part of the tequila making process is how every little detail matters. The location of the agave field, the elevation, the water source, the yeast they use, how the agave is cooked, how it is crushed, where it ferments, what they barrel it in. It is all so fascinating!" -Christine

Q: Can You Explain What Is Happening In Some Of Your Travel Pictures? Specifically The Ones With The Large Mud Pit?

A: "Aside from the gorgeous artwork and views of the town, many of the pictures showcase the different processes that go into making tequila. The fields of agave plants to start. Chopping them down to the pinas that are round and almost look like pineapples. Crushing the agaves in either the pit with the giant tahona wheel that they roll for hours or the milling machine that crushes the pinas as well, just a different way. They add volcanic spring water to help get them down to the consistency they want. Fermentation is after that, which is in the giant barrel or the rectangular open vat. From there is distillation which were the copper pots. And then of course the aging in all of the stacked barrels."

Q: What Was The Most Memorable Part Of The Trip? A: "Selecting our custom barrel for La Hacienda was my favorite. Tasting the various options and then nailing down exactly what we wanted was a dream. I also enjoyed exploring the town of Tequila. To see the culture and history makes you never want to leave." -Berkeley A: "The most memorable part of the trip for me was definitely picking our barrel alongside Master Distiller Tony Salles." -Christine Q: What Is One Thing You Bring Back From This Trip To Your Guests At La Hacienda? A: "I cannot wait to share the wonderful memories I made with our guests! Specifically the love and passion that goes behind-the-scenes while making tequila. I get asked all the time if I have ever been to Jalisco, so now I am able to say I've experienced it all." -Berkeley

A: "I have gained so much from this trip. I was shown so much hospitality and encountered so many kind and passionate people. I learned about a culture and a way of life. I will always try to convey that to our guests. Most importantly, I learned about 'Tequila Time' similar to 'Island Time'. A time zone or way of life where only your company and the spirits you're sipping matter. Schedule and routine come secondary." -Christine

El Tequileno was established in 1959 in honor of the birthplace of tequila. One of the most historic and well-revered tequila distilleries in the world, El Tequileno was the perfect partner in creating La Hacienda's new hand-crafted barrel. So, when will we be pouring our exclusive El Tequileno barrel for guests to taste? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be one of the first to know.

Want to continue the conversation and expand your tequila knowledge? Visit our Tequila Goddesses at La Hacienda any time by reserving a table!

The Meaning Behind Freedom Fest: Get to Know the All Veteran Group Parachutists

Michael Saam, Director of Adventure & Experiences

The Meaning Behind Freedom Fest: Getting To Know The All Veteran Group Parachutists

Fall in love with what you do…literally. All Veteran Group (AVG) is an organization with highly experienced parachutists who represent the courage and freedom of being an American. They can be seen parachuting into many events around the US like NFL games, NASCAR and our very own 4th of July celebration, Freedom Fest, at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Our 12th Annual Freedom Fest is Scottsdale's premiere place for Independence Day festivities and we are honored to have welcomed AVG as an integral part of our celebrations for more than 10 years.

We sat down with Sunnydale Hyde (Sunny for short) a passionate jumper and the purposeful Executive Operations Officer of AVG, to learn more about this important Veterans' group and his personal love for all they do. He even explains how he is afraid of heights, still to this day! So, how does he continually find the courage to jump out of a plane 14,000 feet above the Earth's soil? Find out in our exclusive interview!

Q: Tell Us More About Your Background And How You Came To Join The All Veteran Group?

A: "I spent many proud years in the military, serving my country. Once I became a little bit older, I recognized it was time to try something new. I had a fear of heights but faced that fear when I went on a tandem jump. After the initial jump my fear quickly turned into exhilaration and when I landed, I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life. Having served in the military for years, AVG took me under their wing and gave me the chance to jump full time with them. I love what they stand for. They believe the world is OUR place and they make every effort to make it better for everyone."

Q: How Does Your Organization Help Active And Retired Veterans?

A: "We raise millions of dollars for charities that help veterans with mental issues such as PTSD and get them into affordable housing. We'll even take it one step further by flying in the house keys into Hero Home 25 for the Veterans Corps and personally deliver them to an honored veteran who sacrificed so much for us and needs a home."

Q: How Old Were You When You First Jumped Out Of A Plane?

A: "I was 37 years old, although with the proper training you can be as young as 18 years old to fly out of a plane by yourself."

Q: What Are Some Of Your Most Memorable Flights?

A: "Parachuting at the Princess is actually one of my favorite flights to do. Every year I can count on the roar of the crowd as they cheer and wave their flags. It's great because I can see their excitement once I'm at 2,000 feet then begin to hear them at 1,000 feet, they can actually hear me too! It's such an incredible feeling. Another memorable flight was recently with Armed Forces, it was at night and involved flying with pyros and jumping into a screaming crowd."

Q: You Mentioned Being Able To See The Excitement On Everyone's Face At 2,000 Feet, How Are You Feeling In This Moment?

A: "If you've ever been to a concert, you probably seen an artist do their grand entrance. At first they can't see anyone as they're below the stage then they rise up to a massive sea of people who are there for them. That's how I feel once I see the crowd below. "

Q: What Advice Would You Give To Younger Generations Wanting To Follow In Your Footsteps, Jump Out Of Airplanes And Be A Part Of The Organization?

A: "Love people. We all need each other and have the ability to follow our dreams while helping others to follow theirs too. You need to have passion with what you're doing as well. It's not just jumping out of planes, it's helping others, connecting with people, and understanding that what you do is meaningful. Also, make sure to stay in shape. Parachuting requires a lot of core strength and it's likewise important to keep your back and knees strong too."

Q: You Mentioned Still Being Scared Of Heights, How Is This Different? How Do You Help Others Who Share That Same Fear?

A: "I tell them I'm scared of heights too but you need to have courage. Courage is taking the fear and doing something to overcome it. It's okay to be afraid, you can still be brave at the same time. Most people believe that the fall will feel like the drop you experience on roller coaster but that's not the case at all. It is actually quite peaceful, at first all you feel is the wind hitting your face then suddenly when the parachute deploys you feel like you're floating. Plus the adrenaline helps many people out of situations they feel stuck in. It releases tension and gets them to move forward in their life."

Q: Is There Anything Else You Want To Make Sure We Know?

A: "I encourage everyone to take pictures/videos and share them with us. We love seeing the experience from your point of view. We also will repost some of them to our page as well. We are mainly active on Facebook but have a YouTube channel  and TikTok as well. Make sure to follow us!"

On behalf of the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, we are delighted to welcome back AVG for this year's 4th of July Freedom Fest. Other festivities include four nights of spectacular fireworks, three nights of epic concerts, dive-in movies, delectable dining and more. On 4th of July day, make sure to shift your eyes to the sky to experience 54 military aircrafts that flew in World War II soaring across the Princess and AVG parachuting down from the planes while the American flag proudly trails behind. This is a weekend, you do not want to miss. 

Choose the Scenic Route to Scottsdale This Summer

Summer is here at last! After endlessly long, cold months of being covered up by bulky puffer coats and fuzzy socks, the time is right to don your flip flops and swimsuit and hit the open road on a journey toward Arizona sunshine. While, yes, summer in this state has a reputation for being h-o-t—with the top down, music up, wind in your hair and the beauty of the Sonoran Desert all around you, it’s a wonder of a trip. And with Fairmont Scottsdale’s Adventure Summer as the final destination, we guarantee that there is something here to make any age exclaim with excitement, “Are we there yet”?

So what are you waiting for? Get into the spirit of the southwest and prepare for the road trip of a lifetime. Here are the top three reasons Scottsdale should be your go-to road trip destination this summer.

We Plan, You Save

Avoid summer surge pricing and take advantage of the savings that can be garnered by coming out to Arizona in the summer! Families can enjoy all of the perks of our AAA Five Diamond resort at a valued rate, so they’re able to stay a little longer. Enjoy a special celebratory meal, play that coveted early morning round at TPC Scottsdale or book that sensuous Sisley-Paris spa treatment you deserve—and allow us to plan it all for you! Summer in Scottsdale means you’ll receive all the luxury and tranquility that you’ve been craving at a fraction of the cost. Choose from any of our summer special offers for even greater savings!

We’re Masters at Helping You Beat the Heat

Splish, Splash Summer

As native Phoenicians, we know sizzling summers like the back of our hands, and have mastered the art of staying cool. At Fairmont Scottsdale, we have no shortage of poolside accommodations available for your sunning pleasure. With six sparkling pools on property, you’ll find shaded cabanas and day beds around every turn, super-sized misters at every outdoor gathering spot, and a zingy margarita ready to whet your palate at every watering hole. Whether you and your partner are lounging in flamingo pool floaties at the adults-only Sonoran Landing pool or the kids are rushing down the rip-roaring water slides at Sonoran Splash, there is a pool on property for every vacationer!

Summer Sips & Savories

Our summer menus on property have been designed with the heat in mind. Of course the pools and restaurants serve blended and iced cocktails made with fresh local ingredients all summer long, that’s a given. But we take it a step further than that! From the refreshing Pomegranate Guacamole made tableside at La Hacienda to the local beers and chef-made sushi rolls at Toro, each of our restaurant concepts have specialized items that will satisfy all your culinary cravings and give your taste buds that summer ‘ahhh’ feeling.

Summer Self-Care

Once you’ve had your fill of sunshine, head indoors for some blissfully cool shopping and cultural museums. Spend the afternoon shopping at nearby Kierland Commons, explore the Musical Instrument Museum or Phoenix Art Museum, or pamper yourself at the Well & Being Spa to let the hottest hours of the day pass on by. This will be welcome entertainment, and as a bonus, Arizonans have our AC units so finely tuned, you may find yourself cozying up under the blankets in your guest room!

Mother Nature’s Summer Beauty

While, yes, Arizona does get into triple digits in the summer, have you experienced the thrill of monsoon season? You may be shocked to find it lowers the temps dramatically, bringing much-needed relief between the months of July and September, and you will get to experience the mystique and beauty of the blooming Sonoran Desert right before your very eyes. For maximum enjoyment, find a comforting balcony and a stiff drink and watch as dramatic lightning flashes and purple-hued clouds roll across the Sonoran sky.

We Have The Grandest of Adventures

If you’re anything like us, our ideal way to travel is in finding authentic and local experiences. While the heat is most certainly part of that local experience here, Arizona has plenty of other opportunities to showcase its splendor while keeping you engaged (and cool). Located in North Scottsdale right off of the accessible 101 freeway, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is the ideal home base for summer adventures as it sits within a few hours’ drive of spectacular day trips to enjoy Northern Arizona and all it has to offer. Perhaps you rise with the sun and take a hot air balloon ride over the early morning serenity of the desert. If the water is calling your name, maybe get out to the Salt River for a leisurely down-river float. Or, you can always head up to Sedona and slip down slide rock—a natural rock water slide—and then take in a quintessential pink jeep tour of Red Rock State Park that will have all your Instagram followers saying, “I wish I were there!” Whatever adventure you’re looking to get out of Arizona, our expert team Celebration Concierges at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess can help make that bucket-list dream a summer reality.

Summer Road Trip Quick List

Emerson touts, “it’s not the destination, it’s the journey”, and whether you hail from Washington, Texas or Colorado, we know that the journey to get here should be just as fun and memorable! That’s why we’ve created our quick-list of must-see road trip stops from neighboring states. And remember, at the end of your journey, you get to sleep in a feathery Fairmont bed. Isn’t that the real destination?

California

• From LA
  • Joshua Tree
  • Palm Springs and the Desert Hills Premium Outlets
• From San Diego
  • Tucson
  • Tombstone
  • Saguaro National Park
  • Bio-dome, Mini Time Machine Museum, Ostrich Farm

Washington

• Take the scenic route!
  • Pacific Coast Highway – adds 12 hours, but the sights make it worth it!
• Cannon Beach – find your inner Goonie
• Crater Lake
• Red woods & Yosemite
• Wine country/ San Francisco
• Disneyland
• Grand canyon or Sedona
• Lake Powell/ Lake Havasu
• Palm Springs

Texas

• Northern Route
  • Monument Valley
  • Grand Canyon
  • R66 stops
  • Sedona/ Slide rock/ Verde Valley
  • Carlsbad Caverns
  • Albuquerque
• Southern Route
  • El Paso
  • Austin or San Antonio
    • Six Flags/ Sea World
  • Big Bend National Park
  • Petrified national Forrest
  • The Alamo
  • Tombstone/ Tucson

Utah

• Bryce Canyon/ Zion/ Antelope Canyon/ Horseshoe Bend
• Grand Canyon
• Havasu Falls
• Lake Havasu/ Lake Powell
• Utah Shakespeare Festival
• Flagstaff
• Sedona/ Side Rock/ Verde Valley

Nevada

• Hoover Dam
• Las Vegas
• Grand Canyon/ Lake Mead/ Lake Powell
• Flagstaff / Sedona (Slide rock) / Verde Valley
• Montezuma Castle

Colorado

• Vail
• Arches National Park
• Santa Fe or Albuquerque
• Monument Valley
• Grand Canyon
• Colorado River
• Lake Havasu
• Flagstaff
• Sedona
• Meteor Crater

9 Must-Do Things at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess This Summer

Charlene Rooke, Travel Writer

Combine an Indiana Jones-like spirit of exploration with the rugged landscape of the Sonoran Desert and you get Adventure Summer at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Among the dozens of cool ideas to inspire your Arizona-sunny summer vacation, the hotel has some unbeatable offers available. Here is our list of the can't-miss things to do at The Princess this summer.

The Legend Of The Lost Temple

This summer begins with an epic tale of an intrepid archaeologist, Sonoran Smith, and his protégé, Sam, who are trying to beat a band of mercenary fortune seekers believed to be looting an ancient lost temple in Arizona. Battling against a snake phobia and vengeful rival archaeologist, the Smiths are in constant peril, making hair-raising escapes at every turn while trying to save the ancient relics for their rightful owner, the people of the United States of America. Sonoran Smith and Sam recruit adventurers to join their journey to locate and save the lost treasures! Will you join them?

"Fortune And Glory, Kid. Fortune And Glory"

Your kids will love the fedora and snake bite antidote they receive at check-in, and you'll adore 50% off our lowest rates on all room types with our Early Bird Summer Package. From the Adventurer's breakfast buffet at Ironwood American Kitchen and daily archeological Kid's Club activities to taking on the challenges of the Lost Temple after the sun goes down, there's an entire ancient world of kids' activities to explore. The Relic Raiders laser tag, Leap of Faith zip line and fun Chalice Climb rock wall are among the highlights of the Lost Temple play zone for little voyagers.

Play-Cation Central

A family vacation at The Princess means you can play together all day long. Weekend mornings, you can enter Catch-and-Release Fishing Derbies on the Lagoon Lawn to win prizes. Trailblazers Kids Club & Family Recreation Center offers everything from basketball and table games to virtual reality and 3D simulators. Or you can practice your driving and putting at the Princess-adjacent Stadium or Champions golf courses, and improve your game with PGA Tour Academy lessons. The resort's dedicated golf concierge is your ticket to booking tee times and transportation to dozens of area courses.

Pool Time

With six pool options, you might need to extend your stay to enjoy all of them. Choose from a white-sand beach, private cabana, rooftop pool plunge or floating bean bags for a day of fun. The Sonoran Splash pool has water slides and covered sandboxes for the kids, while the adults-only Sonoran Landing has plush day beds and hammocks plus 25-meter lane swimming. On weekends, the Funventure pool team brings games— the Spider Shake and Water Jeep Races just to name two—music, and other surprises to the pool deck.

Indulgent Brunches

Whether it's a shady mountain-view patio or cool indoor bliss that you seek, a leisurely weekend brunch is a royal ritual at The Princess. Late risers flock to Ironwood American Kitchen until early afternoon. While favorites like the Ironwood Sammy, Farm Breakfast and apple-smoked pork burrito are organic and farm-fresh any day breakfast faves, a decadent donut wall is a brunch highlight. Early risers can brunch at Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar beginning at 7:30 am, noshing on Pan-Latin chilaquiles, churro French toast or tres papas hash.

Decadent Dinners

Your family will enjoy the wide array of dining options at the Princess after a day of play. From a juicy ribeye or Wagyu steak to Australian lamb, Bourbon Steak specializes in wood-grilled meats and fresh seafood. Chef Michael Mina's signature lobster pot pie and black truffle mac and cheese shouldn't be missed. In the recently renovated casita setting of La Hacienda, your squad can snack on guacamole and chips, explore a tequila flight with guidance from the "Tequila Goddesses" or indulge in upscale versions of classics like slow-braised carnitas or barbecued sea bass.

Desert Nights: Family Style

After dark, the Sonoran Splash pool morphs into the Volcano Glo Party, including a playground of lasers, fog, strobe lights, LED hula hoops, and techno beats by DJ Molten. Watch the water transform to lava right before your eyes, and take your turn on two rip-roaring lava slides! On Fridays and Saturdays, G-rated family Dive-In Movies light up a giant inflatable screen at the Sunset Beach pool. And you shouldn't miss the fireworks on Saturday evenings! A Fairmont Scottsdale Princess summer classic, they can be seen from Sunset Beach, Princess Pool, and Lagoon Lawn.

Desert Nights: Grown-Up Fun

Sundown Saturdays at the indoor/outdoor Plaza Bar are a chance to exhale and savor mixologist-crafted cocktails, craft beer, lovely wines by the glass and hand-rolled cigars for those who indulge. If you're hungry, try snacking on Plaza Bar menu favorites like a charcuterie board, crispy chicken sandwich or double stack burger. You and your honey can linger in a hot tub, celebrate with a Champagne toast or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment as part of the Couple's Celebration Package, which includes a $100 nightly spa or dining credit.

Escape To Wellness

When you could use a massage and more, sink into an experience at what is often called one of the world's best retreats, Well & Being Spa. Select from dozens of massages, body wraps and facials, or choose oxygen treatments and such healing therapies as acupuncture, reflexology, craniosacral or myofascial treatments. Salon hair, nail and waxing services are also available. The spa menu also offers personal training, assisted stretching and even nutrition counseling. For no-decisions wellness, book a Live it Well Spa 3-Day Retreat that includes daily breakfast and treatments or a Well & Being Spa Relaxation package that includes a $200 spa credit with each night's stay.

Retail Therapy

What's a vacation without a little shopping? Indulge with summer shopping essentials like pool gear at Reflections and fitness wear and body care at the Well & Being Lifestyle Boutique. Choose a special designer outfit at Anna J and check out the men's fashion at Maverick. Don't forget to pick up a few Southwestern-style souvenirs before treating your shopping squad with gelato at Provisions.

We hope to welcome you to everything summer has to offer at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. There's nothing quite like it!

The Kentucky Derby Experience: The Ultimate Guide to Celebrating Derby Day in Scottsdale

Rob Anderson, Director of Catering & Outlet Sales

The Kentucky Derby Experience: The Ultimate Guide To Celebrating Derby Day In Scottsdale

Keep your friends close, and your bourbon closer. Here's the ultimate guide to celebrating Derby Day in Scottsdale this May 2023!

The Fashion

In stylish Scottsdale, fashion comes first and foremost on Derby Day. Bourbon Steak's Annual Kentucky Derby Lawn Party is a see-and-be-seen event, where the boldest hats, chicest spring dresses and most dapper suits take center stage. Have a stand-out statement hat? Make sure the rest of your outfit complements and doesn't detract attention from the star of the show. Have a midi dress with a great graphic floral print just begging to be worn? Pair it with a solid-colored fascinator that plays well with the color and detail.

Bourbon Steak Exclusive: However you dress, make it your best, because this party isn't complete without best dressed fashion contests for prizes!

The Drinks

Frosty, refreshing and oh-so-sophisticated, the Mint Julep has served as the traditional beverage of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs since 1938. It also serves as the iconic welcome drink at Bourbon Steak Scottsdale's Kentucky Derby annual party! Here's lead bartender, Kenny Hansen's signature recipe:

• 2oz Bulleit Bourbon
• 1oz Simple Syrup
• 8-10 Mint leaves
• 1 Large crown of mint for garnish
• Crushed ice
• Julep tin

Additional items needed: Hawthorne strainer, bar spoon and mixing glass

• Express mint in hand by smacking and drop into mixing glass.
• Add your Bulleit Bourbon and Simple syrup to mixing glass and stir without ice.
• Strain mixing glass with Hawthorne strainer, making sure to catch the mint, into a julep tin with crushed ice.
• Express your crown of mint and place in drink for garnish with two straws.

Bourbon Steak Exclusive: All tickets include complimentary Moet & Chandon or Bulleit Bourbon Mint Julep as well as up to five additional beverages! Purchase tickets now!

The Menu

With a Kentucky Derby party at Bourbon Steak Scottsdale, every item on the menu is a guaranteed winner. Chef Sara Garrant embraces Southern-style favorites like smoked Andouille sausage sliders and Kentucky Hot Browns with traditional classics with a twist including smoked potato salad with sherry bacon jam and hot and spicy glazed shrimp with creamy polenta. But save room for dessert, because she's racing into the finish line hot with four (yes, four!) delights—Derby pie, carrot cupcakes, apple-rhubarb crumble and grits pie.

The Horses

…And they're off! Whether you bet on the one with the best name, or you've really done your due diligence in choosing a favorite, this day centers around the thoroughbreds. Who will it be this year? Epicenter? Zandon? Tiz the Bomb? Only the "fastest two minutes in sports" will tell.

Bourbon Steak Exclusive: Upon welcome to Millionaire's Row, each guest will choose a horse ticket. This is your horse to cheer on down the final stretch of that 1 ¼ mile racetrack. Prizes awarded to everyone holding a winning ticket! And don't forget to take your pictures with our real, live race horse on the lawn!

The Place To Be

If there's one thing you need to place your Kentucky Derby party in the winner's circle, it's attention to detail. From tackling the traditional Mint Julep and Derby Pie, to the lush floral arrangements and photo ops perfect for showing off your Derby-worthy ensemble, Bourbon Steak has thought of it all at its Annual Kentucky Derby Lawn Party. Buy tickets today here!

Keeping Your Health Goals While On Vacation

Trish Hayes

Luckily for you, it is easier now more than ever to keep yourself on track while you travel. We will go over some tips and tricks to have you feeling confident next time you’re ready to escape for the weekend or take that business trip.

Keeping Your Health Goals While On Vacation

You begin your health and wellness journey with a plan to eat right and work out regularly. From there, you put your strategy in motion. You are feeling unstoppable and are starting to see great results. Then, you go on a trip and start to slip. Either you forgot to pack fitness clothes, the gym is not what you are used to, there are not a lot of healthy options or you're simply in vacation mode. Before you know it, you fell off the wagon and lost motivation. Has this happened to you before? Don't worry this is not the intro to a cheesy infomercial. We just know the feeling and understand how hard it can be continue on your health journey after an initial mistake. Let's take a step back and ask ourselves "what is the reason I wanted to eat right and workout in the first place?" Was it to look good for a getaway or was it to enhance your wellness over all? If it is the latter, then now ask yourself what that really looks like for you. That might now include the importance of sticking to your routine even while on vacation. Luckily for you, it is easier now more than ever to keep yourself on track while you travel. We will go over some tips and tricks to have you feeling confident next time you're ready to escape for the weekend or take that business trip. Don't worry, you can still have fun and make better choices at the same time!

7 Tips For Staying Healthy On Vacation

1. Tap Into The "Why" Of Your Fitness And Weight Loss Goals.

We had you ask yourself this question already, but now let's dive in a bit further. Dig deep, and get past surface reasons such as washboard abs or fitting back into your jeans from high school. Do you want to weigh less so you have more energy to play with your kids? That will keep you motivated much more than just wanting to lose weight. Tap into you why, and let it fuel you.

2. Drink Tons Of Water When Traveling.

Water keeps you feeling full for longer, keeps you away from sodas and sugar-filled drinks, and cuts down your overall calorie intake. It can also be easy to confuse thirst for hunger, which might cause you to overeat or make poor food choices and if done regularly can result in unnecessary weight gain. Drinking the right amount of water can give you better control of how much food you consume. If Scottsdale, Arizona is your destination, you'll want to stay extra hydrated before you start seeing a mirage oasis in the desert. One way to help with preventing dehydration is to balance your water consumption with your alcohol and sugary drink intake, so for every margarita you should also have a full glass of water.

3. When It Comes To Food, Try To Plan Ahead.

Read the menu ahead of time. Look at what healthy options they feature or see what items can be substituted for items more in line with your diet. If you are still unsure, you can always call the restaurant and see what they recommend for you and your restrictions. If you really can't bring yourself to skip on that queso fundido you've been dreaming about for months, consider splitting portion sizes, it's only half the calories.

Now, let's play devil's advocate for a second and consider two thoughts on indulging while on vacay. First, eat snacks to fill you between larger meals. Nuts, plain yogurt with fruits, veggies, and organic jerky are all great options to hold you over. Second, alternatively, eat whatever you want and as much as you want, but limit the TIMES you eat. Perhaps play around with only eating 2x per day at specific times, or only eating specifically when hungry. It is vacation after all, and one of the best parts of vacation is all the food!

4. Get Enough Sleep.

It is typically recommended that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep a night, however these hours vary depending on age, activeness, health, etc. Once you know how many hours you should be resting, you should try to stick to that, even on vacation. We know the excitement of all the fun adventures you have planned might make it harder to fall asleep but you also want to make sure you have enough energy to experience it, right? Ear plugs and eye masks are a great way to block out sound and light for an even deeper sleep. Meditation before bed can also help relax the mind. Even 5-10 minutes will put you in a Zen state and have you ready to count sheep. Furthermore, remember, the more comfortable the bed, the better the sleep. Fairmont hotels partners with Stearns & Foster and Sealy Posturepedic  for mattresses that deliver opulent comfort.

5. Hike Locally, Take Fitness Classes, Use The Hotel Gym, And Do Other Activities Like Golfing.

If you came to Arizona to experience the sunshine, take full advantage of it by going on a hike. Not only will you feel the sunrays gently warming up your skin but you get to immerse yourself in the true beauty of the Sonoran Desert. There are trails for beginners as well as those looking for a challenge. Here is a list  of some of our local favorites.

With miles of greens in Scottsdale, it's every golfer's dream! A day on the course is another perfect way to stay active and have fun at the same time!

If you do not want to leave our stunning resort, you can always take a stroll around our grounds. Even if it's just 20-30 min, you will get many health benefits including help with digestion of that overly indulgent meal you just split with your besties. Our property is 65 acres of pure beauty for your enjoyment.

For an elevated fitness experience, visit our spa gym (complimentary for Fairmont Gold stays and spa guests) which includes "matrix" branded equipment/machines, kettle bells, InBody scanner – bioelectrical impedance machine for body comp, Peloton, Larger selection of kettlebells, free weights and medicine balls and TRX. Our Well & Being Spa offers 5-6 classes per day, totaling 41 classes per week, and offer a variety of formats from yoga, to spin, HIIT pilates, strength training and more (complimentary add-on with any spa treatment). We also offer two fitness centers, one in the hotel and one in the spa. The hotel gym has all your basic bases covered to get a quick workout in.

If you are trying to pack light or don't want to stress about bringing your bulky workout shoes, check out the hotel programs like Fairmont Fit. We have partnered with Reebok to let guests borrow shoes and exercise apparel during their stay. Now you are ready to tackle any workout in style and not let your excuses get in your way.

Lastly, invest in a membership with a boutique gym, fitness app, or virtual trainers that travels with you! Many of the virtual trainer apps like Nike Training and Sweat even have programs based on the amount of equipment you have to work with, so you can even get a great workout in from the comfort of your room.

Leave the stress at home and if you have a few cheat meals, make sure they are at least worth it! After all, you are here to experience new and exciting things. As long as you remember "why" you decided to change your lifestyle to begin with, it will be easier to stay on track of your goals or bounce back if you happen to stray a little.

Top Things To Do This Winter In Scottsdale

Erin Stewart

Our desert paradise paints a scene for the perfect winter getaway. With endless events such as Christmas at the Princess and the Waste Management Phoenix Open, there is never a dull moment in Scottsdale. Not sure where to start? Don't worry, we're here for you! Below is a list of our top picks for things to do this season. Bring your camera, loved ones and mocha peppermint latte and let's go on this quest for the best.

Festivals And Events

First stop, the excitement of winter brings so much magic to the desert.

• Christmas at the Princess: Prepare to be enchanted at our winter wonderland. With over 6 million dazzling lights, it's no wonder we're a favorite in the Valley. The Village and Twinkle Town also offer rides, pictures with Santa, various ice skating rinks and more. This is a great experience for families or date night and can be enjoyed from November 18, 2022 – January 2, 2023. Tickets may be purchased here.
• Barrett-Jackson: We are proud to be the official resort for the 50th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction happening January 21-29, 2023. Automotive enthusiast rejoice for the opportunity to be up close and personal to some of the most sought-after vehicles and collector items. Tickets start at $199 per adult and $83 per child and may be purchased here.

Major Sporting Events

For the sports enthusiasts, these ones are for you!

• Waste Management Phoenix Open: One of the valley's most anticipated events happens in our backyard. The WMPO is hosted at the TPC Scottsdale Stadium from February 6-12, 2023. Our resort offers packages that includes tickets to the event, exclusive access to the 5th hole, complimentary shuttle to and from the main entrance, and more. Ticket may be purchased here.
• College Bowl Games: College football lovers, this one is for you. Phoenix is pleased to welcome back the Guaranteed Rate Bowl and PlayStation Fiesta Bowl. These charity driven games bring the community together. Games are head Tuesday, December 27, 2022 and Saturday, December 31, 2022. Tickets may be purchased here.
• Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show: The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show has been a staple in our city within the horse community since 1955. Breeders and trainers from around the world compete for a chance to win. The show has nearly 2400 horses competing from February 16-26, 2023. More information may be found here.

Golf

‘Tis the season to experience what makes Scottsdale a leading golfing destination. With sunshine on the forecast, mountains on the horizon and endless miles of green, it is easy to see why winter is a prime time of year to golf. Our partnership with local courses allow our guests customized experiences for whatever they are looking for at whatever level they're at. We also offer stay packages that include credits towards our partner courses, including TPC and Grayhawk. Our package options can be viewed here.

Bucket-List Desert Adventures

We all have that bucket list that we are slowly checking off and continuing to add to. Below are some of the items on our list that we think you would love. Because sharing is caring.

• Hot Air Balloon Rides: Rise and shine (literally) on a breathtaking ride that will bring you to new heights as you take in the views of our desert oasis. Flights may be booked here.
• Hiking: Whether you want to conquer the mighty Camelback or go on a scenic drive to further out mountains, Arizona has plenty of hiking trails to keep you busy. If looking for a guided experience, Wild Bunch Desert Guides are experts in hiking and mountain biking. Hiking tours may be booked here.
• Biking: Biking is becoming more and more popular in our beautiful state. We have plenty of bike friendly paths for urban bikers and great terrain for mountain bikers. Again, Wild Bunch Desert Guides can take you on great mountain biking expeditions. Bike tours may be booked here.
• Hummer Tours: Where the road turns into dirt is where the adventure really begins. Companies like Stellar Adventures know how to give you that once-in-a-lifetime experience with outings such as hummer tours, atving, stargazing, and more. Boost up your adrenaline with these jaw dropping off road excursions and see what our desert really has to offer. Tours may be booked  here.
• Visit the Grand Canyon: Since our state is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it only makes sense that you have a chance to see it up close. Grand Canyon Railway wants you to sit back and relax on this unique trip to the canyon. Take in the sights, indulge in the cuisine and be serenaded by the live music that all takes place on a historic train track. Once you arrive, you taken to the one and only Grand Canyon where you can plan a hike, camp, or just visit for the day.

Resort Dining

Once you have checked off some of those bucket list items, it's time to explore what we have to offer right outside your guest room. If you are hungry, we invite you to join us in one of our six dining outlets.

• La Hacienda: Modern Mexican cuisine and tequila bar with recipes inspired by world-renowned Chef Richard Sandoval.
• Ironwood American Kitchen: Farm to table influenced dishes served for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Bourbon Steak: Modern steakhouse cuisine created by award-winning Chef Michael Mina.
• The Plaza Bar: Contemporary and chic indoor/outdoor bar with specially crafted cocktails, local brews, and exquisite bites.
• Toro Latin Restaurant and Rum Bar: An infusion of Asian and Latin flavors with an elevated rum list.
• In-Room Dining: 24/7 dining for when you don't want to leave your bed.

Top Insider Tips For A Very Merry Christmas At The Princess From Santa's Elves

Teresa Thompson, Director of Resort Experience

Planning on attending this year's Christmas at the Princess festival? We look forward to welcoming you to our favorite holiday tradition in Scottsdale.

With so much to do, and so many memories to make, we've asked Santa's favorite elves to give us their top seven tips for how to make the most of your Christmas at the Princess experience!

1. Best time to visit? Early in the season and weekdays throughout the festival tend to be lighter in attendance. Be sure to check the Christmas at the Princess page  for all the special events to make your visit even more special! On peak nights, allow an extra 20-30 minutes in travel time.

2. When booking online, we encourage guests to book early before their preferred dates sell out. We've made it even easier this year, and guests can  book everything all at once online here. Don't forget to purchase your family's Ice Passes and Photos with Santa session!

3. Dining at the Princess is a must on the elf list! Reservations are recommended for dining at Bourbon Steak, La Hacienda and Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar, as outlets do reach capacity during the holiday season. Ironwood American Kitchen  is walk-in only and no advance reservations are needed. To make a reservation, call 480.585.2694.

4. We understand budgets are important to families, today more than ever. We work hard to provide a variety of food and beverage options for all guests visiting Christmas at the Princess. Elf favorite? Mrs. Claus' fresh-baked cookies!

Dinner entrees at the resort's signature outlets range from $25 to $45+. Concessions pricing at Kringle's Kitchen, Mrs. Claus' Cookies, Twinkle Town, The Village and The Lodge range from $5 to $16+. There is no cash accepted at the event. We would encourage our guests to check our site prior to our events to make sure they are best prepared to enjoy the evening.

5. Just as we do at the North Pole, please check the weather before you get in your sleigh! Scottsdale nights are known for being beautiful, but if wintery weather does come our way, the festival will continue. Please plan accordingly. A $20 fee will apply for all date changes (subject to availability).

6. VIP fire pits and igloos are the ultimate luxury experience and are very popular! Be sure to reserve yours in advance online here.

7. For a best value, share the ride! Admission/parking is $80 per vehicle, up to four guests, for just $20 per person for admission! Another perk? Children under 3 receive complimentary access to the event! Or, here's a fantastic value: dine in one any of the resort's restaurants, and with a $75 spend, you receive 50% off valet parking and admission for up to six people! Or, an even better value? Spend the night with a holiday package and enjoy VIP early access to all of the attractions.

Top Fall & Winter Skincare Product Picks From A Sisley-Paris Spa Lead Aesthetician

Dylan Mustapich, Sisley-Paris Spa Lead Esthetician

Now that we’re heading into the cooler months here in Scottsdale, it’s time to consider adjusting your skincare routine to be more tailored to the seasons.

Many of us also have pigmentation concerns that generally worsen during the warmer months when the sun is at its strongest. Add in any stress of returning to work or school, and it can be a recipe for dull, uneven, and flakey skin – which no one wants! Fortunately, Sisley-Paris has you covered with everything you need to treat your concerns and keep your skin hydrated in our wonderful fall and winter desert climate. Here are my top Sisley product picks for both those visiting Scottsdale, AZ as well as the locals who love to live here.

Top Fall & Winter Skincare Product Picks From A Sisley-Paris Spa Lead Aesthetician

Now that we're heading into the cooler months here in Scottsdale, it's time to consider adjusting your skincare routine to be more tailored to the seasons. While temperatures don't drop too dramatically here in the valley, with the lack of summer humidity the air can become dry. Many of us also have pigmentation concerns that generally worsen during the warmer months when the sun is at its strongest. Add in any stress of returning to work or school, and it can be a recipe for dull, uneven, and flakey skin – which no one wants! Fortunately, Sisley-Paris has you covered with everything you need to treat your concerns and keep your skin hydrated in our wonderful fall and winter desert climate. Here are my top Sisley product picks for both those visiting Scottsdale, AZ as well as the locals who love to live here.

Sisley-Paris Photoblanc Le Concentré Pure Bright Activating Serum & Sunleya SPF 50

Whether you spent your summer beating the heat by the pool or hiking up in Sedona, you're probably dealing with a little excess pigmentation from the sun. Even the most diligent sunscreen users make the occasional misjudgment and end up with a burn. Fall and winter are the perfect seasons to address pigmentation concerns that often worsen during the summer months. Sisley's Photoblanc Le Concentré Pure Bright Activating Serum features a patented brightening complex that helps lighten existing pigmentation, and plant-derived antioxidants to help prevent additional sun pigmentation when used in conjunction with a broad-spectrum sunscreen like Sisley's Sunleya SPF 50+.

SisleYouth Anti-Pollution

With remote work, Zoom, and a plethora of streaming services, many of us are spending more and more time in front of our screens. And now that we're shifting back into our normal work/school routine, our screen time is likely to increase that much more. In recent years, we've become more aware of the hazards of the blue light these devices emit. While too much time in front of your devices may not result in a visible burn, it can lead to photo damage and pigmentation concerns. This is due to blue light's longer wavelength, which is able to penetrate deeper into the skin than both UVA and UVB rays. Boasting barrier fortifying pea extract and antioxidant rich Ginko Biloba, SisleYouth Anti-Pollution will help protect your delicate complexion from the ravages of too much screen time.

Sisleya Moisturizer & Black Rose Precious Face Oil

Having made it through a particularly eventful monsoon season and the increase in humidity that comes with it, the Valley of the Sun is once again drier and more arid. Though you may have been able to get by with a lighter gel moisturizer over the summer, the drop in humidity means you should probably swap it out for a richer moisturizer or facial oil. Sisleya, Sisley's anti-aging line, features an extra-riche version of their legendary moisturizer to help replenish the skin's natural lipids for those that struggle with dry/flakey skin. For severe dryness, adding a facial oil may be beneficial as well. The Black Rose Precious Face Oil is loaded with plant-derived antioxidants and omegas 3 and 6 to help nourish the skin and protect it from environmental factors (photo damage, pollution, etc.). A lightweight dry oil, it's an excellent choice for those that have found most facial oils to be too heavy for their skin

Sisley-Paris Spa Facial At Fairmont Scottsdale

Switching up your at-home skincare routine seasonally is the key to keeping skin in optimal health throughout the year. Just like a wardrobe, your skincare should reflect the environment around you. A signature Sisley facial is the perfect way to revive tired skin, and our expert Aestheticians are able to analyze your skin to determine exactly what it needs as the seasons change. You wouldn't wear a t-shirt and flip flops while it's snowing, so why would you use a mattifying moisturizer when your skin is dry and flakey from a lack of humidity? Fairmont Scottsdale is the one of the only locations in the country to offer a Sisley-Paris Spa, with a complete menu of Sisley spa facials and body treatments. Click here to book yours today!

The Top 7 Reasons To Travel

Pam Gilbert, Director of Sales and Marketing

If this past year has taught us anything, it’s that the world craves travel. In a Fall 2020 Amex Trendex report, American Express found that 48% of people surveyed reported that the inability to travel was causing them to feel anxious and stressed, and three out of four respondents cited travel as one of their most yearned for activities.

Here we explore the top 7 reasons people travel.

Travel Builds And Strengthens Relationships

It's not only the places that make travel so beautiful, it's the people. And surrounding yourself with those nearest and dearest to you for a multi-generational trip brings families together and deepens bonds in a special way. Multi-generational travel has been a top travel trend for the past few years for a good reason. Traveling brings families together and deepens bonds in a special way. This trend is returning strong in 2021, with families hungry to reconnect and make new memories together after a year or more of separation.

AZ Traveler Tip:
To ensure a multi-gen vacation's success, your destination must have something for everyone! And that's exactly what Fairmont Scottsdale  is known for. Where else can mom and the aunties spend a relaxing day at an award-winning spa while dad and grandpa hit the links at one of the PGA Tour's most iconic courses and the kids hop from pool to pool and make new friends at the Kids Club? And that's just on the resort grounds. Scottsdale is a playground for kids of all ages! From adrenaline-spiking desert jeep tours, to world-class museums and buzz-worthy restaurants by the dozens…there's truly something for everyone to claim as their ‘favorite' part of your vacation.

Travel Awakens Empathy And Expands Perspectives

Although traveling is often about trying new foods and seeing historical sites, exploring new cultures often provides the most worthwhile travel experiences of all. And in today's world more than ever, it is critical we work to strengthen our cross-cultural awareness and empathy. "For me, empathy starts with respecting the culture and history of every community," writes AFAR editor in chief Julia Cosgrove. "If travel doesn't engender empathy, you're doing it wrong." Travel truly gives us the opportunity to further develop the four attributes of empathy, as established by Theresa Wiseman:

• To be able to see the world as others see it
• To be non-judgmental
• To understand another person's feelings
• To communicate your understanding of that person's feelings

According to best-selling author and researcher Brene Brown, empathy is one of the most important skills that you can learn. Travel does inherently provide us with opportunities to grow empathy and understanding to anyone brave enough to embrace it.

AZ Traveler Tip:
Research destinations with rich cultural experiences well in advance. For example, in Arizona guests can discover one of our most iconic and sacred destinations, Antelope Canyon. Located within the LeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation, the only way to tour the canyon is by tour. Longstanding members of the Navajo Nation give regular tours  brimming with stories about the history, geology, culture and most importantly, the soul of the area. Check back often for more information on Antelope Canyon's re-opening. Or, visitors can take a trip to Downtown Phoenix's Heard Museum, internationally recognized for the quality of its collections, world-class exhibitions, educational programming and festivals. The Heard Museum gives life to the stories of American Indian people from a first-person perspective through traditional and contemporary art.

Travel Sparks New Business Ideas

Observing different ways of life and perspectives from around the globe or across the country can provide just the change of scenery needed to inspire your next "a-ha" moment. Just ask the founder of Warby Parker, Dave Gilboa, Noosa CEO Koel Thomae, or world-renowned businessman Richard Branson! All three of these successful entrepreneurs took global inspirations and applied them locally to reap big benefits in business.

AZ Traveler Tip:
You never know where inspiration may strike next. According to a recent study published in The Journal of Applied Psychology, building friendships with people from different cultures enhances not only a traveler's creativity and innovation, but also their likelihood of becoming an entrepreneur! Connect with new friends at local-favorite hangouts, our concierges at Fairmont Scottsdale can recommend all of the best spots in town!

Travel Helps You Appreciate Your Life

Especially over the past year, many of us have experienced days blurring into nights, and weeks and months stretching on and on. Many of our daily routines have grown stagnant, and that makes it easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. We need novelty, or new experiences, to keep our happiness levels up. "We get used to things that are familiar to us – called habituation," says Dr. Scott Bea in this Cleveland Clinic article. "Routine doesn't generate the chemicals that our brains like. Novelty does." Traveling, and even just getting offline and out of your house for any amount of time, renews your appreciation for your family, your job and your life. There is so much to be grateful for!

AZ Traveler Tip:
An Arizona wellness retreat is a great way to break away from unhealthy or unhelpful patterns and learn to appreciate what you have so you may begin live a full, vibrant life once again. Try a wellness retreat at Well & Being Spa, where you'll discover evidence-based tools, treatments and expert guides that make happy and healthy go together seamlessly.

Travel Renews A Sense Of Accomplishment

When you begin planning a vacation or trip, you first ask yourself "Where do I want to go?" But what about the question, "What do I want to find out?" Travel and accomplishment go hand-in-hand. Anyone who has ever successfully navigated a busy bus schedule in a foreign language or taste tested a country's finest local delicacies can attest to this. Whenever you check an item off of your travel bucket list, you're fueling what sets your soul on fire and brings you pure joy. Now that's an accomplishment.

AZ Traveler Tip:
Arizona is full of bucket list-worthy adventures. One you can't miss? A hike up Scottsdale's most iconic landmark, Camelback Mountain. A wonderful and ever-popular hike, it begs to be conquered…but it can also be a challenge of an ascent. Make sure to properly prepare (here are 12 tips for successfully hiking Camelback Mountain), and you'll be awarded with the panoramic views of the Scottsdale/Phoenix area at the top!

Travel Gives You Inspired Stories

Let's face facts—no one wants to hear another story about your cat Cleo. Being stuck in quarantine has undoubtedly taken a toll on our storytelling abilities, but fear not—all hope is not lost! Plan a trip now and you're promised to be instantly more interesting within your friend circle. Most people are only dreaming about travel, as proven by the growing popularity of genre podcasts, books and TV shows. Give the people what they want and transport them into an epic adventure starring Y-O-U.

AZ Traveler Tip:
To have epic stories, you need to have epic adventures. Arizona provides the perfect place to do this! A few of our recommendations:

• Take a day trip to Bisbee, AZ, where a quirky community of artists live in a town full of rich mining history
• Take to the cloudless skies on a hot air balloon ride
• Take a trip inside the wondrous and fascinating caves at Kartchner Kaverns
• Take in the red rocks of Sedona by bike, horseback or jeep tour

Travel Helps You Move Forward

Wherever you're at personally in this very moment, whether it be going through a tough life transition or just feeling like you can't get out of the pandemic rut, it's easy to hit the pause button on life. Travel is oftentimes the perfect way to bridge the gap to move you from one stage of life to the next. Think traveling abroad after high school, honeymoons, babymoons, etc. View your next trip as a chance to reflect on the past year and let it go. Once you return, make your sole focus on moving into your bright new future!

AZ Traveler Tip:
Celebrate your milestones!  Spend your 50th birthday at home with a bottle of wine? Plan a birthday weekend to rejuvenate your spirit. Recently engaged? Plan to get your best girls or guys together for a bachelor/bachelorette weekend! Fairmont Scottsdale loves celebrations, and can't wait to help you make yours extra special.

Reclaim Your Life With A Wellness Retreat In Scottsdale

What is health? This question undoubtedly means something different to everyone. The universal definition is "the absence of disease", but it is truly so much more. A strong foundation of a healthy body and mind is important for everyday life and that much more important when life throws a curve. Stress affects the body and mind more than we realize, and today especially we are faced with more than the simple frustrations of traffic on the freeway or a delay in a package. We are worrying much more about our families, aging parents, the never-ending news, and a future that can feel uncertain at best.

How do we break that pattern and begin to breathe and take care of ourselves? The answer is to take time for your health with a wellness retreat. A wellness retreat is different from your typical vacation, as its main focus is to remove all distractions to make space for deeper physical, mental and emotional connection to the self. When planned correctly, wellness retreats allow you to break away from your daily routine and reunite with your inner natural rhythms so you have the chance to build up your reserves and make sure your tank is full once you go back to tackle each day. Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess offers the ideal ambiance and programming for a wellness retreat.

Join us on a journey to plan your next wellness retreat, and discover why it's the answer you've been looking for to the change you want to see in your life.

Minimize Your Distractions

Remove yourself from your day-to-day distractions and focus on you. Trying to implement a new exercise program, eat better, or improve sleep stands a small chance of success when your stressors are constantly within reach with a quick ping of an incoming email or text message. Before planning your wellness retreat, make sure you have everything in your everyday life squared away so you can truly unplug and remove yourself. After you feel comfortable with that step, find a place to change the scenery and then address your steps and plans. Scottsdale, Arizona's Sonoran Desert is known worldwide as a place where nature can nurture the soul and awaken transformation within. Many seek this blooming desert to serve as the backdrop for inspiration, prayer, health, wellness and an investment in inner peace. Well & Being Spa's 44,000 sq. ft. facilities are inspired by these magical surroundings, and our treatments are customized to deliver sensory awakenings with local healing methods and ingredients.

Practice And Experience

Once all of your distractions are safely put at bay, immersing yourself in a new environment with healthy choices and activities gives you the opportunity to live it well—experience a better night's sleep, eat healthier, go on a hike! Dedicating to the process is another big step in your journey. Every guest at Well & Being Spa is introduced to our mantra:

"Today I will find balance in my life. I will reveal my potential by feeling and being healthy, by embracing all the elements that are on my path to well-being. By striving for the best expression of me, I will find greater connectedness to the world and to those I love. Today, I will live it well…"

Once you take a few days and dedicate 100% to this progress within yourself, you can quickly realize that what is back at home and what you were doing may not have been the best for your overall wellness and wholeness.

Learn, Grow And Remember That Change Does Not Happen Overnight

It is key when planning a wellness retreat to find a destination with experts who are trained to help usher you through the journey. Well & Being Spa offers an innovative fusion of spa and wellness, with an array of field experts to help guide you to the best possible personalized experience for you. A wellness retreat allows you to explore options for your new routine moving forward. We always try the same old routine and go back to the gym or say we will start jogging early each morning when perhaps we don't like the gym or jogging is not our favorite exercise. A wellness retreat at Well & Being Spa can offer you the chance to try new things and find the best fit for you. You can take a fun fitness class like FloatFit Fitness at our rooftop pool, work one-on-one with a personal trainer to determine your health and wellness baseline with our comprehensive diagnostic fitness assessment WellFIT, join one of our seasonal lecture series or classes, or introduce yourself to healing therapies like halotherapy, acupuncture, auriculotherapy and more. Of course there's always time for pampering, too, with a wide selection of facials, massages and salon treatments available from Well & Being's menu. Our team encourages you to step outside your box and be open to new adventures with us!

I Know What I Need To Do…But Why Can't I Do It?
We are all inundated with the latest news on nutrition, exercise, and stress management every day. Whether it be from TV, self-help books, YouTube videos or the plethora of information on the internet, it piques our interest and we read it. But actually putting the suggested practices into action usually falls short. Just to have the knowledge does not catapult people to change. You need a call to action, and the best call to action is book a wellness retreat now – FOR YOU.

"If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always got." – Henry Ford

At Well & Being Spa Scottsdale, you'll discover evidence-based tools and treatments that make happy and healthy go together. This combination leads the way for lifelong change! Every resort experience is enhanced by Well & Being's focus on enjoying life—both in the moment and long after returning home from your wellness retreat.

Ready To Plan Your Own Wellness Retreat?
The Live It Well Spa 3-Day Retreat was created for you! Join us at our 65-acre majestic open air resort, designed to help you immediately escape the hustle and bustle of your busy life. Our Live It Well Spa 3-Day Retreat is focused on health and wellness and includes:
• Three (3) Night Accommodations in a Luxuriously Appointed Fairmont Room
• Daily Complimentary Breakfast Per Person
• Two (2) Complimentary 60-Minute Treatments at Well & Being Spa Per Person, Per Stay
• Daily Complimentary Access to Well & Being Spa Facilities: Sauna, Steam Room, Swiss Shower, Private Rooftop Pool, Hot & Cold Plunge Pool, Waterfall Grotto & Aromatherapy Room

BOOK NOW!

8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Scottsdale This Spring

Erin Stewart, Corporate & Travel Industry Sales Manager

Spend just one day under the spring sun in Scottsdale, Arizona and you’ll understand why the city is considered one of the best places to vacation for family spring breaks, refreshing girl spa getaways, guys spring training baseball trips and more! 

Looking for somewhere beautiful? We’ve got natural wonders and the only blooming desert around. Looking for an easy and safe travel destination? Nearby Sky Harbor Airport offers non-stop flights from 114 different domestic destinations and 24 international destinations! Looking for a trip that will interest every member of the family? From world-class golf to world-class pools, Scottsdale is the playcation destination for all ages! Below are our top 8 reasons to visit Scottsdale this spring

1. Re-Connect And Reclaim Family Time

The last year has kept many families apart due to the pandemic and it's time to get back together. The Princess offers a variety of activities to entertain the whole family: from fishing derbies in the lagoons to the playground and sport court area to our beach pool with splash pad and waterslide pool for added fun in the sun. Click here to explore the resort. (And not to forget about Mom and Dad or Grandma and Grandpa, we offer an award-winning spa and world-class golf as well.)

2. Springtime At The Princess

Whether you're looking for a blast of sunlight to recharge your soul in 2021, or time to turn up the adventure and try something new, springtime at the Princess offers guests unforgettable events and activities to partake in. From al fresco dining under the starry sky at five signature restaurants, to dive-in movies after dark at Sunset Beach, it's a spring break vacationer's paradise. 

3. Barrett-Jackson Collectible Car Auction (March 20-27, 2021)

As the host hotel, our guests can get up close to this high octane nationally televised event located minutes away from the resort. Take a seat in some of the most valuable and storied vintage and custom rides in the world, and experience the thrill of the auction at Barrett-Jackson's 2021 show in Scottsdale! Click here to learn more.

4. MLB Cactus League Spring Training

Runs daily through March 29, 2021. Catch big league players at little league prices at any one of 10 stadiums, four of which are only 20 minutes from the resort. With a ballpark hotdog in one hand, a frosty ice cold beverage in the other, and the sun on your skin, there's really no better place in the world. Tickets are limited due to reduced capacities, so book early to guarantee seats. 

5. Legacy Events

Scottsdale is an incredible place to celebrate spring holidays and special events, including Easter, the Kentucky Derby, Cinco De Mayo and Mother's Day 2021. Fairmont Scottsdale is known for bringing families together with exciting legacy events for every celebration, and these springtime festivities are no exception! Join us for an impressive Easter Brunch in Palomino Ballroom on Sunday, April 4, 2021 and enjoy an Alice in Wonderland themed egg hunt in the ballroom and photo ops for families dressed in their Easter Best! Kentucky Derby is hosted at Michael Mina's Bourbon Steak, and it is hands down the best place to cheer on your favorite horse during the "fastest two minutes in sports". Cinco De Mayo at La Hacienda, known as Arizona's Best Mexican Restaurant, is an authentic and lively experience you won't want to miss. And don't forget mom this year! She deserves extra love and pampering at our Mother's Day brunch.

6. Stop And Smell The Flowers

Spring is a wonderful time to experience the Sonoran Desert as it's the only living desert on the planet! See it all come to life from March to May when wildflower blooms reveal the most vibrant colors culminating with the grand finale – the majestic Saguaro cactus which blooms in early May. Guests can either enjoy the cactus garden at the resort or experience the desert first hand in any one of the nearby parks or preserves.

7. Take A Hike

Break away from the rat race of life or even the treadmill at the gym and enjoy a change of pace in the great outdoors. The Valley of the Sun boasts thousands of miles of hiking trails including the McDowell Sonoran Preserve just minutes away from the Princess with hiking trails available for all fitness levels including a handicap accessible trail!

8. Wide Open Spaces

What would a trip to Arizona be without a desert adventure? Get a bird's eye view of the Sonoran Desert and catch one of our famous cotton candy sunsets on an afternoon hot air balloon ride, check the Grand Canyon off your bucket list or explore the painted canyons and landscape of our beautiful state on a Jeep tour or horseback ride. All of our tour partners and excursion companies are up, running and ready to welcome guests with safety protocols in place. And only at Fairmont Scottsdale, you can book them directly online here and guarantee your space at Arizona's top tours and excursions.

Plan Your 2022/2023 Scottsdale Vacation Today!

Spring Training 2021 Cactus League Schedule

Bryan Bealer, Senior Sales Manager

My absolute favorite time of year is back again! Spring Training baseball is calling, and with more than 200 games all across the Phoenix-Scottsdale area, it's every baseball lover's dream destination February 28 through March 29, 2021. Get ready to play ball and cheer on your favorite team in sunny Arizona.

Sunday, February 28

• Los Angeles Angels at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05 at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Cincinatti Reds at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)

Monday, March 1

• Milwaukee Brewers at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)

Tuesday, March 2

• Oakland Athletics at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Los Angeles Angels at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 7:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)

Wednesday, March 3

• Oakland Athletics at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)

Thursday, March 4

• Los Angeles Angels at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)

Friday, March 5

• Los Angeles Angels at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at San Diego Padres | Game Time 6:40pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)

Saturday, March 6

• Oakland Athletics at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)

Sunday, March 7

• Chicago Cubs at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05 pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)

Monday, March 8

• Oakland Athletics at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Los Angeles Angels at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)

Tuesday, March 9

• Oakland Athletics at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)

Wednesday, March 10

• Los Angeles Angels at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)

Thursday, March 11

• Oakland Athletics at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)

Friday, March 12

• Milwaukee Brewers at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 6:40pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)

Saturday, March 13

• Oakland Athletics at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Los Angeles Angels at Chicago White Sox | Game Time at 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)

Sunday, March 14

• Milwaukee Brewers at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)

Monday, March 15

• Oakland Athletics at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Goodyear (Goodyear, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)

Tuesday, March 16

• Oakland Athletics at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 6:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 7:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)

Wednesday, March 17

• Los Angeles Angels at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 6:40pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Texas Rangers | Game Time 6:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 6:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)

Thursday, March 18

• Oakland Athletics at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 7:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Texas Rangers | Game Time 6:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)

Friday, March 19

• Los Angeles Angels at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 6:40pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 7:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)

Saturday, March 20

• Oakland Athletics at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Texas Rangers | Game Time 6:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)

Sunday, March 21

• Los Angeles Angels at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)

Monday, March 22

• Milwaukee Brewers at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 6:40pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)

Tuesday, March 23

• Los Angeles Angels at Texas Rangers | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 6:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at San Diego Padres | Game Time 1:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)

Wednesday, March 24

• Oakland Athletics at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 6:50pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 7:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Los Angeles Angels | Game Time 1:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 6:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)

Thursday, March 25

• Los Angeles Angels at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Milwaukee Brewers at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 7:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at San Diego Padres | Game Time 6:40pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Los Angeles Dodgers at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 6:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)

Friday, March 26

• Oakland Athletics at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 6:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 1:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at San Diego Padres | Game Time 6:50pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at Cleveland Indians | Game TIme 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Texas Rangers | Game Time 6:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 1:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Arizona Diamondbacks | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)

Saturday, March 27

• Milwaukee Brewers at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 1:05pm at Surprise Stadium (Surprise, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 6:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Seattle Mariners | Game Time 6:40pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 12:10pm at Tempe Diablo Stadium (Tempe, AZ)
• Texas Rangers at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 1:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Chicago White Sox at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Los Angeles Dodgers | Game Time 12:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale (Glendale, AZ)

Sunday, March 28

• Oakland Athletics at San Francisco Giants | Game Time 1:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Chicago Cubs at Texas Rangers | Game Time 12:05pm at Surprise Stadium
• Arizona Diamondbacks at Chicago White Sox | Game Time 1:05pm at Camelback Ranch-Glendale, (Glendale, AZ)
• San Diego Padres at Cleveland Indians | Game Time 1:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Kansas City Royals at Colorado Rockies | Game Time 1:10pm at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Scottsdale, AZ)
• Cincinnati Reds at Milwaukee Brewers | Game Time 12:10pm at American Family Fields of Phoenix (Phoenix, AZ)

Monday, March 29

• Arizona Diamondbacks at Chicago Cubs | Game Time 12:05pm at Sloan Park (Mesa, AZ)
• San Francisco Giants at Oakland Athletics | Game Time 12:05pm at Hohokam Stadium (Mesa, AZ)
• Seattle Mariners at Cincinnati Reds | Game Time 12:05pm at Goodyear Ballpark (Goodyear, AZ)
• Colorado Rockies at San Diego Padres | Game Time 12:10pm at Peoria Sports Complex (Peoria, AZ)
• Cleveland Indians at Kansas City Royals | Game Time 12:05pm at Scottsdale Stadium (Scottsdale, AZ)

Looking for the ultimate Arizona Spring Training vacation? The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess hotel is conveniently located alongside the 101 Freeway, just 15 minutes from Salt River Fields at Talking Stick and Old Town Scottsdale and only 20 minutes from Sloan Park and Scottsdale Stadium. Don your favorite ball cap and head out to one of our six sparkling pools, because the weather is fine and everyone's on vacation. As for me? I'll be out at Dodgers Stadium all season long.

Plan your luxurious Spring Training stay in Scottsdale with one of our special offers.
Special Offers

MLB Spring Training 2021: Everything You Need To Know

John Glynn, Director of Public Relations

I have loved baseball ever since I can remember. I remember the earthquake during the 1989 World Series, I remember Matt Cain's perfect game, I remember 2010, 2012 and 2014. As a diehard San Francisco Giants fan, I remember it all. And I love it.

My family started traveling to Spring Training in Scottsdale to see the Giants in the early 2000s, and I was hooked. Warm winter days, baseball, a hotdog, cold beer and my family...it was perfect. So perfect, that I moved my own family here nearly 15 years ago, and now play hooky with my two sons, going to as many Spring Training games as our hearts desire! When the time came, I asked my wife to marry me in the lounge at Don & Charlie's. For those unfamiliar, Don & Charlie's was the ultimate baseball—especially for Giants and Cubs fans—place to be. Any day after the games were over, you'd see Dusty Baker holding court at the bar, Bud Selig and Henry Aaron dining on ribs together,..Will Clark, Bob Brenly, everyone was there.

Spring Training has been has been in my blood for years, and it is an annual tradition for so many since 1947. With that quick nod to the past, we now all look to the future. What will Spring Training in Arizona look like in 2021? What do you need to know? Will it be the same game and experience I've come to know and love? Here, I answer all of those questions to help you confidently plan your springtime Arizona getaway, as well as provide you with my very own top four must-dos for any fan!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: 2021 CACTUS LEAGUE SPRING TRAINING

Cactus League Spring Training is set to move forward this spring, with mitigation strategies in place. The plans vary from city to city as well as from team to team, so it is important to buy 2021 spring training tickets in advance and ensure you are equipped with all of the information you need before you go.

Capacity & Tickets

To ensure spectator, player and staff safety, capacity will be limited at all Arizona Spring Training stadiums this year. For example, at the Chicago Cubs Spring Training stadium in Mesa, AZ, attendance will be limited from the usual 15,000 per game to 4,000 per game. With limited tickets, I recommend purchasing as soon as your favorite team opens up their online box offices. Many teams are also adopting all digital tickets and eliminating cash payments at their stadium's concession stands for a "contactless" approach. Make sure to bring cards with you and have your tickets available to be scanned on a mobile device.

Face Masks & Social Distancing

At a majority of the stadiums, face masks are required except while eating or drinking for attendees 2 years of age and older. Stadiums will be enforcing social distancing rules, with many adopting a "pod" seating strategy. For example, at the American Family Fields of Phoenix Stadium, home of the Milwaukee Brewers, groups of up to six people will be seated together, distanced at least six feet apart from other groups. Seats in between will be clearly marked as unavailable and outfield seating areas will be marked off with painted areas.

Additional Considerations

Again, make sure to research before you go. Ensure your personal comfort level regarding safety is met by reviewing the stadium's health and wellness procedures, and don't forget to look into the parking and tailgating updates as they may have changed compared to years previous. For example, at the Peoria Sports Complex, home of the Seattle Mariners and San Diego Padres, parking will be free or included in the price of a ticket to cut down on contact. Always plan to arrive early, and don't forget to bring a glove to catch a homerun on the lawn!

TOP 4 MUST-DOS FOR ANY ARIZONA SPRING TRAINING FAN

1. Accommodations

The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is absolutely the best place in town to stay. You're less than a 20-minute drive to Old Town Scottsdale, the home of Scottsdale Stadium, where the Giants play. But you're also close to the freeway and centrally located to see the Royals in Peoria, the Dodgers in Glendale, the Angels in Tempe or the Padres in Maryvale. The resort is expansive, comfortable, and has all the amenities you're looking for – unparalleled dining, both on property and nearby, diverse bars with beautiful open-air patios and light bites, and world-class shopping if you forget something at home or want to freshen your look for spring. Fairmont Scottsdale's concierge staff is incredibly knowledgeable and will always point you in the right direction, offer expert advice, or secure restaurant reservations. You're away from the bustle and late nights of Old Town, but you still feel like you're in the middle of the action. And you just might run into a baseball icon or two at breakfast while staying at the resort!

2. Make A Plan

Your time goes by quickly if you don't stay on top of it. Know what games and stadiums you want to see in advance. The Giants recently completed a renovation at Scottsdale Stadium, as did the A's at Hohokam. The Cubs' new stadium in Mesa, Sloan Park, is a masterpiece; as is the new stadium in Glendale that the Dodgers and White Sox share. As Spring Training has grown in popularity, tickets are becoming scarcer – especially in 2021. Don't wait until you get here to buy your tickets and map out your days!

3. Spring Training Icons

Even though Don & Charlie's has unfortunately closed, there are still landmarks that any baseball fan, or their companion, will enjoy. You have to have a cold one at the Rusty Spur in Old Town, a pizza at Grimaldi's and stop by the Fashion Square Mall for some of the Southwest's best shopping. Make sure to save some room in your budget to pick up some official merchandise at your favorite team's stadium. These items only come out this time of year, and once they're sold out, you won't expect a restock until next year.

4. Watch For Up And Comers

…Especially toward the end of the spring season. Someone you've never heard of is going to fight hard to eke out that final roster spot, and it's magic to see. Guys you've never heard of are running out grounders, diving for balls, working the count—all in games that don't really matter, just for the opportunity to catch on. It's thrilling to watch as the regular season progresses to see where these players end up. Sometimes, they're a flash in the pan, and other times they make meaningful contributions to the team you love.

One final expert tip…There are certainly characters in every ballpark, but Derrick Moore, known by many sports fans takes the cake. When you hear "Lemonade, lemonade, like grandma made" in a bellowing baritone, you've gotten the full experience. Don't buy lemonade from anyone else, the man is a true artist.

What's Your Sign? How To Spa According To Your Horoscope

Carrie Kennedy, Director of Well Being & Spa

2022 is here, and we're all eagerly turning to the stars wondering what the year will bring. Whatever your sign, we could all use a little self-care spa day! That's why our experts at Well & Being Spa have put together their 2022 Astrological Spa Treatment Guide.

Find your sign below to learn more about a spa day tailored just for you, and book online here to make 2022 the best year yet.

Aquarius: January 20 – February 18

Altruistic, friendly, inventive, intellectual, unpredictable
InBody Assessment – Measurements and numbers to help your goal.
Hacienda Retreat – You have to take care of yourself before you can help others.
Hypervolt Assisted Stretch – Makes sense to stretch and learn flexibility.

Pisces: February 19 – March 20

Artistic, charitable, dreamer, humble, mystical, peaceful
Singing Bowl – Artistic expression of sound and helpful to healing.
Havasupi Falls Rejuvenation – The mystical journey, from sage smudging to head-to-toe body experience.
Private Meditation – Customized to your style and the perfect tool for everyday life!

Aries: March 21 – April 19

Active, ambitious, courageous, creative, self-assured
Myofascial Release – the RX for improving mobility and staying active.
Tuscan Mani/pedi – For that traveler within – a bit of Tuscany in Scottsdale.
Desert Oasis Detoxifying Wrap – Bringing the rhythm of the ocean to the desert to carry away stress and fatigue.

Taurus: April 20 – May 20

Cautious, conventional, determined, loving, patient
Signature Journey Massage – The basic and the best – staying conventional.
Desert Seasons Mani/pedi – Herbal and soothing – you will love it!
Neck & Decollete Treatment – Add-on to any facial leaving your skin smooth and hydrated.

Gemini: May 21 – June 20

Adaptable, articulate, clever, curious, flexible, lively, social, witty
Aerial Yoga – curious? The clever approach to yoga
Champagne Couture Mani/pedi – Socialize & beautify!
Cupping – Liven up your chi!

Cancer: June 21 – July 22

Calm, conscientious, imaginative, proactive, quiet, sensitive
Wall Yoga – imagine the perfect balance for each pose.
Aromatherapy Massage – Calming and relaxing...

Leo: July 23 – August 22

Ambitious, authoritative, confident, leader, dramatic
Himalayan Salt Stone Massage – an adventure for the senses.
Naturopathica Hydrafacial – the leader in patented technology for vibrant skin.

Virgo: August 23 – September 22

Analytical, dedicated, efficient, helpful, logical, responsible
Well & Being Facial – Bringing together the elements for better skin.
Alpine Arnica Deep Tissue – Quick and healing tissue repair

Libra: September 23 – October 22

Affable, aesthetic, artistic, charming, gracious, indecisive, kind
Aerial Yoga – fluid and artistic movement for the body!
Enhanced Oxygen Facial – Called the "runway facial" plump and ready.

Scorpio: October 23 – November 21

Competitive, courageous, determined, magnetic, powerful, probing
Well Blended Aromatherapy Scrub – Powerful treatment for smoother skin.
Reflexology – Get the edge on better health with an integrative approach.
Personal Training – Challenge yourself with new exercises to meet your goals!

Sagittarius: November 22 – December 21

Casual, direct, enthusiastic, gregarious, honest, restless
Acupuncture – Increase energy and chi for the body and mind!
Magnesium Massage – Help quiet your mind off and relax – enhance your sleep.

Capricorn: December 22 – January 19

Conservative, ambitious, discipline, realistic, responsible, serious, thrifty
Desert Botanical Facial – Plant based and natural approach to better skin.
Purification Ritual – The all-in-one treatment from head-to-toe.

Discover Our Festive Fall Menus: A Q&A With Scottsdale's Top Chefs

Chad Howard, Director of Food & Beverage

Arizona’s best chefs love to let the wonderful fall season inspire them as they incorporate its freshest ingredients and flavors into their menus here at Fairmont Scottsdale. We sat down and asked our top chefs to tell us more about their favorite new dishes, menu pairings and Pumpkin Nights #AtThePrincess after-dinner treats.

Ah, fall in Arizona. The weather is gorgeous, the outdoor adventures are endless and the restaurant patios eagerly await to welcome diners for an unforgettable al fresco evening under the desert's starry skies.

No one looks forward to fall and winter more than an Arizonan. And Arizona's best chefs love to let this wonderful season inspire them as they incorporate its freshest ingredients and flavors into their menus here at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

We sat down and asked Scottsdale's top chefs to tell us more about their favorite new dishes, menu pairings and Pumpkin Nights #AtThePrincess after-dinner treats and experiences.

Executive Chef Fernando Fernandez – Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar

Q: What was the inspiration for your new fall menu?
A: We wanted a menu that screamed fall but remained unique and true to our Pan Latin cuisine.

Q: When we think fall, we think pumpkin everything. What's one unexpected fall ingredient on your menu, and why do you love it?
A: For fall at Toro we are serving a Mojo-marinated Pork Chop accompanied by butter nut squash and a carrot puree. The pork is cooked in an emersion bath, which allows the dish to shine with rich confit flavors. We finish everything with fresh pomegranate seeds for some bright acidic flavor and toasted pepitas for a nutty smokiness.

Q: What is your favorite new fall menu item and why?
A: Our Snowbird Sour has it all going on! We are fresh squeezing lemon to order while sweetening the cocktail with maple syrup and almond liqueur. The flavors really speak to all things fall with a sweet and nutty finish.

Q: Suggested food and drink pairing off your menu for fall?
A: Our Don't Fall Over is a spirit-driven cocktail sweetened by cinnamon and finished with a smoking star anise. Its potent but perfect while eating our Mojo Pork Chop. The cocktail helps cut through the richness of the dish and renews your palate before every bite.

Q: Favorite Pumpkin Nights at the Princess after-dinner experience?
A: Finish dinner with our Picarones Peruanos which is a pumpkin donut covered in sugar and espresso that will transport you to a Peruvian diner without ever leaving your seat.

Executive Chef Forest Hamrick - La Hacienda

Q: What was the inspiration for your new fall menu?
A: Changing of the weather, seasonal fruits and vegetables and items people look forward to, such as braised items, tamales, sweet potatoes, pomegranates...this list could go on!

Q: When we think fall, we think pumpkin everything. What's one unexpected fall ingredient on your menu, and why do you love it?
A: People seem to forget about the great apples that we get during the fall, so I think the Green Apple Aguachile is an unexpected item on the fall Menu, and a must-try.

Q: What is your favorite new fall menu item and why?
A: Chocolate Tamales. I've actually never made them before and they came out amazing. Corn and chocolate complement each other so well.

Q: Suggested food and drink pairing off your menu for fall?
A:Green Apple Aguachile with the Wren House Seasonal Kolsch, a German-style pale ale. Incredible.

Q: Favorite Pumpkin Nights at the Princess after-dinner experience?
A: The Pumpkin Patch, just steps away from La Hacienda's awesome patio!

Executive Chef Sara Garrant – Bourbon Steak

Q: What was the inspiration for your new fall menu?
A: The cold, and fall colors. Seeing pictures of northern states, and the leaves changing color inspired us to use items that reflected the change of the season. Arizona has a shorter autumn, that leads into a beautiful winter, so we wanted to make dishes that pulled from flavors and cooking techniques of winter as well—braised, roasted, and slow cooked.

Q: When we think fall, we think pumpkin everything. What is one unexpected fall ingredient on your menu, and why do you love it?
A: House-pulled mozzarella. Usually you see it in the spring with tomatoes and other lighter ingredients. We flipped the script and have it going with roasted apple puree, the rosemary focaccia, and a nutty brown butter vinaigrette.

Q: What is your favorite new fall menu item and why?
A: The Short Rib Tortellini. It screams autumn—a hearty braised dish for the filling, glazed in a veal and red wine reduction, with crispy Brussels Sprouts, and roasted pumpkin puree.

Q: Suggested food and drink pairing off your menu for fall?
A: Havest Salad – Dominique Roger ‘Domaine Du Carrou' Sancerre 2017
Mozzarella – Far Niente Chardonnay 2018
Tortellini – Vietti Barbera D'Asti 2017
Scallops – Domaine Drouhin-Vaudon Chablis 2018
Pumpkin Sundae – Taylor 20yr Port or Hitachino Espresso Stout

Q: Favorite Pumpkin Nights at the Princess after-dinner experience?
A: The Spookeasy is my new favorite spot on property.

Interested In Reserving Your Next Fall Night Out? Click Below To Book A Table Tonight!

• Bourbon Steak reservations 
• La Hacienda reservations
• Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar reservations

2021 Micro-Wedding & Minimony Floral Trends

The Studio at Cactus Flower

Whether you’re newly engaged, or having to re-imagine your wedding due to the coronavirus pandemic, minimonies and micro-weddings are taking the industry by storm, bringing with them a fresh new landscape of preferred experiences, design elements, traditions and trends. And it’s no surprise the florals are an area making one of the biggest impacts. 

We asked one of our favorite florists, Corrina Chavez with The Studio at Cactus Flower, for her top minimony floral trends that are sweeping the world right now,

The rise of the "mini version" of the traditional wedding are the bright spot we all need right now, with all signs indicating that the minimony is here to stay! With a smaller wedding, couples are able to be more intentional, focusing on romantic touches and sentimental statements. And it's no surprise the florals are an area making one of the biggest impacts.

Conceptual & Intentional

Even with fewer guests in attendance at a minimony, couples don't have to skimp on the elegance and concept for their wedding. The floral décor highlighting the essential areas of the wedding (i.e. ceremony backdrop for the exchange of nuptials), along with coordinated accents, will not only create a beautiful effect, but a budget-friendly outcome due to the limited number of items needed. Inspiration taken from art galleries (stay safe by taking a virtual tour online!), travel photography or even fashion can be translated into floral for a true representation of the couple's original and unique taste.

Permanent Botanicals

A leading wedding trend is incorporating permanent botanicals like dried flowers, grasses, and foliage in fresh flower centerpieces and arrangements. Make a sustainable statement with a variety of textures, shapes and muted, warm hues. Adding dried elements into an existing bouquet brings a pop of surprise for a modern look, while bouquets made up entirely of dried leaves, fronds, seed pods, branches and flowers are perfect for a bohemian gathering. The best part? These styles work ultra-well in warm climates like Arizona!

Focus On The Ceremony Backdrop

For the ceremony backdrop, various new shapes have been introduced this year, including pyramid, geometric, infinity (circle) and the staple square frame. Floral backdrops such as these can change the mood of any space, and are an uplifting way to draw guests into the moment with you. Breathtaking backdrops are also perfect for those joining in virtually via Zoom as they flawlessly frame your vows in style!

Large Blossom Statement Flower

For bouquets, brides are walking down the aisle with large, unstructured bridal bouquets. Another trend is incorporating a single, large blossom statement flower, such as dinner plate dahlias. Make sure to highlight the bloom with a bouquet of contrasting greenery. This trend is budget-friendly and also gives brides the opportunity to feature a meaningful flower choice in a bold and unexpected way.

Organic & Unstructured

Organic, unstructured, multi-textured bouquets will remain the trend through 2021. Wild and free, brides and their guests continue to embrace the organic look and feel of floral arrangements. Natural freedom reigns supreme, from the bouquets to the centerpieces. Arizona weddings continue to trend with beautiful indigenous succulents and cactus – featured in everything from bridal bouquets to table centerpieces – for a desert-inspired look.

Enchanting Reception Setup

At a smaller reception, all eyes will be on the décor, especially the sweetheart table. With micro-weddings and minimony's, couples have the opportunity to splurge on a lush second backdrop! Think hedge walls featuring your new last name or cascading florals hung from an arbor. The sweetheart table should be opulent in décor, topped with an abundance of flowers and flickering candlelight. Guest dining tables can be set with a variation of the flowers in line with the concept and accented with intimate votives for a beautifully coordinated effect. The cocktail reception tables can simply be a small accent of the main flower concept. Trending minimony tip: Amp up the color and richness of your blooms for a transformative and experiential day-to-evening effect for guests.

Planning Your Big Day?

For more information on wedding florals and décor by The Studio at Cactus Flower, contact Director of Special Events Corrina Chavez at cchavez@cactusflower.com or 480.358.5473. Or visit www.cactusflowerevents.com.

For more information on Fairmont Scottsdale's newest Minimony Wedding Package, or to begin planning your very own Minimony #AtThePrincess, click here.

Discover The Best Meditation Style For You In 4 Simple Steps

Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, MD, Chief Medical Officer Well & Being Spa

"He who lives in harmony with himself, lives in harmony with the world." -Marcus Aurelius

Whether you’re looking to reduce stress or nourish your spirit, find stillness or flow through movement, there’s a meditation practice for you. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try different forms. It often takes a little trial and error until you find the one that fits, but follow these three easy steps are you are well on your way!

Meditation can help:
• Lower blood pressure
• Reduce anxiety/stress
• Decrease pain
• Ease symptoms of depression
• Improve sleep
• Improve mood

Couldn't we all benefit from meditation this year?

Step One: Prepare Your Mind & Body

Get into a comfortable position and relax. Many people think they need to sit with their legs crossed a certain way, but really, whatever position you feel is comfortable is the position you should try. Some people avoid lying down because they fall asleep if they're tired; you can experiment and decide what's right for you. Once you've found your position, close your eyes, relax your muscles, and breathe from your diaphragm. Let your shoulders, your belly, and the muscles in your face relax. Breathe in deeply through your nose, gently expanding your belly rather than your chest, then exhale through your mouth.

"Meditation means to simply be and honor who you are with all your strength and your weaknesses without the judgments." -Rasoul Sobhani, Yoga Instructor and Expert at Well & Being Spa

Step Two: Choose Your Type

• Mantra meditation: This type of meditation uses a repetitive sound to clear the mind. It can be a word, phrase, or sound, such as the popular "Om." It doesn't matter if your mantra is spoken loudly or quietly. After speaking the mantra for some time, you will find that you are more alert and in tune with your body and environment. This allows you to experience deeper levels of awareness. Some people enjoy mantra meditation because they find it easier to focus on a word than on their breath. This is also a good practice for people who don't like silence and enjoy repetition.
• Music Meditation: This means finding music that you enjoy listening to. Look for music with a slower tempo, and preferably without lyrics, which can be distracting and can engage your conscious mind—the part of your mind that we hope to slow down and dial back. Stay focused on the music. If you find yourself thinking about other things, gently redirect your attention to the present moment, the sound of the music, and the feelings in your body that the music evokes.
• Sound Meditation: While there are various types of sound meditation, one that is becoming more popular is the "sound bath," which uses Tibetan singing bowls, quartz bowls, and bells to guide the listener. This type of practice highlights how the experience of sound manifests not only through hearing but through tactile physical vibrations and frequencies. Many people find it incredibly powerful.
• Guided Meditation or Guided Imagery: This type of practice helps you visualize and visit a special place in your mind. In a comfortable position, you will listen as a "guide" helps you envision a place of peace and tranquility. Many people find the experience incredibly relaxing and calming. There are many excellent resources for those who enjoy guided imagery. And you can choose meditations that are specific for helping you sleep, release grief, ease anxiety, or find compassion. Personally, I love Belleruth Naperstak.

Step Three: Add An Essential Oil Enhancement

Many cultures around the world used aromatic plants to help create the right environment for meditation. Some burned frankincense or copal, others burned sage or cedar. Many people today prefer to use an essential oil diffuser or essential oil burner to avoid smoke in their home. You can choose from frankincense, myrrh, sage, cedar or sandalwood, or look for blends designed to "calm" or "focus."

Step Four: Try An Expert-Led Customized Meditation Session

Interested in nurturing your own journey into meditation? The experts at Well & Being Spa are here to help. Design your own meditation practice with one of our mind and body specialists in a private, semi-private or small group session. 

About Dr. Tieraona Low Dog

Well & Being's team of world-class spa and wellness experts are led by Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, whose extensive career in the study of natural medicine, and its role in modern health care, began more than 35 years ago. Dr. Low Dog studied midwifery and massage therapy, as well as herbalism. She served as President of the American Herbalist Guild and ran a teaching clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico before going on to receive her doctorate degree from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Tieraona opened and ran a successful integrative medical clinic in Albuquerque before joining the faculty of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona where she served as the Director of Fellowship from 2005-2015. Tieraona has recently authored three National Geographic books, Healthy at Home and Life is Your Best Medicine and co-authored the Guide to Medicinal Herbs. She serves on numerous editorial/advisory boards, and has appeared on E!, ABC's 20/20, CNN, and is a frequent guest on the Dr. Oz show and NPR's The People's Pharmacy.

Must-Try Of The Moment: DIY Self-Care Kits

Teresa Thompson, Director of Retail

What if the ingredients to indulge in a little self-care from the comfort of your home were right at your fingertips? Fairmont Scottsdale's shopping gurus have you covered with beautifully customized social distancing survival kits that will help increase your body’s immunity while bringing the essence of the spa right to you.

During this time of social distance, we have partnered with the Well & Being Spa professionals to offer you their guidance and best practices with convenience and effortless assurance that you are prioritizing your self-care.

DIY Immunity Kit

Have you been looking to increase your body's immunity? Look no further, this DIY Immunity Booster Kit includes everything you'll need to ensure you are protected from germs at home or on the go! This kit features a Stellarcleenz 99% pure silver plated silk nylon, chemical free, non-alcohol based antimicrobial cloth with travel pouch that helps to protect against 99% of germs, bacteria, and viruses. True47 Stress Less & Immunity boosting nasal inhalants utilizing colloidal silver, essential oils, and Himalayan salts that reduce stress/angst/anxiety, clear sinuses, and provide your body with essential immunoboosting properties. Naturopathica's Echinacea & aloe throat spray. Echinacea has a rich history of supporting the immune system. It is combined with soothing Aloe Vera and Wildflower Honey to strengthen the body's immunity and improve respiratory health. Three premium Sol & Selene face masks to ensure an elevated level of comfort and protection.

DIY Tranquility Kit

Indulging in self-care activities is not only essential for a peaceful state of mind but also helps reduce fatigue, stress, and any other characteristic that could have you feeling sub-par. This is why our DIY tranquility kit is essential to help reduce stress, encourage rest and relaxation while simultaneously combining high-quality skin care products for soft and glowing skin. This kit features a Knesko gold face mask to increase skin elasticity, firmness and moisture. A detoxing and nourishing magnesium bath soak by Naturopathica. Passionflower Sleep Tincture to encourage tranquil rest and relaxation. CBD infused bath bomb that relieves sore muscles and reduces stress. Pinch lavender therapy dough. A Squishable compound that's designed to channel relief through the senses, naturally. This placating putty was developed using the proven scientific methodology of color and scent as they relate to relaxation-all in the convenience of a portable tin. Think of it as a handy little mood-shifter. Herbal Essential all natural, germ killing, mood lifting essential oil Lavender towelettes.

DIY Pedicure Kit

For the ultimate at home pedicure. Our DIY Pedicure Kit features a Dazzle Dry a mini nail polish care kit developed by bio-organic chemist Dr. Vivian Valenty. Backed by over 30 years of research, Dazzle Dry is a unique line of naturally advanced, high-performance nail care. Featuring their award-winning four-step nail system bestselling spa line, Dazzle Dry products are formulated to give you the results you need and the long-term benefits you deserve. A professional premium foot file and callus eliminator. Naturopathica's Mighty Mint Rescue versatile cream which rescues tired feet with icy peppermint and menthol to invigorate the senses, cool and revive the skin with a tingly finish. Farm House Fresh Pedi Delight kit that includes a lightweight honey lavender salt scrub for stubborn dry skin, a honey heel glaze(Oprah's O-List foot serum made with sweet Texas honey) and a honey-chai steeped milk lotion(a gorgeous, spiced-milk infusion of organic coconut milk and sultry cardamom)
to lock in nourishment. With this DIY pedicure kit, you will not only feel rejuvenated, but will have your feet sandal-season ready in a matter of minutes.

Whether you're looking to build up your immune system, enter into a zone of tranquility, or engage in a little self-care for your tootsies, our DIY kits offer all the essentials you need to maintain a sound and relaxed state of mind while staying safe at a distance. Combine the products in these kits with these helpful tips on practicing self-care as the perfect social distancing experience for your mind, body and soul, and you'll be on your way to a brighter, happier you!

Well & Being Spa's Top 3 Essential Skincare Tips For Mask Wearers

Carrie Kennedy, Director of Well & Being Spa

2020 has been a year full of change, and that's putting it lightly. As we adapt to these changes, so must our health and wellness routines. Masks have become an integral part of our lives, but tight fits and friction can lead to pesky breakouts, skin irritation and rashes—all common side effects of wearing protective coverings over the face for a prolonged period of time.

Skin suffering under your mask? Pamper it with these three tips from Well & Being Spa. They're easy to incorporate into your day-to-day skincare routine, while making a world of difference!

1. Purify

Avoid any skin challenges by maintaining a clean and healthy foundation. A gentle cleanser like our guest-favorite Chamomile Cleansing Milk from Naturopathica helps calm and remove impurities.

2. Renew

Wearing a mask on the daily can leave skin clogged. Avoid this with a super gentle exfoliant like Naturopathica's Oat Cleansing Facial Polish. Apply once a week to keep build up at bay.

3. Nourish

Experiencing dryness and irritation from wearing your mask so often? Naturopathica's Calendula Essential Hydrating Cream comes to the rescue. This super anti-inflammatory powerhouse acts as a barrier between the skin and mask.

It's important to remember that during these topsy-turvy times, tending to your personal wellbeing and releasing stress in healthy ways is more important than ever. Self-care is not selfish or indulgent, rather it's how we are physically, emotionally and mentally capable to be there for others.

Allow Well & Being Spa to serve as your Happy Place during these times; A place you can unwind and recharge safely and serenely. Call 480.585.2732 to book your favorite facial for a personalized skincare assessment, or book online here.

Quarantine Day Dreams: Plan The Perfect Arizona Vacation Now With Our Pinterest Guide

Erin Stewart

Where's the first place you plan on visiting once you're ready to travel again? We bet you've thought about it, and have your answer at the ready. Quarantine day dreams are just the exciting escape we all need right now—keeping us optimistic for a future filled with new people, places and adventures to explore.

With that in mind, it's no surprise guides for staycations and virtual travel have become increasingly popular over the past few months. On Pinterest specifically, the social site with more than 322 million active users, many are interested in collaboratively visualizing, organizing and sharing their grandest travel aspirations.

"Wanderlust in all its forms is going to be the fast pass to finding our way back to the world again, and back to the people—from the family-owned restaurant chefs to the drivers, hotel concierges, locals and guides—who make travel so worthwhile," writes Tom Marchant for Harper's Bazaar.

So get ready to simultaneously satisfy your wanderlust and plan your next bucket list adventure to sunny Arizona with our inspirational guide.

Social Distancing In Scottsdale

Soar over the Sonoran Desert with your selected few lucky enough to be part of your social distancing crew during a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Wondering what season will suit you best? Find all the answers to your questions here.

Plan your next dream spa trip with a unique fusion of wellness and pampering at Well & Being Spa. "It's no secret that the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has several incredible pools, however, there's something extra special about the rooftop pool at the Well & Being Spa. It tends to be quiet, especially during the week. I can sneak up there with my coffee and a good book and relax in the warm Arizona sunshine," says blogger Tara Hallie.

Enjoy thousands of acres of Scottsdale's best parks and gardens, including nine along central Scottsdale's Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt. Xeriscape Garden is another favorite, while Pinnacle Peak Park is located just a short distance from the resort.

Plan out the perfect summer day at Fairmont Scottsdale, with sunrises on the balcony, social-distanced aerial hammock yoga, fresh al fresco meals at Ironwood American Kitchen and leisurely strolls around the 65-acre property.

Arizona's Iconic Road Trips

From Old West to art town, Bisbee, Arizona is just a short road trip to the southeastern corner of Arizona. At the top of travel bloggers Jen and Ryan's road trip destinations list, Bisbee is a small town filled to the brim with personality. Make sure to stay awhile to peruse around the funky downtown filled with art galleries, antique shops and other quaint and creative local small businesses.

Sedona, Havasu Falls, the Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon are just some of the popular drivable destinations mentioned on this road trip itinerary. "Exploring Arizona, with its red rocks and water-carved canyons, is all about appreciating the wide-open spaces and the way the sky lights it up throughout the day," says Kristin of Be My Travel Muse.

You're going to want to rent a convertible for this one. Here are 11 must-see spots on Arizona's section of the historic Route 66. Stand on the corner (socially distanced, of course) in Winslow Arizona, visit the world's most well-preserved meteor impact site, capture an Insta-worthy pic at the Wigwam Motel, and take a step back in time at Kingman's Arizona Route 66 Museum.

Your Special Occasion, Your Dream Trip

The celebrations may have been delayed, but we have a feeling "happily ever afters" are going to make a major comeback. Plan a post Covid-19 bachelorette party with a hike up Camelback Mountain, sparty's at Well & Being Spa and delicious tropical tiki concoctions, like Toro's popular Zombi.

Scottsdale mom Colleen has 23 local recommendations for family fun, including indoor skydiving at iFly Scottsdale (family friendly social distancing activity alert)! See what iFly is doing to keep visitors safe.

Culture, nature and wine tastings are all in store during a romantic weekend for two in sunny Scottsdale. Winter bonus? If planning your trip during November or December, bloggers Cat and Kev of For Two, Please recommend a handheld stroll through the Lagoon Lights during Christmas at the Princess!

Stay healthy on your next vacation with this packing guide for desert hiking and a roundup of Scottsdale's innovative vegan eats.

The Ultimate Arizona Bucket List

And for one of the ultimate Arizona Bucket Lists, make sure to pin ‘101 Things To Do in the Grand Canyon State' by bloggers Kelly and Aaron of No Man Before, who are always in search of paths less wandered. A majority of the list features outdoor excursions. How many of these places have you visited?

Pinterest makes planning your next Arizona getaway simple!

Top Benefits Of Spending More Time In The Sunshine

Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, MD, Chief Medical Officer Well & Being Spa

Good news, sunshine is in the forecast in Scottsdale, Arizona! Though the sun sometimes gets a bad rep for prematurely aging our skin and causing skin cancer, there are actually some big benefits to spending time (safely) in the sun.

Here’s a list of some of the key benefits that hopefully will inspire you to find the nearest sun patch and spend some time outside.While staying socially responsible of course.

Before you head out the door, remember when it comes to sun exposure, moderation is key, but don't forget to protect your skin with a good SPF when you're soaking up those rays!

Sun Gives Your Immune System A Boost

Skin reacts to the sun's ultraviolet-B radiation by creating vitamin D, which the immune system needs a good amount of to function properly. Brief, repeated exposures to the sun are best for making vitamin D. While social distancing may make it more challenging, try to find times earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to add outdoor time to your day. Find the nearest sun patch, walk around your neighborhood or spend some time in the yard on weekends. Fairmont Scottsdale is lucky to have 65 acres of wide-open spaces of lush lagoons, cactus and fragrance gardens and secluded outdoor relaxation spaces to make social distancing in the sun simpler than ever.

Sun Gives You Increased Happiness

That warm feeling you get when you're stepping out of the air conditioning and into the sun is your body thanking you. Research has found that sunshine increases serotonin which can help alter moods in the brain. Translation: get up and look for some light—as long as it comes from the sun, not the ceiling.

Sun Provides The Similar Effects Of A Workout

The sun has proven to make you healthier not just emotionally, but physically as well. The sun has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, releasing nitric oxide from the skin into the circulation, dilating blood vessels and gently lowering blood pressure. Bonus: Try to fit in a new workout in the sun! From sunrise tai chi to sunset yoga to a mid-day dip swimming laps at Sonoran Landing pool, Fairmont Scottsdale is developing new social distancing approved workouts coming soon!

Sun Helps You Sleep Better

Catching some rays during the day keeps your circadian rhythm on schedule. Sun increases serotonin, which is responsible for how we fall asleep and sleep throughout the night. Even a well-timed stroll in the sun during a lunch break will provide that serotonin boost that can make the night less restless and the next day more refreshing. And don't forget, this is a wonderful family activity! Babies need their Vitamin D as well to get the most out of their nap and nighttime sleep schedules.

Sun Gives Your Skin A Glow- And Not From A Tan

Yes, really. We often think about how the sun can damage skin, but for those with certain skin conditions, the sun can actually be a kind of medicine. A little bit of sun does wonders for improving certain skin conditions, like acne and eczema. But even for those who don't have specific skin issues, taking in a few UV rays (in moderation) can give you a healthy glow.

Sun Reduces Certain Health Risks

People with higher exposure to the sun's rays tend to recover from serious health problems, even certain types of cancer, at higher rates than those with a low exposure. The sun also plays a role in bone health and helps reduce the chances of bone-related diseases.

Sunny Escapes In Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona has been ranked the #1 best city in the U.S. to quarantine by career resource site Zippia. Based on average apartment size, amount of parkland per person, percent of residents with broadband internet and number of takeout options. Add in the 333 days of sunshine every year, 750 newly renovated guest rooms, six sparkling pools, championship golf courses and multiple award-winning restaurants, and the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is an ideal vacation destination. Fairmont Scottsdale is also committed to the wellbeing of our guests during these times. In response to COVID-19, our AAA Five Diamond resort has created the ALLSAFE program.

About Dr. Tieraona Low Dog

Well & Being's team of world-class spa and wellness experts are led by Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, whose extensive career in the study of natural medicine, and its role in modern health care, began more than 35 years ago. Dr. Low Dog studied midwifery and massage therapy, as well as herbalism. She served as President of the American Herbalist Guild and ran a teaching clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico before going on to receive her doctorate degree from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Tieraona opened and ran a successful integrative medical clinic in Albuquerque before joining the faculty of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona where she served as the Director of Fellowship from 2005-2015. Tieraona has recently authored three National Geographic books, Healthy at Home and Life is Your Best Medicine and co-authored the Guide to Medicinal Herbs. She serves on numerous editorial/advisory boards, and has appeared on E!, ABC's 20/20, CNN, and is a frequent guest on the Dr. Oz show and NPR's The People's Pharmacy.

Help Support The Princess Employee Meal Relief Fund

Director of Rooms 

Who We Are

Over the past 32 years, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort has had the pleasure of serving our community and making memories to last a lifetime for our guests. Yes, we provide guest rooms, food, beverage, spa and retail therapy…but our real business is making memories for our guests and community.

Current Situation

As you are probably aware, the hospitality industry has been recently devastated by the loss of travelers during this pandemic. In response to official and necessary statewide health ordinances, millions of dollars have been lost from cancelled events and reservations, as well as closures of our restaurants and spa, triggering an unprecedented impact on our dedicated employees. We are continuing to offer a service to the community to host guest rooms, but the occupancy levels are extremely low and the reduction in staff hours have been devastating. The staff, and their families are in critical need.

Who Needs Your Help

Our team of 1,200+ colleagues have been engaged community members, passionately giving to others in need year-round. Last year alone, our colleagues helped us raise more than $387,000 for the community through sponsored events for charities while distributing blessing bags for the homeless, volunteering hundreds of hours in local charities, marching in the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk and partnering with the #LoveUp Foundation to bring joy to 500 children we hosted for a magical night at Christmas at the Princess. They are a group of hardworking and compassionate individuals who have always had a servant's heart, taking care of others day after day.

What We Are Doing for Our Employees

The resort is now operating at a loss in order to continue to keep guest rooms available for essential travel into the area. We have made every effort to keep as many colleagues on schedule as possible and the hotel will pay 100% of our employees' medical benefits for the next 60 days while they are on reduced hours or furlough, but it's simply not enough to provide for their families.

How You Can Help

We consider our colleagues our family, and we want to make sure their families don't go hungry. Our goal is to provide as many hot meals for their families as we can, per week during the next two months. For every $20 donated, we can feed a family of four.

We ask that you consider helping us in our pursuit to bridge the gap for our hardest hit colleagues as they face the immediate devastating personal impact of this pandemic on their own lives. 100% of donations will go directly to the Fairmont Scottsdale employee meal relief fund, assisting employees in danger of losing housing and other essential resources by helping keep their family fed. Our managers and culinary leaders are donating their time to help prepare and distribute. Many colleagues on furlough are so passionate about helping our employees they are volunteering their time to come in and help.

You Make the Difference

Because of the wonderful support we have received thus far, we have been able to distribute enough food to feed more than 8,000 of our colleagues and their families. One colleague commented, "This is making me feel so blessed, as I was unsure how long the canned goods would last in my pantry." It is because of you, our hearts and their family's plates were full.

We promise you, our employees will come back strong and make beautiful new memories for you in the future if you can help us through this time.

Your continued generosity means the world to our team.

Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are a community. Together, we are a family.

Top 5 Reasons To Experience Fairmont Gold

Nicole Thomure, Director of Rooms

Ensuring your stay at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is nothing short of unforgettable is the goal and we have 5 reasons why, when you travel it needs to be to our hotel-within-a-hotel, Fairmont Gold.

Imagine a luxurious Sonoran Desert escape filled with stunning views, impeccable service and details aimed to please every one of your travel desires. Welcome to Fairmont Gold—a hotel-within-a-hotel, where the your experience begins the moment you arrive at our front door. Ensuring your stay is nothing short of unforgettable is the goal and we have 5 reasons why, when you travel, it needs to be to Fairmont Gold.

1. Boutique-Like Ambiance

An enclave on the southeast corner of the resort, Fairmont Gold in Scottsdale offers guests a complete boutique experience. Fairmont Gold is a place where we know you by name and your travel arrangements are quickly and expertly anticipated for. Upon arrival at a private check-in, you are immediately greeted with a "taste of Arizona" welcome drink in-hand. Your very own private concierge will ensure that your every need is met, from arranging shuttle transport to nearby shopping areas to helping you discover the destination's best local hikes, attractions, concerts and more.

2. Renovated Suites At The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Paralleling the upscale residential upgrades of recent Sunset Beach and Casitas renovations, Fairmont Gold's enhancements feature a modern bohemian chic vibe with gracefully tailored décor, a light, refreshing color palette, functional layouts and refined authentically local Southwestern touches.

3. Exclusive Private Gold Lounge

Fairmont Gold offers guests an exclusive lounge, comforting for business and leisure travelers alike. Rest and relaxation take center stage, with scenic resort views and a friendly and dedicated staff, this is the ultimate place to get away from the hustle and bustle.

4. Continental Breakfast, Afternoon Canapes & Drinks

Begin each morning with an effortless deluxe complimentary continental breakfast, featuring from-scratch warm dishes including crème brulee oatmeal, eggs benedict and more. Throughout the day, enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and snacks with surprises from our Executive Chef Conor Favre each afternoon. Unwind each evening with special privileges such as an honor bar and complimentary signature hors d'oeuvres. Each Friday evening, experience a flavorful introduction to the resort's variety of fine dining establishments from our culinary geniuses.

5. State-Of-The-Art Technology

Discover the Princess through Fairmont Gold technology. Each Gold Junior and Master Suite is equipped with Alexa technology, connecting you with our magnificent area. Need something? Simply 'Ask the Princess' anything—from scheduled turndown service to what time is checkout and even where you can get a drink in Scottsdale.

EXPLORE FAIRMONT GOLD

12 Wellness Tips For Happier And Healthier Meeting Attendees

Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, MD, Chief Medical Officer Well & Being Spa

When you're a hard-working business traveler, the team at the Princess knows that wellness can easily get lost in the shuffle, making it difficult to maintain and preserve your levels of resiliency for early morning meetings. Our team's goal is to keep your meeting attendees at their best, whether they are facing time zone changes, canceled flights, or extended work days in a city across the globe from home. As an advocate for healthcare who is both compassionate and effective, while still remaining environmentally conscious, I invite you to sit back and relax knowing your attendees' well-being is a priority during your meeting at the Princess.

Knowledge is power, and preventive care is essential to well-being. Listed below I hope to share my knowledge with you with 12 of my best practices to keep attendees productive, relaxed and fueled up.

5 PEACE-FILLED PRODUCTIVITY PRACTICES

1. Limit Technology Use In The Mornings

Many of us use our phones for alarms and immediately start checking email, social media, and text messages as soon as we wake up. Not only is this habit very distracting, it can also take away from our ability to start the day with positive energy. Resist the urge to start scrolling the minute your alarm goes off.

2. Write Down Your Intentions

Spend 10 minutes each morning jotting down what you're hoping to accomplish that day. Research shows that setting intentions makes us more likely to achieve our goals.

3. Take Frequent 5-10 Minute Breaks

This one is especially important if you spend your days working on a computer. Give your body a break from sitting and your eyes a rest from staring at the screen by taking 5-10 minutes every hour to get up and move around.

4. Use A Time-Tracker

Feel like the day is constantly getting away from you? Consider downloading one of the many apps out there designed to help you track and optimize your time so you can have a productive, stress-free day.

5. End The Day By Giving Your Worries Away To Paper

If your mind starts racing through tomorrow's to-dos and anxieties the second your head hits the pillow, you may have a hard time getting the rest you need. Keep a journal near your bed where you can write down everything you're worried about, then let it go. You could also use this time to write a to-do list for the next day.

When we are at peace with our surroundings and our mind becomes clear, our productivity levels begin to flourish. By building these five practices into your daily routine, you can make a huge positive impact to your mental wellbeing.

4 RELAXING REMEDIES FOR RESILIENCE

1. Make Time For Massage

Time spent traveling and sitting in meetings all day can take its toll on the body and mind. A good massage can help work out some of the physical kinks while relieving stress and anxiety.

2. Stretch And Connect With Yoga

If you're feeling overwhelmed, try to make time for a yoga class, or do some simple stretches in your hotel room. Yoga connects the mind, body, and soul to boost resiliency.

3. Unwind Your Day With A Moment Of Self-Care

After a long and hectic day, give yourself five minutes to enjoy a cup of tea or decaf coffee as an escape from the chaos.

4. Supplement With Melatonin For Sleep

A good night's sleep is crucial for resiliency, but getting adequate rest can be difficult when you're sleeping in different beds every night and traveling across time zones. Consider using a melatonin supplement to get your body back into its natural rhythm.

So you had a long day filled with endless stressors. Your flight was delayed and you ran in to traffic from the airport to the resort. All these little matters can really add up eventually taking a toll on your inner self and outer performance. Implement these four remedies to help your body and mind bounce back so you can feel ready to take on the next morning and get some well-deserved relaxation.

3 MIND-BOOSTING MEAL TIPS FOR BUSINESS WARRIORS

1. Eat Plenty Of Protein

Protein is the fuel that powers you through your busy days. Eat some type of protein at every meal.

2. Drink Focus-Enhancing Beverages

The caffeine found in coffee and tea is considered a nootropic, meaning it can improve focus and help you stay alert. Try alternative drinks that contain caffeine as well as attention-boosting botanicals.

3. Feed Your Head

To keep your brain firing on all cylinders, make sure you're getting enough omega-3s. Found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds, these fatty acids have been shown to have neurological benefits.

The stomach is the window to your mind's function. By fueling your body with what it needs, you prepare yourself to be your best in any situation you set out to master.

HEALTHFUL MEETINGS IN SCOTTSDALE

While you're on property, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess takes care of your attendee's well-being so you don't have to. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess features Well & Being Spa, an award winning tranquil escape, located conveniently in the resort's beautiful Hacienda Plaza. Inspired by a Grand Canyon oasis, this 44,000 sq. ft. sanctuary offers a comprehensive program of services, treatments, activities and retreats designed to enrich your life all while supporting your own unique journey. Outfitted with world-class spa and salon experts, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is the premier place to host and educate your traveling meeting attendees on tips and tricks to stay healthy while on the road.

ABOUT DR. TIERAONA LOW DOG

Well & Being's team of world-class spa and wellness experts are led by Dr. Tieraona Low Dog, whose extensive career in the study of natural medicine, and its role in modern health care, began more than 35 years ago. Dr. Low Dog studied midwifery and massage therapy, as well as herbalism. She served as President of the American Herbalist Guild and ran a teaching clinic in Albuquerque, New Mexico before going on to receive her doctorate degree from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. Tieraona opened and ran a successful integrative medical clinic in Albuquerque before joining the faculty of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona where she served as the Director of Fellowship from 2005-2015. Tieraona has recently authored three National Geographic books, Healthy at Home and Life is Your Best Medicine and co-authored the Guide to Medicinal Herbs. She serves on numerous editorial/advisory boards, and has appeared on E!, ABC's 20/20, CNN, and is a frequent guest on the Dr. Oz show and NPR's The People's Pharmacy.

Whether you want to relax before your next work trip or you want a getaway to relax and rejuvenate, consider making The Princess your next vacation getaway.

Sommelier Stories: How Bourbon Steak Cultivated Arizona’s Largest Sommelier Staff

By Chad Howard, Assistant Director of Food & Beverage

An expertly paired wine can change dining to a memorable experience. Bourbon Steak, at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, has been recognized as the Scottsdale restaurant with the best wine list by Wine Spectator.

Recognition as Arizona's best wine list was achieved with a cellar of more than 600 wines and a battalion of well-trained sommeliers expertly recommending the perfect pour with any pairing.

Curating the perfect pairing can be a more complex undertaking than many realize. It takes expertise, earned with time tasting and training your palate to recommend the perfect pairing with your meal. The best sommeliers tailor their knowledge of wines into suggestions that cater to your specific tastes and preferred flavor profiles, then work to find that perfect match for your evening's menu selections.

Sommeliers At Bourbon Steak Scottsdale

Bourbon Steak has invested in the development of 13 sommeliers among our servicers and restaurant managers, who have achieved varying levels of certification. Most of us don't want to overthink a wine selection as if it's a test, but do want a bottle that will make their evening special. Our team genuinely loves to share their passion for great food and wine, and use the deep education they received with our guests. They take great pride in helping their guests select a great bottle of wine that meets their preferences and budget.

To be the best steakhouse in a competitive market like ours, our wine list and food must be top notch; but the real key to lasting success is having a passionate, knowledgeable staff to lead our guests through the ultimate dining experience. Andrew McLaughlin, General Manager of Bourbon Steak and a sommelier himself, leads his team in daily tastings of wine and tastes new menu options created by Executive Chef Sara Garrant. This daily investment in the education of the Bourbon Steak team gives them first-hand knowledge to enhance the guest experience, visit after visit. Andrew and his team collaborate daily on how to enhance the experience of their guests. He is a passionate restaurant leader, truly focused on the customer experience by investing in his team on an on-going basis.

To keep up with the expanding expertise of our culinary geniuses, our wine list is constantly evolving to match the season, menu, new trends and to make sure we stay top of class. The Mina Group, managing partners of Bourbon Steak, are intensely committed to quality ingredients. You can count on Bourbon Steak having the highest quality steaks in town – including real A5 wagyu beef imported from Japan. The rich, high-quality of cuts of meat offered at Bourbon Steak require a high-quality and imaginative wine program that celebrates the food it's paired with, yet can still be appreciated on its own. With such a diverse menu that runs the gamut from fish to fowl to beef, from land and sea, our sommeliers have deep knowledge of our extensive wine list and will recommend a bottle that will pair perfectly.

Service Promise

McLaughlin says "To maintain the confidence of our loyal customers, we continuously invest in training our staff to make sure they always receive expert, personalized recommendations for dinner to appeal to their individual palate. We've built trust as a voice of authority in recommending wines for their dinner and don't want to lose their confidence. It is part of our service goals to make a night out a special occasion that you'll want to repeat again and again." The next time you are enjoying a night out in Bourbon Steak, we encourage you to take a moment and talk with our wine experts for their recommendations. You won't regret it.

RESERVE YOUR TABLE

An Insider’s Hiking And Photography Guide From A Scottsdale Native

I can promise, you won’t want to spend your upcoming trip to Scottsdale entirely indoors.

I consider myself extremely lucky to live in the heart of the majestic Sonoran Desert. As an Arizona native, over the years I have been on my fair share of hiking trails. No matter where your skill level may currently be, there's an endless list of beautiful paths perfect for hikers and desert photographers alike. It's nearly impossible to find a trail on any of the below Preserves mentioned that you won't end up falling in love with.

One of the best things about living in Arizona are the sunsets, and there is no better place to witness such a marvelous end to the day than sitting on a mountain top. The colorful painted sky, view of the surrounding city and the peaceful quiet of nature are the perfect mix to end any day.

I began working at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in 2015, and one of the many assets that drew me to this property were the stunning views of all of my favorite mountain tops. Over the past 10 years, I've spent a good majority of my free time hiking and running various trails in the Scottsdale and Phoenix area. Whether participating in cross country, Ragnar Trail relays or just getting out in nature with my loved ones, these mountains have become my playground.

I invite you to walk in some of my favorite footsteps for an outdoor adventure, and hope to help you in capturing a moment you'll want to revisit for years to come!

Best Hiking Near The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

MCDOWELL SONORAN PRESERVE
With more than 30,500 acres and over 200 miles of sightseeing trails, the Preserve stays open sunrise to sunset with onsite parking free of charge.
Bringing your furry friend along with you to explore? Not to worry, all of the McDowell Mountain trails are open for your four legged companion to join in on the fun. Just be sure to pack enough water for both of you.

Kovach Family Nature Trail
The majority of this short and laidback trail floor is stabilized granite complete with a few concrete sections, providing the perfect walk for families of all ages and abilities looking to explore the outdoors. Along your journey, you'll find fun informative signs featuring unique plants and animals who call the Sonoran Desert home.
Difficulty: Easy Distance: 0.6 miles Elevation Change: 0 feet

Gateway Loop Trail
This can be a great family trail for kids with hiking experience, keeping in mind this trail is lengthy. Blanketed with gorgeous wildflowers during spring, you're likely to spot wildlife yearlong on this trail. Keep your eyes open for viewpoints throughout the hike, as most of the breathtaking views of Scottsdale can be found during the ascent. The saddle viewpoint at the top provides for a nice flat resting point before making the journey back down.
Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 4.5 miles Elevation Change: 715 feet

Tom's Thumb Lookout Viewpoint
A challenging out and back hike, this trail will be steep with loose gravel throughout. Filled with narrow and rocky pathways, the lookout at the top makes the difficult trek up worth it. The top of Tom's Thumb is hands down the best viewpoint in the McDowell Mountains. Be sure to bring plenty of water, and don't forget to take notice of the gorgeous granite landscape on your climb.
Difficulty: Difficult Distance: 5.1 miles Elevation Change: 1,374 feet

PIESTEWA PEAK
A favorite Preserve for a handful of Arizona hikers, this trek is known to have a lot of foot traffic. Being mindful of your fellow hikers, you won't want to miss the sights from the top.

Summit Trail
A quick but strenuous out and back trail. This path is steep with a jagged rock landscape. You'll wind through multiple switchbacks and some modified steps to help you reach a rewarding 360 degree view of the Phoenix metropolitan area. If you have flashlights or headlamps to bring with you, you can catch one of the most beautiful views of our infamous Arizona sunsets from the top before descending back down.
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult Distance: 1.2 miles Elevation Change: 1,151 feet

CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN
Find some unbeatable views from the top of this mountain, but keep in mind your limits! The trails on this mountain have a much higher level of difficulty than the others listed above. Whether taking Cholla or Echo Canyon trail, I would advise even advanced hikers to proceed with caution. Open sunrise to sunset, note that dogs are not allowed on these trails.

Cholla Trail
Looking for those famous Arizonan awe-inspiring views? The saying is true, nothing worth it is ever easy and you'll have to be willing to put in some work to get there. I recommend steering clear of this trail if you're afraid of heights. Your shoe traction will be your best friend on this trail, as there will be areas with loose gravel. Plan between 2 and 3 hours for completion, but be sure to allot extra time for pictures of the phenomenal views you'll catch along the way.
Difficulty: Difficult Distance: 2.6 miles Elevation Change: 1,161 feet

Echo Canyon Trail
Intense and difficult, a dirt path leads you up to a steep 1.25 mile climb to get to the summit. Prepare for an adventure climbing over large boulders, this out and back trip will take between 2 and 3 hours. As this has become a very popular Arizona hike, I recommend trying this one during the weekdays.
Difficulty: Difficult Distance: 2.4 miles Elevation Change: 1,423 feet

Desert Photography Tips
A broad stretch of land and sky complete with spectacular mountain views, the Sonoran Desert is filled with rich imagery. When capturing this majestic scenery, don't be afraid to think outside the box while still using the common rule of thirds in your photography. Make a Cholla Cactus your focal point, and show the mountains off in the distance to provide an alluring sense of depth. Tell a story with your images, capturing your footprints in the shot. Let the natural layers of the landscape flow all the way through your photo from start to finish. Keep your eye out for textures, and use the lighting of the sun to your advantage. There are plenty of vibrant colors to play with during any time of day. As always, don't forget to look after your camera and be wary of dust to avoid a scratched lens. Secret tip, don't forget to capture our famous Saguaro in silhouette form with a soft sky glow just after a sunset.
Stay safe out there! Three things to always remember-be on the lookout for wildlife, watch the weather and always be sure to pack extra water.

There are so many ways to enjoy the Arizona Desert. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess can help you get the most out of your getaway.

EXPERIENCE ARIZONA

Old Hands, New Ways: A Taste Of La Hacienda’s Bold New Renovation

Angel Fuchs, Local Foodie Blogger

Last summer, the resort's much beloved Mexican restaurant, La Hacienda, temporarily closed its doors to undergo a major revitalization.

Keen attention has been paid to every detail, from the flatware to the staff uniforms to the food and beverage menus, even the main entry was moved to better welcome guests into the warmth and delights inside. Every aspect of the restaurant was awakened with a bit of change and the magic, synonymous with the Fairmont brand. The end result is nothing short of spectacular.

The modern touches in the new décor hold true to the restaurant's heritage and culture. Even the famed coffee carts are new but serve up the same delicious Mexican Flaming Coffees with flourish, flare and fire! All that was familiar and makes La Ha so special — the great food and drinks, impeccable service, superb ambiance, are still evident, but now they are amplified.

Menu Changes At La Hacienda

The most popular menu items remained, but the new menu items are truly something of a marvel. Chef Forest Hamrick and Chef Richard Sandoval have truly outdone themselves with the deliciously unique new items they created.

The Chicken Tinga Quesadilla is mind-blowing. This is a quesadilla like no other, not just a tortilla with melted cheese; it is heartier and almost like an empanada, made with blue corn and stuffed with cheese, chicken and chorizo. It is beautifully garnished with salsa verde and fresh vegetables. Absolutely delightful.

La Hacienda is famous for their guacamole. It's always fresh and smooth with the right amount of avocado chunks and spiced to perfection. The Sandia Guacamole is awesome. A dynamic combination of savory and sweet, creamy and juicy topped with queso fresco, candied pepitas and a drizzle of spiked agave nectar.

One of the biggest changes to the menu is the Barbacoa items; grilled meats like the Smoked Adobo Chicken with a smoky and sweet glaze, guacamole taquiero, crema and pico de gallo. The chicken is expertly cooked, the sauce a nice contrast to the spicy pico. It is a dish as delicious as it is beautiful.

The Short Rib Barbacoa is a show-stopper. Served falling off the bone with a tamarind mustard BBQ sauce, gremolata, and poblano yogurt. No knife is needed for this melt in your mouth dish, so full of explosive textures and flavors.

There aren't enough words to describe how amazing the Baller Pork Chop is. Chef Hamrick couldn't think of a better suited name for this dish and it is no wonder why. When the Baller Pork Chop arrives jaws will literally drop to the table, eyes will pop and there will be audible gasps – it is that impressive. It is huge and beautiful and awe-inspiring. It can pretty much be guaranteed that moans of delight and pleasure will be heard as the mammoth pork chop is devoured. It's so juicy, so tender, and the mole trio offers a new taste with every bite. Epic.

Largest Tequila Selection In Scottsdale

The restaurant did retain its impressive collection and still features over 150 tequilas with a significant expansion of the Mezcal cellar, all curated by the beloved and beautiful Tequila Goddess, Eden Williams.

Speaking of tequila, Beverage Director, Matthew Doerr also introduced 21 specialty cocktails divided into five categories – Smoked, Margaritas, Agave Clásicos, Shandys and Non-Agave. The drinks were simplified and named to highlight the specific flavor profile. These specialty cocktails are made with only four ingredients so the flavors are clean and focused.

Top Drinks at La Hacienda: Mixologist Shares His Favorites

From day one, La Hacienda has always been great with all the changes and new details that greatness has been catapulted to all new heights. It is magical, of course; but what else can be expected from the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Plan your next night out at La Hacienda.

EXPLORE LA HACIENDA

The Do’s And Don’ts Of Meaningful And Memorable Meetings

Pam Gilbert, Director of Sales and Marketing

It is an exciting but challenging time for meeting planners as the profile of our attendee’s changes. Now Gen Xers and Millennials are the predominant attendees at our meetings. The good news is these attendees do 'want to meet’.

They are looking for mentors and peer connections to help grow their careers and education that will help them live better lives. It's a tall order for planners to produce a conference that really connects and is meaningful for their attendees while continuously reinventing and keeping it fresh each year. I've hosted top corporate and association conferences here at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess for the past decade, and here is what I've learned: Today's meeting attendees want and appreciate disruption of the traditional conference.

Conference Attendees Want More:

• Authenticity
• Time in nature
• Sustainability
• Opportunities for social-based sharing
• Use of technology
• Lots of food…but really delicious, varied and fun (feed me something I can only get there!)
• Help navigating the meeting
• Unique experiences and places
• Adventure
• Opportunities to do good and make a difference

Scottsdale meeting attendees do want the time they spend here to be meaningful and memorable. Psychologists share it's the memory of the experience that makes it so meaningful and our memories are filled with pictures, smells and feelings. Fill your conference with incredible visual inspiration, scents that energize, relax or comfort and create experiences that help your attendees feel stronger, better and smarter...and you will be guaranteed happy attendees.

Insider Tips From Scottsdale Conference Planners:

It's my hope you'll find something of inspiration from my list of Do's and Don'ts created from tips I've learned hosting some of the world's best conference planners.

What To Do When Planning Your Conference

• Choose photo-worthy locations and venues
• Create opportunities to take and share photos
• Enable socialization through technology, social sharing, realtime surveys and chat options
• Gamify your exhibits and conference sessions
• Invest in a custom interactive conference mobile app
• Connect via technology with attendees from registration through post-conference message reinforcement
• Use video to set mood and emotionally connect with attendees
• Plan a ‘bite size' meeting—think Ted Talk and break it up with opportunities to interact…they will be able to absorb content in the method they most prefer
• Plant ‘disrupters' in your meeting with tough questions that inspire meaningful conversation (come on, you know what company or industry issues are on everyone's mind!)
• Place cool mist scent machines in meeting rooms, changing aromatherapy scents to influence mood accordingly
• Find ways to add natural scents to the experience (steak firing on a BBQ, dinner in a rose garden, breakfast on the patio with a desert breeze, etc.)
• Make it fun by thinking outside-of-the-box. Why can't a continental be a Breakfast Club cereal bar?
• Provide authentic destination experiences with food, customs, local storytellers and entertainment
• Layer technology throughout your event, including recreation
• Schedule offsite adventure time, preferably in nature. They want to leave having experienced the destination (they are experience collectors!)
• Incorporate natural light wherever possible
• Give them directions on how to maximize your conference. They want to ‘meet well', but need guidance
• Create an opportunity for attendees to work as a group to do something that is socially responsible—give them the gift of feeling they made a difference in someone's life
• Give them something new to talk about

What Not To Do When Planning Your Meeting

• Print and mail registration collateral
• Print paper programs
• Choose a cookie-cutter hotel (take the opportunity to find a unique or iconic host hotel/resort. You can find them in all budget!)
• Choose an uninspiring destination
• Host all meals and meetings in an indoor conference room
• Maintain the same conference agenda year after year
• Choose menus that guests could experience anywhere
• Schedule long speaker sessions without interactive breaks
• Use overhead projectors and clunky PowerPoint presentations in a general session
• Make it all about the ‘company' or ‘organization' (instead, focus on the people who populate it.)

Tips For Checking Off Your Do List At The Princess:

• Let our in-house vendor ENCORE provide your customized meeting app and assist with your conference communication from start to finish (complimentary with exclusive use of ENCORE for qualifying groups).
• Utilize our resort video to help promote our destination and conference digitally.
• Take advantage of our 14 unique outdoor event venues, six pools, spa atrium and fitness rooms and top-ranked restaurants to host your meeting in non-traditional settings.
• Allow our unique in-house destination management department, Adventure & Experiences, to create events that are unforgettable. Nobody knows how to showcase your event in our resort and local venues better than our in-house Adventure & Experiences team!
• Consult our team of "Foodie Gurus" to create the most memorable menus, perfectly customized for every unique on-property venue.
• Incorporate interactive food experiences and stations into your events. Nothing anything allows attendees to be further engaged in their own personalized experience (branding their steaks, painting their dessert plates with sauces, etc.) while creating some amazing Instagram-worthy photography to go along with your conference's event hashtags!
• Add some of the many resort "taste makers" to enhance your reception experiences. Who doesn't want to have a personalized tequila tasting led by a Tequila Goddess during their Southwest conference experience? Or how about a rum-paired dinner, exposing your attendees to a new spirit to pair with food when they return home from the conference to show off to their family and friends! P.S.—The La Bomba exploding dessert course at Toro will keeping them talking for months to come.
• Buy-out a great restaurant for dinner to excite your attendees about their evening banquet experience! As the number one dining resort in Arizona, your guests will love dining were the locals hangout in Scottsdale, without ever having to leave the resort!
• Host a dine-around! Allow your guests to experience the numerous restaurants on property while finishing off the evening with your group back together for a dessert reception and continued networking!
• Kick-off your conference at registration with a welcome cocktail and small bites introducing a taste of the destination (one of our most popular is passing margaritas with demonstrations and tastings of salsa and guacamole and a Nuevo flamenco Guitarist upon arrival).
• Close your conference with a bang! Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is one of the few resorts in the area with the ability to present firework displays on-site. Let our team assist you with arrangements.
• Let Adventure & Experiences and ENCORE join together to create a high-tech interactive, visually stimulating and conference experience for your attendees.
• Let our event artists help design your next conference.

The most important trend impacting today's meetings is the need to be original, not redundant. It's big challenge for meeting planners to fulfill the need to top last year's conference! That's why we have recruited an incredibly passionate and creative team, who are willing to put in the extra effort to make sure they achieve your goals in a new and unique manner year after year. That's what partners do, right? Plan your next meeting here in Scottsdale with our team of meetings experts.

MEETINGS AT THE PRINCESS

Resort Updates

As a Fairmont property, the Princess continues to transcend expectations in its commitment to excellence with the next phase of resort enhancements fit for the modern luxury traveler.

Guest Rooms

"The best way to keep good acts in memory is to refresh them with new." - Cato the Elder
With the recent renovations of our Sunset Beach wing, Casitas and Fairmont Gold rooms, we are excited to share the next phase of our renovation on our remaining 458 standard guest rooms. Guest room renovations begin May, 2019 and will be completed September, 2019.

These newly renovated rooms will feature a contemporary, chic southwest design highlighted by soft, neutral desert colors providing an inviting retreat for all. Each new room will be equipped with today's most popular technology, including an Echo Dot featuring an "Ask the Princess" information menu for the assistance and convenience of our guests. The re-design will also include a full refurbishment of each bathroom. Polished stone will replace handmade Mexican tile and all bathtubs will be converted to large walk-in showers.

Stay Fresh / #AtThePrincess

Princess Pool

"You're only one swim away from a good mood." - Unknown
In addition to the summer room renovations, the Princess Pool-the first of our six feature pools-will also undergo a complete transformation. The Princess Pool refresh will include expanded deck space, new whirlpool spa experience and the introduction of a new waterside cafe, meant to elevate beyond the traditional poolside bar.

This expanded food & beverage service will provide an additional breakfast and lunch outlet, perfect for larger groups and our leisure guests. Princess Pool renovations begin June, 2019 and will be completed September, 2019.

Stay Iconic / #AtThePrincess

La Hacienda

"One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well." - Virginia Woolf
When you step into our newly renovated restaurant, you will be captivated by a warm yet contemporary space complete with modern lines and unexpected materials and textures such as blackened steel and crafted leather. Perhaps the most exciting additions are our brilliant new patio perfect for starlit dining and a sleek full-service bar as center stage.

Not to be outshined, the vibrant flavors and ingredients of Mexico are still in the spotlight. Classic favorites such as the Lobster Tacos have returned along with a fresh, new culinary lineup and a bold cocktail menu unlike any you've ever seen before.

Stay Bold / #AtThePrincess

Recent Resort Updates

"One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well." - Virginia Woolf

Contemporary Enhancements Continue At Scottsdale's Most Iconic Five Diamond Resort

The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess continues to transcend expectations in its commitment to excellence with the next phase of resort enhancements fit for the modern luxury traveler.

A Spectacularly Upgraded Fairmont Gold Experience

Fairmont Gold received a luxurious update, featuring a modern bohemian chic vibe with gracefully tailored décor, a light, refreshing color palette and refined authentically local Southwestern touches. Nestled on the southeast corner of the resort, Fairmont Gold offers guests an exclusive lounge serving breakfast daily and hors d'oeuvres nightly along with a private concierge offering a personal level of service and recognition that will help you make the most of every moment in Scottsdale. To learn more or to book a Fairmont Gold stay, click here.

Elevate Fairmont Gold Meeting Center

Fairmont Gold Meeting Center was re-designed to provide a unique, private venue for small premier meetings. Perfect for a small executive conference or social event, the space equips groups with exclusivity and modern new facilities while maintaining a strong sense of place in the desert. Floor-to-ceiling glass sliding Arcadia bi-fold doors (with privacy blinds) are a key feature of the re-design and open up the space to a patio overlooking the beauty of TPC Scottsdale's Stadium Course with the majestic McDowell Mountains serving as the backdrop.

Modern Ironwood Meeting Room

Centrally located in the heart of the resort, the Ironwood Meeting Room provides another private event venue. Renovated with a new polished desert vibe, this room also features a modern sliding glass wall opening the space to Arizona's beautiful climate with views of the resort's pools and lush lagoon. Ironwood Meeting Room is located adjacent to Ironwood American Kitchen restaurant, providing the opportunity to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the restaurant's private dining space next door.

EXPLORE OUR UPDATED ACCOMMODATIONS

A Luxury Resort For All Ages: Multi-Generational Vacations At Fairmont Scottsdale

In today’s fast-paced world, families are living farther apart geographically than any other time in history, and as a natural result, multi-generational vacations are quickly becoming the best way for extended family members to gather together and reconnect in one place.

Here's why the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is the perfect family vacation resort to meet, eat, entertain and create memories with your tribe.

Hospitality:

It all starts with a great ‘home base.' From our cozy Casitas with stone fireplace hearths and modern Sunset Beach rooms overlooking a 9,000 square foot white sand beach to premium luxury suites fit for the royal family, we have a variety of Five Diamond room configurations to fit any size family across a variety of budgets. With 750 rooms to choose from, you are sure to get a good night's sleep after a great day spending quality time together. Insider Tip: Be sure to reserve a connecting hospitality suite so the family can gather in one place away from public venues. Who's up for a good old fashioned family game night?

Dining In Scottsdale:

There is nothing worse than missing out on quality family time after a memorable meal because someone is stuck in the kitchen with the clean up! Not only will we do the dishes, but let us plan the perfect meal to satisfy even the pickiest little eaters in the bunch. Our four signature restaurants offer semi-private as well as private dining options for groups of all sizes and can easily accommodate any dietary restrictions a family member may have. We can even provide family dining experiences in the comfort of your guest suite. Insider Tip: Let us create a custom meal to rekindle those cherished family traditions like a picnic on the lawn, Sunday dinner around the dining room table, backyard barbecue on the patio or ice cream social and sundae bar.

Activities At The Princess:

More Americans are transitioning from ‘owning things' to ‘doing things' as they place greater value on experiences, rather than possessions. Good thing creating itineraries to ensure a fun family vacation for your multi-generational travelers with something for everyone is our specialty! From life-enriching experiences, shareworthy moments for social media, and highly-customized interactions, our full-service concierge team has you covered. Allow them to book bucket list adventures like hot air balloon rides, recommend local attractions such as museums and day trips, help you pick the perfect hike to see the Sonoran Desert or score a tee time on that championship golf course so you, too, can play like a pro. Perhaps you'll find the best time is right here in our backyard with on-site catch and release fishing in the lagoons, Trailblazers Kids Club and Family Recreation Center, sport court, playground and six different pools to splish-splash the day away. For the fitness buffs in the group, there are two fitness centers to choose from and an array of group exercise classes to suit all fitness levels including wall yoga, aerial hammock yoga, bungee fitness and wall pulley training. Maybe the spa is more your speed and your crew would prefer a day of relaxation under the waterfall or at the rooftop pool followed by a luxurious massage at Well & Being. Insider Tip: With so many activities to choose from, don't feel obligated to plan something for every minute of every day. Sometimes having free time to rest and just take in the surroundings allows you to fully enjoy and appreciate the time you are spending with your loved ones.

Cherish The Day:

Coordinating all those schedules and gathering the family from far and wide is no easy feat. Commemorate your multi-generational vacation with a family photo at the resort. A place to be both online and off, these highly instagrammable spots on property will have your social media feed thanking you. The Princess is also known for its natural beauty, with photo ops around every corner:

As you watch the magnificent sunset at The Plaza Bar

• At Well & Being's rooftop pool, with beautiful views of the majestic McDowell Mountains
• On the edges of Sunset Beach, where you can become a mermaid with artistic drawings in the sand
• In front of Toro's vibrant mosaic fireplace wall, with views overlooking TPC Scottsdale's iconic greens
• The blooming Sonoran Desert's most beautiful gems, displayed in our Cactus Garden

Insider Tip: Up your 'gram game #AtThePrincess with one of our hashtags:

#AtThePrincess
#FairmontMoments
#AbsolutelyScottsdale
#FeelWelcome

Now go ahead, kick back, relax, enjoy your perfectly planned vacation for the entire family, and turn moments into memories that will have them counting down to the next one at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

Book your next vacation at the Princess with our Leisure Sales Manager, Erin Stewart, by emailing her at Erin.Stewart@Fairmont.com or calling her at 480.585.2700.