Arizona - the Grand Canyon State

For many years I enjoyed holidays in the Grand Canyon State of Arizona and each time I visited, I couldn't wait to return to the place! It truly is an unbelievable landscape that lies between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon and has over 2,000 square miles of desert and thousands of acres of cactus.  However, you will also find magnificent mountains and a fertile river valley along with bustling towns which are set against the fantastic backdrop of the Sonoran Desert. No trip of course is complete to Arizona without making the journey to the Grand Canyon - it really will impress.  If you visit the Grand Canyon in the winter time, expect to see snow on the ground and definitely take a jacket with you as it does get cool in the Canyon in the evenings. One of the most amazing things to do when visiting the Grand Canyon is to book in advance a helicopter ride.  You then take in the breathtaking sights of the Colorado River, Eagle Rock and Guano Point.  Some of the helicopter experiences will land in the Canyon and you can enjoy a cowboy demonstration and western-style meal whilst cowboys entertain you with songs and stories.  You can also take a horseback or wagon ride to see buffalo herds which of course is the icon of the west of the USA.  When you are worn out and ready for sleep, you can sleep in a log cabin or Indian tipi for the ultimate once in a lifetime experience. One of my favourite places to visit in Arizona is the town of Scottsdale which has fantastic shopping and good places to eat.  You can also retrace the footsteps of the iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright whilst here!  One of my best memories of Scottsdale is having a chocolate sundae in the famous Sugar Bowl Ice Cream Parlour - that is not to be missed when here. I can't explain what it is about Arizona but it is a place with fabulous scenery, the air is so clear, very low humidity and the weather is always hot and sunny.  You can also fly direct from London to Phoenix is around 10 hours so is definitely worth a visit to this part of the South West of the USA.