Phoenix is looking way better from last, the only downturn I noticed is when I looked at an almanac it said its population grew by more than a million! But they added a light rail kind of like trolleys in San Francisco, and I'm liking what's happening.
Phoenix is great for those who like sunshine. People are friendly, and the food is great.
Be sure to check out Tucson's nude beach -- TanqueVerde Falls East, of town in the Coronado National Forest (also sometimes known as Redington Pass).
It's too bad the hostel closed here because it was one of the friendliest I ever stayed in, and the grounds were really beautiful and the locations was convenient. Would someone open up another hostel please? Nobody even knew the last one was there. Even though there's no more hostels, I still keep coming back anyway -- for the land, and I always have that one "profound" meeting. Sedona is a rare, rustic, rose and earthy find -- a most sacred place that will aid in healing your soul. I noticed two definite sort of "types" in Sedona. There seem to be people who groove with the energy here and are cool, smiling, and radiant. Then there's these people who are just here to sneer at people, maybe make a buck, and they don't think there is anything sacred here. Sometimes, you can just feel a sinister vibe from some of them. All that I am saying is that you will find the extremes here. You can spend a lot of money, or just camp in the beautiful red rock if you're low on cash. Find your…
Sedona is a really awesome place. The best cliff/trail to visit to really have a great view is the following:
* Bell Rock trail..actually located in Oak Creek Village (just south of Sedona). 2-3 miles into the hike, you will have an awesome view of the cliffs looking north towards Sedona. You will feel moved to either pray/meditate or both.
* CoffeePot Trail (accessed via CoffeePot Ln) has an awesome view of the cliffs, too as well. Definitely the 2 best trails to access if you are short on time, and also not an expedition level hiker. Anyone of reasonable fitness level can do the two above hikes...definitely makes the trip to Sedona worth it.
Also, finish your hiking day with a great meal at the Red Planet Diner, located on w89A...just go left at the "y" (heading north).
Phoenix is a craphole. There are homeless people everywhere you turn and the bus system is bad!
Sabino canyon, although a 3 mile walk from the end of the bus line, is the closest (and possibly most awesome) place to hike in Tucson.
I lived there for six months and have really good memories of Flagstaff.
Phoenix area is a place where there is lots to see and to do. The bus system is not so great but it brings you everywhere you need to go -- you only have to have time because they take forever.
I lived eight years in Sedona, and continue to visit at least once a year. Yes, all the wonderful things you hear are true. Yes, the awful stories are also true. It's a land of extremes. Take your sense of humor with you, along with your sense of awe, and you'll be fine. Catch the sunset at the view point up Airport Road. Take the short drive to Soldiers' Pass for a sweet hike, and take your camera. If you can afford it, take the helicopter ride -- it's phenomenal.
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