Arizona

Arizona, also known as The Grand Canyon State, is predicted to be a hot spot for travelers this year.  The state has much to offer with the Grand Canyon in the north, the cities of Phoenix & Scottsdale in the center of the state, Tucson in the south, and beautiful mountains in the eastern half of the state.

In northern Arizona the city of Flagstaff sits at 7,000 feet and makes a great jumping off point to see the canyons & lakes and to participate in other outdoors activities in the area.  In the winter there is skiing at Snowbowl Ski Resort which sits on Arizona's tallest peak, Mount Humphreys.  In the summer, biking & hiking are popular at the resort along with nearby Buffalo Park and Mount Elden. 

Over 50,000 years ago in Winslow, to the east of Flagstaff, a meteor hit the earth at high speed and has left what is known as Meteor Crater.  The Red Rocks of Sedona, to the south of Flagstaff is also a popular site among tourists.

The city of Phoenix is the capital of Arizona and nearby is Scottsdale with its high end resorts, world class spas and nearly 200 golf courses. In nearby Tempe is Arizona State University where you will find lots of nightlife on Mill Avenue. If you're in to American Football, The Fiesta Bowl is held yearly in Tempe.

Tonto National Forest has lots to offer the outdoor enthusiast as the fifth largest in the United States. Tonto National Forest is to the Northeast of Phoenix and is easily accessible. The landscape varies from 1,300ft to 8,300ft and is stunning with cactuses to pine forests depending upon location and elevation. With its lakes and rivers, everything from watersports, boating, and fishing is available. 

To the south of Arizona is Mexico.  There are several border towns, the largest being Nogales.  A full border crossing exists there, but if you are interested in exploring Nogales, Mexico, for a short period of time it is possible to park your car in Arizona and walk across the border.  If you do choose to enter Mexico, be sure to have your passport (and visa, if required) to re-enter the United States.

As one of the hot spots of 2006, Arizona has something to offer for everyone.