{"id":3731,"date":"2016-05-17T15:26:35","date_gmt":"2016-05-17T15:26:35","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/?p=3731"},"modified":"2016-08-10T17:45:16","modified_gmt":"2016-08-10T17:45:16","slug":"next-stop-arizona","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/spring-2016\/next-stop-arizona\/","title":{"rendered":"Next Stop: Arizona"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><p class=\"author-credit\">By Keeley Gould<\/p><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dropcap\">A<\/span>rizona may be known as the Grand Canyon State to the other 49 states, but the 6.7 million people who live in Arizona will tell you that their home state has so much more to offer. Arizona is on the rise for one of the most popular states to retire and why wouldn\u2019t it be when it has so much to offer?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.visitarizona.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Arizona<\/a> aims to please everyone whether it\u2019s with their varying climate, their indoor and outdoor activities or their small and large cities. Arizona has something for everyone who chooses to retire there, and the bonus is their breathtaking natural scenery and world class arts. When considering retirement, move Arizona to the top of the list, because it\u2019s guaranteed to check off every item on your wish list.<\/p>\n<h4>A Special Quality of Life<\/h4>\n<p>From the climate, variety of activities, healthcare, tax system and quality communities, Arizona offers one of the best places to relocate for quality of life. Here\u2019s why \u2026<\/p>\n<h4>The Diverse Climate<\/h4>\n<p>Arizona has a reputation of having a dry and hot climate, but those who live in the Grand Canyon State will tell you that the climate is actually quite varied.<\/p>\n<p>Central Arizona will offer you mild weather even in January while northern Arizona will offer you perfect weather for swooshing down the ski slopes. But if the hot climate is for you, southern Arizona is calling your name, because sunbathing and swimming is all you\u2019ll be doing under the Tucson sun.<\/p>\n<p>Arizona offers the perfect weather for every individual\u2019s personal preference. Maybe that\u2019s why more than 45,000 people moved away from the bitter cold last year and to the perfect climate.<\/p>\n<h4>Abundance of Activities<\/h4>\n<p>Arizona\u2019s diverse climate makes it the ideal place for outdoor recreational activities, ranging from golf to their dozens of national parks.<\/p>\n<p>Golf enthusiasts will never run out of premiere courses to choose from thanks to Arizona\u2019s 300 course options. Whether you\u2019re someone who golfs for fun, or if you\u2019re on your way to being the next Tiger Woods, there\u2019s a golf course in Arizona for you.\n[awesome-gallery id=3919]<p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Tubac Golf Resort and Spa<\/p><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.tubacgolfresort.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Tubac Golf Resort and Spa<\/a> may be exactly what your inner golf pro is looking for. Whether you have no experience at all or you have been golfing all your life, Tubac Golf Resort and Spa\u2019s 27 holes will keep you coming back for more.<\/p>\n<p>Your golfing experience will be nothing short of magnificent thanks to the views. It has, \u201cbeautiful grounds located on 500 acres at the base of the Santa Rita Mountains. It is truly an oasis in the desert,\u201d says Patti Todd.<\/p>\n<p>Tubac Golf Resort and Spa has also made it on the big screen. It was made famous in 1996 in Kevin Costner\u2019s movie Tin Cup where many of the scenes were filmed.<\/p>\n<p>After you\u2019re done on the back nine, you can begin exploring the dozens of parks Arizona has to offer.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_4242\" style=\"width: 760px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4242\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4242\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Jasper-Van-Der-Meij_Unsplash-Monument-Valley-photo-web.jpg\" alt=\"Photo: Jasper Van Der Meij. Unsplash.\" width=\"750\" height=\"497\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Jasper-Van-Der-Meij_Unsplash-Monument-Valley-photo-web.jpg 750w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Jasper-Van-Der-Meij_Unsplash-Monument-Valley-photo-web-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Jasper-Van-Der-Meij_Unsplash-Monument-Valley-photo-web-700x464.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-4242\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo: Jasper Van Der Meij. Unsplash.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.navajonationparks.org\/htm\/monumentvalley.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park<\/a> is one of the most photographed landmarks in the United States and there\u2019s no mistaking why once you see it. Monument Valley is so large that it spans to the Utah border with its crimson sandstone towers.<\/p>\n<p>Monument Valley will take your breath away and make you feel like you are only inches tall. Some of the red towers are 1,000 feet tall, but that\u2019s not the only spectacular feature.<\/p>\n<p>When the sun illuminates the towers, you will be entranced by the dramatizing shadows that are casted on the valley floor.<\/p>\n<p>The Valley used to be just a flat basin but millions of years later, it has turned into an awe inspiring landmark that is one of Arizona\u2019s many must sees.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/pefo\/learn\/historyculture\/pdi.htm\" target=\"_blank\">The Painted Desert<\/a> is a natural piece of artwork, which looks like it should be in a museum. Located in northern Arizona, the Painted Desert spans over 93,500 acres with its multitude of colors covering every single inch.<\/p>\n<p>The Painted Desert gets its name from the rainbow of colors that span across the desert. Hues of lavenders, rich grays, deep reds, oranges and some pinks cover the landscape and are guaranteed to take your breath away.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_4243\" style=\"width: 760px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4243\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4243\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Photo_Grand-Canyon-National-Park_by-Michael-Quinn.-web.jpg\" alt=\"Mather Point, Grand Canyon. Photo: National Park Service, Michael Quinn\" width=\"750\" height=\"461\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Photo_Grand-Canyon-National-Park_by-Michael-Quinn.-web.jpg 750w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Photo_Grand-Canyon-National-Park_by-Michael-Quinn.-web-300x184.jpg 300w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Photo_Grand-Canyon-National-Park_by-Michael-Quinn.-web-700x430.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-4243\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Mather Point, Grand Canyon. Photo: National Park Service, Michael Quinn<\/p><\/div>\n<p>You can\u2019t go to Arizona without seeing what the state got its nickname for: the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/grca\/index.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Grand Canyon<\/a>. It is Arizona\u2019s most notable landmark and something that you just have to see to believe its glory.<\/p>\n<p>Its 277 miles from end-to-end, and its steep walls descend for a mile to the floor where the Colorado River flows rapidly.<\/p>\n<p>Once you get to the natural wonder, where to start exploring? You can take a guided tour on foot, on a bike, by car or even by mule. The options are endless when it comes to exploring this distinguished landmark.<\/p>\n<p>If you want to see as much as the canyon as possible, air tours are available by helicopter or plane.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re a fan of hiking, doing so in the Grand Canyon will be like winning the lottery. There are miles of caves to explore, over 1,500 types of plants to discern and 300 species of birds to identify.<\/p>\n<p>If hiking is something new for you then <a href=\"http:\/\/www.visitarizona.com\/things-to-do\/grand-canyon\/hiking\" target=\"_blank\">Hualapai Trail <\/a>is just for you. This eight mile trek is off the beaten path but totally worth it for the views. The stunning turquoise waterfalls called Havasu will be in your sights if you take this path. The trip can be done in a day, but you can spend the night in Supai where camping or lodging are available.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re up for a challenge, then North Kaibab Trail is your ticket. Fourteen and a half miles of daring trail will take you from the rim to the river and back again. The trail begins at Roaring Springs Canyon, then it will take you through the Supai Tunnel and onto the Sandstone layer. You will then hike over Redwall Bridge past Roaring Springs and River Falls into the Inner Gorge before ending at Phantom Ranch. You better be up for the challenge!<\/p>\n<p>To cool off after all that hiking, why just go sit by the pool when you can river raft down a flowing river? The wind will be running through your hair, cool water will be splashing on your face and you will be experiencing the adventure of a lifetime.<\/p>\n<p>Enjoy the marvelous views of the canyon walls, get a glimpse at the wildlife and just enjoy the ride of your life.\n[awesome-gallery id=3928]<p class=\"wp-caption-text\">(Clockwise) Finding Zen in Sedona. Photo: Sedona Chamber of Commerce &amp; Tourism Bureau; Desert Botanical Garden &#8211; Ottosen Entry Garden &#8211; Photo: Adam Rodriguez; Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Knight Rise by James Turrell, Photo: SeanDeckert; Mesa Arts Center<\/p><\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Top Five Cities<\/h4>\n<h4>1. Sedona<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/visitsedona.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Sedona<\/a> is a desert town near Flagstaff surrounded by red rock walls and pine forests. It is known for its vibrant arts community, which will give you a sense of relaxation and wonder. Sedona has tons of shops, art galleries and spas.<\/p>\n<p>Shopping in Sedona is any shopaholics dream come true. Anything you want you can have, because Sedona offers it all. Shops range from jewelry, antiques, collectables and they even have shops for the active outdoorsmen.<\/p>\n<p>After a day of rigorous shopping who wouldn\u2019t need some time in the Spa?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.aspaforyou.com\/aspaforyou.htm\" target=\"_blank\">A Spa for You<\/a> will give you that sense of relaxation to go along with the scenery. They offer a variety of massages, facials and body wraps. Treat yourself to a day that is all about you and will have you feeling as beautiful as the nature around you.<\/p>\n<h4>2. Phoenix<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.visitphoenix.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Phoenix <\/a>is the capital and the largest city in Arizona. While mountains surround Phoenix, the city itself is mostly flat. Phoenix has so much to offer its visitors including museums and gardens.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dbg.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Desert Botanical Garden <\/a>located in Phoenix amid the buttes of Papago Park has been offering its visitors the finest and most diverse collections of succulent plants, which includes extremely rare species from around the southwest since 1939.<\/p>\n<p>Desert Botanical Garden is the only of its kind in the world to focus solely on desert plants. It sits on 140 acres and has more than 50,000 plants on display.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;The Garden provides more than a mile of trails to explore and numerous areas of refuge where guests may pause for reflection. It inspires activity and meditation. A perfect spot to round out the day,\u201d said Garden spokesman John Sallot. &#8220;The fall festivals in October and November including Dia de las Muertos and Chiles and Chocolates are an added bonus to the plant collections.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_4237\" style=\"width: 796px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4237\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4237\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/ASCBuilding0211DZK_0563.jpg\" alt=\"Arizona Science Center\" width=\"786\" height=\"523\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/ASCBuilding0211DZK_0563.jpg 786w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/ASCBuilding0211DZK_0563-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/ASCBuilding0211DZK_0563-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/ASCBuilding0211DZK_0563-700x466.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 786px) 100vw, 786px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-4237\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Arizona Science Center<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Phoenix also offers indoor centers for learning. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.azscience.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Arizona Science Center<\/a>, located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center has been inspiring, educating and engaging curious minds for decades.<\/p>\n<p>Its many features include a planetarium to allow guests to travel through space, 300 hands on exhibits and an IMAX theater with a 5-story screen.<\/p>\n<p>If you love to learn, Phoenix is the city for you.<\/p>\n<h4>3. Mesa<\/h4>\n<p>Although <a href=\"http:\/\/www.visitarizona.com\/places-to-visit\/phoenix-central-arizona\/mesa\" target=\"_blank\">Mesa<\/a> is smack dab in the middle of the Arizona desert, that doesn\u2019t mean it doesn\u2019t have a lot to offer. Mesa is a high class town that will keep you extremely busy.<\/p>\n<p>Between visiting arts centers, fancy restaurants and watching pro baseball players, you\u2019ll never be bored in Mesa. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesaartscenter.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Mesa Arts Center<\/a> located in downtown Mesa has enough to keep you busy for a lifetime.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMesa Arts Center has much to offer adults interested in entertainment, education and living a life full of arts and culture. With free \u2018Out to Lunch\u2019 concerts every Thursday in fall and spring, an incredible lineup of dozens of live performances, free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mesaartscenter.com\/index.php\/museum\/art\/current\" target=\"_blank\">Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum<\/a> and nearly 1000 performing and visual arts classes offered annually, there is no shortage of things to do at the state of the art facility,\u201d said Casey Blake, director of public relations.<\/p>\n<h4>4. Scottsdale<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.experiencescottsdale.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Scottsdale<\/a> is where luxury and fun combine to form a year round vacation for those who live there.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smoca.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art<\/a> offers its visitors exactly that\u2014luxury and fun. Located on 21 acres of beautifully landscaped park right in downtown Scottsdale.<\/p>\n<p>They offer 9 to 12 exhibitions each year, ranging so the newest art is always on display.<\/p>\n<p>When you walk into the museum, you will get a pleasant surprise\u2014one of the most beautiful James Turrell Skyspaces in the world. This space allows you to look up into the sky and quietly contemplate our beautiful world.<\/p>\n<h4>5. Flagstaff<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.flagstaffarizona.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Flagstaff <\/a>is surrounded by amazing natural wonders, which are worth visiting and for some of them, all you will have to do is walk outside!<\/p>\n<p>Flagstaff is known for its unbelievable stargazing as it offers some of the best in the entire country. It was named the first International Dark Sky City in the world, meaning it has done an exceptional job in preserving the night sky.<\/p>\n<p>There are many unique cities in Arizona that have their own special thing to offer its visitors, but these are Arizona\u2019s top five.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_3926\" style=\"width: 710px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-3926\" class=\"wp-image-3926 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/LaubergeLodgeExterior700w.jpg\" alt=\"LaubergeLodgeExterior700w\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/LaubergeLodgeExterior700w.jpg 700w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/LaubergeLodgeExterior700w-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-3926\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">L&#8217;Auberge de Sedona<\/p><\/div>\n<h4>Where Should You Stay While Visiting<\/h4>\n<p>When you visit Arizona to see if it\u2019s the right fit for you, don\u2019t worry about accommodations, because Arizona offers its visitors only the best when it comes to hotels and resorts. No matter what part of Arizona you are staying in, there is going to be a spectacular view\u2014both indoors and outdoors.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lauberge.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">L\u2019Auberge de Sedona<\/a> is surrounded by Arizona\u2019s Red Rock country and set on the banks of Oak Creek, which makes visitors feel like they\u2019re in a whole new world. But in reality, they are only minutes from the action of downtown Sedona.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019ll have plenty of options of where to stay as L\u2019Auberge de Sedona offers 62 luxury cottages to choose from and 88 lodge style guest rooms. Both options will have your jaw dropping when you look out the window and see the panoramic views of the red rock.<\/p>\n<p>Once you get to L\u2019Auberge de Sedona, you may never want to leave. The views alone are enough to make you want to stay forever, but they also offer world class amenities to their guests.<\/p>\n<p>Their restaurant on Oak Creek offers its diners spectacular views and a menu that will keep you coming back for more. Their menu is ever-changing, following the seasons and highlighting the best of local food.<\/p>\n<p>The restaurant is adjoined to their outdoor Veranda Bar, which includes an extensive wine list and seasonal cocktails.<\/p>\n<p>After indulging in the chef\u2019s five star dinner, it\u2019s time to head over to the spa, which will really make you never want to leave.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.lauberge.com\/spa\/\" target=\"_blank\">L\u2019Apothecary<\/a> was opened in 2014 where guests can draw upon the areas healing botanicals, herbs and flowers to make their own custom body care products. They can get massages in one of the treatment rooms or creekside in a private cabana.<\/p>\n<p>L\u2019Auberge de Sedona wants to make each guest\u2019s experience personal, so they offer to have the concierge make up an itinerary. Activities range from feeding the ducks, fitness or nature hikes and moonlight meditation.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_4239\" style=\"width: 760px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4239\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4239\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Rock-Climbing-Photo-Boulders-Resort-and-Spa.jpg\" alt=\"Boulders Resort and Spa\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Rock-Climbing-Photo-Boulders-Resort-and-Spa.jpg 750w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Rock-Climbing-Photo-Boulders-Resort-and-Spa-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Rock-Climbing-Photo-Boulders-Resort-and-Spa-700x467.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-4239\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Boulders Resort and Spa<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If southern Arizona is your preference then staying at the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.theboulders.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Boulders Resort and Spa<\/a> in Carefree is just the spot for you. The resort is on 1,300 acres in the Sonoran Desert foothills.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re an outdoors person, then this place will be your paradise. Everything surrounding the resort has been virtually untouched, so you can discover wildlife and plants like saguaros, mesquite, palo verde trees, coyotes and deer.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe Boulders is the ideal destination for active adults, because they offer outdoor adventure activities that transcend traditional resort activities\u2014and they also begin right on the 1,300-acre resort grounds. There is no need to rent a car to get to the destination for all the activities,\u201d said Scott Doonan, director of sales &amp; marketing.<\/p>\n<p>Try moonlight bicycling, one of the resorts more popular activities. Moonlight bicycling takes place on the resort\u2019s paved routes throughout the property, and guests can get a glimpse at a never-before-seen look at the desert. The desert sky lights up the desert and night-blooming cactus explode in a kaleidoscope of various colors. You will be able to see desert coyote, jackrabbits, javelina and deer in their natural habitat.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re feeling extra adventurous, try rock climbing as the deserts rock formations provide the perfect location. Whether you\u2019re a beginner or an experienced climber, there is a route for you, which will be led by a professional guide.<\/p>\n<p>So get climbing and see the beautiful landscape that the Boulder\u2019s Resort calls home.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_4235\" style=\"width: 730px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4235\" class=\"wp-image-4235 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Pool-at-night-web.jpg\" alt=\"Pool-at-night--web\" width=\"720\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Pool-at-night-web.jpg 720w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Pool-at-night-web-300x176.jpg 300w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Pool-at-night-web-700x410.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-4235\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Arizona Inn pool at night<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for a quiet place for your stay in Arizona, then the <a href=\"http:\/\/arizonainn.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Arizona Inn<\/a> located in Tucson will be your safe haven.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cA vacationer looking for beautiful weather, comfortable, quiet rooms, relaxing gardens and paths, a traditional sense of Western civility and a classic style of hospitality and service, will enjoy the Arizona Inn,\u201d said Will Conroy, president of the Inn.<\/p>\n<p>The Arizona Inn was founded in 1930 and since then, their mission has been to provide its guests with \u201cprivacy, quiet and sunshine.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWith its classic style of attentive but unobtrusive service, its famously elegant outdoor pool and Har-Tru tennis courts and the fantastic hikes and adventures to be had in the lovely mountains surrounding Tucson, the Arizona Inn is a wonderful destination for active adults,\u201d said Conroy.<\/p>\n<p>Guests can walk through the luscious gardens, hike through the mountains or even just relax by the pool and take in the views of the Sonoran Desert.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_4240\" style=\"width: 760px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4240\" class=\"wp-image-4240 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/GCSR-Phantom-Cabin2-web.jpg\" alt=\"Cabin at Grand Canyon National Park Lodge \" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/GCSR-Phantom-Cabin2-web.jpg 750w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/GCSR-Phantom-Cabin2-web-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/GCSR-Phantom-Cabin2-web-700x467.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-4240\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Phantom Ranch Cabin at Grand Canyon National Park Lodge<\/p><\/div>\n<p>If you just can\u2019t get enough of the Grand Canyon, then don\u2019t fret, because you can at stay one of the six <a href=\"http:\/\/www.grandcanyonlodges.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Grand Canyon National Park Lodges<\/a>. Downtown Williams and the historic Route 66 are right down the street so after your day exploring the canyon, you can explore the town.<\/p>\n<p>Each of the six lodges gives you a distinct view of the Grand Canyon.<\/p>\n<p>You can stay at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.grandcanyonlodges.com\/lodging\/phantom-ranch\/\" target=\"_blank\">Phantom Ranch<\/a>, which is the only lodging on the floor of the canyon, or you can stay at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.grandcanyonlodges.com\/lodging\/el-tovar\/\" target=\"_blank\">El Tovar<\/a>, which is located directly on the rim of the canyon. No matter where you stay, you are going to have a unique experience that will last a lifetime.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cStaying in our lodges provides the most convenient access to the sunrises and sunsets the canyon is known for, with the South Rim just a short walk from all of our guest rooms. We are proud of our history at Grand Canyon and look forward to welcoming guests to one of the most beautiful places on earth,\u201d said Bruce Brossman, regional director of sales &amp; marketing.<\/p>\n<p>Surrounded by red rock monoliths is <a href=\"http:\/\/www.amararesort.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Amara Resort and Spa<\/a> located in Sedona. While Amara is just minutes away from Sedona\u2019s uptown shopping, dining and cultural hub, the resort is nestled on the banks of the creek, which will make you forget about the hustle and bustle just minutes away.<\/p>\n<p>Guests will have the option of choosing from 100 rooms and suites whose decor ties in with the natural surroundings that Sedona\u2019s landscape offers.<\/p>\n<p>Amara\u2019s signature restaurant <a href=\"http:\/\/www.saltrockkitchen.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">SaltRock<\/a> marries the light approach of California cooking with the ingredients of the southwest, giving guests a culinary experience they won\u2019t soon forget.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Sedona attracts visitors from all over the world for its panoramic red rock views, stunning scenery and metaphysical energy, for which this area has become famous,&#8221; said Devin Mahoney, general manager of Amara Resort and Spa. &#8220;Amara is contemporary, yet comfortable and embodies Arizona\u2019s laid-back lifestyle allowing the relaxed traveler to enjoy a complimentary bike ride to start the morning, an afternoon at a world-class spa or a glass of red in the courtyard amidst the majestic red rocks for our hosted nightly social hour.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h4>Arizona\u2019s Healthcare<\/h4>\n<p>Across the state of Arizona, there are about 110 hospitals including 4 that are nationally ranked and 7 that meet the nation\u2019s high performing standards.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/patient-visitor-guide\/arizona\" target=\"_blank\">Mayo Clinic<\/a> in Phoenix is rated number 1 in Arizona and is ranked nationally in 12 adult specialties. Their patient satisfaction rate is 93 percent, which is one of the reasons thousands of patients flock there each year for exceptional medical care.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uahealth.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">University of Arizona Medical Center in Tucson<\/a> is ranked number two in the state and is the highest rated hospital in Tucson. They have 16 national rankings for adult specialties and 10 for pediatric specialties.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bannerhealth.com\/Locations\/Arizona\/Banner+-+University+Medical+Center+Phoenix\/_Banner+-+University+Medical+Center+Phoenix+Home.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center,<\/a> also in Phoenix, is ranked number three in the state and is the second highest ranked hospital in the city. Seventy-four percent of patients said that they would recommend this hospital to other patients.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.honorhealth.com\/locations\/hospitals\/scottsdale-shea-medical-center\" target=\"_blank\">Scottsdale Healthcare-Shea Medical Center<\/a> located in Scottsdale has a ranking of four in the state of Arizona. Seventy-seven percent of patients would recommend this hospital to others as it is also the highest rated hospital in Scottsdale.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bannerhealth.com\/Locations\/Arizona\/Banner+Boswell+Medical+Center\/_Banner+Boswell+Medical+Center+home+page.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Banner Boswell Medical Center <\/a>is located in Sun City and while it is the only hospital in the city, it has a ranking of number five in the entire state. They are top ranking in surgical care, heart attack and heart failure care and pneumonia care.<\/p>\n<h4>Arizona\u2019s Economy<\/h4>\n<p>Arizona\u2019s economy ranks 25th out of the 50 states and District of Colombia because in certain areas, their numbers are beating the national areas.<\/p>\n<p>Arizona\u2019s unemployment rate is at 6.2 percent while the United States has a rate of 6.3 percent. Their numbers are beating the national average in future job growth as well. Arizona has a 37.2 percent job growth while the United States has a 36.1 percent.<\/p>\n<p>More importantly, their income taxes are lower than the U.S. Average\u2014Arizona\u2019s is 3.36 percent while the U.S. average is 4.72 percent.<\/p>\n<p>Arizona\u2019s median home prices fell apart during the housing crash but since then, they have been on the rise. Zillow estimated that Arizona\u2019s median home value was 204 million dollars in 2016, which is above the national median.<\/p>\n<p>The median home value in Tucson is 149,400 dollars. Tucson home values have gone up 3 percent over the past year, and Zillow predicts they will rise 4 percent within the next year.<\/p>\n<p>In Phoenix, the median home value is on the rise at 190,000 dollars. Phoenix home values have gone up 9.6 percent over the past year, and Zillow predicts they will rise 2.8 percent within the next year.<\/p>\n<p>Sedona has the highest median home value at 436,200 dollars, and home values have gone up in the past year. But good news, Zillow predicts they will fall -0.1 percent within the next year.<\/p>\n<h4>Tax Time<\/h4>\n<p>People don\u2019t jump for joy over taxes, but if you are going to retire to Arizona, then this is crucial information.<\/p>\n<p>Arizona taxpayers pay about 3,244 dollars per capita in state and local taxes. The total tax burden in Arizona is the 40th highest out of the 50 states, but that is mostly due to limitations on property taxes.<\/p>\n<p>A bonus is that Arizona doesn\u2019t have a state tax on food for home consumption or on drugs prescribed by a licensed physician or dentist. However, some cities in Arizona do levy a tax on food for home consumption.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.azdor.gov\/\">Arizona Department of Revenue<\/a> collects city privilege taxes for most of the state&#8217;s municipalities; these are known as program cities.<\/p>\n<p>Arizona also taxes personal property, which means that there will be taxes on all types of property except real estate. Taxable personal property includes property used for commercial, industrial or agricultural purposes.<\/p>\n<p>Certain property tax protections exist for people over 65.<\/p>\n<p>To learn more go to http:\/\/www.bankrate.com\/finance\/taxes\/state-taxes-arizona.aspx<\/p>\n<h4>The Best Retirement Communities<\/h4>\n<p>Abundant sunshine, stunning views and tons of golf\u2014who needs Florida when retiring in Arizona can offer you all of the above in topnotch active adult communities?<\/p>\n<p>Arizona has been on the rise for years as one of the top spots to retire in the United States, and their active adult communities explain why. They offer everything from luxurious homes to high class amenities, and the views are unbelievable.\u00a0Here is a sampler of active adult communities:<\/p>\n<h4>Green Valley Recreation in Green Valley<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.gvrec.org\/\" target=\"_blank\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3935\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/pickleball-at-Green-Valley.jpg\" alt=\"pickleball-at-Green-Valley\" width=\"700\" height=\"467\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/pickleball-at-Green-Valley.jpg 700w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/pickleball-at-Green-Valley-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/>\n<\/a><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Pickleball at Green Valley<\/p><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.gvrec.org\" target=\"_blank\">GVR<\/a> is a non-profit corporation that owns and operates 13 recreational and wellness centers for use by our 23,000 members who purchased homes with deed-restricted membership to GVR.<\/p>\n<p>Unlike other \u201cmaster planned\u201d retirement communities, Green Valley offers a wide range of homes from affordable villas to luxury homes in many different neighborhoods. Most of the homes in Green Valley have GVR memberships and are in age-restricted 55+ homeowners associations. Green Valley, Ariz., is a collection of communities and homeowners associations in this unincorporated community.<\/p>\n<p>Active adults and retirees are attracted to the area for its \u201csmall town\u201d feel and leisurely pace, extremely low and affordable home prices, low cost of living, low crime rates, access to great health care (Univ. of Arizona, Green Valley Hospital, Sarver Heart Center, etc.) sunshine and climate, proximity to outdoor recreation (hiking, birding, cycling, etc.) and GVR membership. Some active adults and retirees move back to Green Valley from Florida because of GVR\u2019s offerings for a very low annual fee of only $475. And if you want big city, Tucson is just a short 20 minute drive north.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3938\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Encore_700w.jpg\" alt=\"Encore_700w\" width=\"700\" height=\"502\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Encore_700w.jpg 700w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Encore_700w-300x215.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Encore at Eastmark in Mesa. Photo: Karen Shell<\/p><\/p>\n<h4>Encore at Eastmark in Mesa<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.eastmark.com\/homes\/single-family-homes\/encore-at-eastmark\/\" target=\"_blank\">Encore at Eastmark in Mesa<\/a> takes the most unique elements of the popular Eastmark community and adapts them to the 55-Plus active adult lifestyle. Located in Mesa, Encore features fourteen distinct home designs, a state-of-the-art Village Center featuring a resort-style pool, fitness center, class facilities, and a long list of social events. And with plenty of shopping and entertainment just a short drive away, Encore at Eastmark is designed for active adult living at any speed.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3939\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/CantaMia_Fire-Pit_700w.jpg\" alt=\"CantaMia_Fire-Pit_700w\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/CantaMia_Fire-Pit_700w.jpg 700w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/CantaMia_Fire-Pit_700w-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">CantaMia in Goodyear<\/p><\/p>\n<h4>CantaMia in Goodyear<\/h4>\n<p>The active baby boomer lifestyle is the inspiration for\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.cantamiaestrella.net\/\" target=\"_blank\">CantaMia in Goodyear<\/a>,an\u00a0expansive 55-plus community. Amenities include\u00a0more than 500 acres of parks and open space, 72 acres of lakes for boating and fishing, over 20 miles of paths and hiking trails and the Nicklaus Design championship golf course.<\/p>\n<h4><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3940\" src=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Cyclists-Courtesy-of-Del-Webb.jpg\" alt=\"Cyclists-Courtesy-of-Del-Webb\" width=\"700\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Cyclists-Courtesy-of-Del-Webb.jpg 700w, https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Cyclists-Courtesy-of-Del-Webb-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Cyclists. Photo: Del Webb<\/p><\/h4>\n<h4>Sun City Festival by Del Webb<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.oursuncityfestival.net\/\" target=\"_blank\">Sun City Festival<\/a> features abundant amenities including a 31,000-square foot Community Center, an expanded Lifelong Learning Academy with a technology center, a large fitness center, workout rooms and the Sun Health Wellness Center. Outdoor offerings\u00a0include multiple pickle ball, lawn bowling, bocce ball, an outdoor amphitheater, miles of walking trails, large resort and lap pools. Sports courts are available from\u00a0tennis, and basketball to volleyball. Golfers will appreciate the 18-hole championship golf course and a 15,000-square foot golf clubhouse with a restaurant and golf pro shop. The\u00a08,700-square-foot wood shop and crafts studio is popular among budding and established artists for the\u00a0equipment dedicated to\u00a0glass arts, ceramics and pottery.<\/p>\n<h4>Sun City Anthem<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.delwebb.com\/communities\/az\/florence\/sun-city-anthem-at-merrill-ranch\/11846\/index1.aspx#.VzYmSGwVGpo\" target=\"_blank\">Sun City Anthem\u00a0at Merrill Ranch in Florence<\/a>\u00a0features vast resort-style amenities starting with the 48,000-square-foot community center with Center for Wellness and Higher Learning. State-of-the-art fitness center with onsite trainers, indoor and outdoor resort-style pools and spas, large fitness center, exhibition kitchen, indoor pool and walking track, outdoor trails, 18-hole championship golf club with restaurant (see below), pickle ball and bocce ball courts, softball stadium, dog park, multi-purpose rooms, coffee and pastry bar, putting green, dog park and amphitheater. Sun City Anthem is part of the larger all-ages Anthem at Merrill Ranch master plan, where residents have access to a giant water park and aquatic center, an indoor rock-climbing wall, parks and ball fields, a sprawling community center with fitness, pools, and more.<\/p>\n<h4>To Learn More About Arizona<\/h4>\n<p>For more information about Arizona, visit the official Arizona travel and vacation site, <a href=\"http:\/\/visitarizona.com\" target=\"_blank\">Visit Arizona<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Where to retire series. Focus on Arizona<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":3777,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[58,56],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3731","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-spring-2016-features","category-spring-2016"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3731","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3731"}],"version-history":[{"count":28,"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3731\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4244,"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3731\/revisions\/4244"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3777"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3731"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3731"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/healthyaging.net\/magazine\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3731"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}