What Kind of Romantic Are You?

Ahwatukee Monthly
February 2003

Ask a hundred people what constitutes "romantic" - and you will probably end up with a hundred different answers. However, most will agree that romance by definition creates a frame of mind that allows for playfulness, passion, spontaneity and sheer joy.
And what better way to express romance to your partner than through the magic of travel? What could be more perfect than getting away together for a romantic weekend?

Obviously the definition of a romantic getaway is as varied as the definition of romance itself. What is important to you for a romantic weekend? Remember that a weekend getaway is not a full-blown vacation. Your time is limited. With a little planning you can make the difference between a mediocre getaway and a great one.

PREPARE FOR ROMANCE
Think of the planning as the first step to your romantic getaway. By answering a few simple questions, you can help determine the mood, setting and activities for your getaway. Would you like to travel to northern Arizona where it may be cold so that you can snuggle in front of a roaring fire? With any luck, there may be snow. Perfect for skiing!

Or would you like to stay in the warmth of the Valley of the Sun or the Tucson desert? While away, is seclusion and privacy a must? Are luxury amenities required? Are a full-service spa or fine Italian linens appealing? Championship golf courses? Tennis anyone? Or incredible hiking trails? Do you imagine staying in a rustic cabin set in the red rocks of Sedona? A luxurious resort in Scottsdale? Or an authentic hacienda in Tucson?

Next, it will help to figure out just what kind of romantic you are! As an incurable romantic myself, I have identified four categories that romantics fall into.

DO NOT DISTURB!
There is the "do not disturb" romantic, for whom seclusion, privacy, and seduction are the essential components for an ideal getaway. This is your time to cocoon. You might crave breakfast in bed for two, a champagne toast under the setting sun on your private deck, a candlelit dinner, a moonlight stroll, or an in­room massage, and you always want your "do not disturb" sign readily at hand. When you want to venture out of your room, you may take a horse-drawn sleigh ride or listen to music under the stars at an outdoor venue.

If you see yourself falling into the "do not disturb" category, you may want to try one of the following properties.

You'll feel like you've been invited to hideaway at the magnificent private home of a long-lost friend when you stay at the Hermosa Inn of Phoenix. You will find this intimate Southwest hacienda nestled in an exclusive residential neighborhood in the shadows of Camelback Mountain. No two rooms are alike. For your romantic getaway, reserve a hacienda. These suites face a courtyard with a Jacuzzi in the center. Lon's, one of the Valley's most popular restaurants is on-site. But you may just prefer to have the chef prepare a romantic candlelight dinner for two served on your private patio.

Deep in Boynton Canyon, with stunning views of the red rocks of Sedona, is the magical Enchantment Resort. It is everything a destination resort should be - with beautiful accommodations and a breathtaking location. Whether you are hiking through the red rocks, stargazing from your private deck or the patio of the popular Yavapai Restaurant, receiving a healing massage, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, staying here can only enhance your romantic experience.

SPLURGE AND SPREE
If you are thinking that there is no limit to the spending and pampering that you can take in, you fall into the category of the "splurge and spree" romantic. That's right - excess is not a naughty word! The image of total luxury is conjured up in your mind. An extravagant shopping spree may be a necessity. A day at the spa enjoying one treatment after another is a requirement! Live guilt-free for the weekend. There will be no apologies for indulging in life's little pleasures!

The Phoenician, known worldwide as one of the most glamorous resorts in Phoenix, provides countless magical spots for romantic interludes. Snuggle near the lagoons or have a picnic lunch in a grassy alcove. This is a property where spoiling yourself comes naturally. Golf lovers will enjoy the 27-hole championship golf course; the spa provides the ultimate in pampering; the pools invite you to stay all day, and the cuisine is critically acclaimed. This is an ideal place to indulge and be indulged!

Other properties to consider include the Boulders in Carefree, the Four Seasons in Pinnacle Peak, or the Hyatt at Gainey Ranch.

OUT AND ABOUT
Do you find that adventure and activity turns you on? That, when you go away, you want to make sure to tee off on a championship golf course, hire a private guide to take you on a challenging hike, or go horseback riding at sunset, then you may just fall into the category of the "out and about" romantic. You may still want quiet romantic dinners or to relax in a Jacuzzi tub for two, but you know that choosing a destination that encourages adventure is important.

You may want to think about the X Diamond Ranch in Southfork Canyon near Greer. Here sit five cabins on 12,000 acres. Tall pines, fresh air and wildlife surround you. You can go horseback riding (even stable your own horse while there), fly­fish at a private catch-and-release pond, hike and even enjoy a massage. Although the cabins are not luxurious, they are more than adequate. The Fisherman's Suite, set up on a ridge above the river, is well suited for a romantic rendezvous.

GREAT MINDS
And finally there is the "great minds" romantic. You know that, to truly enjoy your few days away, you will want the ability to stimulate your mind as well as your heart, body and soul. This means choosing an accommodation that is close to the symphony, art museum, or theater. Or one that offers activities right on the property that will interest you. Perhaps private cooking lessons with a world-class chef or a private library of rare books for your reading pleasure?

The Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix may be perfectly suited to you. Loved by contemporaries, as well as classics like Clark Gable and Carol Lombard, there is literally everything imaginable to do at the "Jewel of the Desert," and it is only minutes from galleries, the theater and world-class shopping.

Or, in Tucson, experience the Arizona Inn - full of classic charm and elegance. You'll feel as if you've stepped back to another era in time. Located on a peaceful residential street, you can quickly leave the tranquility encountered here, finding yourself only a short distance from the University of Arizona and the cultural centers in Tucson.

Arizona offers so many options; there is something for every romantic! Many destinations allow for a variety of activities, creature comforts, room accommodations and settings to meet any need. Remember to identify the desired mood for your romantic getaway and choose your locale carefully. Once you arrive, make sure you enjoy every minute, no matter what you are doing!

Pam Swartz is noted romance expert and author of Arizona Getaways for the Incurably Romantic. Her book is a leading resource for romantic couples everywhere. An authority on romantic getaways in Arizona, planning the perfect romantic getaway, tips on romantic travel, and keeping current with the latest travel trends for couples, Pam is available for speaking. She can be reached at 480-609-0426. Her book is available at your favorite local bookstore or online at www.arizonagetaways.com or www.amazon.com.