WEDDING AND HONEYMOON HAVENS
Four Fabulous Haunts in Your Own Backyard
Phoenix Bride and Groom Magazine
Winter/Spring 2003

Without question, you would go to the ends of the earth for the person you plan to marry. Fortunately, you won't have to travel nearly that far to find an unusual place for your wedding or honeymoon. In fact, some of the nation's most desirable destinations are just a hop, skip and a jump from Phoenix. Each of these locations has its own unique ambiance and offerings. So whether you clamor for glamour, crave culture or have a need for nature, the destination of your dreams is within easy travel distance.

A BIT OF PAST AND PRESENT IN PRESCOTT
A perfect example is Prescott, located less than 100 miles northwest of Phoenix. Cradled by national forest, Prescott offers a scenic mile-high elevation, while its past as the state's territorial capital lends yesteryear charm. Brides and grooms can wed in an intimate gazebo, either at the Sharlot Hall Museum or in the parklike setting of the Courthouse Plaza. Honeymooners can meander through art galleries, museums or boutiques set among the city's 500 historic buildings, or breathe in fresh air while enjoying 450 miles of trails, five lakes or five golf courses. At the end of the day, couples can cozy up in Victorian-style comfort at the Dolls & Roses Bed & Breakfast, or relax in luxury at the Prescott Resort. Whatever suits your style, Prescott is an ideal place to step back in time as you launch your future together.

SPIRITUAL SOJOURNS TO SEDONA
If the mountains near Prescott do not call you, perhaps the romantic red rock formations of Sedona will. Approximately 90 minutes north of Phoenix, Sedona combines Southwestern beauty with a spiritual power that is legendary among Native Americans and others. The result is a spectacular backdrop for becoming man and wife. If you prefer Old World enchantment, consider the chapel at Tlaquepaque, a Mexican-style facility complete with a wedding bell to ring out your happy news. Or wed near the lush surroundings of Oak Creek at the Creekside Inn at Sedona. Next, escape to secluded splendor at one of several bed and breakfast establishments applauded by national magazines and travel organizations, including the Adobe Village Graham Inn or Boots & Saddles Bed & Breakfast, or opt for a heavenly honeymoon at a full-scale resort.

A REMARKABLE RETREAT TO LAKE TAHOE
Matching Sedona's natural beauty is breathtaking Lake Tahoe, a 22-mile long jewel straddling the California-Nevada stateline. Tucked in the Sierra Nevada at 6,223 feet above sea level, Lake Tahoe is easily reached by a less than two-hour flight into Reno and a 45-minute drive southwest. Once there, you will discover North America's largest alpine lake, where you can exchange vows at a shoreline or casino chapel, a boat on crystal-clear water, or a resort gazebo. Honeymoon options are equally inviting. For example: the North Shore, known for outdoor recreation, offers panoramic views and pampering at the CalNeva Resort, boutique inns such as The River Street Inn, as well as bed and breakfast properties, cottages, private homes and condominiums. Accommodations are just as diverse on the lively South Shore, where you will find everything from resort condos at The Ridge Tahoe to rustic lodges such as the Black Bear Inn. From either shore, thrilling casinos are mere minutes away.

ALIVE WITH THE WONDER OF LAS VEGAS
Of course, world-class casinos are around every corner in Las Vegas. Less than a five-hour drive or one-hour flight from Phoenix, this razzle-dazzle destination is famous for short-notice weddings at venues ranging from mega-hotels to wedding chapels with drive-up windows. Your ultimate honeymoon destination-or its likeness-waits in Las Vegas as well. Enjoy authentic Parisian appeal and even a 50-story Eiffel Tower at the Paris Las Vegas hotel-casino or more European flavor at the Bellagio. How about the New York New York Hotel & Casino, with all the foods, flair and landmarks of the Big Apple? Step back in time to ancient Rome at Caesar's Palace, a bygone Egyptian era at the Luxor, or medieval days at the Excalibur. Combined with these choices are Las Vegas' celebrity performances, golf courses, upscale shopping and nearby national parks. What more could you want?

If the answer to that question is a remarkable, yet easily reachable, wedding or honeymoon destination, look no further than Prescott, Sedona, Lake Tahoe or Las Vegas.

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.