EXPERIENCE THE ALLURE OF THE DESERT'S BEAUTY
Two Romantic Getaways For You And Your Love

The Wedding Chronicle (The Insider's Guide to Arizona Weddings)
March/April 2003

Any time of year is perfect for a romantic getaway. But with the help of this year's winter rains fol-lowed by the abundance of Arizona's traditional sunshine, it only makes sense to rendezvous this spring at a place where you will be able to enjoy the desert's magnificent beauty in all its glory.

The desert landscape will be ablaze with hues of reds, oranges and yellows as the wildflowers explode. Majestic saguaros and desert plants will be covered with colorful blooms. Sunsets will spread pink, purple and orange across the vast desert sky. All is helping to create a flawless romantic setting!

Two Arizona destinations where you can discover the desert's splendor, and each other, are Across the Creek at Aravaipa Farms and the "Hideout" at RedBuck Ranch in Scottsdale.

Across the Creek at Aravaipa Farms is truly a hidden treasure in one of the best hiking and bird-watch-ing destinations in Arizona. Located 2 hours southeast of Phoenix and 5 miles from Aravaipa Canyon, five casitas sit on 300 acres with fruit orchards, a gently flowing creek and a privately owned mountain in the background. After a day of exploring Aravaipa Canyon, relax on your own front porch with a good book or a pair of binoculars to watch over 200 kinds of birds found here.

Carol Steele, the owner, has added her personal touches to each casita, filling them with colorful artwork, kilim rugs, fresh flowers, cozy down comforters and brightly colored ceramic bowls. Fireplaces both indoor and out are charming and rustic, but very comfortable furniture, completes the decor. Not a typical B&B, break-fast is on your own, with each casita having a fridge stocked with all that you'll-need, while a gourmet dinner is served each evening. No TV's, phones, or even clocks allow each couple to escape the rigors of every day life. To reach this romantic spot call 520-357-6901or visit them at www.aravaipafarms.com.

One of Arizona1s best-kept secrets is RedBuck Ranch, only minutes from North Scottsdale. On a pre-mier desert location, with all the luxury of a five star re-sort, you will be treated to your own exclusive hideaway.

Limited to one couple at a time, you will be the only guests at this exceptional B&B.

You'll feel transported to the days when the West was wild as you drive down dirt roads to reach your desert paradise. Owners Billie "the kid" Shepherd and Johnny "Wild" West warmly welcome you. For the rest of your stay, they will become virtually invisible, allowing you all the privacy you desire.

Your four-room "Hideout" is separate from the main house. Lavishly furnished with a fully equipped kitchen, spacious master bedroom, bright red clawfoot tub, and living room with fireplace. Relax inside or out on your private patio, and surrender to the picturesque views that surround you. Set on 5 acres of land, this property can accommodate intimate weddings with up to 30 guests. Contact Redbuck Ranch for more details. Call them at 480-471-00 11 or visit their website www.redbuckranch.com.

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.