rev:text
| - My husband had a customer to attend to in Phoenix, and it just worked out that my daughter and I could tag along for the weekend to enjoy the sun. We used to live in Phoenix, and in the area of the Biltmore, so it was very special to be "home" for a few days and visit our old haunts and friends. We have seen the Biltmore during the tough times of the recession, and so was VERY happy to see the area going strong! Even the community around the Biltmore is thriving- new building, refurbishments, etc... it was absolutely fantastic to see.
We were in the Terrace building in a suite, so we had a separate King bedroom with a living room. Our daughter stayed on the pull out couch and was quite happy. We had two patios, one with a 4 seat dining table and one with four lounger chairs- perfect views of the court yard (check out my photos). The room was beautifully upgraded in tones of Gray/Greens that were super soothing. The bed was out of this world comfortable (I was counting sheets so I can re-build this at home..lol); great master bath with a soaker tub and big shower, double sinks and a makeup counter/mirror. We had a second 1/2 bath that made it so nice traveling with a teenager Katie and Cherish- personal concierge's at the hotel took AMAZING care of us. Make sure you introduce yourself!
We were given access to the Ocatilla exec lounge as I am a Diamond Honors member and am very impressed by the offering. We had breakfast there several times (continental), and iced tea and cold water/snacks are available thru-out the day. They do offer snacks in the early evening but we were SO busy, we didn't quite make it back for that; however, we did enjoy wine/happy hour past 8 pm each evening which we loved. There is a separate fire pit off the patio, so you can enjoy the cool AZ nites with your wine They brought in the most amazing desserts at this time as well- again, see my photos.
My daughter and I visited two of the pools on different days; if you want quiet comfort- then go for the Ocatilla pool; if you want great current music, dancing, and food/drink services, hit up the main pool- very lively. My daughter is 13 and she loved BOTH experiences. You just cannot beat the Arizona sun in February. We had a turkey wrap and drinks and arrived in about five mins time. Great service for a busy pool day.
My husband and I did "full" breakfast at Frank and Albert's one morning; and Adobe grill another. We have great memories at both of these locations and simply could not resist a visit. Frank and Albert's has been expanded it appears and the ambiance is wonderful. Fireplaces and firepits scattered around to keep you warm, and the service was friendly and efficient. Adobe grill holds a special place in our memories as we visited almost every Saturday when we lived in Arizona- the menu and the restaurant has been VERY nicely redone and you cannot improve these views. Food was wonderful- try the Big AZ Burrito with chorizo. Fantastic.
Your evenings absolutely have to be spent outdoors around the courtyard 'somewhere'... whether that's on the Ocatilla patio, or by the main building fire pits- it's the perfect Arizona evening. Grab a glass of wine from the bar and sit under those stars.
Also, if you want a local spot to visit (where only the locals go) check out Rokerij on 16th street and order the Chicken Chimayo- you won't be disappointed.
I'm so sad to be leaving... until next time...
|