Sedona
Sedona, Arizona, is pretty close to paradise. Not in the tropical island, swaying palm tree sense, but in the drop-dead gorgeous, southwest scenery, perfect climate, and all the amenities that travelers seek… comfortable accommodations, wonderful restaurants, fine quality shopping, and delightful folks at every turn, sense.
In addition, there is history… as in numerous ancient ruins, spent mining towns, and connections to vintage celebrities; there is culture… as in art, Native American hand-fashioned jewelry and pottery, hand-woven rugs from wool raised and spun at home… and legends to accompany all. There are wineries and antique towns within a red rock’s throw to experience, explore, and enjoy, as well as sunsets that surpass description… which can be seen from the midst of the towering, colorful sandstone formations that dominate the landscape.
If you approach Sedona from Phoenix, the change in altitude is subtle… occasional popping of the ears, unexpected disappearance of the Saguaro cactus, unnoticeable change in ambient temperature. As you leave I-17 at exit 298, the road narrows, the sagebrush heightens, the prickly pear thickens. Just as you get used to this scenery as the norm, you turn an innocuous corner and WHAM! Right there in front of you, between two customary green hills, is the most stunning formation of red sandstone, looking, for all the world, as if some giant had accidentally dropped a model piece from his collection from The Valley of Fire onto your roadway.
And then there are more… and more… and still more…. until this new, vibrant landscape becomes the norm. During your entire stay in Sedona you will be surrounded and astounded by this beauty.
There is just one aspect of your welcome that is less than pleasant. Be aware that the tourist information centers are not managed by the city of Sedona… not by its Chamber of Commerce, nor its Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, but by a variety of timeshare companies who are eager to enhance your stay with a tour of their facilities for which you will be rewarded with a tempting gift. The city is addressing this issue. The progress is slow, but positive. Time will correct the effrontery. In the meantime, stay strong. Be aware. Leave with the information you sought.
If you choose to accept their gift, make it your choice. Do not be intimidated into accepting. Thank them for their assistance in answering your questions and providing the information you came in to find… and leave still enjoying the landscape and vacation to come. It will be breathtaking.
It looks like a mirage, at first.
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