The state capital and largest city in Arizona, PHOENIX holds plenty of appeal for tourists. Here, you can whoop it up at a cowboy steak joint, pamper yourself at a world-class resort, relax at a dude ranch or dance the night away at one of the area's swanky night spots. Sunny days and comfortable temperatures are the rule November through April, making this time the most enjoyable and popular time of year to visit.

When it comes to attractions, Phoenix is not your average city; here, the beautiful Sonoran Desert shares top billing as a world-class attraction along with the arts and cultural venues that make Phoenix a world-class destination. Attractions include the Arizona Science Center which is one of the Valley’s crown jewels and is located in downtown Phoenix and features a multitude of hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and large-screen theater.

Phoenix is short of must-see attractions, but a day at one of the city's plentiful upscale malls is probably as authentic and enjoyable an experience as Phoenix has to offer. Good lodging options include the Mondrian, which is an inventive vision of modern glamour for a new generation of sophisticated global travelers.