The best places in Arizona can be found off the beaten path! You can visit the Colorado River or any of the river and lakes here for boating, fishing and good family fun. You can drive up or take the train to the Grand Canyon – one of the seven wonders of the world - or go hiking in the mountains. My favorite, off-the-beaten path destination in Arizona is a town called Sedona! Sedona is famous for its beautiful red rock formations, hiking trails, jeep tours in the mountains, cool weather, film festival and jazz festivals. People from all over the world go to Sedona to unwind spiritually through vortex tours and psychic counseling.

Phoenix is home to a wide variety of cuisines, but Mexican food has to be my favorite. Yes, I am black and I love soul food, but Mexican food has really captured my heart over the years. When President Barack Obama and his family visited the Valley in August 2009, he made a stop at Macayo’s, a legendary Mexican eatery in Arizona. Many other presidents have chosen to dine at Mexican restaurants here.

My favorites are Los Dos Molinos in south Phoenix, the Mission Restaurant and Lounge and the Old Town Tortilla Factory in Scottsdale because they serve authentic, traditional and spicy food! Make sure you try the margaritas!

Speaking of soul food, a new, black-owned restaurant in the Phoenix area seems to open every month. However, Mrs. White's Golden Rule Café and Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles in downtown Phoenix have stood the test of time. Make sure you get some down-home cooking at these restaurants.

If you are planning to stay in the downtown area for business, you’ll find a number of hotels within walking distance of the Phoenix Convention Center, restaurants, major sports stadiums such as US Airways Center (Phoenix Suns), Chase Field (Arizona Diamondbacks), the Arizona State University and University of Arizona downtown campuses, and entertainment venues such as the Dodge Theatre, Orpheum Theatre and Phoenix Symphony Hall. I’ve had great experiences when I’ve attended black functions at the Sheraton Downtown Phoenix, the Hyatt Regency and the Wyndham Phoenix.

On the other hand, if you are visiting the Valley of the Sun for pleasure, staying at a resort is an absolute must! Phoenix is home to some of the most beautiful and affordable resorts in the world.

I am a big fan of the Boulders Resort in Carefree, Arizona. This property is located about 30-40 minutes north of downtown Phoenix is surrounded some of the most beautiful desert scenery – mountains, boulders, wildlife – that you’ll ever encounter. If you are just looking to golf, relax, get a spa treatment, take a dip in a refreshing swimming pool, the Boulders Resort is a top-notch location. The Phoenician …