- Traveler
- jenniejoy
- Mar 19, 2010
Cultural Immersion in Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona
The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass, eleven miles from the Phoenix International Airport, is embedded in the Gila River Indian Community. Nestled in the 642 square miles of the Sonoran Desert owned by the Pima and the Maricopa Peoples, surrounded by saguaro, barrel cactus and other indigenous plant life, it offers golfing, spa services, and Kia, Arizona’s only Five Star/Five Diamond award restaurant.
Food! Supersized mesquite grilled pancakes with tart apple butter and prickly pear jelly from its other award winning restaurant, Ko’sin. Culture! A blanket, at the foot of each bed, handwoven by a member of the community, definitely not your traditional Sheraton linen; the 10 panel mural depicting elements of the Pima and Maricopa heritage on the ceiling of the multileveled lobby is interpreted by Ginger Sunshine Martin, the only cultural concierge at a hotel in the USA. Pampering! Aji Spa, a traditional round house faces east like the hotel and the Whirlwind Golf House, in keeping with the cultural traditions. The art work – murals depicting the creation story; landscaping – the watsu pool with eddys and turtles; the products – an indigenous line using oils from plants on the lands; the cafe – using produce from the local garden; the fitness center, steam room, and whirlpool were all accessories to the specialty treatments. For me, that was the sacred salt treatment!
Each treatment at Aji, which, by the way, means Sanctuary, includes the use of the Shejoi oil, extracted from the locally grown creosole plant. Those treatments using Native American healing practices are provided only by Pima or Maricopa members. The creosole and other indigenous plants are identified along the 2.5 mile Interpretative Trail on the property.
The beautiful open space, the Estrella Mountain range, desert flora and the possibility of seeing wildlife were enjoyed on the back of a gentle plodder, Happy Jack. Happy Jack and his fellow equines are stabled at the Koli Equestrian Center owned by my Pima guide, Roger, and his brother. No, I did not see any coyotes, although Roger says they are around, but I glimpsed a prairie dog scurrying into its hole. I also toured the 50 acre Desert Botanical Gardens, a 20 minute drive from the hotel, seeing the red buttes of Papago Park no matter where I stood. Imagine 139 rare plants found only in deserts? Imagine a hummingbird in its nest allowing me to come close enough for a picture?
Extending the cultural experience while enjoying the offerings of the city was as easy as transferring hotels! An anchor in the revitalization of downtown Phoenix, connected to the Convention Center, and within walking distance of the Arizona State University’s downtown campus, the theater district, and the light rail, is The Sheraton Downtown Hotel, the newest, largest hotel in Arizona. And its décor says “Arizona!” The elements of water, air, and fire are represented by waterfalls, an exterior wall of uniquely red colored stones, and lighting that becomes luminous clouds in the sky. Riding the escalator in the multilevel lobby provides a “canyon” experience within walls embossed with copper. (Remember Arizona is known for its 5C’s – copper, cotton, climate, citrus, and cattle! Did you know that the cotton from which those exquisitely soft sheets are made come from the Pima lands?) A ten minute drive from the airport, this hotel is in the heart of the city. Did I say that the light rail system is in walking distance, and that a $3.50 day pass allows you to get on and off, enjoying points of interest all day? What a bargain!
I spent an entire day at the Heard Museum, founded in 1929, and renowned for its extensive collection of artifacts of Native American Arts and Culture. Some serious self-control was needed to limit purchases of authentic Native American jewelry and art in the extensive gift shop. Serious collectors of established and emerging Native American artists would be ecstatic upon entering the Berlin Gallery, attached to the gift shop! It would really take several days to fully absorb the many permanent and limited exhibits, including the works of Allan Houser, born to the Fort Sills Apache Tribe in Oklahoma, who by the time of his death in 1994, at the age of 80 years old, was an icon in the world of Modernist sculptors and painters. The pain readily surfaced while walking through the “Away from Home: American Indian Boarding School Experiences” exhibit documenting that dark period between 1879-2000 when the federal government mandated the removal of all the children from their homes to boarding schools with the intention of eradicating “Indianness”. Respite, reflections, and gratitude for those who were able to succeed despite the harsh experiences were discussed at the Café – the museum’s eatery featuring southwest influenced dishes.
Finally, delights for the foodies! Oh, such yummy, enticing choices! Travelling alone, I savored lobster bisque and a scallop entrée at a Different Pointe of View, at the Hilton Tapatio Cliffs, but would have loved to share the romantic culinary experience and the dramatic views of the city at this 25 year old establishment, atop Phoenix’s North Mountain, with its AAA Four Diamond Award for 17 consecutive years! Each of the 700 rare vintage and international wines was hand selected by Eric Spragett, its sommelier since 1987. Please be cautious. It is a steep uphill drive to the top, and you definitely don’t want to be woozy driving down. In fact, I begged someone to drive me back to bottom of the hill - fear of heights, definitely not from excessive imbibing! Steak eaters could indulge in gourmet versions of comfort foods and be guided by extremely knowledgeable waiters about the steak and seafood selections at Modern Steakhouse. Yes, enjoy the meal and then walk it off in Scottsdale’s upscale Fashion Mall, or maybe the other way around.
District Restaurant is in the Sheraton Downtown Hotel, but belongs to the community. There are really affordable lunch specials. My favorites included the muddled drinks, made with herbs from the herb garden on the fourth floor patio; po’ boy shrimp sliders; and the whoopie pie paired with a malt shake. The bar offers only American brand beers and ever effort is made to use locally grown products.
My one regret – that I was there before Spring training so missed the excitement of seeing games by those fifteen teams participating in the Cactus League! But,that is just one of the many reasons to return.
Posted in: Culture, Dining, Points of Interest
Features: Day Trips, Fine Dining, Food, Historical, Hotels & Lodging, Outdoor, Sightseeing, Spas, Wine
Thanks, Jennifer. You are entered in our win a trip to Paris contest. http://editor.blackatlas.com/?p=193
by Venita
Vicariously, step by step I was everywhere. Beautiful escape. I will make it a reality. Douglas B. Williams
by Beaumont
Wonderful and descriptive article!
by tenaciousvirtuosity
Great article...Char
by riverviewfl
You wrote a compelling and mesmerizing article filled with information that kindles all the senses. It’s difficult to imaging that I reside in such close proximity to Phoenix and have never visited. So, I’ll include it in my vacations plans – you inspired me! D.R. Miller
by DRaffington
Great Article. I've always considered visiting Phoenix, but no one was able to sell me on it. Now, I'm definitely well-informed of the cultural opportunities that are well-worth visiting.
by Traci
Great coverage! I'll definitely have some interesting choices next time in Phoenix. Thanks Jennie! CWB
by CWB
What a wonderful article. Not only is the article about Phoenix, Arizona educational, it really allows one to use all of their senses in appreciating what Phoenix has to offer. Now I know what to look for when I travel to that part of our vast country. Thanks.
by Gloria
Hi Jen, What a wonderful article, I thought I was there with you. Keep writing, Debra.
by QueenDebra
Dr. Jen, That was awesome reading, I enjoyed the scenery. Good Luck, Errol Sr.
by corvette
Hi Jennifer - Ah, Phoenix...This mystical city is high on my list for a southwest journey. Thanks for making it sound even more intriguing. Cynthia
by writertoo
Wow, I was right there as you described the entire trip! I will definitely put this location on my list. RetiredAP
by RetiredAP
So there actually is more to the city than a "pretty good" pro Bball team. I now know I could have expected more thanks to this article. Big Ups Jen Peace rwd
by rwd
This is a great article! I'm planning to be in the Phoenix area in April so I can really use the information.
by dmp
I feel that the writing brings the City alive to the reader. It certainly makes Phoenix a City that I would like to visit in the future. I truly enjoyed the article.
by Jerry
Jennifer, A great article! Makes me want to go to Phoenix in the very near future. Hope there will be more in the upcoming months. Jerry and Frank
by Jerry
Jennifer - Such a visually descriptive article! I have been to Phoenix twice, and I felt like I was right there with you...enjoying the sights, scenery and culture. There are many stories that need to be shared with a larger audience pertaining the history of the Native Americans from that region. I also learned about their stories of the American "boarding" schools which is another sad chapter in their history. They too are a resilient people!
by Helen
Hi Jennifer -- Great article! Phoenix is one of my favorites places and you did it justice! Good luck!
by lorianne
Great job Jen! Hope you win!
by Win
Great article Jen. Keep them coming. I visited the smaller Heard Museum in Scottsdale - fantastic! Good luck in the drawing for the trip to Paris. Audrey
by SweetThang
Enjoyed the article immensely. Can't wait to visit Phoenix. Val
by valarie
Wow! I really enjoyed this article. I have always wanted to go to Phoenix "Indian" Country. This was very vivid and detailed. I could actually see the whole experience in my mind's eye. Can you still post the picture of the hummingbird in the nest. Too beautiful and such a rare opportunity! The Art, the food, the spa, the horseback riding, the waterfall! I will be planning me a trip soon! Thanks for the article. Zerasoulsweet@gmail.com
by zerasoulsweet
Hello Jennifer, Always knew you were smart and have a way with words, nice writing. Your article have me well informed and I actually escaped for a moment. I visited Phoenix on a business trip a couple years back but didn't get the oppurtunity to venture out. Hopefully with your well versed article I will have a lot to see and do on the next trip. Love Pauline (TexasCowgirl)
by TexasCowgirl
Thank you.
by Lynda
Great and wonderful job.
by bdomanhart
Sounds like you had a great SW experience! I want to go. In fact, I want to go with you on your next trip.
by jerseyjoan
I'm getting my ticket right away. The writer painted wonderful pictures in my mind and set my tongue alight with the hints of seasonings from the city's fine dining establishments. Oh.... tj
by terryejohnson
Interesting article. Thanks
by April
Jennifer, Thank you for the beautifully engaging "trip" to Phoenix! Your descriptions allowed me to travel to this great city once again! Hope that you will be able to do the same for us once again when you return from Paris! Danielle
by BillieDan
Jen, thanks for this insight. I am sending this to a friend who is considering a move to the Phoenix area!
by AGreatNightOut
Wonderfully expressive writing. Makes me want to travel more!
by freedomreader
Great story as usual - smile. Your writing is very descriptive; I feel like I was there with you. Keep up the good work!
by esk
Great job, Jennifer!
by jamal
I can almost smell the mesquite! Another fascinating place in the Good Ole US of A to explore.Thanks Jen for putting Phoenix on the radar for me and my family.
by Vanessa
In viewing the article, the readership is given the opportunity to visualize the untapped beauty of a city such as Phoenix. What vivd description and clear imagery! Thank you for sharing your talent with us. Jerry
by Jerry
i really enjoyed the article. i haven't been to phoenix yet, but i do plan to go. since reading the article, i am even more intrigued by the culture. i am a fan of culture, and to think that a blanket will be placed at the foot of my bed that was made by the local indigenous people excites me, and beckons me to want to see & explore more of phoenix! oisze
by oisze
Hey Jennifer, Although I've never been to Phoenix, I feel that I have experienced much of the beauty of a city that I would certainly like to visit in the immediate future. Thanks for a clear description and for the opportunity to visit a new place without leaving home. Frank
by Jerry
Golfing and "pampering" - sounds like my kind of vacation! Judy
by Jerry
Hi Jennie, This is a fantastic article; I have to visit for myself.
by sybil
Hi Jenie, awesome; I will be etraveling to that area of the country in the near future; thank you, you have made it easy for me to decide on what to do for a week.
by Aston
Jen, I love the area as well. You have tempted me to return and visit all the sights, sounds and tastes that you describe. Marilyn
by MarilynLee
Great article. I definitely want to visit Phoenix!!
by Mitzi
Jen, I loved your Phoenix article and you looked like you were having fun:) Jen, I hope you win!!
by CJ
Haven't been to Phoenix in years but your article makes me want to give it another go. Who knew there were so many fun, cultural things to see and do? Thanks.
by angelat
Great article Jennifer. I enjoyed reading it, wonderful description, makes me want to experience it for myself someday. Hope you win the trip to Paris! Dawn
by DD
Jen..This article is really fantastic. It makes me realize that knowledge is really the path to excellence, because it has opened up my horizon culturally. Congratulation on a job well done. Hugh Dyer
by hugh
hi jen what a beautiful story just shows how travelling can broden on's horizon thanks for sharing
by jean
makes me want to leave today!!! Great description.
by abitofospice
Hi Jen Your wnderful article took me back. I visited in the Phoenix area about six times in the nineties on my way to visit friends and do workshops in the Tempe and Sedonna areasjust. I plan to get out that way again later this year or early next and will definitely consider some of the sites you experenced. This desert is one on my favorite spots on earth and brings a big smile to my face just thinking of it. Thanks for b ringing this to my attention Your Gateway book club member.
by joyjoyjoy
Beautiful why did you not tell me I would have joined you
by black