A FRESH PERSPECTIVE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017LIFE&STYLESANTA BARBARA

Jewelof The Desert

Written by Robin Berger

The twinkling palms and freshly planted poin-settias elicit a rush of excitement through me as I approach the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. The holidays are in full swing and the expansive property is dazzling. The custom-ized luxury is instantly noted as I’m greeted by name in the lobby by my personal concierge, with a refreshing lemon water and chatter that accu-mulates to her knowing my plans at this extensive playground that I get to explore for the next 24 hours.

I forego the temptation to write a letter to Santa or build a gingerbread house, and instead browse around the open lobby, surveying the dramatic designs that I learn were inspired by the geo-metric patterns of a palm tree. The rich history embedded in the resort evokes a refined sophis-tication that is felt throughout the chic atmo-sphere. The cream colored couches are sprinkled with guests sipping on cocktails from Wright’s Bar. Laughter and clinking glasses subtly echo

amongst the harmony of festive music. This is what the holidays are all about.

I stroll out through the sliding doors and land at the golf course worthy lawn encircled by outdoor fireplaces and urban furniture, perfect for s’mo-res, a blanket and a cocktail or two. As I mean-der to my room I stumble across a life size chess board and I flashback to my dad teaching me the game as a little girl. Maybe I can finally put those skills to good use and find a fellow guest to prop-erly checkmate. Lush greenery lines the cobble-stone pathway to my suite and the tranquil sound of a waterfall in the distance foreshadows the se-rene interiors layered throughout my room. The winter sun spreads across one of the property’s eight pools and peeks through the floor to ceil-ing sliding glass doors leading out to my private patio. I settle in and snack on the complimentary fruit, relaxing through the pages of my novel just before heading off to my spa treatment.

Memories of holidays past at Arizona Biltmore

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Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

2400 E Missouri AvenuePhoenix, AZ

(602) 955-6600arizonabiltmore.com

Entering the award-winning spa, the aromas of luxurious essential oils and lavender paint the lounge with the utmost ease and stress relief. Prior to my full body massage I glimpse at the extravagant tub covered in deep blue tiles, plush plants and bright floral arrangements, accompa-nied by a steam room, sauna and power shower. I know I’ll be dipping into these spa amenities long after my treatment. The Jewel of the Des-ert massage delicately makes its mark on my mind and body with warm stones and massage techniques that leave me in a state of pure bliss. After learning about my body chakras and the energy and calmness the body oils give, I slowly open my eyelids. In a state of grace I detox in the steam room with a tall glass of infused spa water. My stomach is yearning for a tasty meal so din-ner is becoming my only thought as the steam cleanses my pores. On my chilly walk to Wright’s at the Biltmore I smile as I look up at the lit Christmas tree and surrounding fire places and palm trees. I’m welcomed to the restaurant by bold interiors and ornaments hanging from the opulent chande-liers. After a pleasant greeting with the hostess I join Samantha, who is the brains behind the marketing at the Biltmore, at a stone table in the middle of the restaurant. We both order the Absolut-ly Wright cocktail with Absolut Vodka, triple sec, cranberry, and sparkling wine. With the perfect mix of holiday spice and bubbles on my taste buds, we cheers and hone in on what sets this resort apart from the rest. I uncover that the customized attention to detail and artistic yet

contemporary taste of the resort hints at the old and new history. While perusing the menu, Sa-mantha notes that Wright’s focuses on local and fresh ingredients. I order the Glazed Heritage Pork Belly with sopapillas, cajeta, roasted pobla-no chile, and saguaro syrup. I’m informed that it’s the most expensive syrup made. When our dinner is set on the table before us I think I made the right decision. The dense and fatty pork melts in my mouth and the authentic and rare taste of the pricey syrup leaves me in awe. To go with our meals, we order the glazed Brussels sprouts, corn bread, mashed potatoes, and mushrooms. I feel like Thanksgiving is happening twice. To finish we get not one, but two soufflés, both vanilla and chocolate. Agreeing with the waiter, this pillow like dessert is pure happiness. I wake up early for a morning summit hike to discover the surrounding Sonoran Desert. The Phoenix Mountains Preserve holds extensive trails covered in light orange sandstone, making this desert morning one of exquisite beauty. As the sun tops the lengthy trail I breathe in the fresh air and take in the picturesque nature that borders the path. I finish my morning at Frank & Albert’s with a savory eggs Benedict and finger-ling potato hash. I sip on the complimentary mango smoothie while I consume the majority of my flavorful brunch entree. As I make my way to the airport and reflect on all that the Arizona Biltmore encompasses I come to the notion that this is a resort I want to explore for a lot longer than just 24 hours.*

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