May 31

May 31 Oasis in the Desert

While in Scottsdale, I got to spend a couple of days at the Andaz Resort and Spa. This trip couldn’t have come at a better time since it was about a week before my birthday and I was pretty burnt out from work. Most days I am up at 4:30AM, which should be against the law, so I was really looking forward to getting a massage, eating carbs and laying poolside.

This photo doesn't do the shower justice

The immaculately manicured grounds are located near the Camelback Mountains, and feature modern architecture with flourishes of cacti and other native plants. It was majestic (af). The single-level, long, flat and rectangular design gave me Frank Lloyd Wright vibes. I think my favorite feature was the insanely huge shower for two. I like my water set on “hell” or “magma”, and my husband actually respects his skin and likes his water within the normal range of warm to hot. We could finally shower together without him suffering second-degree burns or me shivering.

Complimentary sparkling wine and chocolates for my our special stay

Since they knew it was a special occasion, there was champagne awaiting us in the room and I got the royal treatment at the spa. Mani, pedi and massage as well as full use of the steam rooms, relaxation pools (there were two!) and the welcome room. I absolutely did not want to leave but I was out of monies, so I had no choice (help me, I’m poor).

Before departing for the airport, the hotel’s restaurant, Warp and Weft, packed up our breakfast for the plane. All of the condiments were TSA-ready, with wrapped cutlery and extra drinks for the road. We were “that couple” on the plane eating blue corn pancakes, chicken sausage, green chile pork and poached eggs. I can assure you that was the fanciest food to grace a Southwest tray table.

If you're in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area, definitely check out the Andaz Resort and Spa. They have some great deals during the summer, and the Palo Verde Spa was reasonably priced considering the breadth of services and beautiful, new facilities. If you get three services in one day (like I did), you get 20% off. I definitely recommend working with Ellen to plan out your day, visiting Courtney for a luxurious mani/pedi with a mimosa, and booking Brynn for a sports massage.