Platform 18 Review – High-End Cocktails on a Simulated Train

Immersive cocktail bars are becoming all the rage these days, as the ambiance and overall experience of the space are becoming almost as important as the cocktails themselves.

At Platform 18 in Phoenix, you board a smuggler’s train trying to elude the authorities and get a high-end cocktail experience in the train’s bar car when along for the ride.

This is one of those spots where everything truly comes together to be better than the sum of the parts!

Read more

The Musical Instrument Museum is a Must-See in Phoenix

We are big fans of music, and whenever we travel somewhere featuring a museum dedicated to music in any fashion (be it for an artist, composer, or a single instrument), we are there.

In Phoenix, this led us to the Musical Instrument Museum, considered the largest in the world, with a collection of over 15,000 instruments from nearly 200 countries and regions. 

To say that the Musical Instrument Museum is large is an understatement, and it is truly a must-see when in the area!

Read more

Sky Rock Sedona Review – A Room With a View

Whenever we travel to a beautiful destination, we almost always attempt to book a room with a view to soak in as much as we can while at the hotel.

In Sedona, this goal led us to Sky Rock Sedona, a newly renovated hotel in the Marriott brand that boasted some incredible views (at prices to match).

While the view at this one was excellent, some layout quirks made this one an interesting, albeit still quite comfortable, stay. When visiting Sky Rock Sedona, a little planning may go a long way here! 

Read more

Tips for the Bright Angel Trail at the Grand Canyon

The Bright Angel Trail at the Grand Canyon is one of the most popular hikes from the South Rim as it is one of the only few opportunities you have to head down into the canyon proper.

But while the hike does give the chance to enjoy some beautiful scenery, the hike down requires a hike back up, and the climb out of the canyon can be quite intense.

As such, while you can get some gorgeous views, you better be well-prepared when tackling this one- especially during the heat of summer!

📍 Hiking the Bright Angel Trail – What to Know

  • Hiking Into the Canyon: The Bright Angel Trail is an excellent hike for those who want to go down inside the Grand Canyon properly, but requires hiking at least three miles before you can get a view of Havasupai Gardens
  • Be Careful on Distances: The Bright Angel Trail can be a rim-to-river trail; however, it is not recommended to hike down to the river and back up in a single day- many visitors turn around at Havasupai Gardens for a 5-6 hour hike or plan for a multi-day hike
  • What Goes Down Must Come Up: The descend into the Grand Canyon is several thousand feet in vertical elevation change, and climbing back out requires significant exertion- be careful to have enough water and not get overheated hiking here

Looking to reserve an apartment near the Grand Canyon? Click here to book.

Read more