We were up… quite literally in the middle of the night… for today’s completely breathtaking adventure. A hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert. My guys were not exactly thrilled with the 3:30 AM alarm, but by the end of the morning, we could all agree it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Arizona Spring Break
– Sedona: Arrival at Enchantment Resort
– Sedona: Golf Greens & Spa Scenes
– Sedona: A Grand Adventure
– Sedona to Scottsdale: From Red Rocks to Resort Life
– Scottsdale: A Bucket List Day in the Desert
Hot Air Balloon Over Sonoran Desert
From the very beginning, it felt special. We watched the entire process unfold, from the quiet stillness of the desert before sunrise to the incredible moment the balloons came to life and lifted into the sky.
Soon enough, we were soaring 5,000 feet above Scottsdale. It was incredibly smooth and not at all scary. The motion felt almost weightless, without a single bump or jolt. Gliding above the desert as the sun began to rise, with the sky dotted with balloons in every direction… it was simply breathtaking. Peaceful, surreal and one of those moments where the world goes still as you take it all in. Our captain was so kind and knowledgeable, sharing stories and insight about her craft throughout the flight.
After landing, we were treated to a beautiful breakfast right there in the desert. I had the honor of popping the bubbly as she shared the traditional balloonist’s prayer:
The winds have welcomed you with softness,
The sun has blessed you with its warm hands,
You have flown so high and so well
That God has joined you in your laughter,
And set you gently back again
Into the loving arms of Mother Earth.
The entire morning felt almost dreamlike. A true bucket list experience, and one I am so grateful we shared together.
Golf at TPC Scottsdale
Back at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, the boys were off for something they had been so excited about… golf at TPC Scottsdale. Another bucket list moment, all in the same day.
They came back raving about the course, and I loved that they had that experience together. The course actually runs along the resort, and I had every intention of spotting them out there… but I was fully settled into a pool chair with a book and completely missed their text.
Fairmont Princess Scottsdale
While they were on the course, I took the day as slow as possible. I took the chance to explore the resort a bit more through a different lens… as a mom, a wife, a friend and a travel advisor. And it only reinforced what I was already thinking. For anyone looking for a truly relaxing, elevated resort getaway that offers something for everyone, this needs to be on your list. There is so much here for families and kids, but it also does an incredible job catering to adults – couples, groups of men and groups of women. Thoughtful spaces, beautiful pools, great lounges, golf and a truly decadent spa experience would make even the most discerning guests happy. It reminded me in many ways of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, which has long been one of my favorite recommendations for this style of trip.
Feeling like I’d already accomplished enough to call it a day, I sat down on the patio at Ironwood for breakfast number two… a party of one… with a full pot of coffee (very necessary after that early wake-up) and the most beautiful salmon toast. Almost too pretty to eat.
And in one of those unexpected little moments, I found myself completely fascinated by the hawk handler stationed on the patio, ensuring no birds interrupted the experience. Just another detail that made the whole setting feel so polished and thoughtful.
From there, it was straight to the pool. Front row chair. Oversized umbrella. Book in hand. I was perfectly content. With two breakfasts under my belt, lunch was unnecessary. I spent the afternoon exactly as intended… soaking up the sun and doing absolutely nothing.
We reconvened in the Fairmont Gold Lounge so the boys could tell me all about their round and grab a few drinks and a bite.
Old Town Scottsdale & The Mission Dinner
After a much-needed siesta for all, Honey and I headed out to Old Town Scottsdale for the evening. Old Town was charming and well worth the visit. We wandered through the shops a bit before settling in for dinner at The Mission, which was absolutely delicious.
Whit had a big calculus project due the following week and was completely worn out from the day, so he stayed back at the resort to relax and get a little work done. And after a day that started before sunrise, it was lights out for all of us by 9 PM.
Let’s Travel & My Services
As a Premier Level Advisor with Glass Slipper Concierge, I am recognized for providing the highest level of service, experience, and industry knowledge. I use personal connections and firsthand expertise to craft bespoke vacations for discerning clients who value thoughtful planning and elevated experiences.
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