Phoenix Hotels

In Egyptian mythology, the phoenix consumed itself in fire and rose from the ashes. Newcomers to Phoenix, Arizona may well believe that their goose is cooked. Let there be no mistake, Phoenix is a city in the sun, and no luxurious trappings are going to keep you from breaking a sweat.

Although it's the largest city in the southwest, Phoenix's greatest attraction is the land that surrounds it: a vast expanse of untamed desert. As the state capital, Phoenix is as modern as any American metropolis, with an active arts scene and a brisk economy.

From September through April, Phoenix enjoys mild weather and cultural events aplenty. Autumn is the choicest time to visit weather-wise, though the early months of spring have all the best festivals. Those hardy souls who brave a visit in summer can witness the mercury riding above 100°F (38°C) for weeks on end, commonly climbing well over 110°F (43°C) in midsummer. Summer is also monsoon season, when late afternoon thunderstorms blast the area and flash flooding becomes a concern for hikers. During the hottest spells, nobody does much of anything during daylight hours unless they're in an air-conditioned zone.