Blazing Arizona
Shadows resort perhaps the most ideal, yet challenging, way for even an experienced golfer to swing the clubs. (mountainshadows.com, from $35pp).
The nearby Top Golf is a friendly, fun, alternative with misters and cocktails to cool you down as you hack away (topgolf.com, from $4.16pp).
The endless activities on offer definitely build up an appetite. FnB, a trendy restaurant in the heart of the Old Town, is a favourite among wine lovers. Chef Charleen Badman is known for her elevated vegetable creations (fnbrestaurant.com).
But you cannot visit Scottsdale without visiting Bryan’s BBQ, where smells from the smoker have you salivating as you walk through the door. The slab pork ribs, beef brisket, chicken and pulled pork do not disappoint, with flavoursome, melt-in-yourmouth recipes confirming Bryan’s reputation as Arizona’s premier barbecue (bryansbarbecue.com).
A short drive away is the Buffalo Chip Saloon where bull riding pulls in the natives on Wednesdays and Fridays. Entrance is free and it could easily be mistaken for the set of a John Wayne western. Locals enjoy line-dancing, live music and cheering on those who dare to ride the “suicide sirloin”. (buffalochipsaloon.com).
Eventually, you’ll want to unwind by a pool and Hotel Valley Ho provides the perfect setting.
The four-star hotel, a sister of the equally superb Mountain Shadows resort, is a true icon of downtown Scottsdale.
In the 1950s and 60s, it became a hideaway for Hollywood celebrities such as Bing Crosby, Tony Curtis, Janet Leigh and Zsa Zsa Gabor and it has retained its hip roots to the present day, with a luxury twist.
So, whether you’re looking to unplug or get charged up, Scottsdale offers an unforgettable escape that leaves you feeling better than when you arrived.
Save up to £93pp on a week’s B&B at the four-star Bella Vista Hotel in St Paul’s Bay. Departs from Bristol on October 31. loveholidays.com, 020 3870 6844 P&O has unveiled its summer 2020 programme with 160 cruises including a range of themed itineraries. Passengers will be able to get their gladrags on for Strictly Come Dancing sailings with some of the professional dancers and watch the most glamorous race on the Formula One calendar, on the narrow streets of Monaco.
There’s also a chance to tuck in with the line’s Food Heroes – Marco Pierre White, Olly Smith and Eric Lanlard – as they host master-classes, book signings, Q&As and private dinners.
Other themes will embrace classical music and offer coaching by sporting legends. P&O’s fleet will also offer 10 overnight calls so passengers can enjoy the nightlife in cities such as New York, Amsterdam, Boston and Dubai. Cruises go on sale from September 19.