Saturday, February 27, 2016

Arizona Tracks - Tucson

Whether it be by plane, train, car or by foot exploring our world is a wonderful gift that should be unwrapped carefully and with much attention. 
Many years ago a favorite aunt advised me to choose a destination and explore! We still enjoy discussing travel adventures and she assures me that she is exploring and learning with me through my blog. 

A note about my photographs. All photos are intended for viewing on the internet. Please enjoy while viewing the blog. 

Road trip! 

Arizona varies greatly from border to border. An adventurer can literally ski in the morning and after making a two hour road trip enjoy a dinner in the desert that evening. Large metropolitan areas contrast greatly to vast, wide open vistas. A friend and I were recently discussing our beloved state and favorite regions. Tucson was brought up and we decided a road trip was necessary! 

After cruising through Phoenix we stopped in the city of Marana for breakfast. Always fun to try local restaurants and meet locals. Breakfast was at Cattleman's Cafe. Yes, in the middle of a cattle yard and on Wednesdays the cattle auction is in progress. Thank goodness we were not there on a Wednesday. Being in the cattle yard was enough for this vegetarian. 

Tucson is the second largest metropolitan area in Arizona. It combines old west and hip, urban vibes. A unique city that has a lot to see. Our first stop was San Xavier Mission. Also known as the White Dove of the Desert. 
Learn more; http://www.sanxaviermission.org
















Downtown Tucson is a lively area that combines history, cafes, galleries and shops. Hotel Congress is a required stop! 
Learn more; http://hotelcongress.com/history/

















The day following our mission and downtown adventure we headed to Saguaro National Park. The park has two regions within the Tucson area. Our hike was in the eastern section of the park. A five mile hike led by a volunteer offered many fantastic views. Lace up your boots and enjoy the scenery while you join me on the hike! 
Learn more; https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Saguaro%20Cactus.php
http://www.nps.gov/sagu/index.htm






Our volunteer hike guide. He told me he has been retired 26 years and has loved every minute. What a positive soul and an inspiration! 










Traveling-It leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.
~ Ibn Battuta 

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