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The correct spelling of Phoenix should not be “Phoenix.”
It’s more like, P…H...O…E…N…I…X. The city is that spread out. Don’t believe me, Google Earth it and see for yourself. There are two clusters of skyscrapers several miles apart, and by “clusters” I still mean one building per block, maybe. They’ve really taken the whole “manifest destiny” thing to heart. Come Super Bowl time (the Cardinals’ new stadium in adjacent Glendale is this year’s host), I expect Phoenix to get very favorable reviews, because there’s plenty of room for everybody. It’s a striking contrast from the Shock’s previous road destination, Indianapolis, a nice midwestern city where just about every popular attraction or trendy locale – sporting venue, restaurant, mall, etc. – is within walking distance of most hotels, or, at worst, a $20 cab ride.
I bring this up because I discovered Tuesday, Phoenix is not Indianapolis. I was told I had to check out the “media hotel,” which turned out to stand for “vacation-resort paradise” – and after a $30-something cab ride, I did. And you know what? It would’ve been worth it … if I was staying there. Now I’m just jealous. (No offense, Ritz-Carlton.) See what I mean?
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Welcome to the South Pointe Mountain Resort. The fountain in front of the main building isn’t even the biggest. I came across three or four gorgeous fountains just walking around – of course, I got lost trying to find them. This resort, like the city in which it resides, could be described as “sprawling.” |
One of the several suite buildings housing the WNBA staff and media members this week. Looks like they should be comfy, too. I’ve got to say, kudos to the WNBA for picking this place. Classy. |
One of the smaller pools scattered across the resort. There’s also an Olympic-sized swimming pool on the premises. Again, I can’t find it. I’m surprised there was no here. It was 8:30 a.m. – prime sunbathing time. Try laying out under the scorching mid-day sun at your own peril. |
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The balcony view from one of the suites (click for larger). Apparently, Rustler’s Rooste is quite the cowboy bar. The structure in the middle is a waterslide, beneath it a brook that runs through the golf course.
Click here for Part 2... | ||