Courtesy The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa
Of all of the cities in the U.S. operating under a duality, I find myself drawn back to one in particular time and time again: Scottsdale. Known as “The West’s Most Western Town,” this locale embraces its laid back desert ambiance while simultaneously styling itself as a contemporary destination with plenty to offer in terms of art, shopping, dining and nightlife. The city has undergone a renaissance in recent years, becoming well known as a “hip” spot akin to trendy areas like Miami, Atlanta and San Francisco, also establishing itself as a tourism hotbed in general. This due in large part to the good folks at the Scottsdale Convention and Visitors Bureau who do a masterful job showcasing the myriad of travel treasures this city has to offer. The allure of Scottsdale is not surprising given the throngs of well-known restaurants, bars and nightclubs dotting the downtown area, with many catering to the style-minded millennial population. The city hosts many annual cultural events that are a draw unto themselves, like the Scottsdale International Film Festival, the Arabian Horse Show and the Barrett-Jackson Auto Show. A variety of locally-owned art galleries and studios grace the city, along with the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Scottsdale is also home to a bevy of chic boutique and world-renowned retail shops. I?m personally partial to Scottsdale’s “Fashion Square,” which i...