Scottsdale - Princess or Hyatt?
 

My husband and I are planning a trip to Scottsdale in early March and cannot decide between the Hyatt Regency and Princess resorts. Any thoughts?

Hi Kim, <BR> <BR>My husband and I stayed at the Hyatt Gainey Ranch in October and could not have been happier. It was the end of our honeymoon, so that probably helped, but the Hyatt was a fantastic experience all around. <BR> <BR>We made use of everything: the beautiful pools, swim-up bar and outdoor juice bar, concierge desk who got us great reservations for dinner, bikes to ride around the area, room service, etc. The on-premises restaurants make it easy to stay right where you are. And the rooms are beautiful, the bathrooms fantastic, the service great without being stuffy. <BR> <BR>I would highly recommend the Hyatt to any couple or family looking for quiet relaxation. Hope you enjoy it!

I agree with Susan...The Hyatt is also in a very good location for getting into Phoenix or around Scottsdale, Fountain Hills and Carefree, etc.

My husand and I stayed at the Scottsdale Princess last May and enjoyed it very much. CP Hotels has taken over the Princess Hotels and were in the process of doing some major renovations. We ate at two of the restaurants and had drinks at one. Must say everything was wonderful and found the staff to be exceptionally helpful and friendly. The grounds are huge and wonderful to walk around and admire the gardens. The pool area while not large was very nice and during the day they would offer you free of charge glasses of ice water with lemon and cold face cloths (a very nice touch). They also had vans that would take you to various areas (we went shopping) of interest for $5.00. They also had bottled water in the van (free) for every one. It is next to the TPC golf course home of the Phoenix Open and they would take you over by golf cart for breakfast, lunch or dinner. make sure you go to Sedona and take the Pink Jeep Tour. Have Fun.

Kim: <BR>As a former Scottsdale resident and frequent visitor to the area, I'd sum up by saying you probably won't be disappointed by either the Princess or Hyatt. They are rather different in several ways. The Princess is quite a ways out north and it's a hike back into downtown Scottsdale or to PHX. It is quieter, though, and closer to the more natural desert beauty toward Carefree (north of Scottsdale). The Princess is very spread out, and it can be a hike to the parking lot or restaurants depending on your room location. Pool is nice, but nothing like the Hyatt's. Scenery in the immediate area is prettier at the Hyatt. Rooms we've stayed in at the Princess were better. The Cholla suites there are really pleasant, and adjacent to the pool and main public areas. Very good restaurants at the Princess. Standard rooms are OK at both, but not as nice as, say, the Phoenician's standard rooms. <BR>As above, you'll be pleased either way if you're new to the area.

I don't know what your budget is, but don't forget to inquire about the beautiful, new Four Seasons in Scottsdale!

If you want to experience the most magnificent, romantic view of the sonoran desert and see more stars than you've ever imagined -- not to mention the cutest prairie dogs -- stay at the Princess. It's worth the trip out of the city. Be sure to get a room with a view of the McDowells. :)