It is funny how different people's impressions are. As much time as I have spent there, I have always thought So Cal was a big myth and so very pretentious.

Sharon, go and make up your mind for yourself, and repost here to tell us what you thought when you get back. Have a wonderful trip.

Sharon:

Have a great trip and please post a report!!

MY

Spring break 05 my husb. and 4 boys went to Arizona. We did 4 days in sedona, drove up to the Grand Canyon for a day and drove back down to Phoenix. we loved every bit of our trip. Sedona is breathtaking, and yes, there are some hotels, etc. but overlook all that and the views are unbelievable. We hiked a lot, did some ranger led hikes (kids learned a lot) and such. The grand canyon wasn't as awe inspiring to me as Sedona most likely because there have been many documentaries I"ve seen in the past, etc. Too many people...made it not so intimate as hiking in Sedona and not bumping into people every second. We also loved PHoenix as we stayed at a Hilton, rented a cabana and chilled while the kids swam and had a blast. Went to Scottsdale and enjoyed walking through that area as well. We absolutely loved this vaca. We are well traveled and we really had a great, great time. You will love it. Forget the nay sayers.

I agree with raisingcains. This past summer we did the Sedona/GC/Lake Powell/Bryce/Zion/LV trip and our very favorite was Sedona. Incredible views and rock formations. We did several hikes, our favorite being a fairly strenuous one up Cathedral Rock. We visited the touristy stores but concentrated on the scenery. My only complaint is that I would have liked to spend more than our 2 days in Sedona. We'll have to go back soon.

Sharon:

Not sure just when in October you are leaving, but here are a few of my favorites.

http://www.verdecanyonrr.com/

http://www.arizonascenicroads.com/main.aspx

http://www.williamschamber.com/

http://www.wickenburgchamber.com/atractions.asp

http://www.greatbuildings.com/buildi...esin_West.html