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[whereshegoes]

TravelPod Local Expert Chris Marshman currently lives in Arizona and has spent a great deal of time in the Grand Canyon National Park. He teaches backpacking, mountaineering and base camping at the local college.

Chris says:

"Geologically, Arizona is a Backpacker's/Hiker's paradise. Mountain peaks over 12,000 ft, to the Grand Canyon which is a mile deep. Arizona is one of the few States left that the majority of the land is open to the public.

Arizona has been and continues to be influenced by different cultures going back 1000's of years. Arizona is one of the States with the largest Native American populations, many of which live on Reservations that are Sovereign Nations. Basically they're Nations with in a Nation.

Sporting Activities are left only to the Traveler's imagination. White Water Rafting, Mountain Biking, Horseback Riding, Off Road Vehicle Exploration, Caving, and more are all here. How long do you want to go for, a day, a week or more? All it takes is the time and the desire.

The Culinary Arts have found a home in Arizona. Have a bowl of Hualapai (pronounced Wall-a-pie) Stew with a huge chunk of Indian Fry Bread. A Native American dish found only in a small area of Western Arizona. Have one of the best Beef Steaks you'll ever have in Williams, Arizona at a restaurant family owned and operated for nearly a hundred years. Or maybe Chili and Tacos in Yuma, right at the U.S./Mexico border.

But one thing the First Time Traveler to Arizona should know. You will travel through a Native American Indian Reservation at some point in your journey. Reservations are a Sovereign Nation and they operate under their own Laws, different than the U.S. Many Reservations require a travel permit if you're going to explore their lands. Make sure you visit the Reservation Office before you go exploring their lands."

Post all questions to Chris ( UserID: Chrismarshman) here.

[semi-backpacker]

Wow, not sure how I didn't see this question before. Have you taken your trip yet? If not, my recommendation depends on which city you want to go to. If you want to go to Phoenix, I would recommend Camelback Inn by Mariott. My friends stayed there once and I visited. It's a beautiful resort, wonderful views, a bit of luxury, good location, and hiking trails in its backyard:

http://www.camelbackinn.com/

Sedona is 2 hours from Phoenix and known for it's spa/resorts. Also very scenic. I haven't stayed at any resorts there, but have visited many times. Here's a list you may find helpful:

http://www.dreamsedona.com/resorts-spas.html

Good luck!