Golf Course 4

Tucson, Arizona has a way of making other parts of the country seem less than stellar, especially during the winter months. Sunny days, ample outdoor opportunities and a vibrant community make this desert oasis worth a visit, so don t feel bad as you temporarily replace your homeland with a climate and backdrop that are a little easier on the senses.

Nothing is better than chasing down some fine weather after having been shoveling snow, bundling up, and scraping your car for the past few weeks or months. As you step into the realm of the 60 s and 70 s, your mood will lift as your temperature does, and you ll gladly shed your layers as you grab your flip

flops and sunglasses. All seasons are desirable in their own way (summers are pretty steamy but some people like that) but Tucson definitely tends to attract its fair share of snowbirds.

The best way to immerse yourself in Tucson s gifts is to put on your sturdiest shoes and hit take advantage of the great outdoors. From golf courses to Botanical Gardens, Zoos to hiking trails, everyone will be inundated with opportunities to get some exercise while reconnecting with Mother Nature. Coronado National Forest is great for hiking, biking, picnicking and fishing, among other things. Mt. Lemmon looms above, reaching an altitude of over 6,000 feet and even accumulates enough snow to ski on during the winter.

Bicycle enthusiasts will feel right

at home in Tucson, as many cyclists tend to both travel and live here. Paths and off-road opportunities accommodate every style and skill level, and frequent races, including the Tour de Tucson that is held each November, nurture a competitive yet friendly spirit. Whether you want to fit your regular bicycle workout into your vacation or try something new while you have the chance, this is the place to pedal your little heart out.

Culture mavens will also find ways to satisfy their urge to engage in a few enriching activities thanks to the rich history and pulsating arts community of Tucson. The University of Arizona Art Museum has an impressive collection and several smaller galleries illustrate talented local creative spirits.

Military forts and adobe homes reflect the stories of days gone by, as do the artifacts, books and letter preserved by the state Historical Society. Basically, there s a way to keep your brain alive while you re here, so balance your outdoor pursuits with those that are mentally nourishing.

There s plenty of time for pure fun and frivolity, too, including eye-popping retail stores, sporting events, theatre and music, and many yearly festivals and special events. One of the largest gem and mineral shows in the world is held here each February, and takes place at various locations across the city. Street fairs with merchants and yummy food, a huge folk festival, and rodeo week are further examples of Tucson

s sense of revelry, so plan a trip to coincide with at least one of these to get a true picture of the town s personality.

Tucson residents are proud of their home; from the giant A that represents the University s influence to the well-kept parks, this is a busy little place that makes a perfect haven for vacationers seeking relief from any number of things; bad weather, a hectic and stressful schedule, or the simple monotony of being in one place for too long. Most people know when it s time for a break, and are wise to do something about it.

A wonderful way to squeeze every drop of enjoyment from this trip would be to rent a vacation

home just off the beaten path so as to enjoy a healthy dose of privacy and comfort in addition to all the stimulating activities that the city will offer you. Imagine unpacking your suitcase into a spacious house as opposed to a boxy hotel room, and experiencing the option of cooking a meal in your kitchen, kicking back on the patio, or soaking for a bit in your hot tub. Hopefully you ll have time for each of these simple luxuries, so clear a good block of time from your schedule today so as to give Tucson it s due.

The warm air, wide open spaces, laid-back vibe and impressive number of Tucson Vacation Rentals have convinced scores of travelers to

head south for a bit, and you could be next. Start checking out the situation, and let Tucson give you a sweet reprieve.

Visit HomeAway.com for all your vacation rental needs.