A "Great Escape" doesn't have to be exotic, expensive or extraordinary. It can be a hike through the San Tan Mountains or a dinner at Eddie's House in Old Town Scottsdale. It can be a romantic evening or a family night, an afternoon with friends or time to yourself. A "Great Escape" can be any experience that takes you out of your every day routine. In my opinion, we don't allow ourselves enough of them.

I decided to start this blog as a way to highlight some of Arizona's "Great Escapes." While researching my book, Great Escapes Arizona (available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com), I realized I was just scratching the surface of what Arizona has to offer, and I wanted to be able to share some of the experiences I didn't have enough space to include in the book. This is my opportunity to do just that. In the entries to come, I'll write about everything from my experiences at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to my visit to the Desert Wells Stagecoach Stop in Queen Creek.

Be sure to check in regularly since I intend to update frequently.