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Here is a tale of two desert states: Arizona and Nevada. That’s why I’m here to tell you why linking a trip to both states is the ultimate travel hack for a perfectly-paced escape. My journey started in Chicago, and would you believe I scored my round-trip flight for $298?
My first leg was from MDW to PHX and then onward to LAS. If you are flying Southwest, you can’t be afraid to play the rebooking game. I saved $62 on the outbound flight and $25 on the return simply by checking for lower fares twice a week. That is $87 in savings. Now, a friendly word of advice before you pack your bags: plan for the heat. I made this trip at the end of July, and let me tell you, Arizona and Nevada are not messing around. I am talking sizzling temperatures, so be prepared with plenty of sunscreen.
My first stop in Arizona was, of course, to see my grandbaby. I was lucky enough to book a spacious one-bedroom unit at the Hilton Vacation Club Scottsdale Mirage Villa, thanks to redeeming 55% fewer Club Points in my timeshare portfolio. The property was a short 10-minute ride from Desert Ridge Mall, which is perfect even if you’re using Uber or Lyft. My second stop was AZ/88. I ordered the halibut. Finally, I went shopping. Every state has different merchandise, so I always make a point to visit my favorite stores, H&M, Marshalls, and Ross. I also discovered a new happy hour gem: Kona Grill. Their shrimp tempura and sliders were delicious.
One of the highlights of my time in Arizona was visiting the OdySea Aquarium. If you’re looking for a cool escape from the desert heat, you have to go. My bonus grandbaby and I spent three hours exploring the exhibits, and trust me, there’s a reason this place is a must-do. Your first stop should be the restroom near the entrance. While you wash your hands, look in the mirror to see sharks swim by. It’s a surreal and super cool experience. I had a blast watching the grandbaby participate in the penguin race. She also touched the silky skin of stingrays and got immersed in a virtual reality exhibit for just a few extra dollars. Don’t skip the OdySea Voyager exhibit either. It’s a unique rotating aquarium ride that gives you a stunning, 360-degree view of the underwater world.
After a wonderful time in Arizona, I hopped over to Las Vegas, where I met a friend at the airport. This time, I used a 75% Club Points offer to book a massive 986-square-foot, two-bedroom unit with a huge balcony at Hilton Vacation Club Cancun Resort Las Vegas. The views were incredible, even if we couldn’t quite catch the sunrise or sunset from our room.
Although I had attended an update in Arizona, I attended another one in Nevada. The rule is that you can attend updates back-to-back as long as the properties are in different regions. I earned 75,000 Hilton Honors points at each update. Additionally, I attended a special dinner and music event in the activity center. I selected prime rib, lime rice, and mashed potatoes. Oh, the cocktails were complimentary.
While in Vegas, I had to channel my inner Phil Rosenthal from Somebody Feed Phil and make a pilgrimage to Gritz Cafe. The place is on the west side of North Vegas and appears larger on television. I ordered the sweet potato waffle and a grits bowl with cheddar cheese, jalapeño, and turkey bacon. The waffle had tiny pieces of sweet potato throughout and was so big, yet I ate the whole thing. The grits bowl was also fantastic. I cut up my turkey bacon and mixed it all in, so every spoonful was a perfect blend of cheesy, spicy, and savory goodness. However, I prefer my grits a little creamier, but that’s just a personal preference.
Traveling from state to state back-to-back is a game-changer. I don’t believe in packing seven days’ worth of clothes, so I packed four days’ worth and wore the same outfits in Nevada that I did in Phoenix. Who’s going to know, right? Both properties had great amenities, including on-site restaurants and happy hour. The in-room washer and dryer unit at Mirage was a lifesaver, and I’m so glad I was able to do laundry in Arizona before heading to Vegas. The next time you’re thinking of a vacation to either Arizona or Nevada, don’t choose just one. Link them together for an unforgettable adventure that gives you the best of both desert worlds.
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