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Where to stay in Phoenix, Arizona? You can stay at the Hyatt Regency Phoenix, Hyatt Place Scottsdale/Old Town, Embassy Suites Phoenix-Scottsdale, or the Embassy Suites Phoenix Airport. Yes, I stayed at all four hotels. However, I chose the AC Hotel Phoenix for this visit. The location and amenities were perfect.
When my plans fell through to go to the Bulls game in Memphis, I traveled to Phoenix. Perfect planning. Who knew Southwest would have a travel advisory for southern states? Unfortunately, this is the second time I booked a flight at the last minute to Phoenix. Fortunately, My nephew gave me a $100 Southwest gift card for Christmas. In addition, the fare for my Cabo trip went down. I earned a $49 travel fund and applied it to the Phoenix flight. Instead of paying $438 for this flight, my cost was $289. Wait, there is more. On January 11, 2022, the fare decreased by $50. The final cost of the flight to Phoenix was $239.
While on the plane, I booked a standard king room with a city view. I wanted to be close to D, so I chose the AC Hotel Phoenix Downtown. Because I have A-List Preferred status, my Wi-Fi is free. The Marriott Bonvoy app is on my phone. I also looked for transportation options. If I used Lyft, I could earn Delta SkyMiles or Hilton Honors Points because both are my selected travel rewards partners. I could also take the Valley Metro Rail to save a few dollars. The hotel is only 10 minutes from the airport. Of course, D picked me up.
If you are looking for a swimming pool, book at another hotel. Of course, this was not an issue because it was January. When I checked in, I received an upgrade to a higher floor and a complimentary bottle of Perrier. The room was clean, and I had a great view of the city from the 12th floor. I also looked at the view from each window on my floor. However, I did not visit the fitness center to see the panoramic views of the city. If you do not want to hang out in your room, hang out on the 1st floor. Do you need additional space? Walk outside the hotel to find outdoor seating and the path to the Arizona Center Shops. I was hungry, so I stopped by the AC Lounge.
My go-to restaurant in Arizona is AZ/88, but I wanted to do something different. Besides, The Counter in Phoenix had closed. Can you say Happy Hour? The AC Lounge has the best Happy Hour prices I have ever seen. Although the regular menu cocktail prices were reasonable, I ordered their version of an old-fashioned for $7. It was delicious. If you like cheese/meat boards, try the Bruschetta trio. Even after tipping, I only spent $21 at the lounge. D picked me up later, and we dined at The Golden Margarita. Order the turkey burger and sweet potato fries. There are several restaurants at the Arizona Center, and I had lunch at Hooters and dinner at Jersey Mike’s on Sunday. I am fascinated with Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, and Matt’s Big Breakfast was near the hotel.
On my last day, we dined at Matt’s Big Breakfast. If you like smashed avocado toast, be prepared to use a knife and fork to eat this meal. I also enjoyed a slice of thick-cut bacon. The waffles were delicious, according to D. I was disappointed to learn green tea is not available. After my goodbyes to the family, D dropped me off at the airport. My flight was at 2:00PM, so I went to the Centurion Lounge. Yes, I ate breakfast at 9:00AM, but going to the lounge is not solely about the food. Never sit at the gate again. What are your credit card travel benefits?
Even though I booked this trip late, the lower fare and using a travel fund allowed me to save a few dollars. I also earned AAdvantage miles because I participate in the American Airlines Dining Program. I know I was on a Southwest flight. However, I need to keep my American Airlines account active. You can earn points without flying by using your linked credit cards at specific restaurants to earn miles. Are you looking for more travel tips? Check out my website.
