America's Best Idea

Saguaro National Park

During our scenic drive from Phoenix to Tucson, the pronunciation debate about 'Sa-gua-ro' or 'Sa-wah-ro' sparked a lively discussion. My mom and I insisted on the former, while my sister leaned towards the latter, each of us armed with our arguments. It wasn't until we reached Tucson that we learned the correct pronunciation: 'Sah-WAR-oh.' We couldn't help but laugh at our previous mispronunciations and the amusing debate that had filled our journey.

Saguaro National Park is split into two districts: the Rincon Mountain District to the east of Tucson, and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. Initially established as Saguaro National Monument in 1933, it grew over time. The addition of the Saguaro Wilderness Area, spanning 71,400 acres, took place in 1975. Finally, in 1994, these areas merged to create Saguaro National Park, covering a total of 91,327 acres across its two districts.

These iconic saguaros are the largest cacti in the nation, reaching heights of up to 50 feet and living for over 150 years. What sets them apart is their ability to develop "arms," a process that takes about 75 years to grow their first one.

Exploring the trails in Saguaro National Park felt like entering a different world. Growing up in the Coachella Valley in Southern California, I've seen many cacti, but none like these towering saguaros. Walking among them, the desert was quiet, as if holding its breath. Each cactus seemed to have its own personality, with intricate patterns carved by the elements, showcasing their resilience. As we ventured deeper, I was amazed at the saguaros standing tall against the desert backdrop. Their presence reminded me of the rugged beauty of the desert landscape, where every visit feels like a homecoming, reconnecting me with nature's power and beauty.

I'm naturally drawn to various landscapes like mountains, oceans, and deserts due to my love for nature. However, there's something truly special about the desert that resonates deeply with me. Despite its infrequent rainfall, the desert blooms with vibrant flowers, offers views of snow-capped mountains in the distance, and presents a stark beauty that captivates the soul. While scorching temperatures dominate the days, the evenings bring a refreshing breeze, and gazing up at the thousands of stars overhead is truly mesmerizing. I affectionately refer to it as my "desert therapy" because each visit leaves me feeling refreshed and deeply connected to its unique beauty. The vast, open spaces and the serene solitude of the desert have a calming effect on me, allowing me to escape the chaos of daily life and find inner peace amidst the stunning landscape.

After exploring the park my foodie pick was Mi Nidito Restaurant. It was hands down the best Mexican food I had ever tasted. I ordered the President's Plate: Bean Tostada, Birria Taco, Chile Relleno, Chicken Enchilada, and Beef Tamale – Bill Clinton's Famous Meal when he dined there back in 1999. Despite knowing the ingredients listed on the menu, each bite was a delightful surprise, leaving nothing but an empty plate when I finished. I couldn't help but say, "I don't know what I'm eating, but it's so freaking delicious!" Each bite was washed down with a margarita, making the meal absolutely perfect.

Our stay at the Marriott's Starr Pass Resort & Spa was nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to the Marriott perks we've accumulated over the years. We were fortunate to be upgraded to the best room we've ever had, and the views were simply breathtaking. The colors of the sunrise – orange, yellow, and gray – painted the sky in a mesmerizing display each morning, setting the perfect tone for the day ahead as I unrolled my yoga mat and breathed in the desert air. The pool was so inviting with its refreshing waters, and let me tell you about the bed – it felt like sleeping on a cloud! I've never felt so comfortable in my life. In fact, the experience was so remarkable that upon returning home, I promptly ordered the same bed for our house. Now, every time I slip into bed, I'm transported back to our unforgettable desert adventure and the unparalleled comfort we enjoyed at Starr Pass.