Phoenix in a nutshell:

Definitely one for the ‘Only in America’ file, the ever expanding city of Phoenix has risen, err, like a Phoenix, from the baking Sonora desert. Water is pumped in via an incredible network of irrigation canals in order to keep this thriving metropolis satiated. Phoenix’s climate, especially the warm and dry winters, is a huge draw, and easy access to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery adds to the city’s appeal.

More suggestions for finding cheap flights to Phoenix

Phoenix Sky Harbor International airport is one of the major hubs in the southwest of the US . Much of its growth has been attributed to low-cost carriers such as Southwest and American West airlines, but the recent merger of the latter with ailing carrier US Airways might create the possibility of more competition being available on international flights to Phoenix . In the meantime plenty of connections are available via other major gateways such as Chicago and Atlanta.

Mini Guide to Phoenix 

Subject to a huge renovation project in recent years, Phoenix has been reworked into a sort of scale-model L.A., all strip malls and connecting highways. This is an extremely spaced-out destination, tempting even the most environmentally conscious into their nearest Avis Rent-a-Car, but the odd pedestrian delight still surfaces between the traffic tailbacks and smog.  Take the not-named-for-nothing Heritage Square: an old Victorian marketplace in which almost every house has its own story.

It’s in that very square, in fact, that you’ll discover the Phoenix Museum of History, the centrepiece of downtown Phoenix’s urban regeneration project, which details the city’s development and displays a diverse selection of regional bric-a-brac. Also of note on the cultural front is the Gammage Auditorium, Frank Lloyd Wright’s final completed project before his death, which now hosts major theatrical productions and touring musicals. Wright’s architectural signature is also evident at Taliesin West, a nearby 600-acre estate.

As borne out by the Hall of Flame, home to the National Firefighting Hall of Heroes, the one constant in this constantly evolving city is the blazing heat, fires or no fires. Temperatures in Phoenix average out in the high 80s/early 90s, so pack accordingly, and ensure all accommodation comes equipped with adequate air conditioning: more likely than not, you’ll need it…