Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/29859
AFRICAN-AMERICAN GUIDE TO MEETING, INCENTIVES AND TRAVELINGIN THE WEST BY SONYA STINSON P icture your group gathering at a meeting venue over- looking a mountain or ocean view, or a state-of-the-art convention center recognized for its green design.Your evening opening reception might be set in a grand old theater or an art museum with a dazzling contemporary design by a world-renowned architect. A morning group tour could take you to a localAfrican-American museum and restaurant; a his- torical site depicting how Native Americans, early settlers or cowboys once lived; or a spectacular natural landmark. Or maybe your goal is to plan a break from business on a strictly leisure incentive trip or vacation.How about a week of golfing, skiing,water sports,beachcombing or relaxing at one of the world’s top destination spas? When you home in on theWest for your travel plans, your options are as wide as the region’s vast landscape.You’ll find meeting and lodging facilities to accommodate groups of any size, and attractions to appeal to just about any interest. This regional overview — with spotlights on several select destination — may spark some great ideas for a meeting, incentive trip or other travel plans. San Diego bay ARIZONA With stunning sightseeing attractions, an abundance of outdoor recreation and some of the world’s top destination spas,Arizona offers something for everyone, from the thrill- seeking adventurer to the traveler on a quest for serenity. A meeting or incentive trip to Flagstaff might include some time for downhill skiing at the Arizona Snowbowl or splurging on a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon. Golf lovers might appreciate a gathering inMesa,where some the finest of the state’s more than 300 golf courses can be found. Scottsdale visitors can enjoy a hike in Pinnacle Peak Park, followed perhaps by a relaxing session at theWillow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Or how about a spa experience atTucson’s famed Canyon Ranch orMiraval-Life in Balance as a reward for excellence on the job? 42 The spectacular Sonoran Desert takes center stage at Tempe outdoor attractions like Papago Park,whilemore than 20 free museums and galleries at Arizona State University showcase beautiful views indoors. PHOENIX For meeting groups and leisure travelers alike, Arizona’s largest city offers plenty of ideas for creating a unique and memorable experience. Asports lovermight enjoy an incentive trip toMajor LeagueBaseball spring training inMarch,with 15 teams in the Cactus League participating. Tickets to daily games cost as little as $5. Foodies might enjoy attending the annual culinary celebration known asDevoured,also inMarch. For a corporate retreat or learning vacation, the nearby Farmat SouthMountain features organic gardens, shops, restaurants,an Black Meetings & Tourism March/April 2011: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com