Whether you are looking for a place for your next company training or conference, or just a place to get away from it all, the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center will be able to meet all your needs. Driving up the palm tree lined driveway, you can feel your body start to unwind and the fountain, lights, and vibrant flowers and expansive foliage are enchanting. The outward beauty is matched by the wonderfully helpful and friendly staff who are willing to accommodate any request.

The Scottsdale Resort is the perfect backdrop for a weekend getaway and with all the amenities and dining options they have, you don't even need to leave the resort. Amenities include billiards, bicycle rentals, golf, fitness center, swimming, tennis, and water volleyball on the resort. Horseback riding, jeep tours, and glider riders are some of the off-resort activities that the concierge can assist in arranging if adventure is more your style. I personally loved the tennis courts, which were lit at night for those who do not want to play in the heat of the day. A stop at the Amansala Spa/Salon is also highly recommended. They offer a variety of services including manicures/pedicures, facials, massages, and body treatments, as well as specials for bridal parties.

For the foodie in all of us, the Scottsdale Resort offers a variety of options. Besides Sangria's Lounge for drinks and appetizers, the Vista Sol Cafe for coffee drinks, pastries, and deli sandwiches, and the Vista Verde Restaurant for casual dining, my whole-hearted recommendation is the Palm Court Restaurant. The Palm Court Restaurant has earned the elusive AAA Four Diamond rating, and it proves with every bite that it earned every one of those diamonds. For starters, I had the lobster bisque which is made with hefty chunks of lobster and sherry, creating the perfect flavor and leaves you wanting more. Save room however, because you won't want to miss the Garlic Sauteed White Gulf Prawns which they make table side, and the Boston Bibb Salad with Shitake mushrooms. They cleanse your palette with a scoop of lemon sorbet with a cranberry drizzle to get you ready for the main course. The Garlic Rubbed Colorado Spring Rack of Lamb was recommended by our gracious server, and he was right in that choice. The lamb was perfectly seasoned and complemented by the locally grown beets, baby carrots, onions, and asparagus along with the melt in your mouth smoked Gouda potato puree. Even if you're stuffed, you have to have dessert. The chef sends out mini chocolates to tempt your taste buds, and besides the Chocolate Napoleon, the Bananas Foster is a must. Again a dish made table side, watching it being prepared only builds the anticipation which is more than satisfied by the sumptuous desserts.

After your experience at the Palm Court, you will just want to relax, and the rooms at the Scottsdale Resort make that an easy feat. With mattresses and comforters you can get lost in, a flat screen TV, mini bar, and room service, your night is complete. For more information on reservations, check out www.thescottsdaleresort.com.