We call them 'snowbirds' - the Canadians that escape our winter months by heading south.

Although those of us British Columbians on Vancouver Island or in the Lower Mainland have less harsh weather to run from, sunshine calls nonetheless.

One of the most popular destinations with semi-retired and retired Canadians is Phoenix, Arizona.

Lifestyle

Escaping to the distinctive atmosphere is one of the most common reasons visitors choose Arizona. As the state capital, Phoenix is a popular stop.

Erica Rich from the Arizona Office of Tourism says that diversity is - of landscape and culture - is one of it's strongest draws for visitors from around North America and the world.

"Whether it’s the thrill of an unparalleled outdoor adventure amid some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet, an exotic sun-drenched getaway to an indulgent, world-class spa or to examine and experience the rich history and multifaceted cultural offerings of the Grand Canyon State, Arizona offers a vacation experience like no other in the Southwest," adds Rich.

Attractions, Sites and Parks

If you plan to drive down to Arizona, the trip (for most readers in BC and Alberta) will take you through some powerful landscapes which, as Rich mentioned, are duplicated nowhere else on the planet.

Grand Canyon near Hopi Point - Elevation 7,071

"AOT has actually just launched a new web site, azpassages.com, that highlights all of Arizona’s state parks. This is a great resource for visitors to help them find those attractions that they may never have heard of such as Kartchner Caverns in Tucson, Slide Rock State Park in Sedona, and Tonto Natural Bridge State Park in Payson," says Rich.

National and State Parks in Arizona:

Monument Valley

• Sandstone towers covering territory in southern Utah and northern Arizona.

Grand Canyon National Park

• One of the most incredible archeological and geological sites in the world receiving nearly 5 million visits annually.

Kartchner Caverns

• Underground caves discovered in 1974. A stunning geological wonder.

Slide Rock

• Historic homestead and apple orchard turned state park. View the original pioneer irrigation system, still in use.

Tonto Natural Bridge

• Large travertine rock bridge created by spring water, believed to be the biggest in the world.

Activities and Attractions in Phoenix:

Copper Square

• Located downtown, this massive urban complex houses dining, museums, sports, theatre and parks.

Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park

• A combined indoor museum and historical site with picnic areas and motor home access.

Verde Canyon Railroad

• Scenic nature viewing tours by rail and reproduced old west town with dining facilities.

Westcor Shopping Centers

• A network of malls and complexes throughout the Phoenix/Scottsdale area.

RCI in Phoenix

In Arizona, there are 44 RCI resorts, 17 in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area.