The New Meaning of Posh

May 29, 2012

The Valley of the Sun has changed over the years from an agricultural center with tourists to a golfing center with sports teams.  I went to visit last weekend for some fine dining during Arizona Restaurant Week, and a drive by of Schnepf Farms, a peach and apricot orchard. My reconnaissance of the area reveals that tastes have changed.  The fanciest resorts like the Phoenician, the Princess, the Arizona Biltmore attract clients using exclusivity and formality as part of the draw.  The resort I visited gave me a deja-vu experience when I entered the lobby because I knew I had been there 40 years ago.  Kimpton FireSky in Scottsdale met all my needs.

Guests in this  superb location enjoy an upscale on site spa (Loved the Vichy shower) with high quality services and products, a clean 24 hour gym, shuttle service to travel around and dine in Old Scottsdale, a cute wine happy hour, good coffee in the morning, and a staff dedicated to making sure the welcome is always warm. Dogs are allowed to go everywhere except into the indoor dining room.  My dog was very popular, even when she howled all over the place.

Dogs enjoy special status  at the hotel.  The dog owners quickly become friendly, exchanging pet stories.  I believe our emphasis has shifted away from being formal and exclusive.  I think the new posh is casual and smart.  People want to be able to relax and enjoy entertainment, dining, and all leisure activities in their comfortable clothes, with their dogs.  I am not sure what Barry Goldwater would say, but I am completely in favor of this trend.