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Partner Content MARCH 2, 2022

Discover Awe and Adventure in Arizona

Arizona is a wonderland of awe-inspiring sights, bucket-list adventures, culinary delights, and soulful journeys. Start planning your trip with this guide.

Discover Awe and Adventure in Arizona
Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Timeless beauty. Mind-boggling geology. Pristine pine forests. Dramatic sun-drenched desertscapes. Old West haunts. Puebloan cliff dwellings. And star-filled dark skies.

Arizona is a wonderland of awe-inspiring sights, bucket-list adventures, culinary delights, and soulful journeys. Now that 2022 has been coined the Year of Arizona Discovery, it’s a perfect time to pack up the car and take a scenic road trip. With its incredible landscapes, diverse culture, and endless natural playgrounds, Arizona has so much to offer. Here are a few of our favorite scenic road trips and quaint towns to check out.

Arizona

Arizona

Phoenix to the Sister Cities of Miami and Globe

Heading east from Phoenix on US Route 60 toward Miami, be sure to stop at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden, which has desert species from around the world, gentle hiking trails, and rich bird life.In the classic western town of Miami, visit the Bullion Plaza Museum to explore the ranching and cultural history of this copper mining boomtown. In Globe, you can belly up to the bar for a burger and bloody Mary at the historic Drift Inn Saloon. Cruising the switchbacks through the Salt River Canyon Wilderness Area reveals mountain panoramas and Arizona’s “other Grand Canyon.”

Lake Powell

Lake Powell

Page to Canyon de Chelly

Traveling up US Route 89 from Flagstaff leads to the marvels surrounding Page, gateway to Lake Powell. Drink in dramatic views of the famed Horseshoe Bend stretch of the Colorado River, or take a tour of Antelope Canyon and witness the wonders of wind and water erosion in the narrow slots. Then, road trip it to the Navajo Nation to see Canyon de Chelly National Monument, where towering rock spires, stunning sandstone cliffs, and Ancestral Puebloan art and villages await.

The Charm of Cottonwood

Located in the heart of Arizona and the heart of wine country, Cottonwood is ideally situated above the heat of the desert and below the cooler temperatures of Arizona’s high country. Surrounded by the red rocks of Sedona to the northeast and Mingus Mountain to the southwest, its lower elevation makes it a perfect spot for your next Arizona adventure.

Old Town Cottonwood is known for its Main Street with over 60 businesses, including charming boutique hotels, wonderful restaurants, shops, antique stores, and wine tasting rooms. The Verde Valley Wine Trail runs right through town and has more stops here than anywhere else on the trail. Sit back and sip, savor, and enjoy the fruit of the vine in Old Town.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff

Cottonwood is also home to Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Less than two miles from Old Town, this landmark has earned a reputation as a favorite fishing hole, bird lover’s paradise, and hiker’s dream. Its trails meander through sycamore and cottonwood trees along the banks of the Verde River, making it a jewel in the center of Cottonwood all year round. Visit Cottonwood, the heart of Arizona wine country, where everyone is welcome!

Learn more at visitcottonwoodaz.org.

Payson to Pine-Strawberry

Old County Inn

Old County Inn

Known for its rodeo and famed former resident novelist Zane Grey, Payson is surrounded by incredible wilderness. Along this dazzling drive, see Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, where hiking trails lead to waterfalls and the world’s largest travertine bridge. Just 20 minutes north of Payson are the towns of Pine and Strawberry, settled during the gold rush. There’s plenty of hiking, fishing, boating, and history there, like Strawberry Schoolhouse, the oldest standing schoolhouse in the state; stop in at Old Country Inn for a brew and a slice of wood-fire pizza.

Verde Valley

A hundred miles north of Phoenix, the Verde Valley region is home to red rocks, green mountains, and scenic journeys. Head to Montezuma Castle National Monument, a 900-year-old, 20-room dwelling built into a limestone cliff—or, hop on the Verde Canyon Railroad luxury train and cruise through the canyons in an open-air viewing car. The Copper Art Museum in Clarkdale features galleries of amazing copper art and artifacts. Oenophiles will appreciate the Verde Valley Wine Trail, whose 26 winery stops lead through charming towns like Jerome, Clarkdale, and Cottonwood.

Talking Stick Resort

Arizona’s top-rated casino resort is renowned for its winning combination of luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art amenities, spectacular dining, and entertainment. Moreover, the AAA Four Diamond Resort is just minutes away from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul at The Spa at Talking Stick, spark your taste buds at one of the resort’s eight restaurants, take a dip in one of three swimming pools, or practice your best swing at Talking Stick Golf Club. In the center of all the action is the gaming floor, which delivers an unparalleled experience with over 900 slot machines and 50 table games. The casino also features new table games where traditional gaming and new technology merge! Players can play their best hand on the new EZ Baccarat or place their bets on the new Roll to Win craps table. The exciting table features a 12-foot LED playing field, virtual chips, and live dice. After a day of play, retreat to one of the resort’s 496 rooms full of luxurious furnishings. Learn more at talkingstickresort.com.

Native American Culture

The territory we’ve come to know as Arizona has only been a state for a relatively short time, the last of the lower 48 to be admitted to the Union. Indigenous people have lived here for millennia.

There are 22 sovereign nations here, including the Hopi tribe, the Apache tribe, the Navajo (known as Dineh, “the people,” in the four corners), and the Hualapai, the tribe that manages the famous Grand Canyon West.

The seven Navajo tribal parks and three national monuments in Najavoland are treasured by outdoor enthusiasts. There you will find fascinating rock formations, sandstone canyons, historical sites, and ancient ruins; and visitors have the opportunity to learn about Navajo history, traditions, and culture.

While in Tuba City, located on the western Navajo Indian Reservation, check out the Explore Navajo Interactive Museum, which features a traditional hogan, handmade rugs, and baskets. Next door is the Navajo Code Talkers Museum, dedicated to Navajo veterans who served in the US Marines and used the Navajo language to send encrypted messages during World War II.

Also, don’t skip the opportunity to visit Tuba City Trading Post, which offers a variety of handmade items like extraordinary Indigenous art, handmade jewelry, and beautiful textiles.

Visit discovernavajo.com to learn more.

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Studio S SEPTEMBER 11, 2026

Vi at La Jolla Village – Senior Living in the Heart of Everything

At Vi at La Jolla Village, residents don't have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.

Vi at La Jolla Village – Senior Living in the Heart of Everything
Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

Today’s seniors are more connected than ever, with a renewed focus on retirement as a time of discovery and enriching experiences. The ultimate reward for a retirement well-earned is the wisdom to appreciate it all, and what better place to enjoy that unique perspective than Vi at La Jolla Village, in the heart of San Diego.

All-access pass to good living.

As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), Vi provides access to a connected and fulfilling community while making it easy to plan for future care, should the need ever arise. With a care plan in place, residents enjoy greater financial predictability and long-term value, freeing them to focus on making the most out of retirement.

Resort-style amenities at the epicenter of a cultural hub like San Diego offer a retirement experience unlike any other. Paired with exceptional dining, spacious accommodations and dedicated staff, the best of maintenance-free living is all around. And with the introduction of Vista 360 Well-Being, Vi’s panoramic approach to wellness, there are more ways than ever for residents to access it all.

The harmony of mind, body and community.

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

The key to longevity is striking the right balance in maintaining an active lifestyle with an active mind in a fulfilling community. With newly renovated community spaces and restaurants, Vista brings a variety of opportunities for residents to elevate their well-being through Vi-exclusive “Signature Experiences.”

Vista Enrich takes an evidence-based approach to brain vitality, keeping residents at the forefront of cognitive health through exergaming (exercising + gaming), nutritional plans and informative workshops. It is also home to The Brain Vitality Studio, an innovative facility dedicated to cognitive fitness that has garnered national recognition.

Vista Discover invites residents into stimulating educational experiences, from chef-led cooking demos and guided wine tastings to lectures at local universities and intimate lectures following cultural outings.

While Vista Enrich focuses on brain health and Vista Discover engages residents intellectually, Vista Explore cultivates a sense of adventure through curated travel and local excursions. But broadening one’s horizons doesn’t always require a plane ticket. One recent event brought a taste of the world right to the community: an onsite “jazz cruise” featuring live music and global cuisine served at a series of themed “ports” all within the community’s own ballroom.

“Location, location, location”

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

One of the biggest perks of life at Vi at La Jolla Village is its proximity to just about everything. With easy access to transportation and local attractions just steps away, residents can explore and engage with their community at their own pace.

“There are trolley and bus stops within a 5-minute walk that will get you to the beach, UCSD Campus, medical appointments, downtown La Jolla or San Diego, et cetera. We rarely use our car,” said resident Tom Yager.

With the best of San Diego just steps away, residents don’t just live in the city, they live within reach of everything that makes it special.

The best of all worlds.

Courtesy of Vi at La Jolla Village

At Vi at La Jolla Village, retirement isn’t a chapter to slow down; it’s an invitation to discover more. Tailored community experiences created by Vista, paired with the vibrant pulse of San Diego just outside the door, mean that residents don’t have to choose between security and adventure, connection and independence. They get all of it.

This is what an all-access pass to good living looks like: the comforts of an elevated lifestyle, a community built for growth and a city made for discovery – all in one place.

To learn more about Vi at La Jolla Village or for details on available floor plans, visit ViatLaJollaVillage.com/SDM.

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 14, 2026

Faces of Healthcare 2026: Sutra Dental Spa

Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.

Faces of Healthcare 2026: Sutra Dental Spa
SutraResized 1

Jimmy Wu, DDS

At Sutra Dental Spa in La Mesa and Coronado Dental Group, dentistry feels less like an appointment and more like a self-care day. Led by nationally recognized cosmetic dentist Jimmy C. Wu, DDS, both practices combine advanced dental technology with a relaxing space.

“Our top priorities are safety, comfort, effective treatment, and results that look and feel natural,” says Dr. Wu, founder of Sutra Dental Spa and cosmetic dentist for over 25 years. “We’re proud to offer the most advanced dental technologies and techniques available in a calming, even meditative, environment.” 

Patients can turn to both practices for everything from routine dental care to cosmetic services such as porcelain veneers and teeth whitening, as well as full mouth reconstruction and single-visit smile makeovers and crowns. At Sutra Dental Spa, the experience goes a step further, with Asian-inspired art, a Zen oxygen bar, aromatherapy pillows, and even in-appointment massage therapy.

“Dentistry has always been thought of as something you have to do versus something you want to do,” says Dr. Wu. “My goal is to change that perception for everyone.”

Visit

Sutra Dental Spa
7851 University Avenue, Suite 206, La Mesa, California 91942 | 619-589-6060
sutrads.com

Coronado Dental Group
1301 Ynez Place, Coronado, California 92118 | 619-435-6227
coronadodentalgroup.com

Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 14, 2026

Faces of Healthcare 2026: Spine & Brain Institute of San Diego

Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.

Faces of Healthcare 2026: Spine & Brain Institute of San Diego
SDM Top Docs

Ramin Raiszadeh, MD; Paul D. Kim, MD; Sunil Jeswani, MD; Sabareesh Natarajan, MD; Evan Nigh, MD

At Spine and Brain Institute of San Diego, every patient gets innovative, advanced care.

Dr. Ramin Raiszadeh, president and co-owner, is a board-certified orthopedic spinal surgeon who specializes in disc-replacement surgery. Co-owner Dr. Paul D. Kim handles complex disorders across the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, leaning on nonsurgical and minimally invasive techniques. He’s known for being upfront with patients. Dr. Sunil Jeswani brings a thoughtful, hands-on approach to complex cranial and spinal conditions, from brain tumors and cerebral aneurysms to arteriovenous malformations and spinal deformities. Dr. Sabareesh Natarajan is one of few neurosurgeons in Southern California with dual board certification in neurosurgery and neurointerventional surgery—an expert in vascular disease and brain tumors. Dr. Evan Nigh, a board-eligible orthopaedic spine surgeon, has published research in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national conferences.

“Sharp Grossmont Hospital has become the epicenter for spine surgery in this country,” says Dr. Raiszadeh. “Here, the nation’s most talented neurosurgeons and spine surgeons perform the entire spectrum of neural axis surgeries, setting the gold standard for care.”

Visit

6719 Alvarado Rd, Suite 308, San Diego, CA
1671 West Main St, Suite A, El Centro, CA
2125 Citracado Parkway, Suite 310, Escondido, CA
6260 El Camino Real, Suite 201 Carlsbad, CA
619-265-7912 | sbiosd.com


Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 14, 2026

Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Eyelid Specialists

Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.

Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Eyelid Specialists
SDM Top Docs 2026

Srinivas S. Iyengar, MD, FACS

True luxury lies in mastery. At San Diego Eyelid Specialists, Dr. Srinivas Iyengar has devoted his career to a single pursuit: the artistry of eyelid surgery, elevated to its most refined form.

A fellowship-trained oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Iyengar belongs to a rarefied tier of his field. He serves as a board examiner for the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery—the credential by which other surgeons are measured—and holds dual Top Doctor recognition for over 10 years from his physician peers in both ophthalmology and plastic surgery. His expertise has taken him around the world, teaching advanced techniques through ORBIS International and the Flying Eye Hospital.

His signature philosophy, Volumetric Harmony, reflects a discerning eye for proportion and balance, restoring youthful elegance while honoring the individuality of every face.

From his boutique offices in Encinitas and La Jolla, Dr. Iyengar offers a bespoke surgical experience for those who accept nothing less than exceptional. For the eyes, there is no substitute for a true eyelid expert.

Visit

8950 Villa La Jolla Drive, B206, La Jolla, California 92037
477 North El Camino Real, A304, Encinitas, California 92024
858-432-2700 | @eyelidmd | sandiegoeyelids.com


Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 14, 2026

Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Cardiac Center

Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.

Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Cardiac Center
E2-SDM-Top-Docs-2025-SDCardiacCenter-Group-0103

Antonio Duran, MD, MAS, FACC; Brian Jaski, MD, FACC, FHFSA; Hirsch Mehta, MD, FACC, FHFSA; Justin Parizo, MD, FACC; Jiken Bhatt, MD, FACC; Munir Chaudhuri, MD MS, FACC; Charles Athill, MD, FACC, FHRS; Justin Cox, MD, FACC; Raghava Gollapudi, MD, FACC; Hashim Khan, MD, FACC; Arvin Narula, MD, FSCAI, FACC; Rayan Hourani, MD, FACC

San Diego Cardiac Center provides truly comprehensive cardiovascular care, from prevention to heart transplantation. This year, 12 of their physicians were recognized as Top Doctors, including Dr. Brian Jaski, a heart failure and heart transplant specialist who has been in practice for 41 years. During that time, he oversaw San Diego’s first heart transplantation and has been voted a Top Doctor by his peers in 21 of the past 23 years.

With affiliations across the Sharp and Scripps hospital systems, San Diego Cardiac Center provides care at locations in Kearny Mesa, El Cajon, and Chula Vista. Their physicians specialize in preventive cardiology, electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, advanced heart failure, structural heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, venous disease, cardiovascular diagnostics, and clinical research.

As one of San Diego’s longest-standing private medical groups, they’re committed to one goal: helping our patients feel better and live longer. 

San Diego Cardiac Center’s Vein Clinic provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for superficial and deep vein conditions, including specialized care for venous insufficiency, DVT and pulmonary embolism. Diagnostic testing, procedures, and follow-up care are provided in-house, with personalized treatment plans ranging from conservative management to minimally invasive options.

Visit

3131 Berger Avenue, San Diego, CA 92123
300 S. Pierce St, Suite 102, El Cajon, CA 92020
750 Medical Center Ct, Suite 10, Chula Vista, CA 91911
sdcardiac.com


Partner Content
Partner Content OCTOBER 14, 2026

Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Association of Physicians of Indian Origin

Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.

Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Association of Physicians of Indian Origin
SDM Top Docs 2026

Seated (left to right): Namrata Kapoor, MD* (Treasurer); Ruchira Densert, MD (Secretary); Reema Batra, MD* (Member); Preeti Soni, MD (BOT Member); Farris Sandhu, MD VIP* (BOT Chair); Smitha Reddy, MD (President); Puja Chitkara, MD (BOT Member); Sanjana Chaturvedi, MD*; Hetal Hosalkar, MD*.

Standing (left to right): Asim Guha Roy, MD*; Vimal Nanavati, MD*; Ashish Wadhwa, MD*; Paritosh Khanna, MD*; Vijay Venkatesh, MD (Vice President); Harish Hosalkar, MD*; Aman Savani, MD*; Ajay Sandhu, MD*.

* Designates a 2026 Top Doctor.

The San Diego Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (SAPI) is proud to celebrate its physicians recognized as San Diego Top Doctors. This recognition reflects their clinical excellence, dedication to patient care, leadership within their specialties, and contributions to the San Diego community.

SAPI is a nonprofit professional organization bringing together physicians and healthcare professionals of Indian origin throughout the San Diego region. Through continuing medical education, professional networking, mentorship, community service, and cultural engagement, SAPI provides a collaborative platform for physicians at every stage of their careers.

The accomplishments of SAPI’s Top Doctors reflect our values of excellence, compassion, integrity, service, and leadership. We congratulate all of our honorees and celebrate the collective impact of SAPI physicians across numerous medical and surgical specialties.

“Our goal is to strengthen connections among physicians while expanding opportunities for education, mentorship, networking, leadership, and community service,” says SAPI President Dr. Smitha C. Reddy and Dr. Farris Sandhu, SAPI Chair, both among the physicians recognized as a San Diego Top Doctor. “We warmly invite physicians and healthcare professionals throughout San Diego to become involved and join our growing organization. Together, we can strengthen our professional community and continue building a lasting legacy of excellence in healthcare.”

Visit

sapisd.org


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