Annabel's London
Temecula: Wine Country Living at Slice of Heaven
In Temecula, California, we stayed at a stunning home called Slice of Heaven Temecula, and it truly lived up to its name. This luxurious 3-bedroom, 3-bath property sits high above the valley with sweeping views of the rolling vineyards below.
Mornings started on the wraparound deck with coffee in hand, watching hot air balloons drift across the horizon. Evenings brought golden sunsets spilling across the hills as we enjoyed wine country’s peaceful charm. With its spacious interiors, modern amenities, and an outdoor living area perfect for stargazing, Slice of Heaven Temecula felt like our own private resort—a true pause between busy city stops.
Scottsdale: A Desert Homecoming
From Temecula, we drove to Scottsdale, Arizona, a place close to my heart after living there for four years. Staying at The Scottsdale Resort & Spa was pure desert luxury—lush courtyards, hacienda-style architecture, and rooms with desert landscape views.
We indulged in massages at Luna Spa, where earthy tones and tranquil energy melted all the stress away. Onsite dining brought Southwestern flavors right to our table, but mornings belonged to The Breakfast Club in Old Town Scottsdale. Their fresh-pressed juices and hearty scrambles fueled us before bike rides around the resort’s scenic trails.
New River & The Grand Canyon: Starry Skies & Adventure
Driving north, we arrived in New River, Arizona, for the ultimate luxury glamping experience at Epic Stays. We stayed in upscale safari-style tents with plush bedding, firepits, and private decks for stargazing. Their dome accommodations—geodesic bubbles with clear panels—offered an unforgettable view of the night sky right from bed.
One morning, we woke at 3 AM for a Rainbow Ryders hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert. Watching the sunrise from above the earth, with colors spilling across the sky, was nothing short of magical.
Further north, we checked into Clear Sky Resorts near the Grand Canyon. The cabins featured panoramic windows designed for stargazing, and the night sky delivered—shooting stars, satellites, and constellations so bright they didn’t feel real. We ended the trip with a visit to the Grand Canyon itself, a sight that always leaves me in awe.