A Day in Sedona: Crank Calls, Costco Adventures, and Desert Vibes
The Rude Awakening at Midnight
Nothing quite sets the tone for the day like a midnight wake-up call, does it? Especially one that comes from an unexpected, unwelcome phone call. The hotel room phone rang at exactly 00:20, jolting me from what was shaping up to be a solid night’s sleep. Naturally, the ring didn’t last long enough for me to fully process what was happening. By the time I fumbled over to the phone, the line was dead. A moment of confusion followed. Was it a mistake? A misdial? Perhaps someone in a neighbouring room had too much to drink and was randomly dialling?
The mystery was solved the next morning when I confronted the front desk with a slightly groggy demeanour and a half-hearted attempt at politeness. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one on the receiving end of a crank call. Several guests had fallen victim to this nocturnal prankster. Michele, however, slept through the entire ordeal. I looked over at her in disbelief as she peacefully snored away, blissfully unaware of the chaos. Turns out her secret weapon was a pair of good quality earbuds. Not that I’m bitter or anything…
A Leisurely Breakfast (Minus the Drama)
After surviving the night’s disturbance, breakfast was a leisurely affair. There’s something simple and satisfying about starting the day with cereal, bagels slathered with cream cheese, and a cup (or three) of black coffee. No rush, no stress. Just a quiet moment to ease into the day.
By 10:30, we were checked out and ready to hit the road. Our destination? Sedona. But first, there was the small matter of fuelling up the Mercedes for the journey ahead. Of course, in typical Michele fashion, the second she saw the local Costco, she couldn’t resist the temptation. Off she went, sneaking off to explore like a kid in a sweet shop.
The Costco Adventures
Now, I don’t know if you’ve ever been to a Costco in the US, but let me tell you, they’re a different breed compared to the ones back home in the UK. Bigger, bolder, and filled with endless aisles of everything you didn’t know you needed. Michele had barely stepped foot in the place before she found a bargain. I mean, who could resist?
Meanwhile, I had one mission: fill the tank with fuel. Easier said than done when your partner’s disappearing act in a giant warehouse delays your progress. But eventually, we got the car topped up, and with a full tank and a bargain or two, we were on our way to Sedona.
The Drive to Sedona
The drive itself was about 120 miles – roughly a two-hour journey. But it’s not just any drive. The road to Sedona offers some of the most stunning views you could imagine. We cruised along, enjoying the vast desert landscapes, the red rock formations looming in the distance, and the occasional dramatic cloud overhead.
A Scenic Stop at Sunset Point
About halfway to Sedona, we pulled over at Sunset Point, a popular viewpoint for travellers. Now, I’m no stranger to a good vista, but this one really did take the cake. It’s the sort of spot that makes you pause and just breathe it all in. The views stretch out for miles, a blend of desert, mountains, and sky.
I could only imagine how spectacular it would look at dusk, with the sun setting on the horizon. But even in the middle of the day, it was breathtaking. Michele snapped a few photos (as you do), and we stretched our legs before hopping back in the car and continuing the drive.
Arrival in Oak Creek Village
By the time we reached Oak Creek Village, the skies were a brilliant shade of blue, and the temperature had warmed up nicely. There’s something about arriving at a new destination with the sun shining and a whole afternoon ahead of you. It just puts you in a good mood, doesn’t it?
Naturally, we wasted no time and headed straight for the hotel pool. After the long drive, there was nothing better than slipping into the cool water and just floating about, letting the travel stress melt away. We spent a good hour or so swimming and lounging in the late afternoon sun. Pure bliss.
Evening Out in Sedona
After a swim, a shower, and a quick change, we were ready to hit the town. Dinner was calling, and so were a couple of drinks. We found a nice local spot for a meal, complete with a couple of local IPAs for me (because, why not?) and a few Disaronno and Cokes for Michele. There’s something wonderfully simple about enjoying a cold drink after a day of travel, sitting back, and letting the evening unfold at its own pace.
Post-Dinner Chill
With bellies full and spirits lifted, we made our way back to the hotel room. Tomorrow, we’ve got a hike planned in the desert, and while I’m looking forward to it, I can’t help but feel like I’m going to need a solid night’s sleep to tackle it. Hopefully, the crank caller has found another hotel to pester.
Now, as I sit back in the room, Michele already asleep and the sounds of the night quietly creeping in through the window, I’m mentally preparing myself for tomorrow’s adventure. The desert awaits, and with it, the promise of new views, new experiences, and probably more amusing anecdotes to share.
Looking Ahead to the Hike
I enjoy a good hike but Michele has never been much of a hiker, but when in Sedona, it feels like the thing to do. The landscape practically begs you to get out there and explore it. The red rocks, the towering buttes, the wide-open spaces – it’s all incredibly inviting. We’ve got our water bottles ready, our walking shoes laced up, and a vague sense of where we’re going. What could go wrong?
Well, for starters, the heat could be intense. But we’ll manage. After all, it’s not every day you get the chance to hike through such an extraordinary landscape. I can already picture the Instagram-worthy moments (and the inevitable complaints from my legs the next day).
Wrapping Up a Day Well Spent
Today’s been a day of contrasts: from the jarring midnight wake-up call to the peaceful swim in the afternoon sun; from the hustle and bustle of Costco to the tranquillity of Sunset Point. It’s these little moments that make travel so memorable. Sure, it’s not all perfect – crank calls and all – but it’s these unexpected twists and turns that make for the best stories, don’t you think?
As I settle in for the night, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for tomorrow. The desert is calling, and I’m ready to answer. Well, after a good night’s sleep, that is.
