by Joanne Mansfield

Created on: May 26, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

For many years, Scottsdale, Arizona, has not been equaled when it comes to attracting baby boomers as established customers. Whether they came seeking an indulgent lifestyle or simply wanted to experience the lavish amenities of vacation, Scottsdale had her doors open. Now, even more so, not only are Scottsdale's doors open, but a thick, plush red carpet has been unfolded and is waiting for the gentle padding feet of baby boomers.

This summer Scottsdale will truly earn the title as a Baby Boomer's Paradise. Activities are well underway to capture the hearts of those 55 and older and have them coming back for more. The spectrum runs the gambit from romantic desert tours, museum and art exhibits, to riding and dining on a trolley, or securing a coveted spot at a chef's table for Monday night. Scottsdale is endowed with well over 200 golf courses and may leave your better half chatting it up with newly made friends on the green. If that's the case, and you are left to your own devices, do what you know best. Shop!

For a Fashionista, there is nothing more titillating than shopping in unchartered, upscale boutiques. Ah, the thrill of the hunt for those smooth Italian leather pants that hug your hips as though they were custom made just for you. But wait! You are on vacation, in Scottsdale, Arizona, and who wants to spend invaluable time and effort searching for shopping hot spots when your time and endeavors could be better suited to actually shopping?

Scottsdale is no longer considered a cactus ridden spot on the Arizona map. Its shopping is sans gal, and in fact, many of the shopping venues rival those in neighboring California. The city is home to numerous, one of a kind boutique and specialty shops, so why not indulge yourself in a private shopping tour? The three to four hour excursion can be modified to fit your desires and needs. You will be whisked away in a chauffeur driven limousine and be provided with a shopping expert.

Scottsdale is the definitive for the avid shopper, and Westcor serves up some of the city's best shopping playgrounds as well as the preeminent of the Southwest, the Scottsdale Fashion Mall. The Borgata of Scottsdale is a shopping haven set in the ambiance of Renaissance Italy, offering an array of chic shops. There is also Kierland Commons, which offers a resort, spa, golfing, shopping, and dining and don't forget the Biltmore Fashion Park. But the tours are not just about clothing! They abound to include home dcor shops, wine stores, jewelry, and cigar shops, to even shopping for art at private studios. Now, that's opulence.

So after a long tedious day of shopping at many of the world's finest retailers, you might be wondering what is left to experience? Oh, I almost forgot that Scottsdale houses Arizona's largest luxury day salon and spa for those who weary from carrying so much on out-stretched arms. Be a little decadent and literally get pampered from head to toe. And that sunless tan you've had applied, just tell the folks back at home that the desert sun bronzed your skin naturally.

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