28 APRIL 2019 By Michelle Donati-Grayman From astrology-themed cocktail receptions to beachfront moon celebrations, astro-tourism is a new travel trend that delivers experiences that are out of this world. Here are a handful of celestial experiences for travelers in Arizona and beyond: MOUNTAIN SHADOWS, PARADISE VALLEY With views of Camelback Mountain and the surrounding desert beauty, Mountain Shadows has developed several programs that allow guests to fall in love with the night sky. This includes moonlight yoga, an astrology-themed cocktail reception, and a customizable spirit-forward picnic basket to enjoy on The Short Course of the AAA Four Diamond resort. L’AUBERGE DE SEDONA, SEDONA Recognized as an International Dark Sky Community, L’Auberge de Sedona offers a special “Written in the Stars” package curated with the night sky in mind. Guests are welcomed with a stargazing map, star- shaped cookie and throw blanket, along with a dinner credit to be used toward creek side dining underneath the stars at Cress on Oak Creek. The property also offers complimentary stargazing sessions and meditation on each night of a full moon. UNDER CANVAS, NATIONAL PARKS NATIONWIDE Under Canvas offers campsites that allow travelers to fall asleep under the stars to the sounds of nature. The safari-style stargazer tent has a night sky viewing window, strategically placed above the bed for undisturbed stargazing. The experience is available in several of America’s national parks and monuments, including Zion National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Yellowstone. INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY PARKS, UTAH One of Utah’s best kept secrets is its star-filled night skies. The state is home to 11 places designated an International Dark Sky Community, the most in the U.S. This includes a number of uncrowded destinations, such as two national parks, four state parks and four national monuments that serve as the perfect backdrop to look up and experiment with astrophotography. BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO From sleeping under the stars at CuatroCuatros in Ensenada, stargazing at the National Astronomical Observatory of San Pedro Martir and ziplining under the full moon at the Desert Nest nature park, Baja Norte’s diverse landscape truly sparkles at night. In the wine region of Valle de Guadalupe, the newly opened Campera Hotel Burbuja is an eco-minded resort with 12 clear bubble-shaped tents, where guests are offered unobstructed 360-degree views of the starry night skies. Astro-tourism lures travelers to celestial experiences From luxury camping to meditating under the moon, there’s an abundance of celestial travel options. Tanya Offering Spa Manicures • Pedicures Threading • Dazzle Dry Polish NEW CLIENT SPECIAL: $10 OFF Any Service Call today to schedule your appointment! Tanya, Nail Technician Leidan Mitchell Salon and Spa 4340 E Indian School Rd – Suite 9 602.550.5762 $5 OFF FOR FIRST-TIME CUSTOMERS when you mention this ad! WHO’S NEXT BARBER SHOP We offer styles, cuts, hot towel shaves along with great prices for kids. Make an online reservation, call ahead, or stop in today. 4280 E Indian School Road – Suite 105 Phoenix, AZ 85018 602.595.0805 • whosnextbarbershop.com