“Daycation”? A startup called ResortPass is bringing some healthy disruption to the staycation industry. Designed for locals who want to drink up the resort pool scene without booking a room, the service contracts with top resorts to sell resort passes – currently $35-$60 in the Phoenix area – to daycationers. Current Valley participants include Royal Palms, Westin Kierland and Hyatt Regency. More information at resortpass.com
Higher Learning. The newest hotelier in the Valley is not Marriott or Starwood – it’s Grand Canyon University. The privately owned college recently renovated a low-rent hotel near its West Valley campus, outfitting the structure with an on-site restaurant, Canyon 49, plus a swank pool complex and classy porte-cochère. Find more information about the GCU Hotel at gcuhotel.com.
The new America. One of Flagstaff’s most beloved flops – the Little America Hotel, where legions of families have shacked up during Polar Express visits – is getting a makeover. The resort’s “complete reimaging” begins with 124 remodeled rooms, slated to open this summer. The new amenities include plush down bedding, granite vanities and in-room artwork. More information at flagstaff.littleamerica.com.
