When it opened in 2005, the JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa became the first facility of its kind to be built in Tucson in 18 years. Since then, guests who have stayed at the resort agree that it was worth the wait. Splendidly positioned high up in the majestic Tucson Mountains some 13 miles from downtown, Starr Pass overlooks the dazzling Sonoran Desert and the valley below. Appropriately designed in a Pueblo-like style, this handsome facility features 575 guestrooms and almost every amenity imaginable. Each guestroom is provided with a patio or a balcony, and every one overlooks magnificent mountains, green fairways, sparkling swimming pools, or thousands of city lights. In addition to these pleasing views, the rooms at Starr Pass offer high-speed Internet access, cordless phones with voice mail, cable television, flat-screen TVs, coffeemaker, refrigerator with wet bar, first-class comfort and 24-hour room service.

While the rooms are great, you'll be knocked off your feet by the amenities here. The resort's 20,000-square-foot Hashanti Spa, for example, offers treatments that combine the latest beauty and health technology with ancient healing techniques in a luxurious, pampering environment. There is also a fully-equipped fitness center, three swimming pools, a whirlpool, a steam room and a sauna. Additional activities at Starr Pass include hiking, biking, and tennis, and its beautiful 27-hole golf facility was recently renovated by Arnold Palmer. Casual and fine dining are other activities to be enjoyed. There are six exceptional restaurants to choose from – offering classic Italian, Mediterranean and American dishes – plus a Starbucks café. Worth the wait and worth a visit. Starr Pass....