Sedona, AZ: A great warm weather destination wedding and honeymoon hotspot awaits.....

If you're looking for a scenic, easy to reach, warm-weather locale with friendly locals, Southwest charm, hotels galore and great food, look no further than Sedona, Arizona. In addition to offering up red mountain views at every turn, Sedona has an array of sights and attractions sure to please every wedding guest or honeymooner.

The Globetrotting Groom and I visited last month and had a fabulous trip! Sedona is about 90 minutes north of Phoenix and yes, Jet Blue's TV's made our 5 hour flight from NYC a breeze. You'll know you're close when the views suddenly turn from dusty desert to technicolor reds and pinks. It reminds me of the Wizard of Oz when it goes from black and white to color. It's really amazing.

I'll be writing more about hotspots for destination weddings but here are some things you'll want to check out if you're planning a Sedona honeymoon, girl's getaway or destination wedding.

- Sedona is super easy to get around and there are free shuttles if you don't want to rent a car. Get your bearings on a Sedona Trolly tour or if you're feeling more adventurous, try one of the many Pink Jeep Tours.

- Get out and explore Red Rock Country's state parks, hidden canyons, red rock trails and famed vortexes. Hikers, mountain bikers, campers will be in heaven but for those who want a relaxing vacation (like me) there are plenty of scenic drives, sunsets, star gazing shows and activities like exploring Indian ruins and petroglyphs at Palatki (this was seriously cool).


- You're on vacation so kick back with some great food and drinks! For Mexican, we loved the Elote Cafe and Javelina Cantina. For a gorgeous creekside backdrop with top-notch food and service, visit L'Auberge de Sedona. For mountain backdrops and fine dining, try Hundred Rox at Amara. For Italian bistro dining, check out Joey Bistro. For contemporary fare and happy hour action, visit Reds at Sedona Rouge. There are also local ice cream parlors and wineries so be sure to explore.

- No vacation is complete without shopping and Sedona shopping packs a punch. There are so many art galleries and shops where you'll find everything from jewelry, glass sculptures, pottery, photography, artwork, textiles, home decor, clothing and gifts galore. The Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, Hillside Sedona and "Uptown" boutiques were my favorites.

Of course, you'll also find great spas, golf, kid-friendly spots and nearby Grand Canyon activities making it a sure to please spot for all. Travel promotions abound so be sure to check out the latest travel deals and discounts.

And, stay tuned for the scoop on Sedona destination weddings...