The New York Times Mentions Saguaro National Park

The New York Times recently released an online, interactive list of 52 places around the world where travelers can be a part of the solution, rather than a problem. Because you know us, you know that we are only bringing this to your attention because they mention Tucson! Yep, the good Old Pueblo is in the media yet again. Okay, okay, more specifically they mention the beautiful Saguaro National Park.

As alluded to by the NYT article all 52 places on their list must have a problem to need a solution. In our case, the problem is that we have very few new saguaros, a species that is a notoriously slow grower. Think 75 years old to get its first arm, and not reaching its full height of 45 feet until 200 years old. So, a declining population of these stoic giants is a problem, not just for Tucson but for an entire ecosystem.

The article highlights a local conservation project where volunteers work year-round pulling buffalo grass. Why does 1 weed need so much attention you might ask? There are a couple of reasons. The first is because it’s a non-native species that takes much-needed nutrients to other native plants. And secondly because due to climate change, we’ve been experiencing hotter summers. These withering temperatures dry out the buffelgrass and provide ample kindling for wildfires.

You can help mitigate the buffalo grass by volunteering with the Saguaro National Park. They organize clear-ups year-round. If you don’t want to be outside but still help out, that’s ok too! Find all volunteer opportunities here.

The New York Times Mentions Saguaro National Park
The New York Times Mentions Saguaro National Park

The 10 Cheapest Places for Millennials to Live

The Hub - Downtown Hot Spot for Millenials, Cheapest Places for Millennials to Live
The Hub - Downtown Hot Spot for Millenials

10 Cheapest Places for Millennials to Live

Housely.com published an article, The 10 Cheapest Places for Millennials to Live in the U.S. where they considered data about cheap housing, availability of jobs, and social + cultural advantages.

In the past, New York City and Silicon Valley were enticing millennials in groves with fast paced tech jobs and other business opportunities; unfortunately, housing prices were so high (and they still are!) that millennials had trouble finding affordable housing and those with dreams of home ownership had a difficult decision to make and the opportunity cost was high. But now people are saying that Tucson may be the next Silcon Valley.

On the flip side, Florida is known to have an abundant affordable rental housing market, but the retiree demographic and job availability makes it a less desirable long-term destination for millennials.

Young people today are being challenged to think-outside-the-box and find destinations that will offer a more complete package and Tucson definitely does.

Without further ado, The Cheapest Places for Millennials to Live:

10. Austin, TX

9. Dallas, TX

8. Louisville, KY

7. Columbus, OH

6. Dayton, OH

5. Wichita, KS

4. TUCSON, ARIZONA

3. New Bedford, MA

2. Sioux Falls, SD

1. Cape Canaveral, FL

“With a median one bedroom apartment price of $540, it’s no wonder that Money rated Tucson number 4 of their best places for millennials. The article credits the city’s revitalized downtown area and ethnic restaurants as a draw for young renters. Tucson’s job growth is expected to rise 11% over the next five years.”
We’ve done the research and this isn’t an all-encompassing description of why Tucson is one the cheapest places for millennials to live. Did you know we have one the lowest point of entry housing markets in the country? Boasting many programs to help first time home buyers and some the lowest homeowners insurance prices making Tucson a great place for someone just starting out to start their life.
Tucson also has an abundance of art, culture, and a very fun and hip downtown. There’s an abundance of nature– to hike, climb, ski and explore and there are a lot of other amazing places that are a short road trip away like: Las Vegas — 4 hours, Phoenix– 1.5 hours, Rocky Point, Mexico (Where you can rent entire beach front houses for the weekend for a couple hundred dollars)– 4 hours, San Diego, CA– 6 hours, and Showlow, AZ (home of Arizona’s biggest ski & snowboard mountain)– 4 hours.
This is only the tip of the iceberg… If you have questions about art, culture, or housing in Tucson please contact me– I’d be happy to help you however I can.

Time Magazine Crowns Tucson in World’s Greatest Places 2023

Time Magazine Crowns Tucson in World's Greatest Places 2023
Time Magazine Crowns Tucson in World's Greatest Places 2023

Time Magazine has crowned Tucson as one of the World’s Greatest Places in 2023, and for good reason. The city stands as a testament to the evolving narratives of travel, embodying authenticity, sustainability, and vibrant cultural exchanges.

A Sustainable HavenTime Magazine Calls Tucson a Sustainable Haven in the World's Greatest Places 2023

In a world rekindling its love for travel, Tucson emerges as a destination aligning with the modern-day ethos of sustainability and genuine experiences. The city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty while fostering responsible tourism is a call to the conscious traveler.

Moreover, Tucson’s efforts in promoting sustainable tourism extend to supporting local businesses and artisans. The city thrives on a community-centric ethos that not only boosts its local economy but also provides visitors with a unique, authentic experience. The array of farmer’s markets, locally-owned eateries, and artisan shops exemplify Tucson’s dedication to sustainability, offering a green retreat amidst the desert landscape.

Tucson’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary excellence offer a genuine taste of the Southwestern spirit. From the award-winning loaves of Barrio Bread to the stunning vistas of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is a haven for those seeking authenticity in their adventures.

Invitation to ExploreYou Have An Invitation To Explore Tucson, one of Time Magazine's World's Greatest Places 2023

As travel horizons expand, Tucson warmly extends an invitation to individuals across America to come and revel in its unique blend of tradition and modernity. The accolade from Time Magazine is not just a badge of honor; it’s a promise of enriching experiences awaiting in the heart of Southern Arizona.

There’s more to Tucson than meets the eye. Beyond the known landmarks, the city harbors hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s the rhythmic beats of Native American drum circles or the serene escape of botanical gardens, every corner of Tucson is a gateway to new experiences. The invitation to explore is also an invitation to connect – with the land, the people, and the age-old traditions that make Tucson a realm of endless exploration and discovery.

The recognition from Time Magazine underscores Tucson’s allure as a destination where every nook and cranny tells a story. So, pack your bags and set your compass towards Tucson, where the heart of Arizona awaits to share tales of its glorious past and present, one authentic experience at a time.

Best City for Creatives, Writers and Artists

Tucson Voted Best City for Artists and Creatives
Tucson Voted Best City for Artists and Creatives

10 Cities That Creatives Should Move to That Are Not NYC or L.A.

With lush areas, that cater to rich people and a happening downtown attracting young adults in groves,  you’d never imagine it, but Tucson, Ariz. is becoming a great place for up-and-coming creatives to live.

Home to one of the country’s most fun party schools, that is paradoxically studious– The University of Arizona has been attracting the best and the brightest creatives to Tucson for years. Artists of all types who are catering to younger crowds are flourishing. But the city is also slick with wild wild west, cowboy, gunslingin’ desert history perfect for the budding mystery novelist. While the sun is down and the co-eds are at play, the thriving downtown music scene wherein artists like Calexico were born offers cheap amenities to up-and-coming bands plus primo weather for open-air shows and lugging gear back-and-forth as you please.

Located so close to L.A., San Diego, Las Vegas and Phoenix, Tucson has become a must-stop destination for all the big name musicians traveling through. Imagine seeing your favorite artist or DJ in an intimate venue with your closest friends? A luxury, a small, big city like Tucson can afford.

Tucson is quickly establishing itself in the technology world

Collaborative work spaces, trendy internet cafes, hole in the wall gems decorate the thriving, growing downtown area where you’ll find artist studios, galleries and performance venues. The magic of building community is a blossoming value to be discovered. There’s a reason they say Tucson is a small town in a big city.

Ramshackle mid-century hotels line the downtown streets and create an air of playful adventure. The historic, local favorite, Hotel Congress comes packaged with a story about being John Dillinger’s hide-out, a venue, and diner vibes near the trendy 4th Avenue.

Just imagine that Phoenix is like Dallas and Tucson is like Austin, only in a much cooler area, because, hello? Road trip to SoCal, and Las Vegas!

Complex.com’s list of the 10 Cities That Creatives Should Move to that aren’t LA or NYC:

  1. San Juan, Puerto Rico
  2. New Bedford, Mass.
  3. Providence, R.I.
  4. Tucson, Ariz.
  5. Athens, GA
  6. Hartford, Conn.
  7. Santa Cruz, Calif.
  8. Santa Fe, New Mex.
  9. Louisville, KY
  10. Big Sur, Calif.