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Entrance
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A Day at Tlaquepaque
By A.M. Melfa
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Sedona.biz
(Sedona, Arizona) -
If you are seeking a relaxing place in Sedona where you can window
shop, sample local cuisine, and stroll down tree lined walkways then
Tlaquepaque is the place for you. Located just below the
"Y" at
336 HWY 179 (click here), this arts and craft village is a great spot to spend
a sunny
Sedona day. In the ancient Aztec language "Tlaquepaque" means
"the best of everything."
This dream child of Abe Miller, a successful Nevada businessman and
developer, was built in the 1970's to emulate
traditional Mexican architecture and construction methods, and was
modeled after the town of Tlaquepaque near
Guadalajara, Mexico. The
resulting
structure combines four interlocking outdoor courtyards sided by art
galleries, shops of every description as well as several
restaurants.
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Fountain
at Tlaquepaque |
Soothing fountains and a glorious multitude of flowers and trees
proliferate
throughout, creating an atmosphere of calm beauty that is rare in
today's
world of mall driven commerce.
The simple elegance of the building design calls for sitting by
melodious
fountains or viewing the numerous works of art that pepper the
property.
However, the high caliber of the galleries, shops and restaurants soon
draws you
to venture from the lovely exterior atmosphere to the equally
enchanting
interiors. For a
complete listing of the galleries, shops and restaurants please log on
to the official web site at
www.tlaq.com.
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Loet
Vanderveen sculpture |
As an example, if your significant other has been hinting none too subtly that
he might like a wrist watch to take home with him, "Geoffrey
Roth Ltd." has superbly designed hand crafted watches.
With jewelry from renowned artists such as Alex Sepkus and the
Masriera Collection, no girl could leave this store unhappy. If you're
lucky you may see the "Geoffrey Roth House of Masriera Trunk Show." Here
you will have the rare opportunity to view pieces by the art nouveau
masters who have been designing jewelry since 1839.
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Chapel at
Tlaquepaque |
After you've purchased that "little sparkly" you might
want
to stop by the on site Chapel to tie the knot. Ceremonies and
receptions can be arranged through Tlaquepaque's business office.
Or perhaps you'd like an original sculpture by Kim Kori or Loet
Vanderveen to adorn your home. Many works by these and other skilled
craftsmen are on display for the choosing.
Maybe a curio of a more exotic nature is more to your liking. If so,
stop by "Nectar" for a gift from another world. You've been looking
for an Ethiopian Ceremonial Procession Cross you say? Why, of
course, there are many on hand at Nectar. Eye catching displays of
Mexican Dios De La Muertos figures and masks also cannot fail to attract. Young or old, there is something for everyone at "Nectar."
If you want work of art full of local
flavor, try "Point of Sedona" where artist Douglas
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Point of
Sedona at Tlaquepaque |
Edward Andrews'
canvasses are on display. Bright renditions of Sedona landscapes can
be purchased to hang on your walls to remind you of your visit to
the sunny desert as a snow storm swirls just outside your window.
If its garments you are looking for try "Panara" or "Calling All
Angels" for colorful, flowing, silky stuff. "Bonni's Boutique" can
dress both you and your kids in style. Or maybe pick up some leather
goods for the whole family at the "Hydeout."
Perhaps you are searching for a unique work of art for your home.
The "Kuivato Glass Gallery" might be just the place for you. The
shop itself is a delight to the eye, with imaginative and finely
crafted glass pieces ranging from small jewelry to enormous hanging
works at every turn. The beautiful and artistic glass art that
adorns this shop
makes it difficult to leave. But leave you must, because by this
time you have worked up an appetite!.
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Kuivato
Glass Gallery |
Fine dining can be found at "El Rincon," featuring Arizona Style
Mexican Food, or "Rene" which boasts French favorites. If you
want a more laid back atmosphere then try the "Oak Creek
Brewery & Grill" for a home brewed pint of suds and a burger, or "The
Secret Garden Cafe" for a salad and a sandwich. On your way to the
car stop by "How Sweet It Is" with the kids for a yummy treat of ice
cream, chocolate or fudge to top off the
day.
With the sun setting over Tlaquepaque after a day of fun and food,
don't forget to pick up a schedule of the featured special events to
plan a return visit. On the first Friday of each month Tlaquepaque
stays open late for "Art Walk." "Shakespeare Sedona" takes place
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights in July. The "Fiesta Del
Tlaquepaque," a celebration of Mexican Independence Day, is
held each year in early September. During the Christmas holiday season don't
miss out on "Luminarias," the festival of lights.
Tlaquepaque is located at 336 Highway 179 at the Bridge just below
the "Y" in Sedona. For information call 928.282-4838 or visit their
web site at
www.tlaq.com.
For another article about Tlaquepaque click:
A Collector's Evening at Sedona's Tlaquepaque
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