No matter from what corner of the country or planet you happen to hail from, there is something for everyone at JW Marriott Starr Pass. This Tucson AAA Four Diamond resort feels somehow nicely nestled away from the world, with a magnificent backdrop of the Tucson National Park foothills, despite its massive expanse of rooms, meeting space, Golf Club, Hahani Spa, pools … we will be here all day if I list everything! And believe me, this resort has … everything. So let’s get to the goods, shall we?
Can you hear the Hashani spa calling? You will believe me. Take one look at the spa menu and you’ll likely relax simply looking at the enticing options. While admittedly I have proceeded with “body treatments” with a degree of skepticism after a couple sessions of simply having someone apply lotion to my skin with lackluster enthusiasm I wasn’t sure how I’d come out from the Petals and Leaves Ritual. Natalie, henceforth known as the scalp whisperer, quickly eradicated any negative dispositions. This treatment is heavenly. I don’t want to say much else (as to diminish your surprise), other than your skin, scalp, and spirit will feel 100 times better.
In addition to the enticements offered through the spa, the JW Marriott Starr Pass features amenities unique to the property and locale, including the Legend of Arriba, Abajo tequila toast on the picturesque Salud Terrace where you’ll be regaled with the story of Don Pablo’s attempt to thwart the affections of General Pancho Villa toward his daughter Juanita. Following samplings of tequila, guests can head over to Primo, one of five dining options on property. The coffee-rubbed venison is so tender you can cut it with a fork – and the desserts – can we say pistachio-rolled cannoli? Yes, and we can eat it too!
Set aside a morning to engage in the magical Mitakuye Oyasin ceremony in which you can gain insight into an amalgam of Native American ceremonies meant to honor ancestors, family, friends, and the individual spiritual journeys of all throughout the ages. Follow this special journey with a complimentary guided hike through prickly pear and mesquite trees and/or morning poolside yoga accompanied by a live flutist sharing Native American melodies.
This is a truly special place – as a bit of anecdotal testimony, there was an Indian wedding taking place during my visit, and I couldn’t think of a better place in which to host such a gorgeous occasion immersed in custom and culture (magical in its own right) – and it was lovely to see fellow guests and staff equally captivated.
