By Isabel Prontes
The Grand Canyon is a deep gorge that was created as a result of the fierce, rushing waters of the Colorado River. It is located in the southwestern state of Arizona, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire
United States. Approximately 5 million individuals from all over the world to visit the Grand Canyon every year. There are hotels close to the Grand Canyon that fit just about every budget.
Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel is only 1 mile away from the entrance Grand Canyon National Park. Completed in 1998, this entire 121-room hotel is a nonsmoking facility. While Grand Hotel looks like a Swiss chalet on the outside, all the rooms have a bright, Southwestern-style flair. Amenities include in-room movies, air conditioning, satellite/cable television, coffeemaker, blow dryer, clock radio and wake-up call service. For more information, go to www.grandcanyonhotel.com.
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams, Arizona, is surrounded by the ponderosa pine forest. The hotel looks like the train depot, and was the original location of the first Fray Marcos Hotel, which was built more than a century ago. There are 287 spacious guest rooms that come with basic comforts such as cable television (with HBO), coffeemaker and alarm clock. Standard guest rooms, traditional and "Rail Baron" suites also available. The hotel has a hot tub, game room and pub. Go to www.thetrain.com/grand-canyon-railway-hotel-williams-az-5686.html for more information.
El Tovar Hotel
The El Tovar Hotel is located within the Grand Canyon and was established back in 1905. The historic hotel was completely renovated in 2005. Many celebrated American have stayed here, including Albert Einstein and Theodore Roosevelt. This Canyon rim accommodation has a sophisticated and elegant ambiance, and features 78 guest rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with amenities including air conditioning and cable television. The entire hotel is nonsmoking. Room service and complimentary guest parking also are available. See www.grandcanyonlodges.com/el-tovar-409.html for details.
Williams Grand Canyon Travelodge
The Williams Grand Canyon Travelodge is a budget-friendly accommodation conveniently located in the center of the historic city of Williams, the town nearest to the entrance to the Grand Canyon. The hotel is clean and pleasant, and offers basic comforts such as a complimentary "Bear Bites" breakfast every morning, free wireless high-speed Internet access and swimming pool. Pets are welcome. Go to www.travelodge.com to find out more about Williams Grand Canyon Travelodge.
Holiday Inn Williams
The Holiday Inn Williams in an inexpensive accommodation in Williams, the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon." It's about half a mile away from the railway that offers daily trips to the Grand Canyon. Amenities include an indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, business center (with fax and copy service), guest laundry, dry cleaning, souvenir shop and newsstand. Find out more about Holiday Inn Williams at www.holidayinn.com.
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
