AAA: Arizonans opting for adventure over relaxation when vacationing

PHOENIX — AAA Arizona says Arizonans appear to be seeking more adventure when they plan a vacation.

The company’s travel agency said relaxing vacations to beach destinations seem to be falling out of popularity.

“We are seeing people wanting to incorporate their own lifestyle into trips more than just doing the leisure part of a trip,” said Amy Moreno, senior travel product manager for AAA Arizona.

More often, travelers have been looking for trips that can incorporate some kind of activity such as hiking, river rafting or even zip lining, which has brought destinations like Alaska into high demand, according to Moreno.

“I think people now have a little bit different mindset where everyone, not just older people, but everyone says, ‘I have a bucket list,'” she said. “When you’re talking about buckets lists, they usually are exciting adventures; they’re not necessarily just going and lounging somewhere.”

For those “staycationers,” Moreno said there are plenty of adventure-laden spot here in Arizona.

“Sedona is probably one of the top spots in the country for hiking,” she said.

The Grand Canyon is another destination where travelers can do hiking, river rafting and other activities, Moreno said.