Want to see cactus
with their arms raised heavenwards? Sounds strange but you might just be able to do that
in Tucson, home to the unique Saguaro cactus forest. The second largest city in Arizona,
just sixty miles away from Mexico, Tucson's historic and Hispanic flavor attract many to
this part-university, part-resort town. Tucson makes a good base to explore the nearby
countryside including the Biosphere 2 experiments meant to be replicated when man
colonizes Mars. You can't get more futuristic than that can you?
Historically, Tucson has the distinction of having served as an outpost
for both the Spanish and the Mexicans. It was established in the late 18th
century when a Catholic Mission was set up here by Spanish missionaries from Mexico. With
the establishment of the University of Arizona here, the city's stock rose. Over the
years, tourism has boomed thanks to the plentiful sunshine (average 320 days annually) and
the easy, laid-back air around town. Summers can be very hot here with temperatures rising
above 100ºF and summer thunderstorms are common. Winters are pleasantly warm at about
65ºF. Spring and Fall are pleasant.
