The prestigious travel publication Fodor’s recently named Sedona to its exclusive 10 Best Small Towns in America list, which highlighted premier travel destinations that can be found off the beaten path.
As the largest publisher of English language travel guides in the world, a recommendation of this stature from Fodor’s is sure to stimulate Sedona’s tourism-based economy in time for the summer season. Along with hidden gems like Brattleboro, Vt., and Traverse City, Mich., the veteran travel writers who make up Fodor’s editorial staff consider Sedona to be emblematic of authentic American small town culture, presenting a refreshing departure from a traditional urban travel experience that has become both predictable and pricy. Sedona’s abundance of outdoor activities, remarkably beautiful natural surroundings and wide selection of shopping opportunities were among the many points of pride identified by Fodor’s when the highly anticipated top-ten list was announced.
According to Sandra Ramani, an experienced editor of Fodor’s renowned line of travel guidebooks who compiled the 10 Best Small Towns in America list, Sedona was chosen based on a diverse range of selection criteria.
“The striking vistas and natural splendors that once inspired artists like Max Ernst and countless Western filmmakers are today attracting a mix of New Age healers, spa therapists, artisans, and wellness-seekers to this mellow desert town of just over 10,000 residents,” said Ramani. “Sedona is light on historic activities, so visitors are free to hike, mountain bike, or jeep-tour around the red-hued canyons and buttes; [or] shop for jewelry and Native American crafts in the town center.”
Sedona natives have grown accustomed to their hometown garnering national interest when prominent travel awards are handed out, and the Fodor’s 10 Best Small Towns in America list is one of many such honors the city has earned. A recent press release issued by the Sedona Chamber of Commerce proudly noted that with “stunning red rock formations and … activities for people of all ages and interests, it’s no wonder Sedona has received these recent accolades as well: 10 Best Cities for a Girlfriend Getaway by Smarter Travel Magazine, 10 Great Places to Indulge your Senses by USA Today, and Top 10 US Travel Destinations for 2013 by Lonely Planet.”
The Sedona Chamber of Commerce has worked to expand the city’s social media presence and tourism outreach, with Public Relations and Events Manager Kegn Hall spearheading the modernized marketing campaign. In addition to creating and updating multiple Facebook pages and other social media accounts designed to expand Sedona’s reputation as a travel destination to a wider demographic, Hall worked closely with the Sedona Tourism Bureau to generate the level of public interest necessary for leading travel publications like Fodor’s to take note.
“With over 400 active members, the Tourism Bureau contributed in several outstanding ways to help achieve this accreditation,” she said. “Some examples include providing superior service, selling products that visitors value during their trip, and by giving consistent support to the community and the Sedona Chamber of Commerce.”
One segment of Sedona’s business community that received high praise from Fodor’s was the city’s distinctive collection of culinary offerings. Along with the “elevated Italian” of Sedona staple Dahl and DiLuca, the Fodor’s article recognized Elote Café for its “great views and gourmet Mexican” menu. Chef Jeff Smedstad, who opened Elote Café in Sedona after spending more than a decade travelling through Mexico and absorbing the country’s unique style of cuisine, was proud of the recognition provided by Fodor’s 10 Best Small Towns List and its glowing review of his restaurant.
“It is huge, we are always looking for ways to improve business and this is certainly a windfall,” he said. “It is always an honor to have people think highly of you.”
Chef Smedstad also cited the sense of community that has been fostered within Sedona’s business community as a continued source of motivation, along with his family and colleagues at Elote Café.
“Living and working in a small town, I have been lucky to have a supportive wife and a crew that makes it a pleasure to work as much as I do,” he said.
The work of Chef Smedstad and his peers in the Sedona business community has been rewarded time and time again by travel publications both in print and online, but the acknowledgment from Fodor’s has been especially well received. Jennifer Wesselhoff, president/CEO of the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, expressed this sentiment in a press release touting the city’s latest national award.
“It is great honor to be placed on Fodor’s 10 Best Small Towns in America list,” she said. “We are very proud to be recognized for our outdoor adventure, arts and culture, and rejuvenating activities that Sedona offers visitors and locals alike.”
Wesselhoff also noted how the collaborative efforts of Sedona’s network of neighboring businesses, eateries and lodgings caused Fodor’s to take note of the town’s status as favorite for tourists from around the world.
“It’s recognition like this that helps position Sedona as a premier destination in the United States,” she said. “Congratulations, too, to the businesses recognized for top-notch service and world-class products and services.”
In addition to a pair of prominent restaurants, Elote Café and Dahl and DiLuca, the Fodor’s feature touted the secluded wonder of Enchantment Resort and Mii amo Spa, the creekside comfort of L’Auberge de Sedona, and the breathtaking views of Sky Ranch Lodge.
Joining Sedona on the 10 Best Small Towns in America list are Healdsburg, Calif., Bozeman, Mont., St. Augustine, Fla., Provincetown, Mass., Brattleboro, Vt., Traverse City, Mich., Door County, Wis., Galena, Ill., and Walla Walla, Wash. FBN