Our Stay in Tucson, AZ

Arizona

May 2021

A Simple Start in Tucson, AZ

We arrived right at the earliest check-in time for our Tucson Airbnb. After unloading the car and picking up some groceries, we walked into the city for dinner—simply because we could. Being so close to one of the vibrant hearts of Tucson, we chose Opa’s Best Greek American Cuisine and enjoyed a simple meal to start our newest trip.

Tech Problems First, Tucson Treasures Later

I noticed my computer didn’t recharge. So, the first activity was an urgent visit to the Apple Store. I felt fortunate we were in a major city, as it would have been a nightmare to have a broken laptop in a remote area! Since the battery had been getting hot and making an unusual noise, I also asked for a diagnostic check. They couldn’t see me immediately, but I was able to book an appointment for the following morning.

With the laptop issue settled for the day, we spent the afternoon walking from the Airbnb through the historic district into downtown Tucson. The architecture in the historic district was stunning, the neighborhood showed that classic Spanish-Mexican charm I love.

After rehydrating with a couple of cold beers, we took the 6-mile walk home, this time through the amazing and shaded Reed Park. We definitely haven’t seen the last of downtown and the park, there is clearly so much more to explore.

Choosing Replacement Over Repair

A quick check on my laptop at the store showed that a battery replacement was long overdue. When the technician mentioned that my laptop was nearly seven years old, yet still worth $500, I began to reconsider a repair. Knowing I could return the charger I had purchased just a day prior and being told that a battery replacement would add another $250 to the cost, I was quickly convinced to skip the repair. and simply buy a new one. I thanked the technician and told him I wanted to do some research at home. Once I decided on a model, I made a third online appointment.

A Digital Activity and a Physical Rest

Two days later, I returned to the Apple store at exactly 9 am, waiting in line outside. After checking in, I consulted with a specialist to go over my options. I ultimately decided on the 13-inch model over the 16-inch because I preferred its portability. I didn’t want to sacrifice performance, so I maxed out the processor and memory. Before leaving, I handed in my old computer and watched as it was reformatted, guaranteeing every bit and byte of my personal data was erased.

The rest of the day, I spent on “digital moving,” installing backups, and tidying up the information. There is something greatly rewarding about a fresh start. The only downside? Between the store visit and the data migration, I didn’t get out for a walk or a hike. It’s a bit bittersweet to see my 17-day streak, where I was averaging 6 miles a day, come to an end.

Shopping, Shopping, and More Shopping

With my preferred stores within walking distance of our Airbnb and several essentials needing replacement after months of travel, I spent a few afternoons shopping around. My first stop was Nordstrom Rack to replace a sports jacket that was finally showing its age. I’d owned it for a lifetime, photos show me wearing it as far back as June 2012! Luckily, I found a near-identical replacement in a different color for a steal.

A few days later, I headed to DSW. After three months and 425 miles of hiking through rocky, sandy, and slippery trails across the U.S., my shoes were completely worn out. I picked up a new pair of Asics, my favorite brand, along with a new cap to protect me from the relentless sun. Back at home, I made sure to thank both my sports jacket and shoes for their service, following Marie Kondo’s habit, before finally letting them go.

Avoiding The Relentless Heat

An unplanned day at home. A last-minute check showed the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument visitor center was closed on Wednesdays, so we postponed our hike. However, wanting to get some walking miles, I set out on foot to drop off some items at the local Goodwill. My original plan included a loop through Reid Park, but the heat was unforgiving.

After dropping off the bag, I escaped the sun and returned to the Airbnb right away. I looked forward to a shower and the new episode of The Handmaid’s Tale, but I fell asleep before the show even started. I’m still trying to find the balance between staying active and being wise and sheltered when the thermometer hits 99°F.

After yesterday’s scorching peak, I had learned my lesson. I was out the door just before 7am, doing the cool walk at a pleasant 72°F. The window between comfortable and unbearable is small though, because by the time I finished an hour later, the temperature had already climbed to 82°F.

A TLC Pit Stop for Peace of Mind

With the activity of the day done, we went to the garage to give our “Clown Car,” as my friend Pam affectionately calls our Mitsubishi, a much-needed TLC. After three months of intensive driving across the States, a professional check-up felt overdue. It was a wise decision because the garage found a few minor issues. With the car refreshed, I felt much more relaxed about another 3-month journey ahead as we make our way toward our final destination in Watertown, South Dakota.

When Life Throws You Lemons, You Make Lemonade

On our way downtown, we realized we had an almost flat tire. Apparently, the garage had missed something during our check-up a few days earlier! We drove to the Discount Tire garage right away and made an appointment, deciding to walk to the Botanical Garden just a mile away instead.

The garden gave a fantastic overview of flora that thrives in the Sonoran Desert and similar climates, sometimes in a playful way like the ‘Cactus Car’ or with the Great Garden Express model railway.

We had lunch at the café, outside but still within the beauty of Tucson’s botanical garden. We both agreed this was probably more enjoyable, sitting underneath the trees in 100°F heat with a bit of a breeze, than strolling around downtown. Although we did miss our return visit this way!

After walking back to the garage, our car was ready at the promised time. With two brand-new tires, we returned to our Airbnb. We felt incredibly lucky that the flat tire happened here in Tucson, the day before our departure. The last thing we needed during our travels was a flat tire on the road, in the heat, in the middle of nowhere.

The Maintenance We Needed

Just before 11am, we were packed and almost on our way! We only needed to get Hemmes into his carrier. He was hiding underneath the bed, avoiding the usual drill. However, he didn’t resist and accepted being put in his carrier. After a final “thank you” to our Airbnb, we closed the door and were on our way again, leaving Arizona and, hopefully, leaving the heat behind.

In hindsight, our stay in Tucson had been a much-needed maintenance break during our travels. While exploring the area, we learned a valuable lesson: my computer fell apart, the car needed work, and our shoes and clothing finally wore out. While we love exploring the wilderness, small towns, and everything else away from the major cities, we realized we must include occasional stays in larger cities to ensure we stay well-equipped and ready to go.