Feb_Mar visit - destinations? Scenery / Commercial prop (apartment, lodging)

[janb]

We are on an escape route (in search of 'less greener pastures than 100" rain provides) and will be cruising through AZ in late Feb early March

Any areas particularly pretty that time of year (for the recreational part)
When does desert come to life? (I can delay the trip if necessary)
Where can I find those pretty spots in AZ magazine? Will they be 'snowed in?" (I've only been to Havasu, and it wasn't too spectacular.)

Also looking for semi-rural areas of decent commercial property strength. (not a metropolis, but solid economy)

I'm of the thought that we will need to buy commercial props to rent out to get cash flow. Maybe a place with apartment above, so we can stay there when we are in the area (and escaping the rain).

Extreme heat / barrenness is not desired

We've lived in Colorado and WA and the 'better-half' prefers mountains and trees.

We'll be in our 'econo-RV', self contained, so lodging should not be a problem

[BillyBaroo]

Originally Posted by janb

When does desert come to life? (I can delay the trip if necessary)

You might be in luck this year, we may have a spectacular wildflower bloom. The recent rains we had may have set the stage for a palate of color covering the desert floor this spring. There was an article about it in the Arizona Daily Star today.

http://www.azstarnet.com/dailystar/216513

Our recent soaking rains have primed the desert for a good — and potentially dazzling — display of wildflowers come spring.
"Tell Aunt Matilda to keep her schedule clear for March. We could see a great bloom," said Russ Buhrow, curator of plants at Tohono Chul Park.
"This is our best opportunity for a superlative display since 1998, which was the best wildflower year since the '40s," Buhrow said. "Seeds are germinating right now."

Here's one site to keep updated on the status of the wildflower bloom.

http://www.desertusa.com/wildflo/az.html