Songbird

Almost hidden amongst the many alleyways of Downtown Phoenix, what first appears as a charming cottage quickly is revealed to be Songbird, the quaint coffee and tea escape. With brick walls, wooden floors and ceilings, and natural lighting, Songbird harnesses the hygge of home without loosing the ‘trendy young professional’ vibe.

The décor is a refreshing blend between comfortably-stuffed antique low seating and more studious table and chairs; ideal for the ambitious student or anyone who enjoys hole-in-the-wall cafés.

A refreshing ginger and peach iced tea: from Songbird

Specializing in coffees and tea, Songbird caters to a niche audience, but the variety of ways in which they sell their products gives them a wider range of profitability. Songbird provides mugs and cups to those who chose to stay, and to-go cups for those who take their drinks with them. This coffee and tea refuge takes a step in the direction of protecting the environment. Using additional plastic, such as lids and straws, is up to the consumer’s individual choice as these items are on a separate table.  Songbird stores and sells their loose-leaf tea in glass jars rather than using additional plastic to package their products.

Stepping out of the mainstream coffee shops along Roosevelt Row, Songbird offers a more environmentally conscious take on a delicious variety of coffees and teas.

 

Photo and blog post by: Sophia Molinar

The Phoenix Public Market

The Phoenix Public Market offers a rustic, yet modern change of pace when you step through the glass doors and are surrounded by great food and a delicious coffee bar. This mix between a restaurant and a café creates a welcoming environment for anyone who wants to stop in.

Post and video by: Sophia Molinar

Monorchid

A classic cup of chai: rom Monorchid

Cold oats soaked in Greek yogurt: from Monorchid

Just a few blocks away from the ASU Downtown Phoenix campus is the perfect cup of chai.

It is not fancy or decorated, but it is smooth, flavorful and absolutely delicious.

Monorchid delivers as a go-to place to study-while-eating-brunch. Relaxing music, trendy art pieces, an open-space concept and friendly staff ensure a pleasant experience.

If you are on-the-go and do not have time to sit and eat from their all day breakfast menu, the cold-oats are both convenient and healthy.  Their oats soak overnight in greek yogurt, then mixed with apples, coconut, sliced almonds and cinnamon.

In line with their urban open-space layout, Monorchid is connected to The Dressing Room, which caters to a slightly different audience, featuring a bar and more late-afternoon food options such as fish tacos!  On the other side of this trendy brunch spot is a large space where art galleries are held. On the first Friday of each month Roosevelt Row Art District has art shows and food trucks that take over a few blocks. On the first Fridays you are guaranteed a free visit to an art gallery by stopping by Monorchid.

A wall of moss and rows of succulents: from The Bosque

A plant sanctuary is also attached to Monorchid. Walking into The Bosque you are transported into a tropical oasis. Featuring hanging plants, succulents, cacti and palm trees, if you need a cute new plant for your home, or just an artsy picture, The Bosque is one stop shopping.

Monorchid has it all. Study space, large windows, art, food and plants.

Blog post and photos: Sophia Molinar

Exploring Camelback Mountain

Despite being a novice hiker, I knew I could not accurately write about hiking Camelback Mountain until attempting it myself.

Hiking during April, I was wary of the heat of mid-day so I began my ascent at 5:00am. Surrounded by complete darkness, I used a headlamp to ensure safety in my footing. The steep and rocky trail, with certain parts being steep enough to require a hand-rail, gave validity to the double black diamond rating of the hike. However, following a more experienced hiker up the trail and taking my time allowed me to conquer Camelback Mountain with ease.

The breathtaking view of the sunrise at the top made waking up so early worth it. A few minutes after I reached the top, a man with a flute and drum joined the few of us who made it in time for the sunrise. He welcomed in the new dawn with peaceful music and allowed us all to enjoy the morning in a calm serenity.

Following my recommended tips for successful hiking will help ensure your success and safety when hiking Camelback Mountain.

Post and video by: Sophia Molinar

Tips for successful hiking

On the surface hiking seems straightforward, walk up and then down a mountain; but there are many steps of preparation that are necessary when hiking, especially in conditions like Arizona’s weather.

Some tips for successful Arizona hiking are:

• Plan ahead: time your hike so you are not stuck hiking in the middle of a Summer day in 100+ degree heat.
• Stay hydrated: the dry weather of the desert combined with physical activity can leave you parched; it is important to hydrate the day before as well.
• Do not hike alone: not only is it often more fun spending time with a friend, but it is safer to have a partner when hiking up 1,264 feet.
• Take only what you need: bringing unnecessary gear will weigh you down, making the journey up Camelback Mountain more strenuous.
• Know your limits: take breaks when you need to, and let others pass you. Keep your own pace, hiking is an experience, not a race.

If you are from out-of state it is important to be aware of Arizona’s extreme weather and the impact this can have on your body. Not only does the average temperature in Summer months exceed 100 degrees, but the rate of Emergency Department visits due to illness from exposure to excessive natural heat in Arizona is about 900% more than other U.S. residents.

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Despite the hike’s popularity, it is also fairly dangerous, the hike to its breath-taking view having claimed the lives of novice hikers.

While Camelback Mountain is rated a double black diamond hike, if you follow the tips above and are cautious when hiking, this is an experience unique to the Phoenix area. The view and sense of calm at the top of Camelback allows hikers to take a moment out of the day to simply be.

Post and infographic slideshow by: Sophia Molinar

Podcast: advice of an experienced hiker

Dylan Wojcik, a freshman at Arizona State University reflects on his numerous exertions up Camelback Mountain.  Wojcik advises novice hikers on the importance of bringing water and wearing some form of sun protection as Arizona has a high rate of illness due to exposure to excessive natural heat. He emphasizes caution when hiking the trail for the first time as the rock is sometimes loose and it is more difficult to plan the timing of the hike the first time.  Despite the many factors that suggest one should exercise caution, Wojcik also mentions the beauty of the trail; the work put into the upwards hike makes the view at the top all the more beautiful.

 

Post and podcast by: Sophia Molinar