What makes Greater Phoenix so great: Aly Halbakken

Published: 03/11/2020

What is your first and last name? 

Aly Halbakken

How old are you? 

22

What city do you currently reside in? 

Tempe

How long have you lived in Greater Phoenix? 

4 years

Where are you originally from and why’d you decide to move to Arizona? 

I am originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota. I decided to move to Arizona for college. I never ever thought I would live here permanently after getting my degree, but here I am!

What college/university did you graduate from and what’s your degree? 

Grand Canyon University – Bachelor of Science in Communication with Honors

Where do you currently work and what is your title? 

I work at an advertising agency called Zion & Zion as an Account Coordinator. I work on the Phoenix Suns accounts, Venezia’s Pizza, and a rural lifestyle retail store in the Valley. I am also the Event Planner for The Cameron, a luxury apartment in Tempe.

What do you like to do in Greater Phoenix on the weekends? 

I LOVE the restaurant and bar scene in the Greater Phoenix area. I love exploring new spots and experiencing their unique atmospheres, food, and creativity. I love it when friends and family come to visit because I have a list of places I like to show off here.

What’s your go-to staycation spot and why? 

I love spending weekends in Scottsdale. I am a recent graduate, so I enjoy the luxury for a weekend and then go back to reality. I enjoy the beautiful walking paths, laying by the pool, window shopping at Scottsdale Quarter, and stopping at a happy hour with a beautiful sunset.

What’s your favorite restaurant and why? 

I love Cibo in downtown Phoenix. It somehow transports you to some quaint town in Italy even though you can see Phoenix high rises in the background. At night, the trees are beautifully lit and they often have live music. It is a peaceful and thoughtful place that lets the food speak for itself. The pizza is by far my favorite in the city… maybe even ever.

How do you stay “cool” in the Arizona summers? 

Find. Me. At. The. Pool. I also love going to movies in the summer.

What do you like about our winters and why? 

Well, I am from Minnesota and I am pretty sure Arizona doesn’t even have winters. They just skip to spring and I am not mad about it. I love that I don’t have to shovel, heat up my car before I leave or worry if I am going to get to my lunch appointment because my street hasn’t been plowed.

What do you love most about living in Greater Phoenix? 

I love the personalities of each city. Scottsdale has a way different feel than Central Phoenix. Old Town has a vibe of its’ own; Tempe is beautiful for a morning run or a wild nightlife. There is so much to do in Greater Phoenix. There is an area to fit any morning or night experience you are looking for.

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