What makes Greater Phoenix so great: Annika Clunk 

Published: 12/09/2020

How old are you? 

22 

How long have you lived in Greater Phoenix? 

About 15 years  

What city do you currently reside in? 

Scottsdale 

Did you grow up in Arizona? 

Yes 

Why did you decide to stay in here? 

I love the weather, being close to family, and the immense opportunities to go hiking or out and about in the city. 

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

I was born in Southern California, but my parents moved out here when I was young. I loved growing up here but chose the Pacific Northwest for college. I couldn’t wait to return home. The rain and city congestion made me miss the open desert. 

If you graduated from college, where did you attend and what was your degree? 

I went to Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon. I graduated with a double major in economics and German studies. 

Where do you currently work and what is your title? 

Research & Analytics Intern at GPEC 

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

Old Town Scottsdale is awesome! I love how many different clubs and bars there are. There are amazing restaurants for a pre-game, then I can get my country kick at Whiskey Row, or dance the night away at Maya. 

What’s your favorite restaurant and why? 

Culinary Dropout: cheese fondue and pretzel bites, that is all. 

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

Sedona is an amazing getaway. It’s not too far away and the scenery is unlike anything in the country. There are towering red rocks for hiking, streams to cool down and some unique spa treatments. 

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

I find myself waking up at the crack of dawn to get an early hike in when the weather is perfect. Allows me to be outside for a little bit until I’m back inside for the rest of the day. 

What do you like about our winters and why? 

Desert weather is something else. When the sun sets, it can get to a crisp 40 and I can throw on a jacket. During the day, I never want to stay inside. I can be out playing pickleball or golfing all day! 

What do you love most about living in Greater Phoenix? 

The balance between all the hiking offered and the fun stuff to do on the weekends. Everything is pretty close too. Plus, not having the extra layers in winter. 

Please include anything else you’d like to share about what makes Greater Phoenix so great: 

Of all the dangerous animals out there, I’m glad we have rattlesnakes. They are nice enough to let you know exactly where they are so you can kindly walk the other way. 

 

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