Mild temperatures during Arizona winters allow resorts to attract advance vacation planners, and the Arizona Office of Tourism recommends that travelers make getaway plans early for the best the state has to offer.

“Diverse travel opportunities and beautiful warm winter weather make Arizona an incredible destination,” Arizona Office of Tourism Director Debbie Johnson said. “Arizona’s great winter offerings also make the state a very popular destination. Travelers should plan early to ensure they get to have the Arizona experience they really want.”

Johnson, who previously served as head of the Arizona Lodging & Tourism Association, advises consumers to to go to the state’s official travel and vacation planning website, www.visitarizona.com., to guide their journeys. Relaxing resorts complement the state’s famous skiing, hiking and golf facilities. Mild winters guarantee visitors a wide spectrum of recreational choices, from snow sports to bicycling and even heated outdoor water sports, as well as top-rated sporting events like football, golf and racing.

“Waiting to the very last minute could create a booking challenge during the dates that a guest is looking stay,” Arizona Biltmore General Manager Sheila Foley said. Foley suggests planning ahead to book a room at the Phoenix hotel where Irving Berlin wrote the holiday favorite “White Christmas.”

Many attractive package deals are available for vacation planners, with options to suit all tastes. Besides the Biltmore resort, Phoenix also features the Arizona Grand Resort and Spa, with its Oasis Water Park, athletic club and spa; and Hotel Palomar, offering a Stay & Skate package.

“We have such an impressive and varied geography that you can literally go skiing in the morning, jump in the car and drive to another part of the state to enjoy a round of golf in the afternoon,” Johnson said. “Arizona is a unique destination that truly offers something for everyone to enjoy.”