In 1985, a man by the name of Charles Keaton had a vision. He bought 250 acres of land in the Sonoran Desert at the foot of Camelback Mountain. It took 900 workers, two years, and nine months, and on October 1, 1988, he saw his vision realized when The Phoenician Resort and Spa opened it’s doors for the first time. Not wanting to conform, and wanting to offer guests something different than the surrounding desert, Keaton wished to design the resort with the elegance and sophistication of Europe in mind. Indeed he has accomplished this. White marble was imported from Carrera, Italy for the lobby, and the ceiling is etched in 24 karat gold with a stunning fountain in the main lobby. Eleven rare Steinway pianos were purchased to display in the hallways, presidential suite, and The Thirsty Camel Lounge.