Fairmont and National Geographic create a kids 'Explorers Camp'

Fairmont Scottsdale has just announced a new partnership with National Geographic through the creation of an all-new “Explorers Camp” for kids this summer, where eight world-renowned National Geographic explorers will share stories of their adventures with participating families.

Set in the Sonoran Desert, the Fairmont Scottsdale reflects the Southwest with its Spanish style architecture, 649 guest rooms, five swimming pools, Willow Stream spa and championship golf at TPC Scottsdale. The resort is operated by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and is owned by Strategic Hotels & Resorts.

Navigating a GPS to discover desert creatures, going on a photo safari or meeting real-life explorers, the Fairmont Scottsdale is making this summer an adventure. The luxury resort in Arizona is partnering with National Geographic for the first National Geographic Explorers Camp, exclusively for its overnight guests.

From May 22-September 7, 2009, the camp offers discovery-based activities for children ages 5-12, with half-day and full-day sessions. Campers trek on a “Desert Discovery” GPS treasure hunt, go on a “Photo Safari,” have fun at a “Geo Bowl” geography bee, and play on gigantic, highly-detailed maps of continents.

Best of all, eight world-renowned National Geographic explorers will share stories of their adventures on select Saturdays beginning May 30. The speakers interact with youngsters at the day camp, then give a special presentation at a Saturday dinner for the whole family.
- Greg Marshall, Biologist/Inventor/Filmmaker May 30
- Brady Barr, Reptile Expert June 13
- Zeb Hogan, Aquatic Ecologist June 27
- Tim Samaras, Tornado Researcher July 11
- Joel Sartore, Photographer August 1
- Mireya Mayor, Primatologist August 8
- Kobie Boykins, NASA Engineer August 22
- Mark Moffett, Ecologist September 5

Summer room rates for Fairmont Scottsdale begin at $199 per room, with a daily $100 dining credit, May 10-September 20, 2009. The Explorers Camp is a la carte and prices start at $49 for a half-day session, and each camper receives a backpack. The Saturday speaker dinner is $15-$30 for kids and adults.

Families also enjoy 200-foot waterslides, “dive-in” movies, fishing, basketball, teen “Hang Out” and complimentary child amenities upon request.

For more information, visit, www.fairmont.com/scottsdale or www.nationalgeographic.com.