The population of Chandler has tripled in size since the 90's! Check out why visitors and locals alike are flocking to this Sonoran city in our latest video! <br /> <br />Learn more about this video at: http://travelsavvy.tv/destinations/around-the-us/restaurants/experience-the-good-life-in-chandler-arizona/ <br /> <br />- <br />Over the past three decades, the population of Chandler, Arizona has nearly tripled in size and shows no signs of slowing down. <br /> <br />Travel Savvy host Paula Keung recently traveled to this Sonoran city to check out the local sights, things to do, and taste what this growing metropolis has to offer. <br /> <br />On today’s episode of The Lowdown, Paula sits down with Julia Peters, the owner of Peixoto Coffee. <br /> <br />Born and raised in Brazil to a close-knit family of coffee growers, Julia never dreamed she’d eventually become a coffee entrepreneur. Her education and work life led her to the Chandler-area, and she fell in love with the supportive, close-knit community. As she explains in the video, “Chandler is a very vibrant city. It’s a small town with a big-city feel.” <br /> <br />Then one day, the idea lightning bolt hit, and Peixoto Coffee was born. Today, Julia imports her family’s coffee beans to Chandler and expertly roasts each bean to create a taste experience that locals are falling in love one cup at a time. <br /> <br />As a local, Julia also led us to other independently-operated businesses that also thrive in Chandler. Elmer's Tacos offers what Julia calls “the best tacos in the Phoenix metro area.” (Once we heard such praise from a local, we were sold!) <br /> <br />For a more upscale dining experience, The Brickyard Downtown offers small plates and cocktails, and believes sharing is a part of a quality dining experience. <br /> <br />Tucked away underneath a local historic hotel, The Ostrich offers "cocktails and more" in a industrial chic lounge that make patrons feel like they're in New York City, not in the Arizona desert! Fun fact: incidentally, the area of Chandler was once well-known for the many ostrich farms that operated during the early 20th Century. Hence, you’ll see ostrich references throughout the city. <br /> <br />To relax, Julia Peters heads over to Vibetality Yoga that offers a wide range of classes normally reserved for big-city studios. (Tip: If you’re only in town for the weekend, we recommend trying one of their high-tech sensory deprivation floatation tanks, which allow you to kick back, relax, and rejuvenate by thinking about absolutely nothing!) <br /> <br />Locals love to troll the aisles at Merchant Square Antiques Marketplace, which is the perfect place for Arizona visitors to snag one-of-a-kind gifts for their friends and family back home. Tip: Check out the on-site casual eatery, American Way Market, that bakes some of the best homemade sourdough bread in town. Paula loved the tri-tip sandwich!) <br /> <br />Whether you're interested in the booming economy, culturally diverse cuisines, outdoor activities, or just a good cup of coffee, Chandler, Arizona won't let you down. <br /> <br />Head to VisitChandler.com to plan your trip, and check back soon for more Travel Savvy coverage of this burgeoning city.
