I'll be going to the Scottsdale property soon and I wondered if anyone could answer a few questions on it...

1) Is the pool area really as awesome as everybody suggests?
2) What kind of room should I ask them for (lowly Platinum )
3) We booked through a tour operator and we got continental breakfast vouchers for free, does this suggest we have Regency Club access?
4) Is it possible to upgrade to full buffet from these vouchers?
5) Has anyone got an e-mail address of the hotel or do I have to write a fax ?
6) Have we chosen the right hotel or should we have opted for the Westin?
7) Is there shopping nearby?
8) Any good places to eat (high-end and not high-end) nearby?
9) Any general tips about this hotel (you know these small things that you usually learn the day you leave)

Thanks in advance for your help, fellas!