Our Desert Oasis Holiday

Guest: mailliw (Dowling, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/15/09 Review Submitted: 05/11/10

We found the property description accurate but somewhat humbling after one experiences the beauty of the property, the delicious wafts of orange blossoms and other flowering trees, the majestic saguaro towering over the other cactii and the refreshing shade trees and patios that cool the air as one relaxes protected fom the 90+ degree March temperatures. Being gardeners, we had permission to putter in the flower beds and harvest oranges and grapefruit which still remained on the trees as the new blossoms developed. The automatic watering system maintains healthy plant life enriching this half acre oasis which in turn attracts the rabbits, quail,and road runners that entertained via the dining room window as we ate our evening meals. The home itself was spacious, having many conveniences for cooking, entertainment, internet, classic western movies, air conditioning,laundry, two bathrooms, two bedrooms and a pull out sofa in the dining living area. The kitchen and combined sitting room is quite roomy and well supplied for cooking utensils and comfy reading chairs which we took advantage of at days' end. The storage and laundry room is bright, spacious, accessible and so conducive to orderly unpacking and packing. The outdoor hot tub sits adjacent to the fruit trees and is very private and protected from all directions. This home is well located on the western edge of Tucson and in the heart of attractions such as the desert museum , desert wildlife zoo, Old Tucson Movie studio where many of the classic western films and t.v. series were filmed, georgeous mountain passes where we were mesmerized by the golden rays of the setting sun.....the many scenes a lasting memory which long for return. We were well located for day trips: the two main caverns to the east of Tucson,Benson,Tombstone, Bisbee, east and west Saguaro Nat. Mon,, White Mountain, Casa Grande, Phoenix etc. and the many local attractions such as the Rodeo. One could spend a month on daily road trips and return home every night and still not see all there is to see. Most of our lunches and meals we prepared, but we had occasion to eat at local restaurants i.e. western barbeque ribs + steak, seafood, chinese which we enjoyed. There is much to choose from. The home owners helped us plan several of our trips and were very informative re the sites + history of the area. They took us on a lovely sunset tour and fine diningat the Corral. They are very warm people and we long to return

Recommended for:People with disabilities, adventure seekers, romantic getaway, sightseeing, age 55+.

Darling house- great location!

Guest: rb59 (Spokane, Washington)
Date of Stay: 02/01/10 Review Submitted: 03/24/10

I'm not sure most people would have stayed had they walked into what we did upon arrival. Spent a lot of time cleaning the place! Broadband internet was not set up as we were told it would be and that caused some frustration since it was needed for work. I think because this is a family home and very special to the landlord, she feels she should have access whenever she chooses- that may not sit well with people who are used to having a place "be theirs" when they are renting! It is a great little place, just make sure you're OK with a LOT of landlord activity around you!

Owner response:I greet new arrivals with keys for an orientation tour of house and yard. There was never any indication the house was unsuitably clean. I admit that I am conscientious about maintaining the 1/2 acre irrigation system but make every effort to be considerate and respect all reasonable wishes of my guests. If there is need for maintenance I always call or e-mail ahead to arrange for a convenient time. There was an initial connection problem with my newly purchased modem so I stayed, at the request of the wife, and worked with Comcast by phone until cause and solution were determined. When I arrived with another modem by noon the next day the husband sternly reprimanded me for overstaying my welcome the night before. When an irrigation system timing valve malfunction occurred that required immediate repair they requested I turn the system off and allow them to water trees, cactus and shrubs by hand for the 2.5 weeks remaining. I repaired the system.

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