I've been enjoying travels with my wife for 25 years. She researches lodging, meals, and adventures well in advance and because of her diligence, we never fail at having top of the line vacations on our middle of the road budget. We started a ten day hiking tour of southeast Arizona in Tucson at the Azure Gate Bed and Breakfast recently, and I have to say that our hosts, Dennis and Christine Widman, provided us with an experience that tops all others over the past 25 years.

Azure Gate is located in The Foothills, northeast of the city, on 5 acres of beautifully tended dessert they have been renewing with native plants and gradually eliminating species not indigenous to the area. Under their care the native wildlife is thriving and currently a bobcat with cubs, coyote, javelina and many species of birds may be encountered on the property. There are two casitas with kitchens and also two large bedrooms in a wing of the main house that provide a library, living and dining rooms and friendly relaxation spaces for all guests. Dennis is an expert wildlife photographer and you'll enjoy the Azure Gate website almost as much as time spent on location. He has published a book, Hummingbirds of Arizona, and greeting cards showcasing his photography are available.

The breakfasts were fabulous. Dennis accommodated my special needs perfectly with some combinations that only someone who loves to cook could invent. Three days of meals at Azure Gate were simply not enough. Dinner recommendations were spot on, as were driving directions to anywhere you might want to go. When we mentioned that we'd be hiking at Muleshoe Ranch, Dennis doctored up a map to show us where we might find the elusive coati in the wild. And we weren't disappointed. Christine, a children's book author, chatted with us about our interests and hers. We already had the Dessert Museum on our to do list and she suggested that the Tohono Chul Park should not be missed. We heartily agree. The Widmans know how to make you feel not like guests, but rather like old friends. Our next visit to southeast Arizona will surely include another visit with the Widmans at Azure Gate Bed and Breakfast.