C J has twice invited me to participate in nature walks at The Oasis (also known as "WOW Arizona" for Wild Outdoor World). He values my expertise about the local insects, but it is I who has been honored and overwhelmed by the hospitality he and Mary Ellen extend to all their guests.
The Oasis manages to cater to a wide variety of clientele, from mountain bikers to amateur naturalists. I have never felt unwelcome for not being a more athletically-inclined guest (I don't even ride a bike of any kind).
The grounds are a virtual Eden and the hosts know every resident plant and animal. The water and flowers (mostly native, some ornamental) attract an enormous diversity of wildlife from butterflies to birds and mammals, making it a great place to become familiar with Sonoran Desert flora and fauna while being as comfortable or adventurous as you would like to be.
I find no fault with the interior accommodations, either. I like the cozy, "contemporary-rustic" feel of this place very much. The decor includes spectacular images of the wildlife seen and photographed on the scenic grounds. I slept like a baby, and woke up to.....
The food! C J and Mary Ellen are very conscious of the differing nutritional needs of their guests. I'm lactose intolerant and they had lactose-free milk! That never happens! The entrees are delicious, a great treat for a "meat and potatoes" guy like me, yet still "gourmet," just not pretentious. Pleasing folks with your menu is a tough task, but The Oasis scores big here.
I heartily recommend The Oasis to anyone visiting southern Arizona who wants to avoid crowded parks, see wildlife up close, and enjoy captivating conversations with the proprietors over a great meal. read more