What’s the best summer getaway? That’s what I asked some of the residents of the Villas at Montelucia Resort- one of the most prestigious addresses in town. Where do those who already live a resort lifestyle go?  Well, one of their newest favorite options for a luxurious relaxing vacation- might surprise you!

 

Close your eyes. Cross the continents, oceans and centuries of time and escape to a place with unparalleled amenities. It’s the newest destination for Deanna and Kemp Biddulph, for example, who’ve spent their entire summers in La Jolla for the last 20 years. But this summer will be different. That’s what I surprisingly discovered when I went to interview them for my “summer getaway” story. “Over the 22 years we've had a home at Windansea Beach, we have developed many new friends and have become a part of the neighborhood,” said a hurried Deanna as the Biddulphs were busy trying to pack to  leave for La Jolla.

 

Between business calls, Kemp, the car dealership king joined Deanna, their dog Mitzi and me in their lushly landscaped courtyard. Sitting in their private outdoor enclave, we chatted about La Jolla, the San Diego area, Flagstaff and Pinetop- a few of the most popular second home spots for many Paradise Valley and Arizona residents. 

“We love La Jolla, and the restaurants are a big draw, too,” said Deanna. We enjoy meeting our friends at The Pannikin for coffee and a light breakfast or Harry's for a hearty breakfast, or Barbarella’s for an open-air lunch or dinner, or The Fishery.”  

 

But wait. As we enjoyed the view and warm glow of Camelback Mountain from their private villa nestled within the Montelucia Intercontinental Resort and they delighted over the convenience of walking just minutes to the resort for a bite or to meet a few friends for coffee, something was happening...

“Of course, we have a resort lifestyle right here at the Villa. And since we have moved here on the grounds of the resort, we’ve become part of this neighborhood, and become very friendly with our neighbors,” noted Deanna. “This move to this all encompassing community was the best choice we ever made,” she said. Yes, something was pulling them in another direction… oh check out the picture again and look closer at that little cloud above their heads.. with relentless images of their sweet Paradise Valley home.   

 

“Things have changed over the past year,” admitted Deanna.  “We find ourselves returning to Paradise Valley much more frequently during the summer due to our love affair with our new home and surroundings,” echoed Kemp. 

 

And maybe they would postpone their trip to La Jolla for a few more weeks? After all, even though it was 90 degrees – sitting in the shade of their courtyard was still enjoyable- amidst the ambiance of architecture inspired by the whitewashed villages and sun-drenched hillsides of southern Spain’s Andalusia region. Of course, as the summer temps heat up over 100 degrees, it’s what will most likely send those like the Biddulphs to the beach. 

 

So, while Kemp and Deanna were trying to decide whether to leave home yet or not, I asked if I could push the video button. Although a little self-conscious, they agreed and we had fun with it. Click on below and see what happened as the Biddulphs were packing. After all, the town is called Paradise Valley.