Borrego Sun - Since 1949

Borrego Springs is an isolated little desert community, connected to the outside world by a few winding two-lane mountain and desert roads; with random huge metal sculptures. It has a round-about circle that connects to the main street and shopping mall, but does not have a single traffic light in sight.

Believe it or not, most people who travel to Borrego are here to get away from their busy lives. Whether they come to golf, to relax by the pool or hike through the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, which is the largest state park in California, they are here to enjoy and soak up the sun.

Whether you are a snow-bird or live in our valley permanently, what do you do when temperatures over 100 degrees call you to a beach town?

When you are already in the most tranquil of places, but looking for even more seclusion and beauty, attached to some form of water, this reporter has found the best place for you to pay a visit – Baja AirVentures' Las Animas Wilderness Eco-Lodge, located in Baja California. Local Borregan Gray Brandt is a pilot/guide for Baja AirVentures, and flies travelers to this remote location all year long.

In the Midriff Islands Region in the Sea of Cortez, a two one-hour scenic flight south from San Diego with a quick stop in San Felipe to clear customs and about an hour panga (boat) ride is one of the most beautiful private beaches you can stay on. The best part? It's completely off the grid, and by that we mean; no cell service, no roads, no stores, no hotels and only the people you bring with you, up to sixteen guests, and the staff.

Accommodations include a private beach-side glamping Yurt (with Tempur-Pedic mattresses), bathrooms with showers and outdoor hammocks. Although there is no running water, the staff provides you with plenty of water during your stay. There is Solar electricity and wifi (although intermittent) for those who need a slower detox from technology. It's great for families, friends, honeymooners, weddings, businesses, adventurers, or even as this reporter went, single travelers.

Often compared to the beauty of the Galápagos Islands, Las Animas Eco-Lodge, in operation since 1989, provides its travelers with the tranquil paradise they are looking for.

This all-inclusive multi-activity wilderness vacation allows its guests to snorkel with whale sharks and sea lions; explore offshore islands, whale watching that includes blue and fin back whales, bird watching, dolphins, sea kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, swimming in crystal clear coves, tubing, world class fishing, star gazing, and so much more!

When is the best time to go? It depends on what you are looking for. Although they are a year round lodge, in February and March, Baja AirVentures offers their Best of Baja Whale Watching Trips that include a bed and breakfast stay in Guerrero Negro on the Pacific Ocean, as well as time spent at Las Animas Eco Lodge. In April and May there is a special Baja Bird Watching Nature Tour because this region of the Sea of Cortez is so rich in marine life and world-class birding. In August through October, they offer a Snorkel with Whale Shark Tour from Las Animas. So whether you are looking to pet whales, snorkel with sea lions, experience truly amazing diverse nature or just swing in your hammock for a few days, this trip is exactly what you make of it.

For more information, or to book space, call San Diego based owner Kevin Warren at 800-221-9283 or visit http://www.bajaairventures.com. This is a once in a lifetime trip you don't want to miss.