City: Tucson, AZ

Category: Retirement

Telephone: (520) 742-0505

Address: 7500 N. Calle Sin Envidia

Description: Rancho Sin Vacas is an exclusive gated community in the Catalina foothills on Tucson’s north side, which should tell you something about this retirement complex located there. It’s exclusive, pricey, and lovely. And there’s almost always a waiting list to rent one of its 155 independent-living apartments that range from studios to 2-bedroom, 2-bath units.The apartments are located in 14 two-story buildings, each with only 4 to 16 apartments, so each building resembles a villa. All have a patio or balcony, emergency call system, full kitchens, oversize bathrooms, and weekly housekeeping and linen services, but some utilities and parking are extra. All units are wheelchair accessible. The monthly rent includes 20 meals a month in the elegant dining room plus daily continental breakfast and amenities including scheduled van transportation, fitness center, free laundry rooms, pool, Jacuzzi, beauty salon, and 24-hour security. The minimum age is 62.In addition to the independent-living facilities, Santa Catalina also offers 42 private suites for skilled nursing, 70 private apartments for assisted living, and 15 private suites for memory care. All residents have access to Medicare-certified home health and full therapy services. Santa Catalina is owned by Brookdale Senior Living Inc.To reach Santa Catalina Villas, go north on either Campbell Avenue or Pima Canyon Road from Sunrise Drive, but be sure to call ahead. Rancho Sin Vacas is a gated area, and you’ll need an appointment to get by the guard.