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Orbit In: A true blast from the past

A mid-century modern couch in front of a large window in the Rat Pack room at Orbit In Palm Springs

The Orbit In embraces its mid-century modern roots, wowing guests with its retro furnishings, lively pool area, and — of course — those irresistible Orbitinis, served every night during happy hour.

During their second stay at the Orbit In, husband and wife Kevin Miller and Jinny Park had the place all to themselves, and as they sat outside, looking up at the sky, they started talking about their dream of selling everything in order to buy and run the hotel.

Orbit In owners, Kevin Miller and Jinny Park

“Right then, a huge shooting star went across, and we made a wish,” Kevin said. “Three years later, we bought it. We are guests who ended up buying the hotel, and we try to run it from a guest perspective.”

The Orbit In is a mid-century modern hotel built in 1957, purchased by Kevin and Jinny in October 2007. Guests spend their days gathering around the Boomerang Bar, beating the heat in the pool and under the misters, enjoying Orbitinis during happy hour, and taking advantage of cruisers they can take around the neighborhood.

“It kind of feels like a hotel, but it also feels like you’re coming to someone’s house,” Kevin said. “It splits the difference there. We see a lot of repeat guests, and that’s just terrific.”

Although he is always improving the hotel, Kevin listens to his guests who like the retro vibe and want things to stay exactly the way they are.

“They always say, ‘Don’t change anything,'” he said. “They love it the way it is. They really like the staff. Everyone is personable and knows them by name, and they feel at home here.”

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Mother May I Take You To Palm Springs?

A woman and girl sit in a hammock outside

You’re never too old to need your mom.

Welcome to that one time of year when we take time to honor our moms for everything they have done for us. Considering she wiped our butts for the first few years of our lives and put up with our adolescent shenanigans and teen angst, one day doesn’t seem like enough, you know?

So, I’m going to suggest you take mom on a little getaway to Palm Springs, and I’m going to help you out on the planning front because I’m nice like that (and it was my idea, so…).

I’ve got a few hotel suggestions, mostly because they’re gorgeous and more pointedly, they have some sort of spa/wellness services . And Mom deserves a spa treatment or 10, and a cushy bed to rest her head.

First the hotels, and then the Mother’s Day activities. Let’s go.

Stay in style 

L’Horizon: Spa treatments and yoga sweeten the already decadent property. Mom will never forget the pampering she will receive at this very special location. Everything is 5-star here, even the restaurant, SO.PA.

A treatment space at The Spa at L’Horizon. Photo courtesy of L’Horizon

Ingleside Inn: This is the epitome of old Hollywood in Palm Springs, and more than just a gorgeous property. It has a terrific restaurant, Melvyn’s, which also has one of the coolest old school bars in Palm Springs. There is a piano player most nights, and celebrities have been known to sit in. Spa services are available.

Korakia Pensione: Laid-back and groovy, they have a tea service and yoga on the lawn. It’s a Class 1 historic building that sweeps you away. There’s a market on premises with clothes and things from far, far away to add to the exotic feel. Very cool variety of massage and wellness services, offered outdoors or in your room.

Relaxation awaits at Korakia Pensione. Photo courtesy of Korakia Pensione

Andreas Hotel & Spa: Located in the heart of downtown, Mom will enjoy the onsite spa services such as “Me Time” (a 55-minute aromatherapy massage, with a glass of champagne) or the “Summer Delight” (a 55-minute Swedish massage, 55-minute Vital C facial, and champagne). Right next door are two of the best restaurants in Palm Springs: Cheeky’s (breakfast) and Birba (dinner.)

La Serena Villas: The best of all worlds — Whispers Spa is on premises, and the hotel’s restaurant, Azucar, and Sugar High Rooftop Lounge are terrific additions to the light and airy space that permeates the whole place.

Whispers Spa. Photo courtesy of La Serena Villas

Or, you could stay at one of our other wonderful resorts and take Mom to the new Séc-he Spa downtown. For $145 you can get a pass to “Taking the Waters” and enjoy their communal offerings. If you get a massage or facial, that price is waived.

Restaurants with a special May 14 menu

Chi Chi: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a poolside Mother’s Day Brunch, with favorite specials like the Nutella French toast and Alaskan crab benedict on the menu.

LULU: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be special brunch and dinner offerings. The Mother’s Day dinner is a 3-course delight with a delectable selection of dishes including slow- roasted prime rib, fresh filet of Atlantic salmon, chicken cordon bleu, and much more.

Melvyn’s: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Indulge with this 3-course Mother’s Day brunch featuring steak Diane and eggs, smoked salmon benedict, and banana bread French toast. For an additional $25, you get bottomless bubbles. Melvyn’s has a luxurious atmosphere — very “old Hollywood/Palm Springs,” and the grounds are lovely.

Labor Pains: A musical Mother’s Day Sunday brunch, at 11 a.m. This “humorous and heartfelt musical look at the joys, memories, trials, and tribulations of motherhood.” During this 4-course brunch, the bubbly and Bloody Marys will be free-flowing, along with fantastic music and laughter. $89

A few more suggestions

I’m going to toss in a few other special places that have not announced yet (and may not), but I think Mom will love them:

Le Vallauris:  Book the patio.

Johannes: German food in a fresh, clean-lined restaurant with terrific wall art.

Pomme Frite: French bistro food and feel.

French Miso: It’s located in La Plaza, but the entrance is just south of the parking. It’s so cute Mom will want photo after photo.

Spencer’s: Located in the old Tennis Club (Class 1 historic building), book the Bougainvillea Room for brunch.

The patio at Spencer’s. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

If you and your mother are hikers and kitty lovers, take her for an early hike up Araby Trail then pop back down to Frisky Business for a coffee, tea, or nosh and play time with some kitties. Squee!

I haven’t run out of ideas, but I’ve run out of time this month, so happy Mother’s Day to all the moms — and to all the grown kids who are still looking for validation, this might do the trick. I’m kidding…I think.

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A stunning oasis in Tahquitz River Estates

BelleVue Oasis pool

With its tropical courtyard and mature palms, BelleVue Oasis is a hidden paradise in Palm Springs.

A mid-century modern property dating back to the 1950s, BelleVue Oasis officially opened for business in September 2019. Formerly Escape Resort, it is no longer a men’s clothing-optional hotel.

Located in Tahquitz River Estates, the 13-room, 21-and-over hotel has undergone some renovations and updates, including to the bathrooms. It has a retro yet modern feel, with pops of orange and turquoise standing out against the clean white walls and linens. The rooms come with kitchens or kitchenettes, plus furnished patios that let guests enjoy the sunshine.

The lush grounds are what inspired the hotel’s new name, with senior hotel manager Charles Zalepeski saying once you walk onto the property, “it’s kind of shocking, you don’t expect it to be as beautiful and as big as it is. The pool is beautiful, and the mountain views are ridiculous.”

The San Jacinto Mountains are visible across the grounds, but are most spectacular when spotted from the spacious and sparkling pool and invigorating jacuzzi. There are loungers and umbrellas surrounding the pool, offering shade during the day. Once guests are ready to explore the town, they won’t have to go far — places like the Moorten Botanical Garden and Cactarium and Palm Springs Art Museum are just a short walk or drive away.

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Serenity now

A patio swing

Gorgeous rooms? Check. Relaxing spa with a variety of services? Check. A sparkling pool? Check. Restaurant with rooftop lounge and intriguing cocktails? Check.

Everything you need for the perfect Palm Springs stay is at La Serena Villas. Originally built in 1933 as a 26-unit hotel, this resort in the Historic Tennis Club neighborhood was redeveloped as a luxury hotel in 2016 by architect May Sung. The 18 secluded villas each have a private patio with a clawfoot tub, fire pit, and built-in benches, with Avenue Interior Design behind every room’s furniture, finishes, and materials.

Whispers Spa offers facials, massages, and body treatments, while Azucar restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Enjoy dining in the restaurant or sipping cocktails at Sugar High, the rooftop lounge. The hotel, owned by Lars Viklund, has a Spanish colonial feel, and is next door to one of his other properties, the Del Marcos Hotel, and across from his latest acquisition, The Three Fifty Hotel.

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Nostalgia and comfort collide at the Aloha Hotel

A flamingo float in the pool at the Aloha Hotel in Palm Springs, California

The Aloha Hotel embraces its vintage vibes. Built in 1947, this Tahquitz River Estates property has 11 poolside rooms containing original furniture and decor (don’t worry — the mattresses are new!).

The Aloha Hotel is a woman-owned property in the Tahquitz River Estates

A visit to the Aloha Hotel is a step back in time.

“People like the nostalgia of the 1950s, and we own it,” the hotel’s owner, Mona, said

Built in 1947, the property was purchased in 1971 by Mona’s mother, who previously owned the Four Trees Restaurant in Hollywood. She came to Palm Springs because it helped with her asthma, and ran the hotel for 40 years before Mona took over.

“I am so blessed to meet so many wonderful travelers,” she said. “The foreigners love it, and most feel like it’s home.”

The 11-room Aloha Hotel is the first property in the Tahquitz River Estates, and while the poolside suites are all restored with new beds, they contain the original 1950s furniture and decor. Several movies, music videos, and magazine spreads have been shot at the kitschy hotel, and when upgrades are available, especially mid-week, Mona gives them to guests, free of charge.

At one time, the hotel was called the Palo Verde Inn — the building once had a big “P” on it, and Mona found a vintage key and embroidered blanket with the name — but it was renamed the Aloha Hotel in order to be the first hotel in the phone book.

“Aloha means ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye,’ and everyone comes back, even 30 years later,” Mona said. “So, there are no goodbyes. Aloha, and mahalo!”

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It’s All Happening This February In Palm Springs

February – the month that fills you with overthinking about your love life.
– Anonymous

Not to brag or anything, but damn our weather has been exceptional. Nice sleeping temps at night — it’s in the 50s — and bright sunny days in the mid-70s to low 80s. It’s Palm Springs perfection!

February has a lot of stuff going on, so I won’t keep you with a bunch of chatter. Here’s the skinny:

Rock The Park event flyer. Courtesy of Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce

February 2: 

Rock the Park, 7 p.m., first Wednesdays of every month. Kicking off the whole affair will be TLR – Experience the Eagles Music, a hardworking and much in-demand tribute band based in Los Angeles. Other tribute groups scheduled to appear include those devoted to the music of Elton John, Madonna, Tina Turner, Fleetwood Mac, and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Located at the park next to Marilyn and by the Art Museum.

February 3: 

Village Fest — every Thursday, 6 to 10 p.m., on Palm Canyon Road. Foot traffic only from Alejo to Ramon, with vendors on every side of the street, buskers, crafters and food kiosks. All of the stores are open as well. It’s a great stroll, with tons of people watching and things to try. Friendly pooches welcome.

February 3: 

Palm Springs Art Museum Free Thursdays – every Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m.

February 3: 

Black History Month Opening Reception at Palm Springs Art Museum

February 6:  

Come celebrate Black History Month with a local vendor bazaar and the musical stylings of Keisha D Sings and her band. Tickets are $20 and include a seat for the show and cocktail. Tickets are now available. Venmo $20 to @Keisha-Halverson to secure your seat. Bazaar is free from noon to 3:30 p.m. 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.

NOTE: Keisha D is a BANGING vocalist and performer, nails every style she sings. A truly terrific vocalist and performer.

February 6:

Palm Springs Vintage Market, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., 2300 E Baristo Road.

February 10-13:

Intersect Palm Springs has traditionally occurred in conjunction with Modernism Week at the Palm Springs Convention Center, and presents post-war and contemporary art. Formerly known as Art Palm Springs, it has been running since 2012.

February 12:  

24th Annual Tour de Palm Springs/Coachella Valley, taking place in downtown Palm Springs on North Palm Canyon

February 12: 

Brave Bessie Coleman-Pursue your Dreams, Palm Springs Air Museum, 1 to 2 p.m.

The Boomer Boys Musical. Courtesy of Palm Springs Cultural Center

February 12:

The Boomer Boys Musical at the Palm Springs Cultural Center

February 13: 

Watch the Super Bowl at one of our local sports bars: The Village, Hair of the Dog, Shamrocks, New York Pizza, Fame Wine and Cigar Lounge, Smokin’ Burgers

Tuskegee Airmen Art. Courtesy of Palm Springs Air Museum

Through Feb 28: 

Famed Aviation Artist Stan Stokes-Tuskegee Airmen Collection
Original artwork immortalizing the members of the Tuskegee Airmen who heroically took to the skies during World War II, despite the obstacles of racial segregation and a U.S. military policy that tried to prevent them from flying. Look into the eyes and read the stories of these brave aviators who broke barriers and pushed aside stereotypes in their struggle to fight for their country against the forces of Nazism. Included with regular museum admission.

There’s Nothing Like A Dame flyer. Courtesy of Palm Canyon Theatre

February 9: 

There’s Nothing Like a Dame Concert at the Palm Canyon Theatre
Palm Springs’ finest divas take the stage in a one-night-only performance. You should go — I’ll be there!

February 15: 

The Classics of Rock & Soul at the Palm Springs Cultural Center

February 16:

Martinis and Moxie at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
Featuring the music of Dean Martin and Dinah Shore, with special guests.

February 19: 

Dr. Ed Gordon: Judgment at Nuremberg: Defending Humanity 1 to 2 p.m. at the Palm Springs Air Museum. In this program, historian Ed Gordon will tell the important story of how Nazi leaders were brought to trial, charged, and defended.

February 26:  

35th Annual Black History Month Parade and Town Fair
The parade will begin on Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs. Immediately following the parade, the town fair will be held at New City Park, across the street from the Palm Springs Art Museum.

Theater: 

February 25: 

Palm Canyon Theatre: Palm Springs Getaway! 
This new musical is a nostalgic romp through Palm Springs featuring the history and entertainers that made our city famous. The show takes audiences from the early desert landscape to the vibrant city it is today — and every decade in between.

Desert Rose Playhouse 2022 schedule. Courtesy of Desert Rose Playhouse

Desert Rose Playhouse announced their new season. Go! Everything they do is spectacular, fun, and at least a little bit gay.

Every Thursday: Jazzville. Exceptionally fine jazz from all over the world performed at Agua Caliente Casino downtown.

Every Friday: Agua Caliente Comedy

Every Sunday: Latin Nights at Cascade Agua Caliente Palm Springs

Mogo Silent Disco: Fridays and Saturdays. Don your wildest outfit (kaftans, cowboy hats, and sequins are encouraged!) and bust a move in front of some of Palm Springs’ most Instagram-worthy spots; have a random dance with the cute stranger walking by; dust off that sick routine you created in your basement and show it off in front of the beautiful San Jacinto mountains. Join us for an outdoor experience you’ll never forget! Lasts approximately 70 minutes.  All ages welcome.  Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

PS Air at Bouschet: Disco Boozy Brunch, recurring weekly on Sundays until March 27. Also open for lunch daily. Saturday nights are flight nights.

Purple Room: Great showcase of jazz and standards. Different acts every night of the week, with Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays ticketed events.

PS Underground: Wildly creative entertainment and dining experiences. Each show is themed and very different. Food is excellent. I have never seen anything that compares in any city.

AsiaSF has finally reopened for dinner and a show. From the desk of David Perry: “The SoCal branch of the storied San Francisco dinner theater and cabaret, featuring the world-famous transgender ladies of AsiaSF, is back.”

February 17-27 is Modernism Week . Events will take place at various locations throughout the greater Palm Springs area.

And now, for S&Gs (last initial is giggles, you figure out the S) here is a list of everything the internet says you should celebrate or be aware of in February. Not to be outdone by the month, the days have a bunch of things they’d like to point out, too. For the days, I have italicized some of the what???

By Month:

American Heart Month

Black History Month

Celebration of Chocolate Month

International Friendship Month

International Month of Black Women in the Arts

International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month

Library Lovers Month

Marijuana Awareness Month

National Cancer Prevention Month

National Children’s Dental Health Month

Youth Leadership Month

By Day:

February 1: National Freedom Day, National Dark Chocolate Day, National Serpent Day, National Baked Alaska Day, National Get Up Day

February 2: Groundhog Day, National Hedgehog Day, National Tater Tot Day, National Ukulele Day

February 3: Four Chaplains Day, National Missing Persons Day, National Carrot Cake Day, National Golden Retriever Day

February 4: USO Day, World Cancer Day,1 National Homemade Soup Day

February 5: National Weatherperson’s Day, World Nutella Day

February 6: National Lame Duck Day, Pay a Compliment Day, National Frozen Yogurt Day

February 7: National Send a Card to a Friend Day, Rose Day, National Fettuccine Alfredo Day, National Bubble Gum Day* (first Friday), National Wear Red Day* (first Friday), Give Kids a Smile Day* (first Friday)

February 8: Take Your Child to the Library Day* (first Saturday), National Kite Flying Day, Opera Day, Read in the Bathtub Day

February 9: National Pizza Day, World Marriage Day* (second Sunday)

February 10: National Umbrella Day, Teddy Day, National Clean Out Your Computer Day* (second Monday)

February 11: National Inventors’ Day, National Make a Friend Day, National Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk Day, National Make a Friend Day, Get Out Your Guitar Day, International Day of Women and Girls in Science

February 12: Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday, International Darwin Day

February 13: World Radio Day, Galentine’s Day, National Tortellini Day

February 14: Valentine’s Day

February 15: National Gumdrop Day, Susan B. Anthony Day, National Bagel Day, Singles Awareness Day

February 16: Do a Grouch a Favor Day, National Almond Day

February 17: Presidents’ Day* (third Monday)

February 18: National Battery Day, National Drink Wine Day

February 19: National Chocolate Mint Day

February 20: National Love Your Pet Day, National Muffin Day

February 21: International Mother Language Day, National Sticky Bun Day, National Caregivers Day* (third Friday)

February 22: George Washington’s Birthday, Be Humble Day, World Thinking Day, National Margarita Day

February 23: National Banana Bread Day

February 24: National Tortilla Chip Day

February 25: National Chocolate Covered Nut Day, Let’s All Eat Right Day, National Clam Chowder Day, National Pancake Day, World Spay Day* (last Tuesday)

February 26: Tell a Fairy Tale Day, National Pistachio Day

February 27: No Brainer Day, International Polar Bear Day, National Chili Day, Digital Learning Day* (last Thursday)

February 28: National Public Sleeping Day, National Chocolate Soufflé Day, National Science Day

As always, wear your mask, and show your vax card — rules are in effect until further notice. Help us keep Palm Springs alive. See you in March!

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Wildflowers And Hiking Trails Offer Delight In The Desert

“April comes like an idiot, babbling and strewing flowers.” — Edna St. Vincent Millay

In the spring, nature’s theater doesn’t always mean “head to the storm cellar!” In the desert, spring stages an extravaganza of colorful wildflowers called the superbloom. But that’s only when we are fortunate to have had a rainy winter.

This year the clouds have been a bit stingy with the wet, so it’s gonna be a smaller, but still gorgeous show. There are a few well-known spots to experience them, which I’m gonna tell you about because I’m nice like that and, full disclosure, I like to talk.

Keep in mind, almost all of them include some level of walking, and some are definitely challenging. So make sure you find your own comfort level and don’t push it. Even people who are avid hikers can misjudge their stamina or not bring enough water. It’s the desert — you need a LOT of water.

Mom warnings aside, off we go!

The best known spot is called Anza-Borrego, and it’s a little bit of a haul. About an hour and fifteen outside of Palm Springs, it’s well worth the drive. It’s best to go during superblooms, but you can still see swaths of gorgeous color in drier times. These clever folks have a website/hotline to check on the situation. Hey buds, how you bloomin’?

Wildflowers in bloom. Courtesy of Anza Borrego Botany

Big Morongo Canyon Preserve: This one is why I said “almost all of them” require some level of walking. It’s about 45 minutes from Palm Springs. Per the website: “The preserve entrance is one block south of State Highway 62 in Morongo Valley, a community located between Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. Several trails, including boardwalks through the marsh and stream habitats, meander through the preserve. The one-half mile Marsh Trail is wheelchair accessible. Open daily throughout the year, from 7:30 a.m. to sunset.”

Joshua Tree: It’s a national park, so make sure to hop on the site to purchase a pass before you go. Not only will it show you what blooms to expect, but the Joshua Tree itself should be blooming.

Coachella Valley Preserve, Thousand Palms: For those with sciatica (raises hand), I’m told there is a flat hike here. Hours: December 1 through April 30, Wednesday through Sunday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is an oasis, so you’re likely to see a lot of color. The trails are McCallum, Moon Country, Smoke Tree, and Herman’s Hike. Lots of critters too, so no dogs unless your pup is a registered service dog.

The Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument Visitor Center in Palm Desert is another group of trails with possible flowering flora. Everything you want to know can be found here.

The La Quinta Cove to Lake Trail: Their website mentions wildflowers and I believe everything I read on the internet.

South Lykken Trail: This is a very popular trail. It’s on South Palm Canyon, just after E. Murray Canyon Drive (on your left). The trail is a titch further up on your right. Hit up Moorten’s on your way (keep scrolling more info). It’s near the start of South Palm Canyon on your right.

Moorten Botanical Gardens is a plant lover’s paradise. Photo courtesy of Moorten Botanical Gardens

East Indio Hills Badlands: From their website comes this dramatic reading: “This trail enters the Indio Hills badlands and traverses the San Andreas Fault exposing twisted and tortured rocks that have been uplifted and moved over millions of years. The trail enters several narrow slot canyons and twists and turns in the sandy washes before climbing up to the ridge with panoramic views of the entire Coachella Valley.” Epic.

Sunnylands: If hiking is not your jam, Sunnylands is the place to go. The grounds are astounding, and it’s free to roam them.

Wildflowers aren’t the only thing blooming. The cacti are absolutely bonkers with blooms this year. The little cactus in front of my house has buds where she never bloomed before. And you don’t have to leave town for that, you just go where the cacti are, which is everywhere in my park. But if you prefer something more structured, Moorten Botanical Gardens is for you. The cost to get in is minimal: $5 for adults, $2 for kids 6 to 15, and free for children 5 and under.

Kay’s cactus. Photo courtesy of Kay Kudukis

Here’s a little blurb about cacti: “The greatest diversity of spring-flowering cacti species can be seen in April. Some also stretch into May with some species such as the prickly pears cactus blooming well in early May. Saguaros tend to flower from mid-May to mid-June.”

The Ocotillo, a shrub that’s so fancy Palm Springs named things after her, has orange-red flowers and that girl doesn’t care if it was wet or dry, she’s showing off. You can blink all you want, you’re not going to miss her.

The world is a bit serious right now, so it’s even more important to reset and enjoy a fleeting moment brought to you by nature. As Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “Earth laughs in flowers.”

Have a giggle.

The Ocotillo bloom. Photo by Pixabay

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It’s Time For Another Action-Packed March In Palm Springs

“I try not to limit my madness to March.” — Maxine (a.k.a. John Wagner for Shoebox Cards)

For most of the world, March is a tempestuous mistress. Cold and blustery, then cold and sunshine-y. She’s a whole lot of brrrrrrrrr.

In Palm Springs, March is more of a minx: flirty and fun. Her daytimes are generally in the 80s and sometimes 90s, however she can give you the cold shoulder, too. Especially at night. The solution is to bring your swimsuit and a bunch of layers because in Palm Springs, March is a swinger. She gets a bit chilly at night but bounces back by 10 a.m.

Without further ado, we will now continue our fun streak of delightful Palm Springs activities, with one event that’s so cool I might have just peed a little reading about it. Read on while I change me undies:

New restaurant alert:

Osteria Palmina

Dinner and a show:

The Purple Room

March 3, 4, and 5: Lucie Arnaz: I Got The Job 

March 6, 13, 20, 27: The Judy Show 

If you’ve read this blog before, you know it’s my favorite show in town.

March 11 and 12: John Lloyd Young 

March 17, 18, and 19: Marvelous Marilyn Maye

March 25 and 26: Joe Pasa as Joan Rivers

AsiaSF 

Dinner and a lip sync show! The costumes are outstanding! Same producers as the one in San Francisco.

PS Underground

Pop 80s — Featuring The Gand Band

Gospel Brunch with Keisha D

Laurel Canyon — a tribute to those artists of the area, like Linda Rondstadt, Joni Mitchell, and The Doors (with music from The Gand Band).

The Mod Squad Variety Show — Another personal favorite, this one’s a brunch.

Ovation — A jazz-inspired Sunday brunch.

Light — I have always wanted to see this show! Described as an “unparalleled multi-sensory journey” that offers an “unprecedented dining experience through culinary art and technological innovation.”

Broadway Blind – A musical Sunday brunch.

A Night at the Chi Chi — Mark your calendars, this one’s on April 1 and 2.

Courtesy of PS Underground

Oscar’s 

The Women Of Knots (that’s Knots Landing, people!)

Drinks and entertainment:

Cascade Lounge at Agua Caliente in downtown Palm Springs

Jazzville — Every Thursday

Caliente Comedy — Every Friday 

Latin Nights — Every Sunday

PS Cultural Center

Jazz on the Second Floor

Martinis & Moxie

Theater:

Palm Canyon Theater
Palm Springs Getaway! Runs until March 13.

Desert Rose Playhouse
Electricity
Brian Justin Crum 
Palm Springs The Musical: Born To Sparkle — World premiere!

Courtesy of Palm Springs The Musical

The Annenberg
The Anniversary — A full-length dance film event.
Coachella Valley Symphony Concerto Concert
Lilias White — White has appeared in cabarets and concert halls around the world, including the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, and Lincoln Center. Her debut solo studio album, Get Yourself Some Happy!, was released in July.

Desert Ensemble Theatre
All This Intimacy — Described as a sex comedy gone wrong.

Dezart Performs
The Mountaintop — A reimagining of Martin Luther King Jr.’s last day at the Lorraine Hotel and his encounter with a young maid. There’s a huge twist in this play, something you can expect to be handled brilliantly by Dezart. 

All the rest:

Palm Springs Chalk Art Festival
OMG!! I LOVE chalk art, especially from artists with a sense of whimsy. One of my favorite creators on TikTok is chalk artist David Zinn. This is a free event.

MOGO Silent Disco Tour
If anyone wants to do this, please include me!

Photo courtesy of MOGO Silent Disco Tour

Palm Springs Vintage Market
This Palm Springs staple will run on March 6 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

French Cooking Classes
In the chef’s private home — all reviews are spectacular!

Of course the old “musts” are still available, and if you haven’t, well…you must!

Aerial Tramway

Palm Springs Art Museum

Palm Springs Air Museum

Hiking at Indian Canyons — Please note: closed on March 11 for the Legacy Hike. 

Happy Palm Springs everyone! See you in April.

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5 Ideas For The Perfect Palm Springs Valentine’s Day

“In order to be irreplaceable, one must always be different.”
– Coco Chanel

Named after Saint Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, epileptics, and beekeepers (weird three to lump together, but whatever), Valentine’s Day somehow took on the persona of the Greek god of love, Eros, which then morphed into Cupid, the god of desire. So now Valentine’s Day is symbolized by a chubby baby flying around with a magical bow and arrow shooting people in the heart with expectations of a lusty outcome. Fun!

The expectations and nerves leading up to Valentine’s Day are also (à la Gwen Stefani) B.A.N.A.N.A.S. Candy, a card, flowers, a fancy dinner, and perhaps a piece of jewelry are de rigueur, and while those are nice, why not do something different? Something that shows the object of your affection your creative streak. Here are some ideas to make the day a little easier (I got you!):

Date One: The Outdoor Adventure Date

What you’ll need: hiking shoes, a backpack, and dress in layers

Breakfast: Cheeky’s for breakfast. It’s very popular and it’s busy. 

Coffee: Koffi is great, but try something new, like Ernest Coffeehouse

Lunch to go: The Sandwich Spot. Pre-order your sandwiches and put them in your backpack. Or try On The Mark for a fancier fare.

Adventure: The Tram. Take it up the mountain (wear your mask, you are in an enclosed gondola). Once you get to the top, there are great views, telescopes, and two places to eat. Explore the manmade stuff and then hike your trail. You can see all of them here, and make your choice with your date.

Alternative adventure option: Replace the tram with a hike in either Indian Canyons (so  many trails!) or a lazier sexy hike at Tahquitz (tah’quits) Canyon to Tahquitz Falls. Once you get to the falls, it’s lunch time. Dangle your feet in the clear pool and enjoy. Don’t forget to pack up everything (no littering please) and hike back to civilization.

Dinner: The Rooster and Pig is only doing takeout at the time of this typing, but check the website. Things are opening back up. In keeping with the Asian theme, we have Fusion Five for pho, and 533 Viet Fusion on the south end of Palm Springs. If you want the best burger in town, head over to The Heyday. They also have a delicious magic mushroom burger (the magic is it tastes like beef, it doesn’t get you high). If you choose the Heyday option, you can go to the casino after and try your luck! 

Date Two: Bagels, Antiquing, Thrifting, Smok’em If You’ve Got’em

What you’ll need: A sense of adventure and a car. This date takes you to the south end of Palm Springs.

Breakfast: Townie Bagels — a very busy breakfast spot, but it gets you across the street from your first stop.

Cannabis?: If you’re cannabis friendly, there are three dispensaries in this area. Have an edible and let’s get on our now merry way.

Antiques, thrift stores, trading posts are across the street from Townies, and all along Industrial Place.

Antique Galleries, 505 Industrial Place gets you to the Antique Galleries and you can use your eyeballs from there.

Sunny Dunes Antique Mall, 507 E Sunny Dunes Rd. Sprawling shop featuring antique dealers selling vintage furniture, jewelry, and other collectibles.

Little Shop of Treasures, 616 E Sunny Dunes Rd. Unassuming store selling an array of antique furnishings, collectibles, clothes, and dishes.

Q Trading Co., 606 E Sunny Dunes Rd. Get your car and go to Sun Center Mall (turn right on Palm Canyon, then it’s less than half a block on your left).

Revivals, 611 South Palm Canyon Drive. This is a great little thrift store that benefits Desert AIDS Project.

Lunch options at Sun Center: 

Palm Greens Cafe — Organic and vegan

PS Air inside Bouschet — Yummy salads

Spaghetteria for pizza

Lunch options at The Plaza (near your next stop):

Farm — Outstanding lunch selections, French inspired

More antiquing and thrifting:

P S Trading,140 N Palm Canyon Dr.

Bon Vivant, 766 N Palm Canyon Dr · Near Trio Restaurant, (760) 534-3197

a La MOD INC, 886 N Palm Canyon Dr · Near Trio Restaurant, (760) 327-0707

Deja Vu Vintage Finery, 664 N Palm Canyon Dr.

Flow Modern, 768 N Palm Canyon Dr.

Mohave Flea Trading Post, 383 Indian Canyon Dr..

Angel View Resale, 462 N Indian Canyon Dr.

Dinner: Birba — New wave Italian American fare. Sit on the twinkly patio.

Date Three: Spaaaah Date

Yoga in the Park

Breakfast: L’Atelier in the Plaza. Pastries, quiche, salads, and champagne.

Spa options: 

Our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels have some exceptional spa options in gorgeous settings.

Palm Springs Beautiful Spa Massage, 109 S Indian Canyon Dr. (760) 656-1028

Palm Springs Spa Massage, 471 E Tahquitz Canyon Way #226. (760) 808-4205

Lunch: grab and go eat in the new park (on Museum Way down from Marilyn). 

Haus of Poke

Stout Burgers

After the spa, check out the Palm Springs Art Museum, Marilyn Statue, and art installations. Behind The Block on Museum Way.

Dinner: It’s been a nice relaxing day, and dressing up and going out to dinner might be a bit much. If you’re a planner, a few weeks in advance you can order a custom dinner from Three Queens Catering. I recently went to an event they catered and the food was awesome! Plus, I know two of them, and they are some of the funniest people on the planet.

Bar Cecil (pronounced Sess’-ill) — Super fancy and the trendiest place in Palm Springs right now.

John Henry’s — Off the beaten path on Tahquitz on the way to the airport. Blink and you’ll miss it.

Date Four: Classic Palm Springs and the Rat Pack

Breakfast: Spencer’s, Grand Central, Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Inn

Coffee: Gre Coffeehouse — Great cup of java and vinyls to peruse and purchase.

Adventure: You’ll need a car. Download the Palm Springs Life tour app. It will take you on three different tours. That should take up most of your day.

Alternate plans: Open houses! This site tells you where they are the day of.

Lunch: Holiday House

Drinks: Del Rey inside Villa Royale or Melvyn’s

Dinner: Johnny Costa’s is super old school Italian fare with a Rat Pack vibe. The chef was one of Frank Sinatra’s favorites. Try the chicken parm.

Date Five: Traditional Valentine’s Day

Toffee from Brandini’s

Flowers (in advance) from Jensen’s (a beautiful plant will remind them of you year- round)

Valentine’s Day card from Just Fabulous

Dinner at Tropicale, Copley’s, Roly China Fusion (by the pool)

Finish up your evening at Dead or Alive Wine Bar or Seymour’s (inside Mr. Lyons) on the south end of town. Both are quiet and great before sexy times — if that’s your goal.

Happy Arrow-Slinging Chubby Baby Day everyone! I hope you’re with someone you love, and as the song says, “If you can’t be with the one you love, love the one you’re with.”

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Privacy And Tranquility Can Be Yours At A Palm Springs AvantStay Property

Palm Springs’ vibrant vibes are attracting more and more people from around the world. Outdoor restaurant patios are filled and lovely shops cater to a wide variety of budgets and tastes. Listen closely and you’ll hear happy visitors discussing their great finds or raving about the small boutique hotels they’ve discovered, which serve as a base to launch their Palm Springs explorations.

During the 1950s and ’60s, small boutique hotels flourished as getaways for Hollywood stars. Then, as the economy changed and celebrities discovered other places to spend their time, some hotels languished. But in the early aughts, new hoteliers with creative design ideas and a desire to create a welcoming environment became a significant driver for revitalizing the Palm Springs economy.

Now fast forward to 2022. AvantStay, a premier next-generation hospitality organization, has arrived in Palm Springs. They manage and/or partially own four iconic boutique properties: The Monkey Tree Hotel, The Wesley, The Marley, and Hotel El Cid.

What can be expected from AvantStay? 

AvantStay is not a newcomer to running vacation properties — the company manages or owns more than 1,000 properties around the globe. Its goal is to make each lodging a highly curated experience. They recognize that time is valuable, and won’t waste yours with unwanted or unnecessary interactions. 

Guest support is offered 24 hours a day, with concierge service available via an 800 number. Agents are always available to help and are rarely more than 15 minutes away from a property.

Hotel El Cid  

A family that parties together stays together. Okay, there’s no scientific proof this is the case, but there is a way to plan a reunion that offers amenities for all members of the family. Hotel El Cid is an ADA-approved facility that accommodates one select group at a time, allowing guests of all ages to come together for a relaxing getaway. It’s reminiscent of the experience of Hollywood royalty.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to bring everyone together for a catered dinner under the cabana by the pool, or hire a masseuse for Uncle Joe when he has a pain that won’t go away? With AvantStay’s concierge services, they can help make these things happen.

There is a caveat: Fufo the dog isn’t allowed on property, but maybe that family member needs a break from pet duties anyway.

The Marley’s spacious pool. Photo courtesy of The Marley

The Marley 

Searching for a place to hold a corporate retreat or bachelorette party? Here’s an idea to consider: Rent an entire property with nine bedrooms that sleep 22 people. If that sounds intriguing, The Marley could be your answer.

With The Marley’s modernism architecture, one of the stalwart styles of Palm Springs, you will be able to experience one of the more iconic buildings designed and built by the Alexander Company. Today, their homes demand a hefty price and are often the site of open houses during February’s Modernism Week. When you stay at The Marley and get to sit around the pool, soaking up the warm Palm Springs sun, you’re making memories in a place few people get to experience.

Guests love to float in The Monkey Tree Hotel’s pool. Photo courtesy of The Monkey Tree Hotel

The Monkey Tree Hotel

Visitors come to Palm Springs from around the world to learn about the modernism style of the 1950s and ’60s. What if you could stay in a place designed by one of the city’s famous architects, Albert Frey? If that’s your dream, consider booking The Monkey Tree Hotel.

With its iconic architectural design — a pool surrounded by rooms, brightly colored umbrellas, and lounge chairs strategically placed to catch the sun rays so you can go home with a golden tan — you won’t be disappointed when you arrive at this pet-friendly hotel. Located in North Palm Springs, the 16-suite Monkey Tree Hotel is a cheerful place, with sunshine yellow dominating the color scheme.

The Wesley’s rooms are known for their fun decor. Photo courtesy of The Wesley

The Wesley 

A 10-minute ride from the Palm Springs International Airport, The Wesley is a tranquil, private, and gated oasis. Visitors come here to rejuvenate, and every self-contained suite beckons you to slow down. Most have fully equipped kitchens, so it is a great place to practice cooking some of our Southwest cuisines.

The patio, part of your suite, is surrounded by lush landscape and provides the perfect place to sip a cocktail while you finally sit down and take time to read the book that’s been on your list. Louis, your adorable pug, is welcome to accompany you. When the urge strikes, head out to the heated pool and meet other guests under the cabanas scattered throughout the grounds.

If you want privacy and an environment you can call your own, one of these hotels just might be the right fit.

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