The Accidental Hotelier

Known only as one of Lulu’s sisters, she is forever this close to diving into what one can assume is a refreshing blue pool. She’s the eye catcher on the outside of the white stucco wall that, once inside, keeps the noise from Indian Canyon at bay, and is the only indication that you have arrived at your destination: Dive.

Welcome to Dive. Photo courtesy of Dive Palm Springs

This 11-room boutique hotel “just has a cool, chill vibe to it,” says April Smith, vice president of Mariners Companies, the private equity investment firm that recently purchased Dive.

Smith is what you might call an accidental hotelier. In fact, just about everything about her career has been accidental. At 22, she had no idea what she wanted to do — she’s one of those people who live to learn, but learn best while living. Since you need a paycheck to live, Smith took a job as a receptionist at a mortgage loan company, and once she saw the bottom line, got interested.

Her dad’s advice always stuck with her: “You just need to know a little about a lot.” So, Smith set out to do just that.

“I asked a lot of questions, and I paid a lot of attention,” she says. “I wanted to be part of a lot of things to understand things.”

Upper management took notice, and Smith quickly climbed the ladder to become a top earner. There were twists and turns from there, always upward, and by the time she met Steve Olson, her current business partner, she had learned a little about a lot.

“We all have our own strengths,” Smith explains. “I’m operations, Ron [Millar, their CFO] is numbers, and Steve brings in the capital. All three of us together triangulate a perfect situation.”

Mariners is the parent fund of many smaller businesses under its umbrella. Operating out of Newport Beach, their office is next to a hotel broker who brought them a deal they just couldn’t refuse.

The Fountain Room at Talavera Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of Talavera Palm Springs

That was Talavera, a laidback resort on a quiet street situated between the Palm Springs Tennis Club (home to the upscale dining of Spencer’s) and the bustle of downtown Palm Springs. While Dive’s vibes are Saint Tropez fun in the sun, Talavera is about tranquility. 

An escape from the crowd offering your own secluded private residence, Talavera has an old world Moroccan charm, and feels more like an exotic VRBO than a hotel (although there is a fully-stocked, attended bar in the works just for guests). Many suites have a kitchen or kitchenette, as well as an outdoor spa, so your space is entirely contained. At night, the courtyard is lit by stars and basket lanterns hanging from sturdy tree branches, with just the whisper of rustling leaves and the crackle of the embers from the firepit.

One of Talavera’s pools. Photo courtesy of Talavera Palm Springs

While Talavera has two pools, Dive has only one, and it is magnificent. It’s a Libott pool, originally built in 1954. The property is très ooh la la, with muralist Gabriella Fash’s playful art adorning the walls of Dive’s entryway and fabulous neon divers outside. (Fun fact — in 2019, the original neon was found hidden on the roof. She was lovingly restored, and they named her Lulu. She lives out by that glorious pool, and so she wouldn’t be lonely, they gave her a few sisters, like the one on the exterior wall.)

The property is as intimate as a French kiss. It’s a large rectangle, with the courtyard artfully divided into small gathering spots — a bench wrapped around a large tree, a set piece with a koi pond. There is always space for quiet conversation away from the pool area.

Inside each of the rooms, designer Vanessa Schreiber has created a whimsical world of immersive art, where swirls and murals accent the Christian Lacroix wallpapers. Every item has been hand-picked to melt into its unique design, creating a fun and playful atmosphere that can only be described as joyful.

A colorful room at Dive Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of Dive Palm Springs

Breakfast and lunch are available onsite and can be delivered to you by the pool so you can enjoy the day without having to leave. Dive is located in the residential neighborhood known as Deepwell Estates, one of Palm Springs’ historic neighborhoods filled with $1 million homes. There is a noise ordinance after 10 p.m., however Dive solves that problem with a soundproof room where you and your friends can party until the wee hours and disturb nary a soul.

While both Dive and Talavera are 21+ with 11 suites, Smith says they are adding a third and much larger property to their portfolio that will be perfect for families — and will also be Smith’s first complete remodel. Because the deal hasn’t quite closed, I can only tell you that the hotel started out in 1958 as a weekend hangout for celebrities like Nancy Sinatra, Elvis, and the Rat Pack, and had a very iconic name. In later years, it was purchased and operated by a national brand, and while it’s a very nice hotel, it’s still a chain. Smith intends to inject personality back into the 130-room resort.

 Considering that she now knows a lot more than a little about the hotel industry, we’re giddy about the possibilities. 

/by

Independence Meets Charm: The Cactai’s Modern Take On Boutique Hospitality

The pool at The Cactai in Palm Springs surrounded by cabanas and palm trees

There’s something about Palm Springs that just gets it right, whether you’re looking for that quintessential mid-century charm, a relaxing desert retreat, or a bit of both. During my recent stay at The Cactai, I found all this and more in a charming boutique hotel that embraces the modern traveler’s desire for independence and style, while also nodding to the rich history of Palm Springs.

A warm digital welcome

The pool at The Cactai Palm Springs with a flamingo float

The Cactai has a lovely pool and spa. Photo courtesy of The Cactai

When I arrived at The Cactai, I immediately noticed something different: no front desk. While this might catch some guests off guard, it’s a detail that adds to the hotel’s charm. There’s no awkward small talk or tedious check-in process. Instead, you’re welcomed by the essence of quiet luxury, a space designed for those who value their independence. While chatting with co-owner Joel Milne, he mentioned that most guests at The Cactai prefer this streamlined experience.

From the get-go, everything is at your fingertips. A quick scan of a QR code connects you to the hotel’s WiFi, and if you need anything, whether it’s restaurant recommendations or extra towels, you can simply text the Cactai Concierge. It’s an entirely digital experience, one that eliminates the hassle while still offering all the luxuries you expect from a high-end stay.

The look: mid-century meets modern romance

A white outdoor couch with pink pillows in front of a pink door and white walls in the courtyard of The Cactai

Pops of color can be found across the property. Photo courtesy of The Cactai

The aesthetic of The Cactai is pure Palm Springs. Warm pinks and sun-kissed yellows splash against its clean white exterior, while inside, you’re enveloped by a mid-century modern vibe that’s both fresh and familiar. It feels intentional, like a warm hug from the city’s architectural roots. Each room is bright and modern with clean lines, but there’s a romantic element that invites you to slow down. It’s perfect for couples, with cozy cabanas and even a hot tub for an intimate evening soak.

Signature details that set it apart

A white Japanese toilet inside a bathroom at The Cactai

A heated Japanese toilet is a fantastic touch in the bathrooms. Photo courtesy of The Cactai

While The Cactai has a casual vibe, it also knows how to surprise its guests. I have to mention the mini bars — they’re not your average overpriced snacks and basic liquor. Instead, they feature well-curated wines at restaurant prices. It’s like having a little wine-tasting experience in your own room. I also loved the induction-based cooktops in the rooms. These are a lifesaver because they won’t burn your hand even if you touch them, and they won’t burn down the hotel either! It’s these thoughtful touches that make the experience at The Cactai feel truly special.

Then there’s the Japanese toilets — one in every room! If you’ve never had the luxury of using one, you’re in for a real treat. With heated seats and bidet options, it’s a little indulgence that elevates your stay, even if there’s a slight learning curve.

The AI experience: straight out of science fiction

A kitchen at The Cactai in Palm Springs with a sink and white table with an open book on it

The Cactai’s rooms come with full kitchens or kitchenettes

Remember Netflix’s Altered Carbon? Well, Joel certainly does. In fact, he drew inspiration from the show to incorporate AI into the hotel’s operations. The Cactai is on track to become one of the next AI-managed hotels in Palm Springs. By the end of the year, you’ll be able to check in, check out, and handle all your needs through an AI system that anticipates what you want before you even know it. And with only 12 rooms throughout the hotel, it still manages to feel personal, a perfect blend of technology and hospitality.

Poolside bliss and artful touches

The pool at The Cactai boutique hotel in Palm Springs on a sunny day

The pool beckons guests and flamingo floaties. Photo courtesy of The Cactai

The pool at The Cactai is a must. The poolside misters are a thoughtful addition, especially on those scorching desert afternoons. It can cool the space down by at least 10 degrees, making it perfect for lounging all day with a crisp glass of white wine from your minibar. It’s these little luxuries that make The Cactai stand out.

I’m particularly intrigued with their upcoming art installations. The owners are still looking for local artists to showcase their work in the rooms, which will give each space its own unique personality. This emphasis on creativity and supporting local talent is yet another reason The Cactai feels like more than just a place to sleep — it’s really an experience.

Why you should stay at The Cactai

A white man stands in front of a yellow wallpapered bedroom at The Cactai Palm Springs

Gregory Douglass enjoys his bright, breezy room at The Cactai. Photo courtesy of Gregory Douglass

The Cactai combines the charm of Palm Springs’ mid-century heyday with the comforts of modern luxury. From the thoughtful design to the high-tech conveniences, this boutique hotel manages to make every guest feel special without overwhelming them with traditional hotel formalities. For those who value privacy, style, and a sense of ease during their travels, The Cactai delivers in spades.

I’m guessing it won’t be long before The Cactai catches on. In addition to everything I’ve mentioned, it just has that “viral” appeal with its bright, intentional design and romantic touches. Everything about the space is Instagram- and TikTok-ready, with a vibe that’s both trendy and timeless. Very demure, very cutesy.

Staying at independently-owned small boutique hotels like The Cactai allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture, with personal touches you won’t find at larger chains. It’s a reflection of Palm Springs itself — creative, stylish, and full of personality. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or just a quiet escape from the everyday grind, The Cactai should be at the top of your list.

/by
, ,

Coyote Inn’s Chris and Barb Miller: From guests to owners

For years, the Coyote Inn was where Chris and Barb Miller would go when they needed an escape. Now, it’s home.

The Millers have owned the Coyote Inn since 2008. They fell in love with it as guests, when they would leave their donut business in Utah for a few days of relaxation in Palm Springs. It was “a grind,” Chris says, and when the opportunity to purchase the Coyote Inn came up, they jumped. “The previous owners were looking for a different lifestyle, and we were looking for something different,” Chris says.

Chris and Barb live on the property, and work seven days a week. They do everything and anything that needs to be done, and always have their “game faces on,” Chris says. They love forging relationships with guests, greeting new faces and welcoming back regulars.

“We meet a lot of interesting people,” Chris says. “When people find us, they’re hooked.”

Guests come from all over the world, and enjoy the peace and tranquility that comes along with a property that is adults only. They also love the saltwater pool and hot tub, which is good for the skin. Snowbirds flock to the Coyote Inn during the spring, and book for the next year before their visit is even over.

“People come here to relax,” Chris says. “Our location is ideal; you can walk downtown, but you’re far enough away where you can’t hear it. Some guests don’t even rent a car.”

There’s something about walking through the gate and entering the Coyote Inn’s courtyard that instantly puts guests at ease.

“Once people hit the fountain, they forget about everything,” Chris says. “It’s a great place to unwind.”

/by

The Monkey Tree Hotel: A true 1960s time capsule

Kathy and Gary Friedle left the hustle and bustle of New York City for the laid-back ambiance of Palm Springs, and never looked back.

Kathy is an architect and worked as a studio director at Gensler, while Gary was the chief operating officer at a private wealth management firm on Wall Street, but when their older son announced he wanted to go to college on the west coast, it got them thinking about their family’s future and the possibility of a move and a dramatic change.

“We lived on the east coast our entire lives, but it was starting to wear us down,” Kathy said. “We could have kept chugging along, but we kept thinking, ‘Let’s try something different.’ We had always dreamed about owning a little B&B when we retired, but an opportunity came up earlier than we expected and once the seed was planted, we started to actively look for a hotel to buy on the west coast and decided to give new careers a try.”

They liked the idea of moving to Palm Springs, which is already a tourist destination, and were both fans of mid-century modern architecture. In 2015, the Monkey Tree Hotel property became available for purchase, and the Friedles jumped at the opportunity to reinvigorate the historic, 1960 Albert Frey-designed hotel.

They refreshed the 16 rooms and suites, purchased vintage decor from local Palm Springs sources, and installed the desert’s first Scandinavian spa with a sauna, hot tub, and cold plunge. Gary is also now in charge of the breakfast served every morning to guests, and he has come up with a delicious rotating menu that incorporates some suggestions from diners while also using the freshest local ingredients.

“It’s a true 1960s time capsule,” Kathy said. “We haven’t made a lot of changes to it, intentionally. We want it to remain true to that period.”

/by

The Weekend: 365 Days A Year

The courtyard pool at The Weekend Palm Springs surrounded by palm trees and the orange doors that lead to individual rooms

Location, location, location!

For those that love modernism, Old Las Palmas politely screams “I am quintessential Palm Springs.” Stretching west from Palm Canyon to the San Jacinto Mountains, the neighborhood is rich in history and real estate — many starchitects built here, and all aesthetics are represented, from the House of Tomorrow to Swiss Miss homes and everything in between and beyond. 

The roads wind into the mountains and are as dramatic as the homes once owned by Liberace, Dinah Shore, and Kirk Douglas (to name-drop a few), as well as the opulent sprawling estates commissioned by the studio bosses of yore. There’s even a mini-Hearst castle in the mix.

To get there, turn off Palm Canyon onto Via Las Palmas, a quiet residential street, where you immediately feel like you’re in another world. The stores and businesses melt away and the road splits in two (very Robert Frost). If you choose wisely, you’ll go left where a well-lit cobblestoned path bordered by desertscape grasses leads the way to an elegant white-bricked, mid-century modern hotel with giant palm trees and a copse of plumeria on either side of the bright orange door. You are now entering The Weekend, the only boutique hotel in Old Las Palmas. 

Welcome to The Weekend Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of The Weekend

Once inside, the sparkling water from the rectangular pool dances in the sunlight, and it’s so stunning it takes a minute to notice that your surroundings are just as sleek and modern as the entrance. All white apart from the 10 orange doors that pop against the exotic green foliage, each suite faces that picture-perfect pool, with the sleeping quarters in the back (open the sliding doors to get to the private patio). We should emphasize: this is not a party hotel, this is a peaceful and luxe respite from the humdrum of the everyday, exhibiting clean lines and the simple elegance of modernism. 

Suites have their own private patios. Photo courtesy of The Weekend

Formerly Las Palmas Gardens Luxury Apartments, and purportedly once owned by gossip queen Rona Barrett, the property was built in 1964 and advertised sunken tubs, private patios, and two-bedrooms digs. 

When hotelier Mark Hermann purchased the property in 2016, he made some major design decisions. Sunken tubs were replaced with roomy rain showers, and he took down the wall and cabinets separating the kitchen/dining areas from the living room, creating an open concept living space. Hermann honored the rich mid-century history of Palm Springs with bold color, artwork, and brickwork in the new great room. 

Although modernism is the epitome of style over comfort, Hermann managed to accomplish both — sophisticated yet supremely sittable furniture, and thick luxurious mattresses to snuggle into at night. Amenities spill over into the bathrooms with Frette towels and robes, and L’Occitane bath products.

The living rooms are perfect for lounging. Photo courtesy of The Weekend

The kitchen has everything except fire – a.k.a. a stove or oven, but honestly there are so many great restaurants you’ll want to try, who needs or wants to cook? You’re on vacation. Besides, there’s a microwave and a big old bowl for popcorn, plenty of room in the fridge for beverages and salads, lots of storage for snacks, dinnerware/cutlery, bottle openers (of course), and a Keurig coffee maker.

Because of its aesthetic and the uniqueness of the property, The Weekend is a favorite of international travelers looking for an authentic mid-century modern Palm Springs experience. Couples traveling together enjoy the two-bedroom options, while those looking for a romantic getaway love the peace and quiet of the one-bedroom suites.

A comfortable bedroom at The Weekend. Photo courtesy of The Weekend

Keyless check-ins make for easy ins and outs, and there are wonderful options for libations and food on Palm Canyon, all with great provenance. Copley’s restaurant is on the old Cary Grant estate, Eight4Nine Restaurant was once the Palm Springs post office, and Ernst Coffee and Bootlegger Tiki are in the old Don the Beachcomber’s space. Also, the shopping along Palm Canyon has some kick-ass vintage resale stores. Looking for high-end boutiques, and the thrum of downtown? Tahquitz is about a 15-minute walk. 

If you’re in the mood for a nice stroll, the House of Tomorrow (a.k.a. Elvis’ Honeymoon Hideaway) is about 10 minutes from your door, and there is an unexpected connection. Barrett (who is still with us at 86) also owned a home right next to the House of Tomorrow where Elvis and Priscilla planned to wed. Knowing she’d make it a circus, Elvis contacted Frank Sinatra, who sent a limo to pick them up and under the cover of night, he whisked them off on his private plane to Las Vegas where, for better or worse, they exchanged their vows. 

Although that relationship was complicated, The Weekend is not. If you’re a fan of uncompromising elegance in the mid-century modern aesthetic, The Weekend is the perfect choice.

The Weekend is a fabulous escape, Monday through Sunday. Photo courtesy of The Weekend

/by

So Cal Restaurant Show Interviews Innkeeper Richard Slosky

Being an innkeeper at one of Palm Springs’ most beloved hotels is a great way to make a living. La Maison’s Richard Slosky recently appeared on the So Cal Restaurant Show to talk about why he opened the hotel with his wife, Cornelia Schuster, and what it’s like to welcome guests from around the world to Palm Springs.

/by
,

Palm Springs Welcomes its Newest Boutique Hotel Owners

In Palm Springs, change is in the air. Several of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels are now under new ownership, with each property undergoing its own unique transformation.

The Talavera in Palm Springs has new owners and upgrades.

One example is the Talavera Palm Springs. Formerly known as The Rossi, this 11-suite property has undergone a name change, as well as several upgrades, including new furniture in the rooms.

“We’re bringing in a professional landscaper and arborist to help us enhance the tropical vibe so it’s more immersive, but manicured and lush,” co-owner April Smith says. “We’re also reworking some of the space here so there is a community fire pit and private bar for the guests.”

The Desert Paradise, a clothing optional resort catering to gay men in Palm Springs.

The Desert Paradise is keeping its name and staying as a men’s clothing-optional resort, but has given makeovers to all 12 of its rooms, and improved on the continental breakfast offered to guests. Future plans may also include adding kitchenettes to rooms, so guests who stay for several weeks can cook for themselves when the mood strikes.

The hotel is a “gem, with so much opportunity,” general manager Charles Zalepeski says. “I want it to feel like people are visiting family, a place where they feel comfortable and right at home. It’s a place where everything’s going to be taken care of, from start to finish.”

The iconic Willows Inn was purchased in 2020 by Ron Burkle.

The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn is starting a new chapter in its storied history. The luxury 8-room hotel was purchased last year by investor Ron Burkle, the majority owner of the Soho House members’ clubs. The Willows has long been a must-visit for politicians and celebrities alike — Albert Einstein and Shirley Temple were among the hotel’s frequent guests.

La Maison

La Maison, under new ownership, still offers romantic privacy.

Also under new ownership is La Maison, which changed hands in the fall. This 13-room hotel still offers a touch of France in the heart of Palm Springs, with its European decor, delicious continental breakfasts, and lovely, flower-filled gardens.

 

About Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels is a consortium of independently owned boutique hotels, which are an essential part of this desert resort town’s uncommon culture and economy. From quirky to charming, mid-century modern to clothing-optional, Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels has got your stay. Follow the fun on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest.

/by
, , ,

The Triangle Inn Owners are Nearing a Milestone Anniversary: 20 Years in Palm Springs

The front entrance of Triangle Inn Palm Springs has a brick wall with its name in large black letters

For Michael Green, the past two decades feel like they’ve gone by in the blink of an eye.

Michael and his husband Stephen Boyd own The Triangle Inn (https://www.palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com/stay/triangle-inn-palm-springs), a gay men’s clothing-optional resort, having purchased the property in January 2000. They bought the hotel after spending their careers in advertising, embracing the opportunity to try something new. Now, nearly 20 years later, Michael can’t believe they’ve been hoteliers for so long.

Michael and Stephen have created such a welcoming atmosphere that it’s inspired several guests to actually move to Palm Springs.

People often ask them if they’re tired of running their own business, or want to try something new. “To me, as long as we still enjoy it, we should keep doing it,” Michael says. “It’s great owning a small hotel. It’s a lot of work, but it’s also a great lifestyle.”

The Triangle Inn was built in 1958, and Michael and Stephen are its fifth owners. They’ve been through renovations and upgrades, and are always doing something to enhance the property. Along the way, they’ve made tons of friends, and have created such a welcoming atmosphere that it’s inspired several guests to actually move to Palm Springs.

“It’s what happens when people come and fall in love with the hotel, fall in love with the city,” Michael says. “All of a sudden, they think, wow, we need to have a part-time place here, or retire here. That has really been a phenomenon that has fueled a lot of Palm Springs’ resurgence.”
 

/by
, ,

At Amin Casa, No Detail Is Overlooked

Are you looking for a place with a serene setting to relax and forget about your hectic schedule? Look no further than the Amin Casa boutique hotel, where you can spend hours sitting and listening to the sounds of a three-tiered water fountain and birds chirping. 

Located just steps away from bustling downtown Palm Springs in the Historic Tennis Club neighborhood, you can park your car at Amin Casa and take a rest from the congested roads that may be part of your daily life. If you fly in, no need to rent a vehicle — the airport is a quick 10-minute trip by taxi. 

Amin Casa owner and manager Nelson Cooley. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Owner and manager Nelson Cooley is quick to bounce out of his office to greet you upon arrival. He has your keys in hand, and the online registration filled out ahead of time told him everything he needs to escort you to one of the property’s eight bungalows, your home for the next few days.

A historic place

This repurposed hotel was once the home of famed Hollywood actress Gloria Swanson, considered one of the most photographed women of her time. Indeed, there are numerous photos around the property of her walking the grounds with people from the entertainment world. It is rumored Joe Kennedy was a frequent visitor, so imagine the entourage he brought with him.

Another interesting factoid: During this period, Swanson was the highest-paid entertainer in the world. She starred as Norma Desmond in the 1950 classic Sunset Boulevard, one of the American Film Institute’s 100 Greatest American Movies of All Time.

The Amin Casa grounds. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Gorgeous grounds

Swanson recognized quickly that the four-bedroom house needed a swimming pool and, of course, a guest house to help maintain her privacy. The pool and tennis court were added to entertain her guests, who were also summoned to participate in Swanson’s famous movie nights. Today, the tennis court has been replaced by a lawn, which is home to a 100-year-old cactus.

A new chapter 

As Swanson’s career skyrocketed, she decided to sell her home to a newspaper heiress from Rhode Island, and moved to a new place in the Movie Colony neighborhood. The Swanson property was transformed into a hotel, with a kitchen added to the guest house (those quarters still have the original all-oak paneling). The inn was called Arenas Garden Hotel, which gave homage to the road it is located on and the gardens that wind their way through the property. 

New owners bring life back to the property

In recent years, the property languished for lack of visitors and no caretaker to make sure repairs were done. It was becoming an eyesore, and fear was mounting that this beautiful place would come to face the fate of a wrecking ball.  

Cooley and partner Ramon Bautista were frequent visitors to Palm Springs, and when they saw the hotel, they appreciated the architecture of the building and understood its historical significance. By chance, Bautista went to a dinner party in Los Angeles and was seated next to a woman he knew well, who told him, “I need your help. I have a friend who owns a small boutique hotel in Palm Springs inherited from a childhood friend who had no heirs, so he left the place to my friend. She lives in Chicago and does not know what to do with it. Would you look at it?”

Yes, it was the hotel the two men had admired from afar. In March 2016, they bought the property and the work began. Cooley, a former high tech executive, took over the outside and interior structural aspects and day-to-day management of the hotel. Bautista is the mastermind behind interior design while continuing his medical practice in Pasadena, where he specializes in international travel medicine. Their goal was simple: to maintain the integrity of the architectural structure, interior, and grounds

Amin Casa’s bungalows are fully equipped for your stay. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Staying at the Amin Casa

When getting ready to launch Amin Casa, the men wrote down everything they disliked about going to other hotels. The list included parking fees, resort fees to use the amenities, and extra charges for special cleaning, satellite television, and Wi-Fi. Today, when you go to check out at Amin Casa, you will find no surprises on your bill — everything is included in the cost of your room. 

This hotel heats its pool all year, giving guests the opportunity to swim or read a book and sip a cocktail poolside during winter, spring, summer, and fall. Since Palm Springs has 350 days of sunshine, you can work on your tan at the same time. 

Amin Casa’s sparkling swimming pool. Photo credit: Nadine Conger

Longterm guests are welcome, with many already booked for years to come. Amin Casa’s bungalows are well-appointed with everything one may need to live comfortably — in the deluxe bungalow, I was surprised to see fine china displayed in the glass-door cupboards. If you want to prepare a gourmet dinner for special friends, you have everything you need to impress even the most persnickety.

The bungalows have lovely living rooms, which could be used as part of a movie set. Attention to every detail has been magnificently executed throughout the entire property. 

Yes, there is a great deal of history in this 94-year-old structure. It is one of our premier Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels standing open and ready to invite you to bring your family here for a reunion or a wedding. However, most of the year, it is a beautiful place to relax and meet fascinating people. If you want to escape the real world for a bit, this is the place to step back in time and be pampered. 

/by
, ,

And Baby Makes Three: A Getaway to Palm Springs as New Parents

As if 2020 wasn’t crazy enough, I welcomed my first baby in 2021. Adjusting to life with little Mabel has been a wild adventure, yet mostly done at home. I’ve always loved to travel and especially hop in the car for a road trip. With all things considered, the first weekend of Spring seemed like the perfect time to head out to Palm Springs.

If you’re thinking, they’re crazy to travel with a two-month-old. Don’t worry, my husband, Mike and I also had that thought. Yet, in Palm Springs, there’s no better place to chill-lax and do a lot of nothing except enjoy the views, pool, food, and weather.

We ventured out from Ventura County early Saturday afternoon. In the “old days,” I would have been gung-ho to leave early and make pit stops along the way. This trip? It was all about Mabel’s feeding times and keeping her in a good mood. While she does well on car rides, we love that Palm Springs is under 150 miles. This keeps us at three or fewer hours away. We did end up stopping a bit, yet still arrived while the sun was shining.

Check into the Los Arboles Hotel in Palm Springs

Nestled on the corner of Indian Canyon Drive and Tamarisk Road, we were thrilled to check into Los Arboles Hotel. Los Arboles is centrally located along the chic Uptown Design District and Movie Colony. They’re also a stone’s throw from foodie favorites like Cheeky’s. Need I say more?

With six room types, we made ourselves right at home in an Expanded Express suite. Instead of just grabbing our suitcases, we got baby situated with her playpen, toys, diaper bag, and bottle warmer. Despite the “express” title, our suite was spacious even with our extra load of gear. Our room boasted tile flooring throughout, a dining nook, bathtub, rain shower, an old Spanish-style armoire, and a vase of fresh flowers courtesy of Hermano Flower Shop. We thought the small dining corner would be great as we opted for mostly takeout yet we enjoyed our adorable patio at the entrance foyer. The weather was gorgeous and helped us enjoy the laid-back vibes even more so.

Entrance and patio to the Expanded Express suite at Los Arboles Hotel in Palm Spings

The grounds at Los Arboles take you to many different places. The surrounding desert mountains make it so you never forget where you are. Hacienda-inspired architecture gives you the essence of Spain. The aroma of homemade food from the hotel’s restaurant, El Mirasol, will take you South of the border. My favorite was the tropical inspirations thanks to the array of exotic plants and trees throughout.

Take a splash at the Los Arboles pool

With a baby in tow, we were nervous about her getting fussy. Luckily, Los Arboles’ hotelier, Karina Castaneda, kept this in mind. She reserved us a room tucked away in the back of the hotel with no shared walls. Personal touches like that can be hard to come by. It’s one of my top reasons for staying in Palm Springs. You can tell Karina and her family takes great pride in giving their guests a stay that feels more like “home.”

Comfy bed and suite at Los Arboles

Something I appreciated more than ever during our stay was the food. Days are so filled with taking care of Mabel, that we often slack on meals. Having a terrific slew of restaurants available, from higher-end to casual, was just what mommy and daddy needed.

Grilled Cubano Sandwich from 849

Having previously been to 849, their Scottish Steelhead was on my mind. Within a 5-minute walk of the hotel, 849 is a staple along the Uptown Design District. Its modern, posh dining atmosphere and patio make you want to look cute and maybe get out some heels. Since leggings and tees were more the goals this trip, we opted for takeout. The steelhead was flaky and cooked to perfection. Mike enjoyed the grilled Cubano sandwich with fries. Mabel took in the sights and sounds from the television (great OnDemand lineup with HBO) while we enjoyed our meal.

Takeout perfection from Cheeky’s

Did I mention how close you are to great restaurants? Another one is Cheeky’s. A Buzzfeed darling, Cheeky’s offers up modern takes on traditional breakfast favorites. What gets them the long wait times? Cult favorites like their bacon flight and Bloody Mary’s. One of my favorite highlights of the trip was enjoying our Cheeky’s takeout on the patio back at our room. I devoured my waffle (as always). Mike thought the bacon flight, which is five pieces of flavored bacon, was worth it.

When lunch rolled around, we found two fantastic and casual options. Favorites among the locals, Native Foods is a 100% vegan menu while Chicken Ranch is an excellent and healthy choice if you’re not looking for entirely plant-based.

Visit the giraffes at the Living Desert

Although past trips have found me taking a ride up the Aerial Tramway, we decided to hold off on it again until Mabel is older. Instead, we drove out to Palm Desert on a sunny Sunday afternoon to experience the Living Desert. 20 miles from Los Arboles, the Living Desert blends an impressive zoo with nature trails and botanical gardens. Visitors young and old will also appreciate their elaborate G-scale train set outlining the California railroad.

Even though it feels a bit more exhausting traveling with a baby, Palm Springs was ideal. I look forward to returning in years to come and tell Mabel that her very first trip was here.

/by