In Case You Missed It: A Media Round Up

What’s happening? Here’s a short media round-up of recent coverage about several Palm Springs boutique hotels and what’s happening in the desert.

LA Times: Cool vibes, splash-worthy pools at these 7 new or updated Palm Springs hotels, $114 and up

LA Times covers cool boutique hotels in Palm Springs

AFAR: Tim Masters shares the scoop on the reason L.A. types have been flocking to the desert since the Rat Pack days in How to Enjoy a Weekend in Palm Springs.

Los Angeles Magazine partnered with the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism to highlight the glory of Palm Springs, including fabulous photos of the iconic Monkey Tree Hotel in Ready for a Change of Scene? Palm Springs Beckons.

Elaine Master Interviews the new owners of the Inn at Palm Springs

Trip Well Gal: In Big Hearts, Small Hotel – Meet Your Inn at Palm Springs Hosts, travel writer Elaine Masters interviews hoteliers Paul Kurdian and Samantha McDermott about what makes their hotel so fun and special.

WeHo Times: Award-winning journalist and Palm Springs homeboy Thom Senzee writes frankly about his mood in Palm Springs as the world of travel opens up. This is the first of his three-part series on clothing-optional boutique resorts that cater to gay men. Check out Postcards from Palm Springs.

 

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One-Of-A-Kind Palm Springs Boutique Hotels Featured In New Commercial

A giant mural of yellow and blue flowers at Fleur Noire Hotel in Palm Springs, California

Four of Palm Springs’ most stunning boutique hotels are featured in a new commercial touting the benefits of a desert vacation.

The Descanso Resort, Fleur Noire, The Art Hotel, and Hotel El Cid all have their moment in the spotlight, showing off their pools, grounds, and hotel decor. The 30-second commercial, “Unique Stays,” makes it clear that staying at a Palm Springs boutique hotel offers an authentic experience guests cannot find at a large hotel or home rental. 

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels, in collaboration with the Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau and Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, created the spot. The trio worked with Summerland Creative and JNS Media for production and talent, with Panoramic serving as the agency.

Now is the perfect time to plan an escape to Palm Springs — for residents of the West Coast, it’s a leisurely drive for a playcation or workcation, and domestic and international travelers can easily fly into Palm Springs International Airport. Visit the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels website to learn more about our unique properties and pick the right boutique hotel for your trip. 

 

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April’s “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays” Podcast Is All About Spring

Tune in on Saturday, April 8 at 4 p.m. PT for the latest episode of “Palm Springs Sunshine Stays,” the show that’s all about things to do and see in Palm Springs.

In this episode, “Spring in Sunny Palm Springs,” Big Blend Radio’s Lisa Smith and Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels’ Kimberli Munkres will chat about April events in Palm Springs, the new Frisky Business Cat Cafe and Boozehounds restaurant, and the five “gayest” drinks in Palm Springs, as chosen by PSPSH blogger Gregory Douglass.

Palm Springs Sunshine Stays is a partnership between Big Blend and PSPSH, with new shows premiering on the second Saturday of the month. Guests include Palm Springs hoteliers, restauranteurs, and business owners who share their insights on Palm Springs and tips and tricks on how travelers can make the most out of their visits to this vibrant city.

There are several ways to listen to Palm Springs Sunshine Stays, including via YouTube, the Big Blend Radio website, and SoundCloud.

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Introducing The Brand New Skylark

People play in the courtyard pool at Skylark Hotel in Palm Springs on a sunny day

Having lived in Palm Springs for 13 years, I must admit to passing by The Skylark on North Palm Canyon Drive without noticing it. But now, after attending the official reopening of the boutique property, it is a place I will go to often. Let me share what I discovered about this Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel.

A revitalized space

An Airstream trailer at Skylark Hotel Palm Springs used as a registration desk

The one-of-a-kind registration desk at The Skylark. Photo by Kathy Condon

Walking into the courtyard of the The Skylark, I marveled at the giant trees dotting the space with benches and, to my delight, fire pits, which I feel bring a cozy, welcoming feel to any space. On the other side of the courtyard, the unusually large pool would have been the perfect place to take a nighttime dip, but I was wearing casual business attire, so it was not to be this evening.

Since I was expecting the registration area to be right in as you come off the street, I was surprised to instead find a restaurant, Lost Property Palm Springs. Seeing people walk down a path nearby, I also wandered down it and discovered, much to my surprise, an Airstream trailer surrounded by lovely patio furniture and bicycles under a fun mid-century mural painted on the cinder block wall. I went to the window, expecting it to be a bar, but found the reception desk.

I asked owner Amitesh Damur why an Airstream trailer was used for a registration area. He smiled broadly and responded, “Well, there is a story. When we decided to make room for the restaurant Lost Property, it made the most sense to have the restaurant on North Palm Canyon, both for its recognizable address and accessibility for locals that we hope will frequent it. We had space near our parking lot, and I thought, ‘Why not find an Airstream trailer to add a unique touch?'” It wasn’t easy to track one down, he added, but once secured, “the creative juices flowed, and it now has a permanent resting spot.” It makes people smile as they enter the gate, and the patio furniture surrounding it is a perfect place to relax any time of day.

Room for everyone

A king-sized bed inside a bedroom at Skylark Hotel in Palm Springs

Comfortable beds are the centerpieces of rooms at The Skylark. Photo by Kathy Condon

Rooms surround the courtyard and pool, providing easy access to amenities like The Skylark Bar. This is a lovely, spacious area with tables and a long bar offering any libation you desire. On reopening night, a DJ spun upbeat music. During your stay, a phonograph with vinyl records helps you get into the mid-century spirit. It’s a great place for gathering with friends and family, or, if you are here for a corporate retreat, an excellent training space with a large screen suitable for any presentation.

The Skylark has 28 rooms, with the upper level boasting upgraded deluxe accommodations with lovely remodeled bathrooms, luxury bath products, refrigerators, and comfortable chairs. Leaning on the railing and observing the moonlit courtyard and pool from the patio right outside your second-floor room is a delight. While the second floor requires walking up steps (there is no elevator), the scene below is worth the extra effort.

FYI: You must leave Fido home with the grandparents. Animals are not allowed in the hotel.

Must-try eats

A lobster roll and container of French fries with gravy on a gray plate

Delicious lobster rolls are on the menu at Lost Property Palm Springs. Photo by Kathy Condon

Yes, having a coffee pot in your room is helpful, but what if you want something with a little more kick or a specialty coffee drink? No problem. All you have to do is wander down to the restaurant, Lost Property Palm Springs, and you can order exactly what you want. Or, if you are more adventurous, let the staff serve you one of their specialty drinks. It opens at 7 a.m., and seating is available inside and outside. More than likely, operation partner Rhino Williams will greet you as you walk in. The glass case displays a variety of specialty pastries — just so you know, it is fairly challenging to find a good pastry in Palm Springs, but theirs are superb.

After having lunch at Lost Property and sampling their food, I can only say, “Oh my.” Everything I tasted was superb. The big news is that Maine lobster rolls will always be on their menu. Residents lined up when the Lobster Truck rolled into town, but now you don’t have to — these are equally as good, piled high with fresh lobster flown in regularly.

There is also other good news: if you are out on a day trip and come back to Palm Springs late, it is one of the few restaurants open until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Be sure to try one of their specialty craft cocktails. While animals cannot stay at the hotel, they are allowed on the restaurant’s outside patio.

One last thing: when you drive down North Palm Canyon Drive, you can’t miss The Skylark. The whole entrance has a beautiful wall with our famous breeze blocks. With its on-site restaurant, this hotel is one of the crowning gems in Palm Springs’ wonderful collections of boutique hotels. I’ll meet you there — yes, as a local, I will be going to Lost Property frequently.

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Flying Into Palm Springs International Airport Is A Breeze

When I recently returned from the Pacific Northwest and entered the atrium of the Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), it wasn’t long before I broke into a big smile. Through the canopies covering the walkway, I could see our brilliant sun shining through, warming me after a chilly flight.

The Sonny Bono Concourse at the Palm Springs International Airport

There’s plenty of shade at the Palm Springs International Airport. Photo by Kathy Condon

What makes Palm Springs International Airport so special?

The flight into the airport treats passengers to breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the Coachella Valley. PSP is located in the west end of Palm Springs, and depending on the direction of the wind, you may have a bird’s eye view of the entire length of the Valley as your aircraft approaches the landing field.

For those who frequently use PSP for commuting, it’s impossible not to compare it to the bustling and often confusing airports scattered throughout the United States. Yes, we are indeed spoiled and fully acknowledge it, as the ease and comfort provided by this airport continue to be appreciated by residents and visitors alike.

International art adorns the premises

As you descend the escalator, gaze across the expansive courtyard. A life-size, artistically-decorated bighorn sheep greets you on the left, and in front of you is a large circular sculpture that leads your eye to the baggage claim area.

A suggestion: since there is no rush to get to baggage claim, stop and take some time to look at art tucked in spots around the airport.

A sculpture of a big horned sheep at Palm Springs International Airport by Joe Wertheimer and Mark Junge

There are several works of art on display across Palm Springs International Airport. Photo by Nadine Conger

A testament to historic modernism design

Donald Wexler was renowned for his outstanding mid-century designs. He created many public and residential buildings; however, the commission for the airport terminal was considered his most significant project.

Wexler’s design encapsulated the quintessential mid-century elements: clean lines, steel and glass materials, graceful contours, and spacious interiors. Today, the terminal still boasts a 30-foot overhanging roof, floor-to-ceiling glass entryways, and an unobstructed view of the mountains.

Due to the popularity of our destination, PSP is planning for the future, and with help from Wexler’s son and input from the community, the airport is looking for ways to expand the bays for docking aircraft. In the meantime, there is construction within the terminal to create new retail and restaurants. Happily, I can report that these additions will be establishments owned by local vendors. 

A red and blue metal sculpture by Tom Holland at the Palm Springs International Airport

This metal sculpture was created by Tom Holland. Photo by Nadine Conger

Airlines serving Palm Springs International Airport with direct flights

A caveat: It is essential to check each airline’s direct flight schedules, since they change their schedules often and some routes are seasonal.

Air Canada: Toronto and Vancouver

Alaska: New York City (JFK); Boise; Portland; Seattle; San Francisco; and Everett, Washington

Allegiant Air: Des Moines and Bellingham, Washington

American Airlines: Chicago; Dallas; Phoenix; and Austin, Texas

Avelo Air: Bend/Redmond, Oregon; Eugene, Oregon; and Santa Rosa, California

Delta: Atlanta; Minneapolis; Salt Lake City; and Seattle

Flair Airlines: Vancouver

Jet Blue: New York City (JFK)

Sun Country: Minneapolis

United: Chicago; Denver; Houston; Los Angeles; and San Francisco

WestJet: Calgary; Edmonton; Vancouver; and Winnipeg

Transportation to and from PSP

Rarely is an international airport so close to downtown as ours is in Palm Springs, with it taking about 10 minutes to drive there. If you reserve a rental car, you’ll find the vendors directly across from baggage claim. 

You can have a stress-free vacation, which includes no driving, by hailing a taxi lined up in front of the baggage exit area. If you would rather take Lyft or Uber, we have drivers eager to help you reach your destination. Town car services are also available; be sure to reserve before your arrival. They are willing to take you to any place in the Valley or even to the always fascinating Joshua Tree area.

The pride of Palm Springs

I trust I have illustrated why we residents take immense pride in our Palm Springs International Airport. Yes, it is going through a transition period, so if you see construction going on, be assured care is being taken to ensure it doesn’t impact your experience. Meanwhile, we know you will step off that plane and break into a smile as you see our beautiful sunshine.

After catching a ride to your Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel, you’ll want to quickly unpack and then plunge into the pool. Oh, and it is alright if you post your picture poolside — after all, you were smart enough to plan your visit to Palm Springs.

A metal sculpture at the Palm Springs International Airport

See if you can spot this metal piece of art at the Palm Springs International Airport. Photo by Nadine Conger

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Jump Into Hot Summer Hotel Deals In Palm Springs

Summer Splash 2024 jumping into pool

Make Palm Springs, California, your affordable summer vacation destination thanks to Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. To celebrate the season, several boutique hotels — all with amazing pools to cool off in — are offering special Summer Splash deals for guests, including free nights, percentages off, welcome gifts, and lower rates.

The luxurious Amin Casa is offering its lowest rates of the year, valid every day from June 1 to Sept. 30, 2024. Use the code “Summer Luxury Rate” to take advantage of this deal. 

Book direct with the vibrant Inn at Palm Springs and receive 15% off your stay, plus breakfast for two every day. Use promo code “Super.” Some exclusions and blackout dates apply.

The pool at Hacienda at Warm Sands on a sunny day

The relaxing Hacienda at Warm Sands pool. Photo courtesy of The Hacienda at Warm Sands

From June 3 to Sept. 26, 2024, stay four nights at the gorgeous Hacienda at Warm Sands men’s clothing-optional hotel and receive one free night. For an even longer vacation, book eight nights and receive two nights free or book 12 nights and receive three nights free. On top of that, The Hacienda is offering lower summer rates. Full payment is due at time of booking and is not refundable. Some exclusions apply.

Have a sizzling summer at the men’s clothing-optional Triangle Inn Palm Springs with $99 weekday rates. Valid for studio suites. Some exclusions apply. To book, call the Triangle Inn Palm Springs at 760-322-7993.

The lights glow around the sparkling pool at Alcazar Palm Springs

Alcazar Palm Springs glows in the evening. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

 

One, two, free! At Alcazar Palm Springs, stay two nights in a queen room and get your third night free, Sunday through Thursday. Valid through Aug. 29, 2024. Some exclusions apply. To book this offer, call the hotel at 760-318-9850 or online use code “WDB.” 

At the chic Azure Sky Resort, stay two nights and enjoy 15% off, stay three nights and take 20% off, or stay four nights and receive 25% off. Each guest will also be greeted with a bottle of Notary Public rosé. 

A quaint bungalow with a tile roof at Casa Cody boutique hotel in Palm Springs, California

Casa Cody is the oldest standing inn in Palm Springs. Photo courtesy of Casa Cody

The choice is yours at the historic Casa Cody. Book by July 2 and take 20% off a stay of two nights or more (reservation must be made at least 14 days in advance). From July 8 – Aug. 29, 2024, take 20% off your stay.

For more information on the Summer Splash 2024 deals and all the fine print, click here. 

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Palm Springs International Airport Named Best Small U.S. Airport At 2021 TPG Awards

The readers have spoken, and they love the Palm Springs International Airport.

The Points Guy, a travel website and blog, asks its readers every year to vote on their favorite airport, and for the 2021 TPG Awards, Palm Springs came out on top. The Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is the only commercial service airport in the Coachella Valley, with 11 airlines providing nonstop service to more than 30 destinations across the United States and Canada. It’s also known for its extensive art collection.

In a statement, Mayor Cristy Holstege and Visit Greater Palm Springs President and CEO Scott White said they are “thrilled” by the honor.

“With its open-air walkways and lushly landscaped courtyards that lead within minutes to baggage claims and its breathtaking mountain views, PSP is a surprisingly welcomed and stress-free experience for visitors,” White added.

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In Case You Missed It: A Media Round Up for May ’21

The pool at Los Arboles Hotel in Palm Springs, California, is always a cool place to be on a warm summer day

Didn’t see it the first time?? Here’s a short media round-up of recent coverage about several Palm Springs boutique hotels and what’s happening in the desert.

The pool at Los Arboles. Photo credit Lorena Lopez

Lorena Lopez over at Traveling Soulo shares her stay experience at Los Arboles, the Palm Springs hotel that’s known for its chill, come-as-you-are vibe.

Roanne Adams — who runs the creative studio, RoAndCo — threw a (vaccinated) 40th birthday in Palm Springs with 25 friends.  Here’s her story for NY Mag.

Linda Milks with Bella and Catie in Palm Springs. Photo Credit Todd Montgomery.

It’s a dog’s life. Enjoying the Dog Days in Palm Springs as seen in Food, Wine, Travel Magazine, page 29.

And speaking of dogs…this AP story pick up will have you ready to take your furry darling out to the desert

The story about the Boutiquely Palm Springs newsletter was picked up all over the world.

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First! What’s New In Palm Springs

Palm trees flank the old Welcome to Palm Springs sign in Palm Springs, California

Although Palm Springs always maintains her mid-mod aesthetic, she is in constant metamorphosis. Some local haunts are like the stars in the sky, they have been around since “5Eva because 4ever is too short.” (IYKYK!) Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Inn, Les Vallauris (now operated by SoHo House), the original Las Casuelas — they’re not going anywhere. But people are moving to Palm Springs from all over the world, and with them come new ideas and new businesses. There’s a gleeful mix of old and new and everyone is here for it. The ones that aren’t are literally a dying breed.

Since season started last November, some things have happened fast, and some were pretty big, like the opening of the Spa at Séc-he and Agua Caliente Cultural Museum. Because of the buzz around those, a bunch of new businesses didn’t get to fly as close to the sun as they could have, so we’re absolutely going to fix that now. I can’t claim that this is everything, but I tried really hard to find them all. I searched high, and I searched less high, but it all comes down to this: I absolutely deserve the pint of Caramel Cone Haagen Dazs that’s name-calling me from Ralph’s.  

But before I get into that (and another episode of Girls5Eva — I’m obsessed!), it’s about time we showed a little love to… 

The Uptown Design District

Yay! Uptown! It’s a very cool part of town, but not just architecturally — the shops have unique offerings as well. It’s definitely worth taking a coffee on a stroll. Plus, it’s not as crowded as downtown proper, so you can meander at will. 

Not only are Trina Turk and The Shag Store up that way, there’s a great outdoor space in The Corridor. Have a peek while you grab that coffee at Koffi, then head on up north and have a look at some of the dreamiest design elements you’ve ever. Here’s the new:

Wolf Contemporary at 768 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Curated art and design gallery showcasing works by contemporary California artists, rare findings, and unique designs in a gallery setting. Expect an eclectic mix of antique artifacts, rare vintage designer handbags, modern and vintage jewelry, and the occasional piece of statement furniture, each with a story, history, and meaning. All pieces are offered with refinement, style, and supreme quality. 

Phylum at 901 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Color abounds in contemporary housewares, barware, apothecaries, gifts, and furniture, all with complimentary gift wrap and local delivery.

Around town

Aluminaire House at the Palm Springs Art Museum

On the south end of the Palm Springs Art Museum’s grounds, there is now an aluminum and metal prototype residence designed in 1931 by Albert Frey and A. Lawrence Kocher. Called the Aluminaire House, it is the first all-metal house constructed in the United States. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday through Monday; noon to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Pillars of Palm Springs 

Set to be unveiled April 15 on World Art Day (happy birthday, Leonardo DaVinci!), are six “pillars” individually crafted by six local artists: Roger Reutimann (Inspiring Creativity); Anne Faith Nicholls (Crafting Serenity); Bernard Stanley Hoyes (Celebrating Diversity); Jessup + Cooning (Upholding Civility); MIDABI (Fostering Community); and Scott Froschauer (Highlighting Equality). Located along Tahquitz Canyon Way, the Pillars will replace the Art of Taming Horses sculptures installed during Desert X 2021. 

New restaurants

Wang’s in the Desert at 424 S. Indian Canyon Drive

Iconic restaurant and beautiful event space (formerly Jilly’s 1960s). Reopened March 18 after about a four-year sabbatical. 

La Cocina at Reforma at 333 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Elevated Mexican inspired menu inside Reforma nightclub. Opened in March. 

Crudo Cerveceria at 515 N. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite B8

I’ve mentioned it before, but it’s worth the rerun. Terrific new addition to the Uptown Design District with drinks and fresh seafood. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Closed Sundays. 

Holiday House Brunch at 200 W. Arenas Road

On Saturdays and Sundays, Executive Chef Shawn Applin offers a sweet and savory menu that pairs perfectly with a special selection of rosé wines and Champagnes.  Highlights include the photogenic and delicious Shellfish Plateau for sharing, Dutch Baby pancakes, fried chicken and waffles, ricotta-stuffed French toast, and much more.  11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

Cipolline Osteria at 1260 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Great menu, and plenty of parking on the south end of Palm Canyon Drive. Formerly known as The New York Company, long time visitors will remember it as Banducci’s Bit of Italy. Meaty mains, pasta, pizza, salads, full bar. They call it a bar before they call it a restaurant, but the menu looks fancy. 

Coming Soon

Tony’s Burgers at 665 S. Palm Canyon Drive

Delicious burger joint with a full bar that’s been consistently named best burger in the Coachella Valley. Not a burger person? Try the famous fish tacos, hot dogs, fresh salads, and avocado fries. Just like the Date Palm location, but in Palm Springs.

Livs at 101 N. Museum Drive

Livs is taking over the downstairs space at the Palm Springs Art Museum that used to be the Muse Café. They are currently doing a pop-up on Thursday evenings with VillageFest. Opening date of brick-and-mortar TBD.

I’d love to tell you that Churrasco Steakhouse has opened, but it hasn’t done that yet (announced two years ago, chop chop on the chops, please). Starring all-you-can-eat meats roasted to perfection on a wood charcoal grill, Churrasco will feature a sleek modern decor with inside seating for 140 and additional outdoor patio seating for another 30. 

A large imported fresh market table will be filled with favorites, including chilled salads and hot sides, sauces, imported cheeses, their famous mushroom risotto, and 15 meat selections like the house specialty picanha. The website says it will open this spring, and it’s spring, so…

Keep your eyes out for announcements about the Oasis Music Festival

Miscellaneous

Perry’s Fine Wines & Liquor at 625-641 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Owner is a transplant from Provincetown, Massachusetts, a.k.a. Palm Springs East. 

Carmela Ice Cream at 750 N. Palm Canyon Drive

Specialty house-made ice creams. They even have classes you can take to learn how to make your own, too. Inside the Flannery Exchange.

Women’s clothing

Pink Palm Springs at 263 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way

Fashion-forward women looking for unique and trendy pieces need search no further. Their carefully curated collection has made it a destination for fashion enthusiasts searching for one-of-a-kind pieces.

Sunny Days at 174 N. Palm Canyon Drive

A woman’s clothing boutique with styles from Bella Dahl, Johnny Was, Z Supply, and more. 

New small hotels

There are over 70 unique boutique hotels and small resorts in Palm Springs. These are the five newest kids on the block, and I encourage you to click the links and check them out. Stun-ning.

Velvet Rope — Nine themed rooms, each with its own very big personality, plus the soon-to-open bar, Valerie’s.

Mahala — Bursting with personality and just a touch of well-placed kitsch, it’s right across the street from old school Billy Reed’s Restaurant. 

Yara — The Mediterranean/Moroccan style of this hotel looks like a cool breeze on a sunny day. You know, if you could see a breeze.

Blackhaus — High-end bedding, towels, and toiletries; small private patios. Shared spaces include a pool, fireplaces, and outdoor cooking, as well as multiple bocce ball courts around the property.

Jazz Hotel — Gallery and modern art collection. Pool. Spa. Gym. Lounge.

And that’s the skinny on all things new in Palm Springs. You’re welcome, happy to help. Now I’m off to get that Haagen Dazs and spend some time with my new favorite girl group. 🎶Girls5Eva because 4ever is too short! 🎶

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