Summer Revelry in Palm Springs

At Arrive’s Ice Cream and Shop(pe), scoops are served up inside a gift shop featuring fun mugs, journals, and other must-have knick knacks. Ice cream and sorbet flavors rotate, but the classics are always available — mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, and vanilla bean — alongside deliciously different offerings like pink ginger, grape-nut, pomegranate chocolate chip, and honey. With late night hours — the shop(pe) stays open until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and midnight on Friday and Saturday. Arrive Hotel Palm Springs, 1551 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-507-4005

Once a month, Arrive also presents a Dive-In Movie, with the flick starting at dusk. Open to the public, there are seats available poolside, and if you get there early enough, you can grab a float and watch the movie from the pool. This year’s selections include Pretty Woman (July 25), Austin Powers (August 22), Swingers (September 26), and 2004’s Phantom of the Opera (October 31). You’ll want to buy a beverage, but the movie and popcorn are free.

Palm Springs hotels are home to some amazing pools, each one with its own vibe. With just 25 guest rooms, the pool at L’Horizon Resort and Spa feels exclusive and never overcrowded, but if you want to splurge, reserve The Residence — the original home of Hollywood mogul Jack Wrather, which boasts its own private pool in a secluded yard. At Alcazar, misters surround the large, saltwater purified pool, allowing guests to beat the heat before they grab lunch at hot spot Cheeky’s or dinner at Birba. The Santiago has the largest swimming pool at any Palm Springs resort, at an expansive 20 feet by 50 feet. This swimsuit-optional gay men’s resort also has an outdoor mist cooling system, comfortable deck chairs, and complimentary guest lunches of delicious sandwiches, salads, and wraps served poolside. L’Horizon Palm Springs, 1050 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-323-1858. Alcazar, 622 N. Palm Canyon Dr., Palm Springs. 760-318-9850. The Santiago, 650 E. San Lorenzo Road, Palm Springs. 760-322-1300.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway lifts visitors up two-and-a-half miles to the top of Mt. San Jacinto State Park, where the temperatures are always lower. It’s about a 10-minute ride, with the tram cars slowly rotating to ensure everyone can see the breathtaking vistas below. Grab dinner at the Peaks Restaurant or Pines Café, and stop for a drink at the Lookout Lounge. During the summer, the last tram down is at 9:45 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Several small hotels, like the Los Arboles and La Maison, offer tram packages so you don’t have to wait in line to purchase a ticket. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, 1 Tram Way, Palm Springs. 888-515-8726. Los Arboles Hotel, 266 E. Via Altamira, Palm Springs. 760-459-3605. La Maison, 1600 East Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, 760 325 1600.

And those are just the beginning of all the great ways to beat the heat in Palm Springs this Summer. Discover more when you visit https://www.palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com/ or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to explore a unique collection of over seventy independently owned small hotels – all of which offer great Summer deals and promotions.

/by

The One With The Bachelorette’s Guide To Palm Springs

Pink heart shaped floats in the kidney-shaped pool at the Trixie Motel in Palm Springs, California

Congratulations! You found “the one!” And now you’re in a Friends episode, “The One Where Your Name Here is Having Their Bachelorette Party.” Your bash is going to be as memorable as your wedding because you’re having it in paradise, a.k.a. Palm Springs. Great choice! When you’re not out and about, you can enjoy a cocktail or mocktail lounging poolside in the sun with your own Rachel, Phoebe, and Monica.

But first things first: you’ll need a place to stay, and a buyout is just the ticket. Our boutique hotels have quite a few options to choose from, all with different aesthetics and budgets. Let’s get going:

Bachelorette party properties in Palm Springs 

The huge sparkling pool in the back of Limón Palm Springs boutique hotel in Palm Springs, California

The Limón Palm Springs pool. Photo courtesy of Limón Palm Springs

Limón Palm Springs — Six large suites with private patios, a shared kitchen, and dining area. Mostly steel and windows, with pops of bright yellow — like the sun here in Palm Springs, and just as warm and inviting.

Yara Hotel — Seven rooms and three suites all done up in modernist (what I call) Moroccan. Each room/suite is steps away from the pool. It’s great for a smaller party, or you can double up. There’s a heated saltwater pool and a firepit. With its clean lines and white sandy exterior, it’s the opposite of fussy.

The Marley — With its pink and black motif, it’s reminiscent of the swanky Beverly Hills Hotel. This nine bedroom and nine bathroom property has a gorgeous Viking catering kitchen, a spacious pool, and a fire pit. Able to accommodate up to 22 guests.

A gilded elevator cage that has been converted into a bed frame at Dive Palm Springs

The Paris Suite at Dive showcases a 1919 brass and copper elevator cage. Photo courtesy of Dive Palm Springs

Dive — Eleven rooms, yummy property with a great pool. Lots of places to have one-on-ones and the rooms are delicious, just like the food. Oh, did I mention there’s a soundproof room so you can keep the party going after the 10 p.m. noise curfew?

Spirit of Sofia — She’s a very pretty girl, with two pools: one is a lazy teardrop dipping pool, and the other a rectangular beauty. There are 20 rooms and the outdoor space is divine — it’s all very posh and breezy country home.

Trixie Motel — While it’s not cool to bring your bridal party to a gay bar, it is cool to rent out the entire Trixie Motel, designed and owned by Trixie Mattel of Ru Paul’s Drag Race fame. It’s all very Barbie, and it’s absolutely memorable. Seven rooms and suites around the teardrop pool.

Throw your own party

There are a lot of great places to go for a meal, but you can elevate the experience by getting a personal chef for a day, a night, or for the entire weekend. Here are all the personal chefs with five star ratings in Palm Springs:

That’s The Spirit — No one has to pour or get stuck behind the bar making drinks if you get your own bar/bartender. 

MOGO Silent Disco — Palm Springs has a noise curfew, but if you hire Mogo Silent Disco, you can party into the wee hours (as long as you don’t sing too loud!)

Daytime playtime

Vintage airplane seats at the PS Air Bar in Palm Springs, California

Get the vintage airplane experience at PS Air Bar. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

PSAir — It’s like a plane but it’s on the ground. Sundays are Broadway Bound brunches. 

Reforma brunches — Held on Saturdays. Themed, and you’re encouraged to dress up. Past themes: Disney Princess, Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift (1989) … you get the idea. Need a costume? Go thrifting.

Play Lounge — All the games, all the fun. Non-fussy food, fussy bevvies.

420 Bank — Dispensary with pool, pinball, board games, giant chess, and live entertainment.

Boomers — Celebrate the kid in you with mini-golf, a huge arcade, bumper boats, and Go-Karts.

Social Cycle — Get your cardio and your drink on by pedaling to some of the fun bars in PS.

Hike Tahquitz waterfall — Go early. It’s gorgeous and not very hard. About one hour hike in, 35 out. Great way to start your day.

Horseback riding — Smoketree Stables is the place to experience Palm Springs the way the pioneers did.

Escape Room Palm Springs — Show off your bridal teamwork by solving the crime and getting out before the timer goes off. I had a blast.

Earthy day trips under an hour

Joshua trees against a blue sky and clouds in Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park. Photo by Catherine Garcia

Giggling with Goats — Holy goat yoga in Indio! 

Integratron (it’s a sound bath with an interplanetary connection), then lunch at Pappy & Harriet’s, followed by a self-guided Pioneertown tour. Insta-worthy.

Joshua Tree — It’s a national park with rock formations and Joshua trees. Uncontaminated by settlements, it’s planet Earth in all of her unmanned glory. There is an artist’s scene in town.

If you’re going out for dinner, check out this post that should help you make a decision.

Late night drinks

Truss & Twine — Very L.A.; open until 12:30 a.m.

Seymour’s — A small speakeasy open until midnight, located in/at Mr. Lyons.

Reforma — Nightclub open until 2 a.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Tryst Bar & Lounge — On Indian Canyon, open until 2:30 a.m. (industry spot).

Fireside Lounge — This is a local’s spot. Nothing fancy, but has pool tables outside and karaoke inside. You’ll have to take an Uber. It’s near the airport but in the dispensary concentrated section. Open ’til 2 a.m.

For entertainment, check out our monthly events blog. That should get you well on your way to making your bachelorette celebration The One That You and Your Besties Never, Ever Forget.

Cue Friends theme song.

/by

What Should I Pack For My Palm Springs Summer Vacation?

If you thought Palm Springs becomes a ghost town during the summer, think again.

Picture relaxing evenings poolside, dinners, and parties with your friends, watching the sun go down behind our rugged mountains. Wouldn’t you like to be assured you’ll have sun during your vacation, not rain? 

Packing a suitcase for Palm Springs

Here’s the good news: Let’s say you took a chance and bought a plane ticket that only allows a carry-on bag. You’ll be just fine, as your clothing needs will be minimal during a summer visit. 

Palm Springs residents pride themselves on hip, colorful, casual dressing, even when going to the grocery or hardware store. Nothing fancy, just bright and comfortable. A suggestion: Go through your closet and pull out the most colorful summer clothes you own. Many people like to wear black on airplanes — I learned long ago that spills don’t show up on black tops — but once you land in Palm Springs, it’s likely the last time you’ll be dressed this way during your stay.

Yes, gentlemen, you can pull out the Hawaiian shirts languishing in the far corner of your closet. Palm Springs residents seek out vintage Hawaiian shirts, so you can be assured you’re in style no matter when you acquired them. 

Clothes waiting to be packed. Photo credit: elCarito on Unsplash

Shorts, dresses, or slacks?

It is a matter of choice. However, after living here for eight years, I have concluded that flowing, loose dresses are more comfortable, since they can catch the occasional summer breeze that unexpectedly surfaces. Leave the polyester ones behind; you want a fabric that breathes. 

The summer attire for men in Palm Springs is shorts. Yes, they can be colorful. Again, it’s time for you to break out of your conservative attire. Let loose here. You will blend in instead of sticking out in the crowd. 

Evening attire

It depends on what activity you are doing after the sun sets. Poolside, anything goes, so don’t stress. 

You may have already learned that making reservations for most restaurants is necessary, even in the middle of summer. Palm Springs is known for its varied cuisine, and Coachella Valley residents are also vying for reservations in some of our more popular restaurants. 

Ladies, the evening allows you to bring out a special dress, which might include rhinestones or some sparkle. You should bring along a shawl, since some restaurants crank up their air conditioning.

Gentlemen, here are a few guidelines for you: At some of our high-profile restaurants, like Melvyn’s at the Ingleside Inn, slacks and a shirt with a collar are required. Ties, however, are not, although if you decide to don one with a jacket, you certainly will fit into the setting. (I know, a double standard.) Women can wear dress sandals, but no sandals for men; sorry, they don’t want to see your toes. 

You’ll want to grab a drink or two at Melvyn’s bar. Photo courtesy of Ingleside Inn

Give caftans a chance

You may be surprised by the number of colorful caftans you see in our valley. Designers Sheri Johnson, Aneka Brown, and Trina Turk have helped make caftans — loose, draped garments — a staple in the wardrobes of both Palm Springs men and women. During your vacation, you might want to find a caftan to try on and see how freeing it feels to wear one. (I checked — both men and women can wear a caftan to Melvyn’s. Sorry, fellas, they still don’t want you to wear sandals with it, so closed-toed shoes need to stay on your packing list.)

Two places where you might need warmer clothes

If you’ve never been up to the San Jacinto Mountains via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, you’ll want to schedule this experience. Make sure you get tickets in advance. 

Keep in mind, the tram drops you off at 8,516 feet, and the temperature can be up to 40 degrees cooler than the desert floor. More than one person has spent time shivering up there because no one told them to take an extra layer of clothes. 

The nearby mountain town of Idyllwild is another spot for a wonderful day trip. Known for its artistic influences, Idyllwild can also be cooler than you anticipated, so an extra layer just in case is recommended. 

Don’t leave home without these items

Sunscreen should be foremost on your list. Our sun in the summer can be pretty intense — even in the morning, the rays are bouncing off your skin. Quick reminder: Be sure to put sunscreen on your ears.

Your eyes will be happy you bought those new, chic designer sunglasses — glasses coupled with a hat will help protect you on your adventures. 

If you don’t have a reusable water bottle, you’ll have many opportunities to purchase one at attractions across Palm Springs. Because of the heat, carrying a water bottle with you at all times is a must. 

If you plan on spending any time in a pool or spa, throw a bathing suit in your suitcase — or two, for good measure.

Palm Springs is open for business, and we look forward to you exploring our community. Book a reservation at one of our Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels as soon as your vacation dates are set, and get started planning your adventure.

All packed and ready to go. Photo credit: brianamatopoeia

/by
, , ,

A Valentine’s Day Getaway to Palm Springs

By Mary Farah

Valentine’s Day road trip, anyone? I’m that person who is a sucker for Valentine’s Day. While long gone are the days of exchanging “Be Mine” valentines, I love the chance to get away with my husband. With the pressure of the winter holidays behind us, Palm Springs is an ideal weekend destination for us as we’re under two hours from home in Los Angeles.

Get an Aerial view of Palm Springs 

One of the beauties of a drive out to Palm Springs is hitting the road mid-morning (hit that snooze button one more time) yet arriving in town by the afternoon. A terrific first stop is to the world’s largest rotating tramcar at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.

Ascend almost three miles to a gorgeous alpine forest and take in the spectacular views of Mt. San Jacinto State Park as you enjoy an intimate lunch at their Forest View Restaurant, or cocktails at the Lookout Lounge. If you and your honey prefer to get down and dirty with a hike, enjoy over 50 miles of trails.

Check in to ARRIVE

For a unique hotel that’s both modern and personable, look no further than ARRIVE. A 21 and over Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel, ARRIVE is not your usual hotel. Check-in is at the pool bar, guests can reach the concierge via text, and their pool offers a lively atmosphere often with DJ’s or movie nights.

Best part? On-site at ARRIVE is Wexler’s Deli, a marvelous diner that made it tempting to stay at the hotel and chill on our patio with their smoked meat dishes; Cartel Coffee Lab, making it extremely easy to roll out of bed and get that first cup of caffeine; Draughtsman, an incredible BBQ house that will make you drool and last but not least, Ice Cream and Shop(pe).

With such an impressive option of meals and light bites, it’s no surprise why we love it at ARRIVE.

Other romantic retreat boutique hotels in Palm Springs include:

La Maison: Consistently voted one of the most romantic hotels in the country by TripAdvisor, the beautifully intimate La Maison is a dream getaway.

Dive:  This 11-room resort conjures the timeless style of St. Tropez with its elegant rooms and lush grounds.

La Serena Villas: Originally built in 1933, this romantically historic hotel sits on over an acre of beautiful landscaped grounds in the heart of downtown Palm Springs.

Ingleside Inn offers a special Valentine’s Day brunch and a decadent 3-course dinner menu crafted with love, including live music.

Enjoy a Night “on the town” at the Palm Springs Art Museum

Not only does the Palm Springs Art Museum display a diversity of beautiful art, but also Cabaret and Broadway performances at their Annenberg Theatre. Just in time for Valentine’s Day weekend, enjoy an evening with Broadway performer, Tony Yazbeck. Best known for his Astaire Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated role in On the Town, Yazbeck will be bringing his suave dance moves and smooth vocals to the museum on February 15th, an ideal evening for theatre lovers like myself.

More Evening Fun

Consider Mr. Lyon’s Steakhouse for a cozy meal for two at a candle-lit table, and don’t miss Seymour’s, their speakeasy, open nightly for an expertly crafted cocktail. If you love a great Old Hollywood atmosphere, head on over to the Purple Room. The urban legend is this is the club where an RCA executive first signed Frank Sinatra and the boys to conceive the Rat Pack. Owner of the Purple Room, Michael Holmes, never keeps it dull with weekly performances on stage at the restaurant as Judy Garland and Old Blue Eyes himself.

Where will Valentine’s Day take you in Palm Springs?

/by

Best Palm Springs Boutique Hotels For A Destination Wedding

A fountain in front of Ingleside Inn in Palm Springs, California

There are only a few places to have a destination wedding in these United States where it’s pretty much guaranteed you’ll have sunny skies, and Palm Springs is one of them. This is a big little town, intimate but offering a lot for your guests to do. The airport is international, and as far as airports go, it’s adorable.

So, if that’s a consideration for you, have a peek at some of the things our romantic little town has to offer to make your big day the best wedding ever. As an FYI, I’m going to split this into two blogs, because there are a lot of options and I don’t want you to miss any.

Say “I do” at your boutique hotel

Pink Bougainvillea covering the building at Casa Cody boutique hotel in Palm Springs, California

Gorgeous bougainvillea cover the buildings at Casa Cody. Photo courtesy of Casa Cody

Rather than getting ready somewhere else and shoving your gorgeous dress into a carriage of some sort, why not stay where you’re going to marry and have the reception there too? In fact, why not have everyone stay there? If your wedding is on the smaller scale, you can accomplish this and make it one of the most memorable weekends of your life — and your guests’ lives! There’s plenty to do in Palm Springs, and you can plan activities galore or let your pals entertain themselves until the moment you walk down that aisle. 

Alcazar — Warm and modern, the Alcazar describes itself as a “serene, peaceful oasis.” Open since 2011, the hotel’s 34 rooms and gathering areas are sleek and stylish. The outdoor space also dazzles, boasting a saltwater purified pool, cooling misters, garden courtyard, and fire and water walls. For an excellent meal, you don’t have to go far — the breakfast hot spot Cheeky’s and Italian-focused Birba are right next door.

Casa Cody — The old-world charm and opulence of Palm Springs is on display at Casa Cody, where the contemporary interiors strike a delicate balance of sophistication with a sense of playfulness. This is a Class 1 historic site with 30 rooms across several historic structures and freestanding homes. There’s Olympic Cottage, which housed athletes during the Los Angeles 1932 Summer Olympics; Winter’s House, an original 1930s California ranch house; Adobe House, a true adobe built in the early 1900s and one of a handful still standing in Palm Springs; and the quaint and cozy Harriet’s Cottage.  

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

The flower murals make Fleur Noire come alive. Courtesy of Fleur Noire Hotel

Fleur Noire — The 21 Spanish-style casitas, studios, and standard rooms each have their own distinct look, courtesy of interior designer Chris Pardo and wallpaper designer Ellie Cashman. Before guests even get to their rooms, they are dazzled by the stunning outdoor murals of desert flowers created by artist Ouize and greeted by staff with a welcome drink. Expect furnishings inspired by the mid-century modern era, pink Keurig coffee makers, and refrigerators that are stocked daily with complimentary water. The heated pool is original to the property and is the centerpiece of the hotel. The grounds are covered with native desert plants and shaded by palo fierro trees, and guests are invited to linger around the fire pits. Fleur Noire has a clubhouse with a communal pantry, lounge seating, and working and dining areas.

Ingleside Inn — This 30-room Spanish Colonial Revival-style property was once owned by a wealthy automaker, but was transformed in the 1930s by Ruth Hardy. This Palm Springs pioneer turned it into an invitation-only private club, where everyone from Elizabeth Taylor to Ava Gardner to Marlon Brando stayed and Carole Lombard and Clark Gable honeymooned. The Inn is also home to Melvyn’s Restaurant, where diners can indulge in Frank Sinatra’s favorite dish, the Steak Diane, and enjoy tableside food preparation.

A beautiful courtyard fountain at Korakia Pensione in Palm Springs, California

The perfect wedding backdrop. Photo courtesy of Korakia Pensione

Korakia Pensione — The historic 28-room property says it “blends the silhouette of Tangier with a whisper of the Mediterranean,” and is the perfect escape. There are two restored historic villas with spacious rooms featuring wood-beamed ceilings, stone showers, balconies, private patios, French doors, and antique and handmade furniture. The Moroccan villa was built in 1924 as a hideaway of Scottish painter Gordon Coutts, who wanted to recreate his earlier life in Tangier, and the courtyard is filled with fountains, date palms, and a stone waterfall. You can book massage treatments in the spa lodge, but plan on spending much of your time in one of the two heated saltwater pools, boasting views of the San Jacinto Mountains.

L’Horizon — Truly elegant, L’Horizon is the flagship of Steve Hermann Hotels, and was originally designed in 1952 by William F. Cody as a retreat for television producer and oil tycoon Jack Wrather and his actress wife, Bonita “Bunny” Granville. The 28 light and bright rooms are spaced across three acres and feel more like private residences, with such luxuries as Frette bed linens, Nespresso coffee machines, smart TVs and Le Labo toiletries. The property is also home to SOPA, a gourmet restaurant and cocktail lounge and The Spa, which offers massages, body treatments, and facials.

Smoke Tree Ranch —You have to actually book here, or know someone who did, to get through the gates. That’s how special it is. There are 49 cottages, from quaint and quietly secluded bungalows to hip and modern poolside-hangouts. I’ve heard it’s in the “Awesome” category, but you’ll have to check it out yourself. I’ve never been.

Rocky ledges and palms surround the beautiful pool at Sparrows Lodge Hotel in Palm Springs, California

The Sparrows Lodge pool is a natural gathering place for guests. Photo courtesy of Sparrows Lodge

Sparrows Lodge — When it was first built in 1952 for actor Don Castle and his wife, Zetta, the property was known as Castle’s Red Barn. In 2013, it underwent a full restoration, but its spirit remains the same, and guests often remark on its rustic yet modern feel. There are no televisions or telephones in the 22 rooms, to ensure that guests are unplugged during their stay. Horseshoes outside, a communal barn, an outdoor fire pit, a vegetable garden, and a spectacular pool. The Barn Kitchen whips up simple yet delightful breakfasts for guests as part of their room rate. 

Okay, that’s it for small hotels and resorts where you can put the entire wedding party and hold the wedding. In the next post, we’ll talk about bridal party options as well as where you might house your guests, a different event space, and some bakers in Palm Springs. See you soon!

/by

Put These SoCal Day Tripping Destinations On Your Agenda

Joshua trees against a blue sky and clouds in Joshua Tree National Park

Day tripping is a fun way to get out and play at some of the super cool spots around Palm Springs. That’s what Dwight D. Eisenhower did in 1954, when he slipped away for many hours under the cover of having an emergency dental appointment. It is speculated that he was taken to Edwards Air Force base to talk to some aliens. The tall gray ones called Nordics. 

Believe it or not, we do have some actual history with “space aliens” — and I’m not talking about the energy vortex of Desert Hot Springs, where many have claimed to have had UFO sightings. Although now that I think about it, that counts.

What I am talking about is the Integratron, located an hour outside of Palm Springs in a town called Landers. The Integratron was built by George Van Tassel, and funded, it is said, by Howard Hughes. Van Tassel claimed he got the plans from Venusians, aka inhabitants of Venus. He claims the Integratron was capable of rejuvenation, anti-gravity, and time travel.

Integratron

The Integratron. Photo by Kay Kudukis

Today it is used as a sound bath, and it’s fabulous — 45 minutes of quartz singing bowls played at different frequencies while you lay on a mat with your eyes closed. Rejuvenating. I grew a whole new limb. (No, I didn’t. That’s regenerating, and another story.) Go a little early and check out the gift shop and hang out in their outdoor area. It’s pretty sweet.

Not far away is Giant Rock, an ancient tribal ritual site where Van Tassel held Interplanetary Space Conventions to raise money to keep building the Integratron. You can read the whole fascinating story at The Mojave Project.

The Integratron is booked waaaaay in advance, but if you do get in, on your way back to Palm Springs stop for a bite at the world-famous Pappy and Harriet’s.

Behind Pappy and Harriet’s is an old Hollywood Western film set called Pioneertown. You’ll feel like you traveled back in time to the Wild, Wild West (not the Will Smith movie, that was baaad.) There’s even a staged shoot ’em up at high noon.

The Salton Sea: It smells. Real bad. But there are reasons to go. It has a great history with the Hollywood types, and there’s actually stuff to do. Sheephole Oasis (thumbs down to the naming committee) and Hidden Springs are said to have a nice bloom of wildflowers.

The Salton Sea at sunset. Photo by Catherine Garcia

While you’re in the area, check out the art installation known as Salvation Mountain, then continue on to Borrego Springs for lunch, art, and scads of hikes.

Joshua Tree: I’m sure Joshua Tree is on your list already. It’s a national park so there is a fee to enter, but it’s hella worth it. If you happen to be there on April 22 or 23, there will be a free concert called SoundcheckEarth. Warning: The rocks are higher than you think. Do not jump off them. Someone I know may have done this. It may have been me.

Joshua Tree National Park. Photo by Catherine Garcia

Idyllwild, Lake Arrowhead, and Big Bear Lake: All adorable mountain towns that are great little day jaunts.

Whitewater Preserve: Very short ride down a very long road to a very secluded place with a ranger’s station/museum, beautiful picnic areas, a natural wading pool, and a longer hike to the swimming hole. Very relaxing day.

Redlands: Less than an hour from Palm Springs is the adorable city of Redlands. Lots of old architecture, and this article tells you all about the museums, theaters, parks, and places to eat. They seem to like making beer here — there are quite a few little breweries around town.

Umbrellas provide shade and public art in downtown Redlands. Photo by Catherine Garcia

This last one is going to take all day, but if you’re into ghost towns, Calico is where you want to go. There’s an old railroad, a mine, and more. It’s a regional park so you do have to pay to get spooked. Dress in layers.

And that’s all I’ve got for you this time. Hope you enjoy your stay in one of our chill boutique resorts, and that no matter where you go, you have a gas.

Stay cool everyone, and keep on keeping on.

Big Bear Lake. Photo courtesy of Pixabay

/by
,

How to Stay Cool (But Not Frozen) in Palm Springs This Summer

The pool surrounded by striped umbrellas and palm trees at Santiago Resort in Palm Springs, California

Every summer in Palm Springs the temperatures soar, but it is still a wonderful place to visit, especially if you stay at a Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotel with an inviting, sparkling pool and a charming, cool, air-conditioned room.

In general, there are several ways you can stay cool in very hot weather. Drink lots of water and stay well hydrated.  Also remember that alcohol can dehydrate you. It’s a good rule of thumb to drink two glasses of water for each alcoholic drink you imbibe. Wear hats for shade and perhaps move a bit more slowly than usual. Plan outdoor hikes and exercise for early in the morning. And take frequent refreshing dips in your hotel pool to cool off.

I recently spoke with two PSPSH hotel owners about the use of air-conditioning in their guest rooms. It turns out that there are easy ways to stay cool and effectively manage your AC, but there are also some possible problems you will want to avoid. Michael Green of Triangle Inn Palm Springs and Karina Castaneda of Los Arboles Hotel had plenty of good advice to keep your rooms and bodies cool.

It turns out that some guests turn the temperatures on their AC thermostats down really low when they enter their hotel rooms — an understandable tendency when you’re coming inside from the high heat. However, if the temperatures are forced to drop too quickly on the thermostat, the units can freeze over and then the AC won’t work at all for a while. The key is to bring the temperatures down slowly, which is what most hotels do before their guests arrive.

The rooms at Los Arboles stay nice and cool and have easy pool access.

Here are some good tips for keeping your hotel AC working efficiently:

  • Keep your indoor space at a modest temperature like 76 to 79 degrees. Not only will this keep your AC working effectively, but you will be more comfortable than if you were entering your room from an outside temperature of 110 or more degrees and then shocking your body with 62 degrees. It is also much less likely that your AC unit will freeze over and stop all together if you keep the temperature at a reasonable level.
  • Keep doors and windows closed so the cool air does not escape. (It’s surprising how many guests turn their AC on full blast while leaving their doors and windows open.)
  • Turn the bathroom fan on while you shower and keep the fan on for about 20 minutes after you shower to remove hot moisture from the air.
  • When you leave your hotel room, you might want to turn the temperature on your AC thermostat up but not off.
  • Keep your AC fan on AUTO and not on ON. When you turn your desired temperature down very low and you have the fan on ON, this is likely to freeze up the AC unit. It’s much better to leave the AC at a reasonable temperature that automatically adjusts.
  • Some hotels have both air-conditioning units and what are called desert or swamp coolers, which were traditionally used many years ago before air-conditioning came on the scene. Swamp coolers blow air over water to cool and don’t work well in very hot weather, in part because they add humidity to the air. AC units and swamp coolers should not be turned on at the same time.
  • Keep in mind that AC units tend to be different in each hotel. Make sure you follow the specific directions in your room and ask the hotel management if you have any questions.

The Staff at Los Arboles Hotel preset the thermostat to ensure a cool arrival.

Most small hotels try to make sure the AC is properly set and the room is comfortable and cool before guests arrive. In general, it should not be necessary to adjust the AC at all and, if some adjustment is necessary, it should be minimal.

Enjoy your summer and stay cool!

/by

Palm Springs Welcomes New Boutique Hotels To Diverse Collection Of Properties

The huge sparkling pool in the back of Limón Palm Springs boutique hotel in Palm Springs, California

The wonderful thing about Palm Springs is that it’s always attracting new visitors on top of faithful returnees — and with several new boutique hotels opening since the spring of 2022, they have more options than ever for places to stay.

The Trixie Motel, Twin Palms Resort, Spirit of Sofia, Limón Palm Springs, Azure Sky, and Mahala are all now part of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels (PSPSH) consortium. Michael C. Green, owner of the Triangle Inn Palm Springs and chair of PSPSH, is thrilled to welcome these new hotels to the community. 

“We are looking forward to another busy year in Palm Springs, and we are happy to see new and newly-renovated small hotels coming on board,” Green says. “Each of our small hotels has its own unique vibe, and that ensures that there’s something for everyone!”

The Trixie Motel may look familiar — this pink palace starred in the television show of the same name, which followed celebrated drag persona Trixie Mattel and partner David Silver as they brought new life to the former Coral Sands Inn. All seven rooms and suites have their own custom theme, from the spacey Atomic Bombshell to the beachy Malibu Barbara. The stunning pool area has plenty of glamorous loungers and umbrellas, plus views for days of the palms, mountains, and pink flamingos dotting the grounds.

The Atomic Bombshell Room at the Trixie Motel. Photo courtesy of Trixie Motel

The Twin Palms Resort is a mid-century modern masterpiece, and a brother property of the Santiago and Descanso resorts. This 20-room men’s swimsuit-optional boutique hotel was originally built in 1959, and is decorated in shades of green and blue, which play off of the property’s flora and fauna. The pool is brand new, and heated in the winter and chilled in the summer. Manager Adam Q. Robinson says the Twin Palms team is “excited to show our loyal customer base another new experience to choose from in the desert.”

The Twin Palms Resort clubhouse. Photo courtesy of Twin Palms Resort

The Spirit of Sofia, previously known as La Dolce Vita, is under new ownership and has a fresh look. There are 20 rooms and two pools, and each side of the hotel can be rented out by a group. The outdoor space is filled with quirky touches, including a giant chessboard and 10-foot-tall palm tree chandelier, and welcome amenities like a steam room and kitchen with pizza oven. 

Limón Palm Springs is a luxury boutique hotel reserved by just one group at a time, making it the perfect spot for a bachelorette weekend, family reunion, or yoga or writing retreat. The six large guest suites accommodate up to 14 people, and each room has linens by Frette and bath products by L’Occitane, in addition to a flatscreen television and patio area. Communal spaces include a kitchen and living room, as well as the pool and barbecue area.

Limón Palm Springs is rented by just one group at a time. Photo courtesy of Limón Palm Springs

Reflecting on the last 12 months, Robert Hunt, general manager of Alcazar Palm Springs, says 2022 was “an interesting year breaking records in the first half of the year with a more typical occupancy in the summer due to the lack of European travelers that visited Palm Springs prior to the pandemic, especially German tourists. 2023 has already shown a high volume of booked reservations indicating it will be a strong year projecting a higher occupancy percentage and daily room rate increase.”

One property to put on your radar is Drift, opening in April. A blend of Spanish Colonial and Moorish desert design with Mexican artisanal decor, Drift will offer guests two-to-four bedroom suites, a pool surrounded by cabanas, a yoga studio, and a rustic Baja-inspired eatery, Maleza. 

/by
, ,

Why work from home when you can work from a Palm Springs boutique hotel?

Workcation hotel room in Palm Springs, CA

Say goodbye to your home office and hello to Palm Springs

For those who have been working from home for months now, a change of scenery is in order — and the best views are in Palm Springs.

Since Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels — a collection of more than 70 boutique hotels — began reopening on June 12, some guests have been settling in for work and play. El Mirasol Villas owners Paul Pressman and Bruce Wishnefsky have had several people specifically request rooms conducive to working remotely, ensuring that they have strong WiFi and a desk available.

“As they have been self-quarantined or already work remotely, they wanted to get out of the house or home office and work in a relaxed desert environment,” Paul says. “They love taking breaks between conference calls or Zoom meetings and laying in the sun, taking a swim in the pool, or relaxing in the jacuzzi. One guest who has work that crosses time zones said he loved the desert nights on his patio or poolside where he could set up his laptop and work.”

“Monday through Friday work vacations are definitely becoming a thing,” says Robert Hunt, general manager of Alcazar Palm Springs, a 34-room boutique hotel in the uptown Palm Springs art district. “It makes perfect sense because there are fewer people around mid-week and the rates are lower than on the weekends.  People are craving a change of scenery but they want someplace quiet and safe where they can still get their work done.”

Sabrina Sakdikul is a community relations manager for a nonprofit in the San Francisco Bay Area, and drove down to Palm Springs to spend a few days at the Los Arboles Hotel. After spending several months working from home alongside her roommates, it was a relief to have a space of her own.

The property felt like “an oasis,” Sabrina says. She switched up her location throughout the day — sometimes working in her room, other times by the pool or on a patio — and with everyone wearing masks, she felt safe. When it was time for lunch, she would walk a few steps to the on-site restaurant, El Mirasol, and if she needed to clear her head, would take a quick dip in the pool.

“Palm Springs is a very laid-back place, and it does make me feel like I’m in paradise,” Sabrina says. “In Google and Zoom meetings, they have backgrounds that look like you’re somewhere cool and calming, and I was actually in a place that was cool and calming.”

Going on this getaway to Palm Springs left Sabrina feeling energized and refreshed, her stress melting away in the desert sun.

“I feel like I was able to really get away from all the craziness that has been going on,” Sabrina says. “It was nice being able to do something different.”

Several small hotels, like The Weekend Palm Springs, The Rossi, Casa Cody Country Inn, The Triangle Inn Palm Springs, and Les Cactus – among others – offer small suites or casitas with kitchenettes, which allow space for weeklong guests to prepare their own meals. Some hotels such as Villa Royale, Arrive Palm Springs, La Serena Villas, and Alcazar have restaurants on site. Many Palm Springs restaurants deliver meals and cocktails directly to hotels so guests can dine poolside.

 

Comfort and Safety Prioritized

Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels are legendary for their style, safety, and comfort–all of which continue to be a priority. Over the past few weeks, the owners and general managers of Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels have collaboratively created a baseline of safety sanitation standards.

Most Palm Springs boutique hotels have fewer than 30 rooms, making them easier to thoroughly clean and keep sanitized. Common areas are typically outside, and a majority of rooms have their own private entrances and air conditioning units.

Each hotel will provide its own safety guidelines in addition to the requirements set forth by the City of Palm Springs and the ones they collectively developed. This information will be shared with guests when they receive their reservation confirmation.

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. Please visit Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels Summer Recovery Specials page for details.

/by

Romance Visits Palm Springs On Valentine’s Day

Looking for the perfect way to romance your partner on Valentine’s Day? You’ve come to the right place. I don’t have one, so I can spend all of my time figuring out the swoon factor for you. And I think I’ve got it. How about a Palm Springs spa vacation at one of our small resorts? I know, it’s perfect, right? What’s better than enjoying a night or a weekend in the lap of luxury in the place locals call paradise (because it is).

That gives us five options, and two of them have a fancy restaurant on site. So here’s a link for that. But don’t go anywhere just yet, I’m going to tell you a little bit about them, as well as give you some dinner options in case you’d like to leave the property for a few hours.

Hotels and resorts

La Serena Villas — Just behind the heart of downtown, where you can enjoy a romantic stay and still be close to the action. Whispers for spa services, and Azucar for romantic meals, as well as a rooftop bar.

A massage at Whisper’s is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Photo courtesy of La Serena Villas

Andreas Hotel & Spa  — In addition to the spa, Andreas is located downtown, and has a patio bar for poolside drinks.

Korakia Pensione — Super eclectic and truly unique to Palm Springs. It might fall under the boho chic category, with that pensione vibe, yoga, hot breakfasts, and tea service. Massage treatments can be booked in the indoor/outdoor spa lodge or in guest rooms.

The Monkey Tree — Recently restored, this mid-century modern hotel is on the north end of Palm Springs away from all the noise. A truly relaxing space, and while they don’t actually have a spa (a.k.a. massage services), they do have a heated saltwater pool and a Scandinavian spa, which includes a newly built sauna, hot tub, and cold plunge.

L’Horizon Palm Springs — The wow factor here is off the charts. The spa has massages, facials, and body treatments, aromatherapy, and a fresh juice bar. I’ll let them tell you about their restaurant: “Dramatic, refined, and intimate, SO•PA offers a unique alfresco dining experience. Join us for dinner in an intimate setting.” Finished with fire pits and fountains, this Steve Hermann-designed space is the desert’s most distinctive restaurant.

The grounds at L’Horizon. Photo credit: Visit Palm Springs

Restaurants

As I mentioned in the events blog, we now have Michelin Guide restaurants in Palm Springs. Bar Cecil, Boozehounds, Workshop Kitchen and Bar, Cheeky’s, 4 Saints, The Barn at Sparrows Lodge, Colony Club, and Tac/Quila. Super proud to say that two of those options can be found at our boutique spas and hotels: Cheeky’s (breakfast and lunch) is with Alcazar Palm Springs, The Barn is at, as the name states, Sparrows Lodge.

The Barn at Sparrows Lodge. Photo courtesy of Sparrows Lodge

Here are some other dinner options:

Le Vallauris — Recently remodeled and is now part of the Soho House Group. The patio is the place to be for romance.

Farm — Styled in French farmhouse decor, it’s like ducking into the countryside. The food is French, the service is not. Great choice for dinner or brunch.

Tac/Quila — Owned by the folks that brought us Farm, Tac/Quila is Jalisco-style elevated Mexican fare. If you’ve never had fried avocado, you haven’t lived. Sounds awful, but it’s SO good. It’s in a tempura batter. Yum. The decor is pretty special too.

John Henry — Locals like to keep this place to themselves, and that’s been fairly easy as it isn’t that easy to find. Located on Tahquitz, just past Sunrise, blink and you’ll miss it. Parking is weird, but so are you. Book the patio, you won’t regret it.

An experience:

Lesbian Foray, a pop-up event on Feb. 18. 188 S. Indian Canyon.

The Purple Room — A three-course dinner while being serenaded by the song stylings of Rose Mallett.

Oscar’s — Jack Donahue and dinner. About Jack: he is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and actor who has performed in many of the great jazz and cabaret venues across the country and recorded four critically-acclaimed CDs. Jack was also twice selected by the Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs as Best Male Jazz Vocalist.

Palm Springs Cultural Center — Enjoy Bruce Vilanch interviewing Lesley Ann Warren, one of the stars of Victor/Victoria, with a tribute performance by “le Jazz Hot” Ethylina Canne, then stick around for a special screening of the film on the big screen.

Melvyn’s — Located in the iconic Ingleside Inn, enjoy dinner and live music from the Casablanca Lounge.

The elegant dining room at Melvyn’s. Photo courtesy of Visit Palm Springs

Chocolates and flowers

Brandini Toffee — Located right in the heart of downtown next to The Plaza Theater. I’ve linked to their terrific story, and I promise you it’s the best toffee you’ll ever taste. Hands down.

My Little Flower Shop — They say it’s the best in town.

If you don’t have a sweetheart, and you’re a little bitter about the whole romance thing, then PS Underground is the place you want to be for Stupid Cupid. It’s raunchy, it’s good dirty fun, and you can soothe yourself with booze and great food. PS Underground is always a good choice.

As Porky Pig so elegantly proclaimed many many years ago…“Aba-de-ba-da-di-ba-da – that’s all folks!”

/by