King Elvis in Palm Springs

Did you know that the King of Rock and Roll had strong ties to Palm Springs, California? In May of 1967, Elvis and Priscilla Presley were married in Las Vegas, but honeymooned in a spectacular mid-century modern home here in Palm Springs, located at 1350 Ladera Circle in our Vista Las Palmas neighborhood. Exactly nine months later little Lisa Marie was born.

Elvis never owned the home, but leased it from 1967-1970, spending several months a year at this get-away with Priscilla and his new daughter. Palm Springs visitors can drive by and see the well maintained exterior, or arrange for an Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway private tour of the interior as well as the backyard pool area.

For a look at this historic pop-culture treasure, and to get a better sense of that history, see Behind Closed Doors: A glimpse into a Palm Springs mid-century modern home fit for a king – and his bride, from the Summer, 2011 issue of Broughton Quarterly.

Although the Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway may be the most well known Presley residence in Palm Springs, more noteworthy perhaps is what is now known as the Presley Estate. In 1970, Elvis purchased a home located at 845 W. Chino Canyon. At the time of his death in 1977, Elvis owned only two homes, this property and Graceland in Memphis.

From 1970 until he and Priscilla divorced in 1973, they spent about 3 months each year at this home. Elvis even turned the living room into a makeshift recording studio, and it’s rumored that in 1973, songs including "Are You Sincere", "Blue Spanish Eyes", "I Miss You", and "Sweet Angeline" were recorded here.

After his divorce from Priscilla, Elvis turned the home into a ”bachelor pad,” fitted out more for entertaining than family life, and spent many weekends with guests in the evening by the swimming pool. Like more recent Palm Springs residents, he commuted between Las Vegas and Palm Springs by airplane. For more information, check out the Presley Estate.

No matter what your age, if songs like “Hound Dog,” and “Suspicious Minds” let you know that Elvis really was the King of Rock and Roll, then you might be interested in exploring the Elvis legacy when you next visit Palm Springs.

Palm Springs: It All Depends On Where You Hang Your Hat

When I think of desert, what comes to mind is hot, sand, little vegetation, solitude and quiet, and blowing tumbleweeds. Mountains make me think of the aroma of tall stately pine trees, shady mountain paths and vistas for miles. And a tropical paradise is all about lush greenery, palm trees, gentle breezes and the ocean.

Nature, with the aid of man, has created a curious combination of all this in Palm Springs, California. There’s no question that Palm Springs is in the desert. We’re surrounded by sand. It can be very hot (triple digit high temperatures 3 months a year); constant sun (an average of over 350 days of sunshine every year); dry (we hardly see any rain). And yes, when the wind blows you actually can see tumbleweeds blowing across the road in front of you.

But this is not just flat sand for miles and miles with the mirage of an oasis in the distance. The Palm Springs area is surrounded by mountain ranges (including the two highest peaks in Southern California, both above 10,500 feet,) so there are very few places where you don’t have a view of the mountains. Now it’s true you can’t step out your door into a forest wilderness, but with a 10 minute ride up the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway you are transported from desert to Alpine forest. It’s great for a cool walk in the summer or a snowball fight in the winter. Or, you can make the quick one hour’s drive to Idyllwild and experience a charming mountain community in the midst of Ponderosa Pines.

Now, as for tropics, that is where man has stepped in. If you look down on the Palm Springs area from an airplane, the first thing you notice is a sea of green surrounded by beige. Man has transformed (sort of) this desert by planting grass, Mexican Fan Palms (not originally indigenous to the Palm Springs area), fruit trees bearing lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruit, lots of other lush vegetation, and of course, building over 140 golf course green spaces. Due to the irrigation required for all this greenery, as well as the occasional monsoon breeze coming up from the Gulf of Mexico, we even have a bit of humidity once in a while. And as for ocean, well man couldn’t create that, but we do have the greatest number of swimming pools per capita in the U.S.

While Captain Kirk has been on hiatus (that’s fancy Hollywood talk for vacation) this past month, I moved from the Palm Springs home I lived in for the past 10 years to a new home. During the process I came to appreciate the differing combinations of desert, mountain and tropical environments that exist within this small City of Palm Springs. Although my former and current home are only three miles distant one from another, I now live in a totally different environment.

My former home was located in North Palm Springs, surrounded by untouched protected desert areas (located on Aqua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indian tribal reservation land) and close to the San Gorgonio Pass (one of the windiest places on earth and home to over 4,000 wind turbine generators).  So I saw the desert sand, and felt the desert wind every day. The hacienda style home had thick walls with Mexican pavers and tile floors to keep it cool; my outside landscaping was composed of crushed stone and rocks planted with Cactus and other drought tolerant vegetation. Every night from my back patio I watched the sun set behind Mt. San Jacinto (10,800 ft.).

I moved to Central Palm Springs, a bit of the tropics, and into what was once a Palm Springs Mid-Century Modern suite hotel. I no longer see the sunset, but enjoy sunrise behind the palms every morning. I still see the mountains, but now am surrounded by stately palms swaying with gentle breezes rather than desert winds creating swirls in the sand. My yard is lush green grass always somewhat damp from the irrigation (what a joy under the feet), and I look down from my balcony onto fruit trees and other, almost tropical, vegetation.

What hits me is the environmental alternatives available in Palm Springs – desert, tropics, mountains – and in what combination? As either a full time resident, or as a vacation visitor looking for accommodations in this remarkable area, it’s all a matter of choice in Palm Springs, California.

Palm Springs Attracts a Wide Variety of Visitors

I’m always amazed at the incredible diversity of Palm Springs visitors – you are straight and you are gay – retired couples, 30 something singles, and families with their kids or relatives. And you come from all over the US and Canada, as well as Europe, Central and South America as well as Asia and India, to enjoy our great sunny weather, our unique natural environment, and combination of cosmopolitan yet laid back small town feel.

One of the things I like to do is search websites and blogs for visitor reactions to Palm Springs, including the writer’s personal recommendations. Learning what others like helps me to make appropriate suggestions for my own guests and clients.

So here are a few links to posts I recently ran across. I thought you might enjoy some outsider viewpoints.

From My Daily, a blog targeted primarily to residents of the UK, it highlights a couple of my favorite boutique resorts, showing the variety of our accommodations here in Palm Springs.

In the Real Travel Adventures Magazine, Nancy and Dean Hoch (from their pictures I would guess perhaps a couple enjoying their retirement) share their impressions of our Desert Playground – Then and Now, based on a recent visit.

And finally, from TravellingMom.com, a military mom travelling alone with her 4 year old, talks about her experience in Palm Springs.

It’s one thing to get recommendations from someone who lives in Palm Springs and loves it, but another thing to read what our wonderful visitors have to say.

Naked in Palm Springs

On any day in Palm Springs, it would be hard to guess how many people are out in their back yards or sitting around a sparkling swimming pool au natural. Call it nudist, naturist, or just clothing optional, Palm Springs is the perfect place to work on that all-over tan.

My guests and clients often remark on the fact that almost every private home and most boutique resorts are surrounded by tall “privacy walls.” This, and our cityscape characterized by low-rise properties, provides an ideal environment in which to enjoy being naked. Palm Springs is one of the most popular nudist destinations in the world, with over 30 resorts that allow nudity on their grounds.

The American Association for Nude Recreation notes that naturist/nudist travel is now a $440 million industry, up from $200 million in 1992, so if you haven’t stayed at a nudist or clothing optional resort before, it might be time to find out just what it’s all about.

The best-known nudist resort in Palm Springs is, undoubtedly, the six-acre Desert Sun Resort, probably because of its famous “naked bridge” that crosses above Indian Canyon Drive, one of our main downtown streets. This bridge allows guests to walk from one part of the complex to the other without having to put on clothes. The upscale and family-friendly resort has it all; tennis courts, three swimming pools, two hot tubs, a full service restaurant, spa, and offers both villas and condo accommodations (some condos are even available for purchase).

Another favorite nudist resort is the 17-room Terra Cotta Inn which has a heavy repeat visitor clientele due to its friendly atmosphere, outdoor pool, huge Jacuzzi with mountain views, complimentary daily poolside breakfasts, romantic fire pit, and spa services.

Palm Springs also has one of the largest concentrations of gay and lesbian resorts in the world, with nearly all of these being clothing optional.

However, if you’re not quite ready to share your nakedness with strangers, but still want that all over tan, or just to explore what it’s like to wander naked outdoors any time you want, consider renting one of our many Palm Springs vacation rental homes. Vacation Palm Springs offers a variety of private homes you can rent by the day, week, or longer. Many of these have secluded walled yards and pool areas where your privacy is guaranteed.

Unique Palm Springs History and Celebrity Home Tour

Palm Springs is an international resort destination drawing visiting vacationers from all over the world. In addition to wonderful weather, natural beauty, and opportunity for outdoor adventure, many visitors are captivated with Palm Springs as the former “Playground of the Stars,” eager to learn a bit about our fascinating Palm Springs history, and see where Hollywood celebrities actually lived in Palm Springs.

If this interests you, there are several options. Narrated bus or van tours drive around neighborhoods where celebrities lived. These tours are easy; you sit in air conditioned comfort and are driven around with 8 (van) or 50 (bus) others. You get to see a lot of homes. Narration is usually good but pretty much a generalized overview. The downside is that you’re in a bus or van. There’s no chance to stop and take a closer look. You’re part of a group so the tour is not very personalized.

If you don’t want an organized tour you can pick up a map of celebrity homes from the Palm Springs Visitor’s Center and strike out on your own with a self-guided tour. The big advantage is that you can do this at your own pace, whether by bike, on foot or by car, stopping whenever you want for an up-close look. I think this approach gives a better feel for the neighborhoods than from inside a bus or van. However, you don’t have a guide to provide any history or back-story on the homes you are viewing – so it’s pretty much just a look at houses attached to a celebrity name.

Then there’s my alternative. Since this past April I’ve been providing guided, narrated walking tours of Old Las Palmas (the oldest and most notable Palm Springs celebrity neighborhood). My tours are small (no more than 4-6 guests per tour), casual, and personalized to the interests and desires of my guests. Not only do you have a chance to peek over walls and look through gates, if there’s an open house or estate sale you want to explore, we can do that as well. My tour covers about 1½ miles on flat city streets, and is a leisurely stroll taking 2-2½ hours, winding our way around homes built from 1925-2005.

  

When I begin each tour I ask guests what in particular they want to get from the tour. Often the response is, “How did Palm Springs become the city it is today?”

My tour uses the variety of homes in Old Las Palmas to show how various important events and decisions (from 1884 to present) have impacted the growth of Palm Springs. Our walk is much more than just a look at celebrity homes – it’s part area history, part celebrity background and back-story, and part architectural record, all geared towards explaining just how Palm Springs actually has become the diverse and vibrant city it is today. I tell you:

·         What it was like in early Palm Springs when “hotels” were just canvas tents built on wooden platforms

·         Why Palm Springs has always been a magnet for health and wellness seekers

·         The real reasons Palm Springs became “Hollywood’s Playground” for over 40 years

·         The lasting impact World War 2 had on Palm Springs

·         How two movies changed Palm Springs as a vacation destination

·         Why Palm Springs has such a large gay and lesbian visitor and resident presence

·         What it’s like living full-time in Palm Springs today

Over the years I’ve had opportunities to be invited inside Old Las Palmas homes, so I share my first-hand experiences. Along the way I also show photographs of historic hotels and attractions which no longer exist, as well as current pictures of some home’s interiors and back yards.

Rather than just hear about estates that were residences for over 30 celebrities I tell a story of Palm Springs, exemplified by the homes and people who have lived here, including: Liberace; Barbara Streisand; Mary Pickford; Lena Horne; Sir Lawrence Olivier, Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, Elizabeth Taylor; Dinah Shore; Kirk Douglass; and Sidney Sheldon.

I enjoy sharing my passion for Palm Springs and Old Las Palmas, and am pleased that my guests like my approach. Some of their comments have been:

“We both loved the Old Las Palmas tour and have been talking about it ever since. Before we left Palm Springs we mentioned to the owner of our resort how impressed we were, and that we strongly recommend the tour to other guests. Best of luck, and we'll certainly recommend your tour to others heading to Palm Springs.”

“Scandal, rumors, fact and fiction are mixed with a thorough historic perspective to make your tour a must do while visiting Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. Your passion for the past, present and future make the tour unique, highly entertaining and enjoyable."

“You have no idea how much I enjoyed the tour of Old Las Palmas. I learned so much and got a great sense of history of the Old Hollywood and other Palm Springs eras! It was fantastic.”

I invite both Palm Springs visitors and residents alike to join me for a unique look into the incredibly diverse and exciting past and present of this amazing desert resort city. Send me an email at kirk@ps-research.com or give me a call at 760-668-2176 – I’ll tell you more and we can set up a convenient time to walk through Old Las Palmas.  

Planning a Palm Springs Weekend Getaway

Palm Springs is a great destination for Californians looking for a weekend of rest and relaxation in almost guaranteed sunshine, a change of pace from hectic work or family schedules and a short distraction from everyday stress – in short, a hassle-free break from everyday routine and responsibilities.

Palm Springs is an easy (or at least as easy as it gets in SoCal) 2-3 hour drive from most of southern California and only about a 1½ hour flight from either San Francisco or Sacramento on American or Alaska airlines.

As a Palm Springs Vacation Visitor Concierge I have helped plan stress free weekend “break-ations” not only for first time visitors to this desert paradise, but also for those who escape to Palm Springs on a regular basis. Based on my experience here are some hints and tips for making your getaway most enjoyable.  

Consider what will make your Palm Springs weekend “special.” For example, do you want:

o      To simply sit by the pool soaking up the sun and maybe catching up on some reading

o      To explore a Palm Springs you’ve never known before

o      A singular romantic adventure or perhaps more inclusive family/friends fun

o      Solitude, or a chance meet and socialize with others you may encounter

What do you want?

Think about “vacation time” as a valuable resource. Take into account the total time involved with your getaway weekend:

Time planning your weekend getaway – To avoid disappointment keep in mind:

o      Choose your hotel/resort carefully – There are over 120 different accommodations in Palm Springs, ranging from large hotels to very small boutique resorts. Each is distinct in terms of size, clientele, price, ambiance, amenities and overall style. How much time will you be spending lounging around the pool at your hotel/resort? Chances are for a weekend getaway it‘s a pretty fair amount. If you make the wrong choice, that will impact the overall success of your entire weekend.

o    For first time visitors – Recommendations from friends can be helpful, but those recommendations are often based on the friend’s personal preferences and experiences, not yours. I’ve had several occasions where clients booked hotels and activities based on a friend’s recommendations only to arrive and find out it was exactly what they did not want.

o       For repeat visitors – Although you may have had a great experience in the past at a certain hotel/resort or restaurant, it may be different this time. We all like certain familiarity and routine, but keep your Palm Springs getaways fresh and enjoyable by considering something new and different for a change. Don’t fall into the “same old, same old” trap where this weekend visit was not as great as the last visit.

o       Vacation research, hotel/resort availability checking, making reservations, etc. can all take a lot of time.

How much time do you have or want to invest in pre-arrival vacation planning?

Travel time to and from Palm Springs – It’s all part of your vacation; the goal is to reduce travel time and eliminate hassle so you can enjoy Palm Springs.

o       If you’re driving from southern California – Remember that the freeways to and from Palm Springs get really clogged on Friday and Sunday afternoons. Is it possible for you travel earlier on Friday afternoon (or even Thursday evening) and return late Sunday evening?

o       If you’re flying – book as soon as possible for best times and seat selection. Flights fill up quickly, and are usually full. Check on arriving Thursday and/or departing Monday. You may get a better deal.

o       Many smaller hotels/resorts will waive fees for late check-out on Sunday since they don’t have reservations booked on Monday.

Do you have any flexibility in your getaway arrival and departure so that you can minimize travel hassle?

Actual time in Palm Springs – It’s been my experience that most weekend visitors want as much R & R as possible during their limited time in Palm Springs, so consider:

o       Having your room fridge and pantry stocked from your shopping list prior to arrival – a trip to a Palm Springs grocery store is not R & R time

o       Do you want some lunches or dinners delivered to your hotel/resort – make those plans ahead of time and the meals will magically arrive on schedule

o       You will have limited opportunity to explore the restaurant scene in Palm Springs. There’s everything from budget bistros to break-the-bank fine dining. Avoid disappointment with last minute choices that really don’t match your budget or preferences – get local advice early on what’s currently great and what’s not so hot

o       Even if your goal is to spend your weekend lounging by the pool, consider leaving the resort, if only for several hours, to do something new and different. Advance planning can ensure the you experience something that will be personally memorable.

If you’re a first time visitor, how about choosing one of the unique Palm Springs attractions: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway is the world’s largest rotating tram, rising 8500 feet above the desert floor up Mt. San Jacinto; Tahquitz Canyon is a 2 mile loop hike to Tahquitz Falls, exploring local Native American history; The Living Desert is a one-of-a-kind desert oriented zoo and botanical garden.

If you’re a returning visitor and have previously explored some of the major attractions consider something new: visit Cabot’s Old Indian Pueblo, a unique Hopi inspired Pueblo hand crafted by an eccentric over a period of 24 years using only found materials; learn how Palm Springs become the city it is today on a casual walking tour through the former neighborhood of Hollywood Stars; take the waters in the hot mineral springs that was the original winter home of the Aqua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.

How can you spend quality vacation time and reduce time spent on routine tasks?

Get local assistance in creating your “perfect” Palm Springs weekend getaway. You deserve the best Palm Springs has to offer.

o       Don’t depend solely on Palm Springs portal websites – remember that some are based just on paid advertising, and most only provide information provided by the hotel/resort, restaurant, activity or attraction. It’s usually targeted to a general visitor and not to you specifically. You’ll spend a lot of time clicking.

o      Don’t rely just on the recommendations of friends, even if they live in the Palm Springs area. Their suggestions, though well meaning, are based on their own experience, and are usually limited to what they have personally explored and enjoyed.

o       DO seek assistance from a local professional who takes time to get to know your specific preferences, provides unbiased and independent recommendations and will follow through both before and during your Palm Springs getaway with an ongoing goal of making sure you have a wonderful weekend. In the end, it will save you time, hassle and money.

5 Palm Springs Mother’s Day Ideas

I'm reposting this article by travel writer Matt Link which originally appeared on the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism official website. Great ideas for ways to treat mom on Mother's Day, May 8, 2011.

5 Palm Springs Mother’s Day Ideas - Official Palm Springs, CA Tourism Website Official Guide to Palm Springs Hotels, Attractions, Dining shopping and Conventions/Meetings

No Time for Vacation Planning? – Hire a Personal Vacation Concierge

Somewhere in the back of our minds most of us recognize the importance of vacation time for stress relief, decreased burnout and better health. So what is that keeps us from taking time off from work? For many the answer is STRESS, and a feeling that the stress of taking time off is greater than the stress of not taking that time off.

According to BusinessWeek Magazine, “The vanishing vacation has many perils. Refusing to take time off burns people out and wreaks havoc on productivity. Vacation deprivation is one reason workers are reporting more mistakes, anger, and resentment at co-workers, according to the Families & Work Institute. Former NASA scientists, working on behalf of Air New Zealand and using testing tools normally reserved for astronauts, recently found that vacationers experienced an 82% increase in job performance post-trip.”

In today’s high stress world, vacation time is essential, providing an opportunity to unwind and recharge our batteries. But taking even a short "break-ation" requires planning – and planning takes time. One of the stresses of our world today is that most of us are “time poor;” we just don’t have enough of it.

Enter the Personal Vacation Concierge, providing services that save time and make it easier to take one’s foot off the accelerator pedal briefly. I am a Personal Vacation Concierge located in Palm Springs, California. Like my counterparts in other vacation destinations I cut through the overload of information available in guide books and on the Internet, replacing guesswork with wise suggestions based on my local experience and knowledge, thereby avoiding disappointments and frustrations that can arise, whether you’re headed for a weekend getaway or full week or two week vacation.

Geared to the needs of busy individuals, couples, families and small groups, a Personal Vacation Concierge takes the work out of planning and executing an exceptional vacation, providing customized information and recommendations about where to stay, where to eat and what to do, itineraries, arrangements and special services, all saving you time and effort, and giving you the opportunity to have a more hassle-free vacation.

Each Concierge provides different services, often depending on their location. For example, in addition to Vacation Planning, some of the services I provide are: lodging and restaurant reservations; vehicle rental or limousine service; resort fridge stocking and meal delivery; entertainment, attraction and event tickets; day-trip excursions; spa appointments; and outdoor guide services.

The next time you think you just don’t have time to plan a vacation or weekend getaway, consider using the services of a Personal Vacation Concierge. Our goal is to ensure that your vacation is a stress-free as possible. That’s pretty valuable today!

Palm Springs Restaurant Week

From June 3-12, 2011, close to 80 area restaurants, almost half of which are located in Palm Springs alone, will be providing a culinary celebration and offering three course menus at a fixed price of either $24 or $36 per person (tax, beverage and gratuity not included).

Here’s a TOP TEN list of my favorite participating Palm Springs restaurants (in alphabetical order)

Copley’s on Palm Canyon - Stunning mountain views, fountains, fire pit and on-site herb garden create an inviting atmosphere in which to enjoy freshly seasoned and inventively prepared American and fusion classics.

Escena Lounge & Grill - California fusion cuisine meets mid-century modern architecture in a resort-style setting at this new addition to the Palm Springs dining scene.

Europa Restaurant - Old style Palm Springs dining in soft candle-lit elegance poolside under the stars or on the patio, with a refined menu and superb service.

Jake’s - This hip-yet-casual American bistro serves up fresh, innovative fare and comfort food favorites in a charming courtyard or small but sleek dining room.

Johannes Restaurant - Inventive Euro-Asian-Austrian cuisine with a global twist served up in an atmosphere which is hip, high end and cosmopolitan.

Rio Azul – Traditional Mexican cuisine handcrafted with the freshest ingredients and all cooked to order, served in a vibrant and colorful space.

The Tropicale Restaurant & Lounge - A chic and sophisticated décor provides the setting for distinctive “world cuisine” with an emphasis on Pacific Rim specialties.

Trio Restaurant & Bar - Energetic, mid-century modern meets desert-casual décor and atmosphere that’s very popular with locals and features new takes on great American modern food.

Wang’s in the Desert - Features traditional and contemporary Chinese cuisine in a warm and inviting setting with an interior bubbling stream and gentle waterfall with traditional Chinese bridge to cross.
Zin American Bistro – Stylish Euro-American bistro atmosphere, attentive staff and innovative American with Belgian influenced cuisine combine to deliver a truly enjoyable dining experience.

Check out the special three course menus being offered by visiting Palm Springs Restaurant Week, and clicking on each selected restaurant.

Plan now so you won’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience some of the best restaurants in Palm Springs. It’s the perfect time for foodies from all over to visit our desert paradise.

Palm Springs Airport Rates as Stress-Free

SmarterTravel.com recently included the Palm Springs International Airport among its list of America’s Top 10 Stress-Free Airports.

Wait for your flight sitting outside under palm trees as you relax with a glass of wine. You'll find a courtyard featuring patio seating, a wine bar, and a Starbucks, as well as play spaces for both kids and pets. There’s free wireless Internet access available throughout the airport for those wanting to get connected, a smoothie bar, and glass artwork by noted artist Dale Chihuly whose work is also on display at both Bellagio and Mirage resorts in Las Vegas.

The small size and open-air layout of the Palm Springs Airport creates an overall relaxed environment with minimal hassle. Best of all, the airport is about 5 minutes by car from Palm Canyon Drive, the main street of downtown Palm Springs.

Major and regional carriers like United, American, Delta, WestJet and Alaska Airlines service the airport either on a seasonal or year round basis. From late-September to mid-June travelers can get direct flights into Palm Springs International Airport from Calgary, Chicago, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Denver, Edmunton, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle/Tacoma, Toronto and Vancouver.

Real Palm Springs Resort Experience

Yesterday I had the opportunity to provide a personalized tour of the Palm Springs Old Las Palmas neighborhood (formerly called the Beverly Hills of Palm Springs) to two visitors from New York City.

These guys made their original Palm Springs resort reservation based on recommendation from a friend, but when they arrived at the resort they saw a swimming pool filled with fun-loving, albeit noisy children – something they were definitely not looking for in their special Palm Springs vacation.

After cancelling this reservation they made a number of frantic telephone calls to other resorts looking for more appropriate accommodations. They ended up choosing a resort based on how friendly and helpful a particular front desk staff person was on the telephone.

I know the resort they chose, and I’m sure their stay was enjoyable, but having spent time with these guys, I also know the resort does not particularly match their personalities and interests. I think choice of resort has a big impact on how much one enjoys a Palm Springs vacation, whether it’s for one night or one month.

With over 120 individualized resort properties in the City of Palm Springs, there’s a resort to match almost every interest and preference. If only these guys had known about, and utilized my vacation planning services. I could have saved them hassle and time, and suggested a resort that gave them, from the get go, a truly positive and memorable Palm Springs resort experience. I hope they will check in with me the next time they are headed to Palm Springs!

BTW, they really liked their walking tour of Old Las Palmas!

Palm Springs Resorts – Boutique – Korakia Pensione

257 S. Patencio Road

Palm Springs, CA 92262

760-864-6411

www.korakia.com

There is one word that I think best describes Korakia – escape. Although just a short walk from busy Palm Canyon Drive, with its excellent chef-owned restaurants and unique desert flair, Korakia is an old-world pensione that blends Tangiers and the Mediterranean.

The resort is actually two historic villas located directly across the street from each other. Built in 1924, The Moroccan villa was the former hideaway of Scottish painter Gordon Coutts. Here Coutts re-created his earlier life in Tangier by employing a wide variety of architectural features that promoted a Moroccan decor. It is rumored that Winston Churchill painted in the villa's Artist Studio. J. Carol Naish, an early silent-screen star owned the 1930's Mediterranean villa. The Naish property blends the charm of southern Europe with North African accents throughout its structure.

You will find no TVs in the rooms as well as no room telephones, although the resort is WIFI enabled and there is at least a small fridge in every room. There are really no “standard” rooms at Korakia to describe, but luckily, the resort’s website provides a full description and pictures of each of the 28 rooms, suites or bungalows. Some have studio kitchenettes and others have full kitchens as well as sitting area. I found it fun just to look at the wide variety of accommodations.

Although there are 2 well maintained pools, there are no Jacuzzi hot tubs. What I think is special about Korakia are the unique and relaxing amenities that make this place an unusual getaway from day to day reality. Enjoy a complimentary full-cooked breakfast in the Moroccan courtyard, seek healing with yoga or meditation on the weekends, pamper yourself with wonderful spa offerings offered daily, curl up with a vintage book from the library lounge, borrow a complimentary bicycle to explore Palm Springs – even join a game of bocce ball and relax with the daily Moroccan tea service.

Evenings are magical with 2 fire pits flickering and over 100 candles and lanterns spread out over the entire the property. There are even classic and foreign films shown on an outside wall each evening.

Midweek, Korakia is popular with older guests exploring southern California. Weekends, however, the resort draws mostly from the LA area, including a younger crowd involved primarily with the arts, entertainment and creative industries. Weekend reservations are best made well in advance. Overall I am told that most guests are from California and that half are under 40.

As you can tell from this review, this resort is an eclectic adult resort for those seeking rest, relaxation and, as I said before, escape. As such, children under 13 years of age and pets are not allowed.

Korakia is not your standard Palm Springs boutique resort, and I think will appeal to those seeking something quite unique and different for a Palm Springs get away. Come to Palm Springs and be transported to the Mediterranean.

For more information on Korakia Pensione, check out their website. If you would like other resort recommendations for your special Palm Springs vacation please contact me.

Palm Springs Resorts - LGBT - Santiago Resort

650 E. San Lorenzo Road

Palm Springs, Ca 92264

800-710-7729

www.santiagoresort.com

Stepping inside Santiago Resort is a bit like being transported to an exotic tropical paradise, albeit with a desert twist. The remarkable landscaping is meticulously cared for and maintained beautifully. The entire resort looks stylish, sexy and sophisticated, almost as if you’re walking onto a movie set. I wondered how they keep the grassy area so green and perfectly manicured – its astro-turf, what a great idea!

The outdoor areas feature what I am told is the largest pool of any gay resort in Palm Springs, maintained at a year-round temperature of 85°F, a large well maintained spa, misters, plenty of space to lounge around the property, hammocks and a new gazebo including fire pit for quiet evening conversation.

Santiago is a 24 room 2 story resort, and although I did not visit the upper level I am told these rooms have great mountain views. Rooms (including bathrooms) have all been upgraded recently and are spacious and well appointed. There are three styles of rooms – king rooms with one king sized bed, queen rooms with 2 queen sized beds, and king junior suites, basically the same as a king room, but larger and with a sitting area. All rooms include flat screen TV, desk, free internet access as well as WIFI, DVD players, CD players, refrigerator, microwave, iron and board. No rooms have kitchenettes or full kitchens. I found all of the room furnishings to be simple, but high end quality.

Resort clientele seems to lean towards gay professionals in their late 20’s to late 50’s who are seeking a low energy atmosphere for couples and singles that is casual, relaxed and clothing optional. Guests seem to come from all over the U.S. as well as international locations, but I am told that weekends are especially popular with busy LA professionals who want a weekend escape in a sophisticated but laid-back environment where they can simply “chill-out.” In my opinion, this is a wonderful option for just that.

Not only does Santiago offer a complimentary continental breakfast, it also provides a complimentary lunch delivered Monday-Saturday from Aspen Mills Bakery, known for their award winning artisan breads, premier muffins, scrumptious cookies, gourmet sandwiches, and healthy salads. One other nice touch is the guest available washer and dryer.

There is plenty to do in the Palm Springs area, but if you stay at Santiago, you might never want to leave the resort!

For more information on Santiago Resort, check out their website. If you would like other resort recommendations for you special Palm Springs vacation please contact me.

Small Event Coordination

From an informal gathering of 4-8 friends who all want to spend time together to more formal small events like executive or special interests retreats, friends or family reunions, and weddings or commitment ceremonies, Palm Springs is the perfect place. Whether it’s finding a resort with 3 or 4 available rooms during the time of your visit, or booking an entire resort including catering, ground transportation, and special events, I know how to make your next Palm Springs event a success.

Some resorts offer small meeting rooms, great for retreats or mini-conferences. Others have private outdoor areas ideal for weddings and commitment ceremonies. Many of the smaller resorts do not have staff available to help fully plan and execute your event, and that’s where I step in.

For more formal events I can help you choose the right resort, book rooms and space, provide ongoing coordination with the resort, purchase supplies, make available bar-tenders, arrange for catering, ground transportation, special activities. I can give you ideas for promoting your event, and be on-site for the entire event to make sure everything runs smoothly. I have loads of contacts in the Palm Springs area and can put together a winning team for a successful event.

For informal get-togethers of friends and family just tell me what you want, and I’ll work in the background to make it all happen.

Rent-A-Guide Services

The best way to experience the REAL Palm Springs area is through the eyes of a local guide.  When you hire me, it’s like spending a few hours with a knowledgeable friend who has a real passion for the desert.

Together, some visitors and I have:

·         Spent a day in the Temecula Valley Southern California Wine Country

·         Stepped back in time to reflect on our Native American ancestors at the Indian Canyons

·         Ridden the Palm Springs Aerial Tram from palms to pines

·         Explored The Living Desert Wildlife and Botanical Park

·         Taken a day-trip to Joshua Tree National Park

·         Hiked some easy trails in the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument

·         Picnicked in the Whitewater River Canyon at the Whitewater Preserve

Here's how it works:

Let me know what you are interested in and I will make some suggestions and be happy to design a custom itinerary for you.

The length of your adventure will depend on what attractions you choose to include in your itinerary. For tours over 6 hours in length I suggest you include a lunch or dinner stop. I will be happy to suggest a restaurant or picnic location. 

Once you decide on an itinerary I will confirm a set price based on the length of time for your selected itinerary (plus additional costs, if any). If you find once we are out and about that you want to extend your tour you are welcome to do so subject to my availability at the following hourly rates: 1 person = $40 per hour - 2-4 people = $20 per person per hour (additional costs include my attraction admission fees, any special event fees or cost of picnic lunch if you wish me to provide).

If you select an attraction that has an admission fee you will need to pay the gate/admission fee directly to the attraction.

I will meet you at your resort (or location of your choosing) and join you in your personal vehicle (you drive, I narrate). If you do not have a car, I can help make arrangements for you to rent one.

What would you like to do?

Special Celebrations in Palm Springs

Often, a birthday, anniversary or other occasion prompts a vacation in Palm Springs. From providing cake and ice cream, to dinner out for 4 friends, a massage or spa visit, to something more elaborate, it’s your vacation too, so why spend time planning when you could be out by the pool.

I know where to get a birthday cake on Sunday and will pick it up and deliver it to your resort. I can provide a small catered dinner at your resort, complete with party favors. I can make recommendations and reservations at restaurants geared for larger groups.

How about a moonlight couples massage, a sunrise hike, a full day of spa pampering, or a picnic lunch sitting next to the Whitewater River?

I can arrange for an evening “bar-crawl,” casino tour, or other activities, complete with transportation so you don’t need to worry about a designated driver.

What would make your celebration special?

Everyone’s Got To Eat

Everyone’s got to eat at some point in time, even though your first priority may be rest, relaxation, sun and “chillin” by the pool. From fridge and pantry stocking to last minute restaurant reservations I can help.

Fridge and Pantry Stocking

Many Palm Springs visitors just want to spend time at their resort, out in the sun by the pool, maybe catching up on some long overdue reading, escaping a hectic work schedule – basically “doing nothing.” Most resorts have room refrigerators; some have suites with full kitchens. Based on your shopping list I’ll make sure your fridge is stocked before your arrival and re-stocked during your visit. No need to make that trip to the grocery store – spend your time doing what you really want to do.

Lunch and Dinner Delivery

You don’t need leave your resort for meals if you don’t want to. I can arrange to have meals provided for you at your resort. From sandwiches, salads or pizza, to full entrée dinners, just let me know what you want. I’ll even serve them and clean up afterwards if that’s the kind of special vacation pampering you’re looking for.

Last Minute Restaurant Recommendations

OK, so it’s 6:00 pm on a Saturday and you want a Palm Springs restaurant experience. Maybe you have a craving for sea bass, or a good steak that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, or a place that offers live entertainment, or maybe a super romantic place. Just let me know and I’ll give you my personal recommendations and even make reservations if you wish.

San Andreas Fault Desert Oasis Hiking Tour

Our Native American ancestors referred to the area surrounding what is now called Palm Springs as “the magic valley.” What continues to make it magic is a unique combination of three major geologic features:

The valley is surrounded by 4 mountain ranges including the 2 highest mountain peaks in southern California.

Under the desert floor is the 2^nd largest underground aquifer in the United States, providing water to the entire valley.

Running up the valley is the San Andreas Fault, probably the most famous and visible earthquake fault in the world, stretching 700 miles from the Mexican border to just north of San Francisco.

There is no better place to explore the impact of these geologic features than at the Coachella Valley Preserve, located 15 miles east of Palm Springs.

There are other oasis tours, but I don’t think any other hike provides the opportunity, in 2-2½ hours, to explore the rich diversity of 2 different desert oases, a close-up look at the San Andreas Fault, the unique eco-environment of a desert wash and a walk up a “living” sand dune to an impressive scenic overlook. And would you believe that this amazing area was purchased in 1905 by a cattle rancher seeking water for his animals for 2 mules and a wagon.

My tours are small (limited to no more than 6 people), personalized, and reflect my personal interests and passion. Honestly, I’m not big on plant life, but I know a lot about earthquake faults and oases.

Tour Highlights:

Thousand Palms Oasis – One of the largest groves of desert fan palms in California. Some of the trees may be over 150 years old.

San Andreas Fault – Walk on the fault, see the impact of the fault, and learn why earthquakes are necessary.

Desert Wash – A unique desert environment created by rain run-off from the surrounding mountains and home for many plants that require more water than those on the typical desert floor.

McCallum Pond and Oasis – Created by water seeping up through the San Andreas Fault from the underground aquifer. This pond is home to the endangered Desert Pupfish.

Living Sand Dunes – Wind creates these amazing sand dunes which will eventually cover over the McCallum Pond and Oasis. Home to the endangered Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard.

Vista Point – One can see the 4 mountain ranges surrounding and protecting “the magic valley,” a unique environment and home to over 500 species of native plants, 200 species of birds, 25 different species of reptiles and over 30 species of mammals.

This easy hike is mostly on sand packed established trails. A portion of the hike is on a board walk over Thousand Palms Oasis, and also includes a short climb up a “living” sand dune (kind of like walking uphill on a beach). The hike is geared for active adults who are comfortable hiking an easy, mostly flat, 2 miles. Wear comfortable walking shoes that may get a bit wet in the oasis areas, and I suggest you bring a hat, water, a camera and maybe sunscreen.

Contact me for more information and to schedule a convenient tour time.

Old Las Palmas Celebrity Home Walking Tour

Old Las Palmas isn’t meant to be seen from behind a bus or car window. Sense the incredible Palm Springs story on foot.  Walk the city streets. Absorb everything up close and personal. My tours are fun, casual, fully guided and narrated and an opportunity to get some great exercise out in our healthy Palm Springs sunshine.

Unlike van or bus tours with 15-50 people, my tours are small (limited to no more than 6 people), personalized, and improvisational (you never know what we may encounter; open gates, maybe an open house, perhaps even an estate sale. Additionally, my tours are scheduled at your convenience, not the convenience of the tour company.

Tours last 2-2½ hours, and yes, we will walk past over 30 celebrity homes where you can peak over walls and look through gates and fences. Some of the homes you may see include those of: Elizabeth Taylor; Liberace; Barbara Streisand; Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy; Ronald and Nancy Regan; Kirk Douglas; Dinah Shore; Clark Gable and Carole Lombard; as well as many others.

This walk stops often as I tell you about the celebrities, share some of my personal stories of being in some of these homes, and tell you a bit about how Palm Springs became the city it is today, share my passion for this unique community, as well as some fun facts and rumors you probably won’t hear anywhere else. I also have pictures to show, including some of the long gone resorts as well as interior photos of some of the homes we will see.

We begin at The Corridor Plaza on the corner of Palm Canyon Drive and Alejo Road and finish 5 blocks north on Palm Canyon Drive for an easy shopping walk back through the Palm Springs Uptown Design Boutique District.

This easy walk is totally on flat city streets and is geared for active adults who are comfortable walking about 1½ miles. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and I suggest you bring a hat, water, a camera and maybe sunscreen.

Contact me for more information and to schedule a convenient tour time.