Friends Donna and Grady joined us in Palm Desert, California in December 2017. We booked a two bedroom accommodation at Marriott’s Desert Spring Villas, a 25 minute drive from downtown Palm Springs. The resort's condos; featuring full kitchens, a huge living area and large bathrooms, proved to be a perfect for friends and family to gather.
If you like to golf while basking in the usually dry desert air, Palm Desert is for you. Unfortunately, the weather was not in our favor this particular year. Though we encountered no rain, the air temp remained a bit chilly; too chilly in fact to enjoy the resort’s two outdoor pools.
Why did Donna and I choose to visit this time of year with our spouses?
Barry!!!!!
In mid December, Barry Manilow (74 years old in 2017) performed his sold out Gift of Love concerts at the McCallum Theatre in Palm Springs benefiting 25 charities.
“Could It Be Magic” after all these years?
Absolutely!!!
Still charismatic as ever, Barry’s voice sent a musical thrill into our souls. The long time stage performer’s infectious and enduring talent made for a delightful evening.
Travelers Tip: Barry is again performing his Gift of Love concerts at the McCallum from December 12-17, 2023. Proceeds will benefit 20 charities.
Why go to Palm Springs if not to see Barry?
The golf scene is fantastic with more courses to play than Baskin Robbins has flavors.
If golf isn’t “your bag”, there are plenty of opportunities for shopping and hiking. The four of us rode the 360 degree rotating Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up the Chino Canyon for breathtaking views at Mt. San Jacinto State Park. Trust me, you’ll experience many cardio moments exploring the rocky trails near the peak.
Near the peak at Mt. San Jacinto State Park
Travelers Tip: Walking on the park’s multiple paths is much more arduous than it first looks. Check All Trails for individual trail ratings. Worth getting in shape for, the vistas are amazing!
Leaving Grady at the links, Donna, Pete and I spent a morning hiking in Joshua Tree National Park (aptly named after the cactus like Joshua Trees which are found in very limited areas in several western states). You can spend several days here exploring the deserts where the Mojave meets the Colorado; each with its own distinctive landscapes. Despite the chilly wind blowing the hats off our heads, we enjoyed our adventure at this off the beaten path national treasure.
A view from the pool at the Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
After Donna and Grady departed, Pete and I spent a night at the nearby Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage. This luxury property is the perfect spot for the over stressed, exhausted adult who wishes to just veg. We spent the majority of our time lounging around the heated pool overlooking the Coachella Valley. Nirvana!
Before leaving for the airport to take the red eye back to Philadelphia, Pete and I prowled around downtown Palm Springs. If you are into retro design, this is your mecca! Though we vowed to not buy anything, we couldn’t resist the vintage 1950’s set of glasses we bought and had shipped back to PA.
To me, visiting Palm Springs is like being dropped on a different planet. You’ll find it all here, except miles of rolling green hills which aren’t golf courses. I’m not sure I need to return (there’s so much more to see in the US); but for a golfer, a sun seeker, or a retro loving MeTV fan, you’ll enjoy this desert paradise.
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