Jazz Hotel Offers Quiet Sophistication

A white comforter on a black bed frame under a black and white artwork at The Jazz Hotel Palm Springs

Jazz Hotel Palm Springs stands out with its sleek design and chic decor.

Owner Annick Laberge has filled this mid-century modern property, formerly known as The Cheetah Hotel, with black and white furniture and original artwork, as well as surprise pops of color. While people might think the dog-friendly hotel’s new name is a nod to the musical genre, it was actually inspired by someone close to Annick.

“Jazz is my white Pomeranian dog,” Annick said. “He’s all white with black eyes and a black nose, and the whole hotel is white with a little bit of black. I like the name too because it’s easy so people don’t forget it.”

A gilded mirror leans against a white wall next to a small table in a room at Jazz Hotel in Palm Springs, California

A gilded mirror stands out in a clean and sleek Jazz Hotel Palm Springs room. Photo courtesy of Jazz Hotel Palm Springs

Annick has spent the last decade working with her father in real estate, managing apartments and investing in buildings in Canada. She fell in love with Palm Springs during visits to Southern California, and found that “there’s something about the desert that speaks to me personally.” When the opportunity came to purchase the Cheetah Hotel in the spring of 2023, Annick was drawn to its “good bones and good location,” and was excited to “put my stamp on it and do a redesign and rebrand with my sister.”

Guests often comment on how much they enjoy the hotel’s spot on a cul-de-sac, where you can’t hear the traffic and can get a good night’s sleep.

“It’s laid-back and quiet, and some people say it’s off the beaten path and a hidden gem,” Annick said. “We’re aiming to be a nice place for people to come to that’s close to downtown Palm Springs, so if they want more action they can go to the restaurants and parties just five minutes away.”

The pool at Jazz Hotel surrounded by fringed umbrellas and lounge chairs with a white ring float in the water and palms and San Jacinto Mountains in the background

The pool at Jazz Hotel is a centerpiece of the property. Photo courtesy of Jazz Hotel Palm Springs

/by

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

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

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

A warm digital welcome

The pool at The Cactai Palm Springs with a flamingo float

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

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

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

The look: mid-century meets modern romance

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

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

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

Signature details that set it apart

A white Japanese toilet inside a bathroom at The Cactai

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

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

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

The AI experience: straight out of science fiction

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

The Cactai’s rooms come with full kitchens or kitchenettes

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

Poolside bliss and artful touches

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

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

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

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

Why you should stay at The Cactai

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

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

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

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

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

/by
, , , ,

Hotel Alcazar in Palm Springs Offers the Perfect Escape

The white sign at the front of Alcazar Palm Springs with blue letters spelling out the hotel's name

As fall arrives and with winter approaching rapidly, one’s thoughts often turn to places in the sun. With an average of 269 days of sunlight every year, Palm Springs is a sound choice.

With a perfect combination of ambiance, amenities, and location, a wise choice to stay is Alcazar Palm Springs. This quiet, 34-room, secluded hotel is one block from the central artery into downtown Palm Springs. Yet, the beautiful grounds makes you feel as if you have arrived in Paradise.

Alcazar is part of local restaurateur and hotelier Tara Lazar’s F10 Creative, which focuses on developing and upholding sustainable methods of operation, maintaining genuinely happy and inspired team members, and creating unique and memorable moments for every guest.  The F in the corporate name stands for “fun, food, festivals, family, fashion and friends.” The 10 stands for 6+2+2 — their address 622 North Palm Canyon Drive.

Once you park in the spacious lot, you will see the impressive artistic gates, which give homage to the site, which was once known as the Pepper Tree Inn. These gates are large and display a local artist’s interpretation of the pepper trees once prevalent in the Palm Springs area.

When you walk through the archway to the registration desk, you immediately feel this is an extraordinary place. At the registration desk, you are graciously welcomed, offered drinks, and pastries as you take a breath and begin your time away from home.

Like a cathedral, the palo verde trees provide a canopy over this inviting space. The water screen helps provide the sense of serenity; and quickly calms any travel anxiety. At night, this area becomes a magical, communal space to enjoy the desert sky.

After you settle in, the saltwater pool beckons you to come for a swim. Lounge chairs and towels are readily available and provide the perfect accessories for you to relax after your drive or flight. As your drinks are served in the jacuzzi, you take a deep breath and realize you are now on vacation.

Hungry? No problem, you do not have to leave the premises nor take a shower and dress up. Just take the walkway to Cheeky’s. This restaurant is part of F10 with the same owners as the hotel. Farm-fresh ingredients are used to produce an ever-changing delectable breakfast and lunch menu. On weekends, you find locals waiting in line for late breakfast. Its bacon flight is a perennial favorite of tourists and locals alike.

With your car safely parked, you have access to free bicycles to start exploring Palm Springs. Each neighborhood has distinctive architectural and landscape, which makes any direction you take on our many clearly marked bike paths an exceptional experience. After each use, bicycles are thoroughly disinfected as part of Alcazar’s Covid-19 protocol.

After your bike ride, swim, and shower, it is time for dinner. Just a few steps from Cheeky’s is Birba, where the menu is seasonal and the ingredients perfectly fresh. This outdoor restaurant has a great story. The owner’s husband’s family is from Italy. When F10 decided to add another restaurant to its portfolio, he said, “I would like a restaurant where we could use my grandmother’s recipes.

The name, Birba, in Italian means “Little Rascal.” It was the name his grandmother called him when he grew up.  Reservations are recommended.

Robert Hunt has been the manager of this hotel since it became Alcazar in 2011. He has watched over every detail of its creation. When the cleanliness of even the courtyard chairs was mentioned, he replied, “I’m a little OCD about keeping this place immaculate, sometimes to the despair of my team.”

Eleven years is a long time for a hotel manager to be in one place; the obvious question was, “What has kept you here so long?” He said, with a broad smile, “We realize we have to change with time. I am a fortunate person to make creative suggestions, and once approved, I am the one to implement them. Besides, gesturing his hands to the beautifully serene courtyard, “Can you think of a better workplace than this?”

/by

You’ll Love Lucille Palm Springs

The pool at The Lucille Palm Springs with the San Jacinto Mountains in the background

Lucille Palm Springs is ready for its closeup after undergoing a recent re-imagination in Spanish Revival style.

Formerly known as The Andalusian Court, Lucille Palm Springs’ new name is a nod to one of its most famous guests, actress and comedienne Lucille Ball and her husband, actor and bandleader Desi Arnaz, who were regulars at the property.

Originally built in 1921, this boutique hotel has long been a place where people go to escape with its lush and tranquil surroundings, and Manager Alfredo Izaguirre has committed to making Lucille Palm Springs “the place to stay when one visits Palm Springs for relaxation.”

A new vision for a historic property

The open fireplace with candles in it inside the living room area of a villa at The Lucille Palm Springs

You won’t want to leave your cozy bungalow at The Lucille. Photo courtesy of The Lucille Palm Springs

Ownership of the property changed hands in June 2023 and renovations on the hotel’s bungalow suites and rooms began in the summer.  All accommodations now feature luxurious king-sized pillow-top Stearns & Foster or Sealy Posturepedic mattresses, Frette linens, Samsung 43″ Frame Art televisions, Nespresso coffee machines and pods, and custom lavender-scented toiletries from local spa Grounded Bodyworks. The one-bedroom and two-bedroom bungalows also have impressive kitchenettes that are stocked with all of the essentials for a home cooked meal.

Each space at the property has a unique and distinctive look with unparalleled privacy. At the same time, the original charm of this historic hotel has been maintained, including such beloved features as the private outdoor jacuzzi tubs. 

“To those who have stayed with us before and to new guests, be prepared for a beautifully updated and extremely well-curated luxurious experience,” Alfredo said.

Guest-approved amenities

The outside of the lobby at The Lucille Palm Springs with colorful tile and windows

The Lucille Palm Springs has beautiful tile work throughout the property. Photo courtesy of The Lucille Palm Springs

Lucille Palm Springs’ well-appointed bungalows and rooms come with complimentary beverages and poolside breakfast, including cappuccinos, lattes, and locally-made pastries. The staff is ready at all times to answer any questions about Pam Springs or guide guests to the best hiking trails, shopping, art walks, and restaurants. 

“We offer a higher level of personalized customer service,” Alfredo said. “We want our guests to feel like they are with friends or family members.”

A private patio with outdoor tub surrounded by greenery at the Lucille boutique hotel in Palm Springs, California

Bungalows come with private patios and outdoor tubs. Photo courtesy of The Lucille Palm Springs

/by

Meet The Westcott

A Palm Springs classic boutique hotel –Posh Palm Springs– has changed management and its name. Now known as The Westcott, this stunning hotel provides a timeless art deco style retreat in a relaxed adults-only atmosphere.

Public spaces and all ten guest rooms have been thoughtfully and beautifully updated. A large freshwater pool and separate hot tub features 1930s inspired poolside furniture. Sumptuous bedding, plush robes and top-of-the-line amenities will be found in each room.  Upon request, staff will arrange for private in-room spa services (massages, facials, manicures, etc.)

Breakfast is served buffet style and offers a selection of cereals, toast, yoghurt, and fruit as well as a hot egg dish made fresh daily. And they happily accommodate special dietary requests such as vegan and gluten-free. A delightful happy hour takes place daily from 5-6 PM and features a daily house-special cocktail. Light refreshments are available all day.

Eco-conscious guests will be pleased to know that The Westcott prides itself on its green practices. Solar panels generate clean energy that powers most of the hotel’s needs. High-efficiency Quietside Ductless Heating and Cooling systems and ceiling fans make each room extra comfortable. And all lighting (interior and exterior) is high-efficiency LED or fluorescent bulbs.

The Westcott is also perfect for intimate weddings, retreats, and family reunions.

Owner, Mathew Westcott, and manager, Michael Barge, look forward to welcoming prior customers of Posh who helped make it such a desirable bed and breakfast destination in Palm Springs.

/by

Step Inside The Velvet Rope, Where Vintage Glam And Modern Luxury Unite

The striped front wall of The Velvet Rope hotel in Palm Springs, California

A new lap of luxury, elegance, and vintage charm has emerged in the heart of Palm Springs. 

Introducing The Velvet Rope, the latest addition to the city’s illustrious landscape of boutique hotels, uniquely designed for the modern, sophisticated traveler. But this isn’t just any boutique hotel – it’s an experience and a journey back in time, encapsulating the golden age of Hollywood glamour, reimagined with a contemporary, luxurious twist.

The Velvet Rope, poised unassumingly at 120 W. Veredasur in the tranquil Old Las Palmas neighborhood, is an embodiment of Herbert W. Burns’ mid-century genius, now infused with the design sophistication of local designer and owner David Rios. It’s reminiscent of his celebrated design work at the acclaimed Trixie Motel, drag superstar Trixie Mattel’s latest venture featured on HBO’s Trixie Motel.

A photo of David Rios in a floral shirt and Gregory Douglass in a black shirt

David Rios, left, and Gregory Douglass. Photo courtesy of Gregory Douglass

The Velvet Rope is the embodiment of Old Hollywood

While the Trixie Motel feels more like a paradise in pink, Rios’ aesthetic aims more on the darker side, adorning blacks and midnight green up against lighter colors that embody that Old Hollywood era. “I wanted to showcase Burns’ classic architecture and honor the contemporary visionary he was,” Rios said. “Right down to the level of detail in the recessed ironing boards, Burns was very much ahead of his time.”

With its roots deeply embedded in the golden age of cinema, each of The Velvet Rope’s nine unique suites is a narrative, telling tales of an age where walking, breathing Old Hollywood icons of style and elegance escaped to Palm Springs to live their best lives. 

“The location is key because many Hollywood celebrities gravitated to the Palm Springs Las Palmas neighborhood back then,” Rios said. “It encapsulates the way they used to live out here. Everyone talks about the epic parties that happened back then, and The Velvet Rope will offer nine different bespoke opportunities to experience what it was like to live like some of these icons really lived.”

9 suites with their own personalities

With each room honoring different iconic people and events from that era, the discovery is in the details. A blend of original and recreations, every custom design, vintage piece, and luxurious fabric tells a story of its own. And if that’s not enough, each room has an exclusive scent to heighten the experience.

Inside a bathroom with pink painted walls and a gold sink and a photo of Elizabeth Taylor in a black frame

Elizabeth Taylor is the star of this glam bathroom. Photo by Gregory Douglass

The Presidential Estate ushers you into unapologetic opulence; the Honeymoon Suite is where the rebellious spirit of Elvis flirts with timeless elegance; the Ricardo Suite immerses you in an exciting blend of comedy and charm, honoring the timeless allure of I Love Lucy. Other suites pay homage to the Rat Pack era, Studio 54, Liberace, Elizabeth Taylor, Jean Harlow, and even the Playboy bunnies.

An external white door with the I Love Lucy heart icon on it

The Ricardo Suite is made for fans of “I Love Lucy.” Photo by Gregory Douglass

Bar Valerie evokes the golden era of entertainment

Bar Valerie, The Velvet Rope’s premiere lounge, is inspired by the iconic song “Valerie” by Amy Winehouse, one of Rios’ favorite artists. It offers a mix of social, musical, culinary, and libation specialties. With nightly live music and an array of craft cocktails, this intimate bar has an eclectic and vibrant speakeasy-type feel. 

“I want this to offer everything from high tea to a luxury piano bar experience that echoes that golden era of entertainment,” Rios said.

The Velvet Rope also welcomes wedding parties and private events of all kinds. The San Jacinto Mountains serve as the perfect backdrop for intimate ceremonies on the property’s private lawn as well.

The Velvet Rope is a testament to the transcendental appeal of Palm Springs’ cultural and architectural heritage. It also underscores the enduring appeal of staying at independently-owned boutique hotels – each a unique tapestry of personalized experiences, architectural wonder, and intimate luxury. As each suite at The Velvet Rope opens its doors this December, the hotel will provide an exclusive experience to Palm Springs like never before, intertwining the city’s iconic past with an exciting, inclusive present.

Contact information for The Velvet Rope and Bar Valerie:

Email: contact@thevelvetropeps.com

Phone: 714-345-7610

/by
,

The Triangle Inn: Same Time Next Year

The Triangle Inn pool and spa on a bright sunny day in Palm Springs, California

The Triangle Inn is like a charming man with a cheeky wit and a very sexy smile. Who wouldn’t want a second date?

Let’s start with a few fun facts, rated Hollywood-style.

The Triangle Inn spans the corners of San Lorenzo (très exotique, non?) and Random Road, a flirty wink from the street naming committee.

Rating: R for randy randomness

When it was built, the hotel was called The Impala Lodge. The year was 1958, and the architect was notable mid-century modernist Hugh Kaptur. 

Kaptur apprenticed for mid-mod darlings Harrison and Wexler, and Wexler apprenticed under the man they called the Desert Maverick, William Cody. In a 1958 Desert Sun article, Kaptur described the architectural design of the Lodge as the highly non-PC “Indian Modern.”

Rating: Winner, best documentary

Then, like the rest of us, the lodge went through some changes. From lodge to apartment building and into disrepair, the modernist gem was badly in need of an image overhaul.

Rating: Elizabeth Berkley

In the late 1980s/early 1990s, Matthew Robinson and Kevin Rice purchased the property, restored the original architecture, remodeled the rooms, and when the flag finally flew it was a rainbow flag, waving high above the newly named Triangle Inn, an eight-suite, men’s clothing optional resort. 

Rating: Kal Penn

The Triangle Inn’s entrance. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn

In 2000, Robinson and Rice were looking for someone to love the inn as much as they did, and ran into some wicked good luck. Two frequent Palm Springers from Atlanta (let’s call them Michael and Stephen because those are their names) decided they wanted to live in paradise and purchased the classy little mid-century revival gem.

Its massive glass-paned walls let the sunshine in and provide an endless view of our gorgeous mountains. Angular steel beams and the slanted roof are punctuated by lush tropical foliage; there are fruit trees all over the property —  mango, lemon, blood orange — making it feel as remote and as exotic as Gilligan’s Island without Ginger, Marianne, or the Howells (they’re so pretentious), but with way better amenities. 

But it’s not remote; it’s intimate. The hotel is actually only five minutes from downtown Palm Springs. That’s five by car, 15 if you’re biking. Drinking and biking renders various results, but generally longer durations and is not recommended.

Rating: A Star is Born

The living room in one of The Triangle Inn’s suites. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn

Consistently garnering five-star ratings and rave reviews, it shouldn’t surprise you that The Triangle Inn has a very long history of repeat guests. There are many reasons for this — the lovely suites, the fine amenities — but also because there is zero judgment. They’re very light on the rules, and then there’s that southern hospitality: warm as the sun and cool as the night air. 

Breakfast offers an assortment of breads, fruit, yogurt, and cereals, as well as coffee and tea — all gratis — on the covered patio by the pool. If you’d like a White Claw (again, no judgments, you’re on vacation) they’re $3 and you can drink them poolside. It’s all very chill.

The suites echo the style of the exterior, all in the mid-mod aesthetic, dressed in earthy tans and browns; light, sky blues; and rich sunset oranges. Even the Tarocco bath amenities are in burnt orange. 

The bathroom in one of The Triangle Inn’s suites. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn

The bed linens are crisp 500-count cotton, and all the accommodations have either a kitchen/dining room or a kitchenette depending on room size. Instead of a dishwasher in each of the suites, the houseman takes care of the dishes when he tidies your room.

Of all the places you can choose to stay in Palm Springs, The Triangle Inn is, perhaps, the most social. The intimate setting provides an opportunity for guests to become lifelong friends, not just with Michael and Stephen, but with each other, flying in from all over the world to meet up for a repeat performance.

Yet, because the rooms are all down the corridor, away from the outdoor activities, festivities, and laughter, guests can work from their suites before they go out to play. Some book for a month at a time, several times a year. It’s their home away from home. And because Michael and Stephen live on property, guests experience family-style hospitality that’s all rom-com and zero drama. 

Rating: All the stars

P.S. The Triangle Inn welcomes friendly canines. Inquire within.

The pool at night. Photo courtesy of The Triangle Inn

/by

Palm Springs: Small Hotels Offer Charm & Character for Every Traveler

What makes Palm Springs the perfect getaway? The year-round activities — hiking, golfing, cultural experiences — and world-class dining top the list, but the boutique hotels are the city’s crown jewel. Members of the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association recently discovered just how phenomenal hotels like Los Arboles, the Santiago Resort, and The Westcott are, and how they stand out in the desert.

/by

The Weekend: 365 Days A Year

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

Location, location, location!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

/by
, ,

Boutiquely Palm Springs: Video Tour of the Alcazar Palm Springs

Boutiquely Palm Springs - Alcazar

An Art District uptown favorite, The Alcazar Palm Springs is ideally located in walking distance to just about everything fabulous!  Enjoy this video tour with founder Tara Lazar Alcazar and General manager, Robert Hunt.

/by