Getaways
Getaway Guide: Palm Springs
By Rebecca Philps published Oct 9, 2012
There’s more to this town than retiree golfing and outlet shopping. A newly found youthful energy, low airfare, and attractive real estate are the real draws for West Coasters
Weekend Getaway
Hotels and restos are wisely working to entice the young and the beautiful (and plenty of celebs) from nearby LA. There’s an extra influx during festivals like Coachella in April.
The Saguaro Palm Springs
This 245-room former Holiday Inn has been given a chic face-lift with rainbow accents and cool architectural details to mimic the neighbouring mountains and desert flora. It’s family-friendly (more so than hipster magnet Ace just down the road) and offers competitive rates, but know that the courtyard pool deck gives over to DJs and a daytime party crowd on weekends. Excellent food from Iron Chef Jose Garces at Tinto restaurant (it’s a trip to Basque country: pintxos, shellfish, and lots of cured pork) and from tequila bar El Jefe (late-night carnitas tacos will save you after too many poolside margaritas). GM David Curell once ran Vancouver’s Opus Hotel. Rooms from US$89. 1800 E. Palm Canyon Dr., 760-323-1711. Thesaguaro.com
The Parker
A design-savvy crowd of 35-and-ups drifts through 13 acres of lush garden—these are folks uninterested in show. This is the only hotel designed by the home-décor giant Jonathan Adler, and his trademark whimsy is found throughout. You’ll find bocce ball and croquet courts, plus a giant chess set. The tone is elegant yet relaxed (meaning nobody balks if a woman takes her top off). Book a villa—each comes with an enclosed patio. Feeling flush? The magnificent and private Gene Autry house (starting at $5,000 per night) awaits. Rooms from US$325. 4200 E. Palm Canyon Dr., 760-770-5000. Theparkerpalmsprings.com
Lulu’s California
New to the downtown drag, this bright, flashy room (chandeliers, white leather) sets a celebratory tone. The menu has a substantial vegetarian and gluten-free section, and set prices (US$17 for three courses) are hard to beat. 200 South Palm Canyon Dr., 760-327-5858. Lulupalmsprings.com
