My Journey to Move to Palm Springs: A New Life Awaits

I woke up on another cloudy day in Vancouver, Washington, in the middle of June. I had not seen the sun for ten days. I learned that when the sun finally comes out, you must drop everything. It is time to soak in those rays and get some Vitamin D.

One day, I snapped and called my daughter in Belgium. Without advance notice, I said, “Kara, I am either going to move to Atlanta, Georgia, or Palm Springs.” There was a long silence. Finally, she replied, “Mom, you have my full support in moving to Palm Springs. But why would you consider Atlanta, Georgia?”

To be honest, I had only spent three days in Atlanta. In contrast, I lived in Palm Springs for six months, even during summer. After a couple of days of weighing my options, I decided to move to Palm Springs, California.

The Move to Palm Springs

Finding the Perfect Place

I hired a realtor to help me find a home in Palm Springs. I met a lovely man while working on a project during my previous stay. I called him and shared my criteria for a new home:

• A two-bedroom condo

• A covered parking space

• A pool heated year-round (I had learned this was rare and expensive)

• Walls to showcase my Caribbean art collection

  
  

A few days later, I received a call. My realtor found the perfect place. I accepted and signed a one-year lease for a condo near the Palm Springs Convention Center. Trusting my realtor’s judgment and the photos, I finalized the decision. My moving date was set for September 15—three months away.

Downsizing My Belongings for My Move to Palm Springs

I planned to leave Vancouver, Washington, with only my car filled with cherished items. The process was overwhelming. I sold countless things, gave away precious items to friends and loved ones, and distributed to those who supported me over my 24 years in the Northwest.

Arriving in Palm Springs

After a long journey, I drove 1,400 miles to Palm Springs. Every nook and cranny of my car was packed with my belongings. I finally arrived at 6:00 p.m. on September 15, 2012. I picked up my keys, turned them in the lock, and entered my new home for the first time, located close to the Palm Springs Convention Center.

My First Condo in Palm Springs California Photo by Kathy Condon

To this day, I wish someone had been inside to capture the smile on my face. The place was perfect in every way.

Shortly after I arrived, a friend bought my artwork in her SUV. Once everything was hung and displayed, I headed to garage and estate sales (see my blog). These outings became a fun weekend activity, allowing me to find the items I needed for daily living.

Life in Palm Springs: A 14-Year Journey

Unwavering Love for Palm Springs

I have lived in Palm Springs for 14 years. I know the Coachella Valley comprises separate cities and that it is not just Palm Springs. However, there is still much to educate visitors about this beautiful area composed of nine distinct cities. For more information, see my blog on this subject.

Life Lessons Learned

Living in Palm Springs has thoroughly transformed my life. Here are some key lessons I've learned:

• With more sunny days than cloudy ones, I've realized the sun shines brightly every day. No more halting work to seek out rays!

• I love swimming, and the heated pool has motivated me to exercise regularly, guilt-free.

• The mountains surrounding the area fill me with awe. Their appearance changes throughout the day, depending on the sun's angle and passing clouds.

• Palm trees sway gently in the breeze, reminding me how fortunate I am to live in this beautiful region.

• Day trips to Los Angeles, Idyllwild, and Joshua Tree offer interesting and educational experiences—they’re a perfect way to change the scenery!

• The burgeoning restaurant scene attracts top chefs and makes the area a true foodie paradise.

  
  

• The newly opened Acrisure Arena means no more necessary trips to Los Angeles to catch world-class artists perform.

  
  

• Independent retailers thrive here, allowing for unique gifts and fashions, rather than the same national brands everywhere.

  
  

• Dogs are welcome! Many hotels and restaurants cater to their needs.

  
  

• It's common to leave doors and windows open without screens. Bugs are few and far between. However, don’t be surprised if a hummingbird tries to find its way into your home!

  
  

• Happy Hours are abundant—check out some of my favorites!

Modernism (Mid-Century) Architectural Home Photo by Kathy Condon

I often sign up for newsletters, such as Modernism Week and the Library newsletter, to stay informed about exciting events throughout the year.

As I mark the beginning of my 14th year in Palm Springs, a friend and I recently contemplated where we would move if we had the option. We couldn't think of any place we would rather call home.

Cherishing Each Moment

As I take my lunch on the patio, I enjoy a beautiful view of the mountains—some of which are still capped in snow. Do I feel fortunate? Absolutely!

Kathy Condon is a travel writer and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences, hidden delights, and communities living in the shadows of larger cities. *www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-309