If you have never seen Cirque de Soleil, here's your chance to see it in our beautiful Acrisure Arena. It is coming to Palm Desert in Coachella Valley from August 31 to September 3. Thus, you have only four short days to see "Corteo" performed by these outstanding athletes. Note this is over Labor Day Weekend. I was delighted when contacted by the organizers. They asked me if I would like to interview one of the performers. Of course, I said yes. I researched more information about Cirque du Soleil, and I am pleased to share what I learned in this article with you. History of Cirque du Soleil The humble beginnings of Cirque du Soleil started in the quaint town of Baie-Saint-Paul near Quebec City, Canada, in the 1980s. To the townspeople's delight, performers on stilts juggled balls, dishes, and sticks lit with fire frequently appeared in the evening to entertain them on cool Canadian nights. The troupe grew, and Guy Laliberte, one of the members, decided to organize a cultural event. He invited other regional performers to come together in 1983 and then again in 1984. The goal was to share ideas and techniques to enhance their performances, for it was apparent that the community loved this light-hearted interaction. First Big Break for Cirque du Soleil Quebec City needed an extravaganza to help celebrate the 450th year of the discovery of the city. They had heard the performers in Baie-Saint-Paul were delighting people with their antics and athletic abilities. The invitation came—the troupe would be one of the attractions for the celebration. After this successful event, Laliberte started to dream bigger. What if we left the Quebec area and started traveling around the world? He named the newly formed troupe Cirque du Soleil, which means Circus of the Sun. His idea worked. The troupe went to 10 other Canadian Cities under a big top tent. The first audience of 800 was enthusiastic and helped spread the word about the quality of the event, and the admiration for the performers' abilities continued to grow. The Second Big Break in the History of Cirque du Soleil It happened in 1987 when Cirque du Soleil was invited to the Los Angeles Art Festival. After its success there, it moved to San Diego and Santa Monica. Headquarters in Montreal The unbridled success enabled the organization to attract the funds to build its headquarters in Montreal in 1997. To this day, though it has been added on to, it is called The Studio and is where the creation and production of the performances have their birth. They are now in their 18th year. Keep in mind that each year there is an entirely different production. This means the storyline, scenery, costumes, and performing artists must learn new routines. The shows include music with approximately 31 original songs. Today 4300 performers are performing in 150 cities. Troupes perform in Croatia, Belgium, France, Ireland, the UK, Spain, Poland, Lithuania, Austria, Germany, and Denmark. Pulling the Curtain Back to See Behind the Scenes of Cirque du Soleil Performances. When we go to performances, we sit there with anticipation for we have bought our ticket. Since we chose this particular event, we trust we will enjoy it. However, after interviewing some of the staff involved with the production, I have to admit I had no real idea of what had to happen to make this two-hour spectacular event happen. A Look at the Statistics of the Making of a Cirque du Soleil Production. The Team (The name they use for the entire troupe) consists of 117 people from 27 countries, and 18 languages are spoken. Stop and think about it – that fact alone seems daunting to overcome. The entourage's arrival means 100 people will be hired from the local community. They need extra help with the 12-hour set up and the 4-hour tear down after the show. There are 25 trucks to unload with approximately 700 road cases and 272-panel pieces to construct the floor that fit together like a puzzle. 700 costumes require ironing for 8 hours a day. The costumes consist of 2000 pieces and 200 pairs of shoes. The 18th creation of Cirque du Soleil Corteo Storyline There is an innovation with this year's creation: It is the first and only two-sided performance. Thus, it will be easier for more people to view the version fully. Corteo, which means cortege in Italian. This performance is about a festive parade where a clown feels as though he is attending his funeral in a carnival-like atmosphere. Four angels guide him through an intimate, often silly, and tragic dreamlike world. With their help, his strength, vulnerability, knowledge, and generosity showcase those aspects in him and within all of us. Never fear. There are plenty of light moments and silliness in the production. So, there will be no heavy hearts leaving the arena. Interview with Cirque du Soleil Performer By Zoom, I had a lovely interchange with Joseane Martins Costa, who has performed in Cirque du Soleil since 2018. She is from Brazil; however, I talked to her while she was in Columbus, Ohio, where they are performing. K: We began our conversation by discussing her degree in Aeronautical Sciences. I asked her how did you decide on this degree focus. J: She smiled as she relayed her story about her interest in the subject. She said I started ballet when I was three. Then I moved on to gymnastics from seven until I was 12. Then I got involved with synchronized swimming and was on the Brazilian National Team. We competed in the National Pan American Games in Guadalajara in 2011 and won a Bronze Metal. In 2012, I decided I wanted to continue my path of synchronized swimming. Then I saw a performance of Cirque du Soleil and decided to apply. Happily, I was accepted to be trained as an acrobat. Thus, my life has always been about movement, specifically flying, so it made sense to me to learn more about it for my degree. K: How do you develop so much trust in the people you are flying on the highwires with? J: Kathy, all performers must trust not just the people we are on the highwire with. We must trust all 117 members of the Team. The Team members putting the set together are an integral part of the production. We have to trust they have done it correctly and checked it so we will be safe. K: Where do you stay when you are on the road? J: We are given a stipend, so we can use it however we desire. Recently, we were in Los Angeles for six weeks. I chose to rent a small place, and it was terrific being stationary for a while so I could relax in my own space for such a long time. K: How many days a week are you on duty? J: We are always on duty for 5 days a week. That includes the performances. During those five days, if we are not performing, we are practicing. However, we have entirely off two days a week—our bodies need time to recover. K: Do you get time to explore the communities you are performing in? J: Yes, we can do whatever we want on our days off. We have a manager who makes exploring opportunities available to us. K: Since you are coming to Palm Springs, I'd love to give you and three others a tour of Palm Springs. J: That would be wonderful. Joseane was off to what I am assuming was another interview. She is a fabulous spokesperson for the Team. Attending Opening Night I am honored to have been invited with a friend to attend the Opening Night of Cirque du Soleil at the Acrisure Arena on August 31. Imagine how different this will be for me since I now have "met" one of the performers. Again, Cirque du Soleil is coming to Palm Desert at the Acrisure Arena from August 31-September 3, 2023. You can get Cirque du Soleil 2023 tickets here. I asked Joseane what she liked most about being a Cirque du Soleil Team Member. She replied, "I get to fly and celebrate life every day." Kathy Condon is a Journalist, Travel Writer, and Award-winning Author. She is the owner and developer of Palm Springs Insider Guide, a resource for those visiting Palm Springs, California. kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094 About

For those living at sea level in the desert, this day trip is a nice reprieve from our high temperatures, which we experience each summer in Palm Springs. At 5500 ft., you can expect it to be 20-plus degrees cooler in Idyllwild, California. Highway 74 through Palm Desert and Highway 243 from Banning, California, are two ways to get to this community. The lookout about halfway up the mountain on Highway 74 provides a spectacular view of the Coachella Valley. This 75-mile drive will take about 1.5 hours, no matter which road you choose for your trip. Pro Tip: Either way you go, be forewarned. The road to Idyllwild can be a bit scary, for it clings to the mountain edge in numerous places on both routes. 1. Time for a Cup of Coffee When You Arrive in Idyllwild Once you are in Idyllwild, the driver will be ready to park the car and unwind a bit before exploring the town begins. Pure Bean Idy located in the town's circle, has every conceivable drink available to satisfy even the most discriminating person's tastes. You can grab a pastry and head out to the patio so you can start breathing in the fresh mountain air. 2. Explore the Gardens A wonderland opens before you as you walk under the Idyllwild Gardens. Various paths lead you to multiple kinds of plants and delightful garden art that causes you to smile and have you call your friend over to look at the artist's creativity. When you least expect it, you turn a corner and discover a little oasis coaxing you to stop and relax on a colorful bench to take in the surroundings. Then there is a vintage trailer converted into a store containing several unusual items perfect for gifts. There is a garden-like shed filled with specialty food items in another area, many of which you probably have not encountered before on your shopping trips. 3. Time for lunch If you like fish and chips, the Idyllwild Brew Pub on the edge of town is a great choice. It is in the mall on Village Drive, along with the Fairway Foods Market, the area's largest grocery store. If you park your car in the mall area, your access to the Pub is down a stairway that brings visions of walking down one of those NYC fire escapes you see in the movies. A friendly hostess will welcome you. Tell her you want to sit at the window bar. Once you are on your high-top stool, you will have a bird's eyes view of the forest surrounding the Idyllwild area. With a glass of locally brewed IPA, beautiful scenery, and anticipating a delicious meal, I am betting you exclaim, Life is good! 4. A Little Shopping is Always in Order I am not sure if the giant hat at the entrance or the merchandise inside makes Wooleys a must-stop on any visit to Idyllwild. Suppose you are looking for a hat. Oh my, many choices, so their sign is more than appropriate. If you decide to stay longer and didn't bring your hiking gear, you can easily supplement your wardrobe. Wooleys specializes in quality sheepskin, so you can find warm vests and jackets, which will be welcomed later in the year in colder climates or the cooler Coachella Valley winter evenings. By the way, they are family-owned since 2001. You will also want to stop at their jewelry counter with natural stones if you dare. 5. A Chocolate Break at Idyllwild Once tucked away in one of the alleys lined with retail stores, El Bueno Cacao has a new home. It is in the same mall as the Idyllwild Brew Pub. The owners proudly welcome you to their new store and facility, where they make their chocolate creations in their adjacent kitchen. Locals line up for their morning chocolate treats, some of which are paired with coffee. Then there is sipping chocolate, rivaling any you may have had in on a European trip. More than once, I have watched first-time tasters of El Buen Cacao savoring a bite of their bar and basking in the release of flavors on their tastebuds. Just saying you will be hooked on them. The good news is you can order more on their website once you get home. If you haven't had a shake for a while, now is the time to break any diet. You will be glad you did, for El Bueno Cacao shakes are superior to any chocolate shake I have ever tasted. Suddenly, you look at your watch and realize it is 4:30 p.m., and time to head back to Coachella Valley. Take time to look at the meadows lined with mountain peaks before you start descending the mountain. In the distance, you will see picture-perfect ranches with white picket fences keeping horses safe while they graze in the green pastures. Now that you have made this initial trip to Idyllwild, you know what to expect on your next visit. Many galleries, unique retail stores, and restaurants are waiting for you to discover them. Plus, this blog is about a summer trip. Imagine how beautiful the deciduous trees will be in the fall or covered with big fluffy flakes of snow in the wintertime. Kathy Condon is a freelance journalist and travel writer. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News Kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com

If you live in the desert, you have established some affinity with certain plants. There are numerous cacti, but a couple of them have become my favorite ones. My curiosity about them gently encouraged me to do some research about them, so I decided to share my findings. The Ocotillo I first noticed the ocotillo when I made my trips to the mailbox. My Home Owners Association planted it at the entrance of our complex. As the seasons changed, the plant kept changing. In the winter, no leaves project the look of a possible “Crown of Thorns.” Its thorns were very sharp and about two inches long. In the spring, tiny bright tear-shaped leaves appeared near the base of each of these thorns. Once the leaves fill in the entire branch, red flowers bloom at the end of these long flowing stems. It depends on the amount of rainfall, but typically, the plant is in full bloom in April. They like an open, very rocky habitat with well-drained soil. The plants grow along hiking trails, rocky slopes, grasslands, and natural washes. They can grow to a height of 20 ft. There is no definitive agreement, but some botanists believe they can live to well over 100 years. The red blossoms of the ocotillo attract both hummingbirds and bees. There is convincing evidence hummingbirds are largely responsible for the reproduction of this succulent throughout the desert. Barrel Cactus This cactus is, obviously, one of landscape designers' favorite plants. They grace the lawns of many of our homes, whose owners opt for low-maintenance care, for they thrive on gravel. It was love at first sight when I drove onto the grounds of Sunnylands in Rancho Mirage. On the grounds of the Annenberg Estate, the educational center has a circle in front of it landscaped with hundreds of barrel cacti. While the barrel cactus can live up to 100 years, its diameter rarely grows beyond 30 inches. It is typically about 2 to 4 feet in height but can grow to be 10 feet tall. It is often called a Compass Barrel Cactus. For reasons unknown, it tends to grow to the Southwest. The spines often are used for needles and tattooing. Overharvesting of Barrel Cacti for candy has resulted in them being “protected status” in some areas. You will notice cacti such as the Saguaro are not prevalent in our area. When you do see one, it has been purposely planted. Once you travel Highway 10 to Phoenix, you will see the desert in that area is more conducive to soil and climate for this majestic slow-growing Saguaro. If you are curious about more of Palm Springs cacti, here's my blog on Moortens Botanical Garden, where they are extremely knowledgeable, but they also have many of our desert plants for sale in a variety of sizes. Kathy Condon is a journalist and travel writer. She is a ten-year resident of Palm Springs and the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn’t Hurt to Ask: It’s All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News Kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

It is tradition when one of my friends in Vancouver, Washington, visits me here in Palm Springs; we plan a road trip to the ocean. Usually, we design a three-day trip. This year was no exception. Before she arrived, we agreed we would go to the Nixon Presidential Library and Birthplace. Then keep on going and make our hotel reservations in San Clemente. Nixon Presidential Library and Museum I have always loved Presidential Libraries, and it was time to go to Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, which is newly remodeled. Located in Yorba Linda, a 1.5-hour drive from Palm Springs, this site has been on my bucket list for a long time. I will write an extensive article about the place, but first, I wanted to share what surprised me. 1. The Library and Conference Center is on land purchased by Nixon's grandparents. The original house, including the bedroom he was born, is in pristine condition. 2. Nixon faced these crises in 1969: City riots over race issues, the cold war with China, and escalating issues with Russia. Sound familiar? 3. I did not know he signed the Environmental Protection Agency into law and established a cabinet seat for environmental affairs. My future article will address more things he accomplished that I had not known about or had forgotten. I would also like to share with you Watergate was not swept under the rug. An entire large exhibit room is devoted to the event. Road Trip to the Ocean - Next Stop San Clemente California Both of us were looking forward to seeing the Pacific Ocean. We were not disappointed with the perfect temperatures for our entire three-day journey. We felt like we had hit the jackpot with weather hovering around 72 degrees as predicted, with lots of sunshine. It was mid-afternoon, and the hunger bug was rearing its head. Our hotel manager at the Surfbreak Hotel suggested we head to the pier and Fisherman's Market. Oh my, the food was so good, and the view was stellar. We could watch people walking the beach and hearty souls frolicking in the waves, without wet suits, I might add….brrr. With our brains stretched and our stomachs full, we headed back to the hotel for a relaxing night of watching whodunit TV shows. Competition ensued about which of us would be accurate in our guesses. Observation about San Clemente. It definitely is a beach community with all the amenities one could want on any trip to the beach. Glistening in the sun, snow-white Spanish architecture, with red-tile roofs, hugged the rugged hillside. Lovely parks with grass lawns and palm trees align with expansive white-sand beach. Visit to Rancho Capistrano Winery We headed out for a return culinary visit to Rancho Capistrano Winery. My family and I visited there in January. We still rave about our lunch on their 3,000 ft patio. This time we met with Devin, the Wine Club Manager, and the Chef before we started our explorations of new menu items interspersed with choices from their wine menu. I told them that their food was worth five stars, and I meant it. Again, a more detailed account of this winery will appear in my writings soon. Meanwhile, this lovely place is within easy walking distance of the San Juan Capistrano Mission. Mission San Juan Capistrano You know how you have a vision in your head of something, and then you find out your image is dead wrong. Well, that's what happened to me when I walked through the Mission San Juan Capistrano Gift Shop into the yard. Fortunately, I had the audiotape headphones. I quickly got the gist. I was in for a lovely historical learning experience. This is the seventh Mission (out of 21) the Franciscans built in California after the Spanish-American War. One of the first things that caught my eye was the lavishly blooming blue flowers tucked up against the light beige stone used in many buildings. Yes, I said buildings. There is far more to see than the remains of the original Mission destroyed in 1812. An observation about the Mission. If you are interested in missions, this would be a must-stop. Thanks to Father Sullivan, who became the resident Priest in 1920 and restored many of the buildings so we could walk the halls and hear the whispers of people who came before us. This was a great three-day road trip. However, it is possible to make a day trip to any of these three places, for they are all about a two-hour drive from Palm Springs. Kathy Condon is a freelance journalist and travel writer. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News Kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com

Guest Blog by Justin Bennett Leading a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to require large time commitments and a bottomless bank account. Health can be surprisingly simple! If you’re looking for ways to fit health and fitness into your existing schedule without breaking the bank, look no further. Palm Springs Insider Guide shares some great healthy lifestyle and exercise tips below to help you achieve a healthier lifestyle and make the most of this sunny city! Design Your Home Around Healthy Living People in Palm Springs generally enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, and life can easily feel like a permanent vacation. If you want to maximize the relaxing effects of living in such a beautiful place, take some time to redecorate your home with healthy lifestyle and exercise tips in mind. Decluttering is a great way to make your home healthier. Verywell Mind explains that clutter can contribute to stress, worsen symptoms of depression, cause brain fog, and exacerbate allergies. Cleaning, organizing, and decluttering your home can help you expel negative energy from your home and make way for positive vibes! It’s also important to pay attention to your indoor air quality. Living in Palm Springs, you should have no problem opening your windows to refresh your indoor air and dilute those pollutants. During the summer, when you’re running the AC, consider using an air purifier and placing a few houseplants around your home to remove indoor pollutants without opening the windows. And remember to change your AC filter. Healthy Lifestyle and Exercise TipsTry New Forms of Exercise If you’re struggling to find the motivation to exercise, it’s time to explore some new fitness options. Water aerobics, for example, is perfect for those who live in Palm Springs! Compared with many other forms of exercise, water aerobics puts less strain on the body while offering a multitude of health benefits. It’s a low-impact and refreshing way to exercise when the weather is hot. And if you have a pool in your backyard, getting started won’t cost you a dime! Healthline suggests getting started with some beginner-friendly pool exercises. Try walking through waist-height water or doing jumping jacks in chest-level water. You might also want to get some foam dumbbells to add resistance to your water workouts. If you have some more room in your budget, consider signing up for an aquatic class at a local fitness center! Exercise Outdoors Exercising outdoors is a great way to maximize the health benefits of your fitness activities while saving money on equipment and gym memberships. Not only is outdoor exercise completely free, but it’s also a great way to soak up vitamin D and alleviate insomnia through exposure to bright daytime light. There are many different types of exercise you can do outdoors. Besides water aerobics, try jogging, pickleball, beach volleyball, stand-up paddleboarding, outdoor yoga, or using park gym equipment for strength training. Traffic is generally light in Palm Springs, so biking is another excellent activity for outdoor enthusiasts. During the hot summer days, aim to work out in the morning or evening so you can stay cool and avoid the risk of heatstroke. When you think about making healthy changes to your lifestyle, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the work ahead of you. Try to keep it simple and stick to small but impactful lifestyle changes that will easily fit into your existing routine. Carving out some time in your schedule for daily outdoor exercise will do wonders for your mental and physical health! Sign up below for Palm Springs Insider Guide updates for more tips and resources to help you make the most of your time in Palm Springs. Justin Bennett Justin still remembers the day he finally decided to live healthier. It was the day he was supposed to be at his best friend’s wedding, and the tux he’d ordered months ago fit a little too snug. Now Justin is a fitness enthusiast, seeking to help others like him who want to start living, feeling, and looking healthier.

Making a move to Palm Springs nine years ago proved to be an excellent decision for the life path I am now living. When I moved from Vancouver, Washington, I had no idea that my insatiable desire to learn and travel would result in me becoming a travel writer. I have already written about how and why I became a travel writer. Those who know me will not be surprised to see the map above. The pink lines reveal the roads I have traveled since I arrived in Coachella Valley in September 2012. Many of those trips were solo. Yes, that includes Highway 10 to Los Angeles, whose traffic sometimes slows to a turtle, which causes some people not even to consider driving there alone. A Recent Trip to the Travel and Adventure Show Before I had decided to become a travel writer, the nuggets of what lay before me at this event raised my awareness of what I wanted to do. After a two-year hiatus, The Travel and Adventure Show was scheduled for March 2022, and I immediately added the date to my calendar. My plan to get there in time to hear Peter Greenberg speak worked perfectly. I walked into the Los Angeles Convention Center ten minutes before he began to talk. Travel and Adventure ShowTips from Peter Greenberg a. In surveys, people state their number one destination wish is Paris. His suggestion: seek out less-traveled cities b. Flying into smaller airports can save you money. c. Hire a travel agency broker to help you choose the appropriate travel insurance, which he recommends you always buy. d. He would not be afraid to take a cruise. New air circulation systems are in place, and vaccinations are required. Even with some cases on the ships, it is a tiny number considering the number of people on the boat. After the talk, I connected with several vendors, including Visit Buellton, where I am heading next week, to explore and share what I learned during my three-day stay. Delighted to Hear Pauline Frommer Pauline's life revolves around travel in every sense of the word. She is the author of numerous books and Editor and Director of the Frommer Guides, presenting Travel and Adventure Show tips. Here's what I heard her say: a. Museums do not get the attention they deserve. Stand in front of a painting for 15 seconds, instead of the average three seconds, and really look at what is before you. b. Slow down when you go to a new place. You do not have to see an entire city on your first visit. Start talking with the citizens and ask about places to go for meals and attractions. c. Sites she recommends for checking airfares: Skiplagged, Momondo, or Skyscanner d. Use software that hides your identity. When searching for fares, keep in mind cookies are used. When you go to the site again, they will know you have already looked, and the price will be higher. When I decided to go to the Travel and Adventure Show, I made a plan for an overnight trip since I was on the coast. My timing was perfect for The Flower Fields of Carlsbad, California. Ranunculus flowers were waking up and spreading their beauty across 50 acres. See my article Sightseeing in The Flower Fields of Carlsbad. After visiting the Flower Fields, I returned to Oceanside to have coconut shrimp at the Lighthouse Oyster Bar and Grill. Hey, we travel writers have our favorite foods, and oh my, their coconut shrimp is superb. Planning Made for a Magnificent Trip Even from the tone of this article, you can tell I was pleased with the decision I made to go and discover Travel and Adventure Show tips and use them for planning my year. As I write, I am looking forward to a media trip to Buellton and a trip to Half Moon Bay in a couple of weeks later. I plan to add a few more pink lines to the photo above. Kathy Condon is a freelance journalist and travel writer. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News Kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com Facebook Instagram

Palm Springs Summer Plans for July and August Having experienced two summers here, I know getting out of here for at least two weeks is important. The relentless heat does get to one. I am well aware our community's beautiful weather will turn into 100-plus temperatures. Many of our local attractions and events are on hold until the fall. Really how many movies do I want to watch? Palm Springs Travel Thoughts European airline flight nightmares still float around. Should I take a trip to Europe to visit my family? Nixed that idea since they are coming for the holidays. After making numerous trips to the beach, I love Oceanside. I know I can easily head there, even for a day, if I want to change my summer routine. Plus, the advantage of very fresh seafood always awaits me. Then there is Idyllwild high about us, yet only 75 miles away. Great place to explore in the summertime. Exploring new establishments and talking to the people who make this mountain community their home is always fun. After failed attempts to plan something, I have decided just to let it be and see what evolves. There is so much to explore in Southern California, so pledging to myself when I start to get antsy, I plan a day away. My dog-sitting clients may decide to hit the road, and I'll be available. Each home and dogs are different. Thus, the monotony of being home in the air conditioning will be broken up with various dog-sitting gigs. AND there is always a chance another wonderful opportunity to travel may pop up. Kathy Condon is always open to a new adventure if you haven't figured it out by now. As my girlfriend said one day, "You make an adventure as you walk out the door." Smiling, I think she is right. Travel Writing Planning for the Fall Meanwhile, there are plenty of things to do to refresh my website and learn about new software. However, most of my time with be spent reaching out to Directors of Marketing and finding unfamiliar places to explore in the fall and winter. Media trips don't just happen. There is lots of planning behind the scenes by the travel writer and the person setting up a schedule. I am taking Peter Greenberg's advice. There are so many stories to tell and interesting people to meet in any community. I am going to search for some smaller towns to write about next year. In addition, I'll be reaching out to new publications. A large portion of the travel sites you enjoy and travel magazines you read have articles written by freelance writers such as myself. Many of them have not come across my writing, so I will help them become aware I have a plethora of storylines I can share with them. What lies ahead for a summer in Palm Springs? I'm not sure, but in the meantime, sign-up for updates at the bottom of the page. Kathy Condon is a freelance journalist and travel writer. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News Kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com Facebook Instagram

In case you haven't heard, many Palm Springs, California, residents hunt for the perfect accessories for their homes at garage and estate sales. More than one person has arranged her Friday and Saturday morning schedule to stop at sales, trusting she might find a unique treasure. Palm Springs Garage and Estate Sales Are Different Estate Sales Palm Springs is relatively a new town, incorporated in 1938; it is only 84 years old. Thus, it has not been long since these magnificent homes' original owners passed away. Now their heirs may have settled in other parts of the country. The burden of keeping up an estate that may once have been their family home is more than they want to handle in their lives. With objects chosen from the homes that are meaningful to them, heirs are often left with a house stuffed with things and memorabilia that have no intrinsic value to their modern-day family. Thus, they bring in a professional estate agent to handle the items. Tattoo Mark is an active estate agent who regularly handles sales in Palm Springs. Experience has revealed that early looky-loos are not allowed. So, if you want to be one of the first to peruse the items, you probably will have to stand in line for a minimum of ½ hour, but more likely an hour for the more prestigious homes. If the sale advertises it will start at 9:30 a.m., that is when the doors open and not earlier. Once you are allowed in, the fun begins as you start to explore these Palm Springs estate sales. As a lover of art, my first trip through the house is to check out the art. I have found art is one of the first things people look for, so if you see something, be sure to immediately take it off the wall and claim it as yours. Usually, there is a spot where you can put your chosen items together until you are done "shopping." If you are looking for a particular item for your kitchen, you might want to head there first. Rooms that are not to be accessed are marked off with tape. But otherwise, you are allowed to wander through the entire home. This is important. If you see something you want or haven't made up your mind about, keep it in your arms. Many people are following you who might find the item you wanted is perfect for them or a friend, and it will be gone when you return for it. Take the time to peer into the backyards, even if items are not for sale there. Again, seeing some of these beautifully manicured yards with pools and unique spa designs is your chance to see places you may not have access to in the future. With decisions made, gather your purchases and proceed to checkout. Cash is king at these sales. Estate sales are often held during the week. Garage Sales Are Normally on Weekends in Palm Springs Garage sales typically occur when the house's cupboards and the garage are getting too full of items one does not need or want anymore. Items usually are smaller in size than objects found at estate sales. When I arrived in Palm Springs, my early Saturday morning activity was to explore our many garage sales. A local friend enjoyed researching, so she would discover the locations and put them on a list for our morning adventures. Eventually, she even had the list numbered, so we didn't backtrack. In the beginning, I was setting up my condo, so I needed everything. We would meet at 8:00 a.m. and were off, armed with water bottles and our hats. I remember running across a waffle iron and immediately purchasing it for $5 because I missed the one I had left behind. As a jewelry lover, sales with an array of jewelry were always dangerous for me. Like most women, we have to have the right jewelry with the right outfit—just like men need the right tool to make or fix something. If you are looking for glassware at reasonable prices, garage sales will help you quickly be able to tick things off your list. You might even find a match to a set you already have so you can replace that broken glass. How do I control the urge to buy stuff at Palm Springs garage and estate sales? It is easy to get carried away buying things because they are very inexpensive, and they are calling to you to say, "Buy me!" Thus, I have come up with my guidelines: 1. It has to be arty. 2. It must be a step up from anything I own. An example, I had a stapler but found an executive stapler that exuded class. With a condo well-furnished now, I rarely stop at a garage sale. However, I watch the ads, and if an estate sale is in one of our exclusive areas, I will often go. It is the only way we can see some of these stately homes and gardens. Palm Springs garage and estate sales are more prolific during the fall and winter, for summer temperatures are not conducive to standing out in someone's front yard or wandering through a house with all the doors wide open. For more "inside" information about Palm Springs activities, please sign up to receive my blog updates on the form below. Kathy Condon is a freelance journalist and travel writer. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News Kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com Facebook Instagram

Those who know me weren't surprised that I would decide to make a 247-mile one-way road trip from Palm Springs. Admittedly, Buellton a stop on Highway 101 in California, was not on my radar to spend two days exploring. However, when 360ViewPR asked me if I would be willing to go there and write about my findings, I readily agreed. Fresh Ocean Air The Pacific Ocean spread out before me once I got through the Los Angeles area traffic. Clear skies and citron-colored mustard seed blossoms graced the craggy cliffs lining Highway 101. I was ready for a stop, so I pulled off at Sea Cliffs and wound my way through a little sketchy backroad but continued through the tunnel supporting Highway 101. To the right was a dead-end, wide spot where I could get out, stretch, and breathe in the fresh, pure ocean air on a gorgeous day. Checking into the Pea Soup Andersen Inn This internationally famous Pea Soup Andersen Inn is my home for two days. My room was spacious, with a king-size bed that beckoned me to stop once I arrived. However, I was hungry for my driving snacks had run out, and I was ready for a satisfying meal. The heated pool was right out of my patio door, and the enclosed kiosk-like structure where breakfast is served was 100 ft away. Perfect! I did take the time to check out this immaculately clean room with a refrigerator and microwave, which proved to be very handy when warming up the complimentary breakfast of superb Danish pastries. Dining in Buellton If you are a traveler on Highway 101, you will want to check out my list, for I can attest I did not even have an average meal in Buellton. All the restaurants had a twist that made them a particular cuisine delight. A.J. Spurs, located about one-half mile from the Pea Soup Andersen Inn, provides you with an experience that will help you understand what it might have been like when this area was swarming with hungry cowboys and cowgirls. Fiddle-type western music greets you as you are escorted to your table with taxidermy animals keeping guard over this immense restaurant. Objects from the early settlers' days are everywhere. They might even have some items that came over on a wagon train. Food is served as it might have been around early campfires. The hearty soup was served in a cast-iron pot and arrived with a salad with a fabulous bleu cheese dressing. The barbecue spareribs prepared in the old western manner held up to the adage finger-licking good. Industrial Eats lives up to its reputation as a restaurant where you can get farm-to-table cuisine with a twist. The line to the door is your first clue. This is a popular restaurant. Don't let the line deter you. It is worth the short wait. Starting as a catering service known for its fresh creative food, the owners have taken their talents to this restaurant with industrial décor and community tables. The regular menu is tacked on the wall and listed on the brown butcher wrap. Specials are displayed on separate sheets displayed so you can peruse them as you inch toward the person taking your order. Kathy Vreeland from Discover Buellton and I enjoyed our seafood, meatballs with a twist, and a Caesar salad with a crisp glass of local white wine made for a perfect dinner meeting. Pea Soup Andersen Restaurant Of course, I couldn't come to Buellton without trying the famous pea soup. Years ago, I had it but didn't remember why it was supposed to be so special. I took a sip. Savory spices combined with the split peas caused my tastebuds to dance with pleasure. Bread served with the soup made it the perfect lunchtime meal. The Travel's Special came with a milkshake I took to the car. Attractions in Buellton a Stop on Highway 101 The Avenue of the Flags greets you as you turn off Highway 101. The city commissioned this urban project when Highway 101 was changed from the center of town to its present location. Six lanes were no longer needed, so they took two lanes and made them into a boulevard with an art installation showcasing a floral arch, a flag on a tall pole, and life-size people in bronze saluting the flag. Then all down, the boulevard flags fly, welcoming guests. Ostrich Land Now is your chance if you have never been up close and personal with an ostrich. Ostrich Land is a 33-acre breeding farm and home to over 100 ostriches and emus. Here you can feed these magnificent birds. It is incredible how fast they can gobble up a tin of food. Ostriches are not keen on you touching them. I quickly learned they were attracted to my rings and glittery fingernail polish. So, word to the wise, don't wear rings when you go there and watch them from a distance after you feed them. On the other hand, the kinder, gentler emus welcome your petting. A knowledgeable staff is there, ready to answer questions. One of the many things you will learn is that an ostrich lays an egg every 1-3 days, and that egg is 18 times the size of a regular egg. Mendenhall Museum I can assure you you have never seen anything like the Mendenhall Museum. Fifteen garage-sized rooms filled with memorabilia showing the evolution of the gasoline pumps, their glass globes that once proudly glowed at the top of them, vehicles, and signs that served as advertising and directions for road trip warriors. Mark and Vickie Mendenhall serve as curators of this private museum, open by appointment only. The Mendenhalls are proud that the museum serves as the Dry Lake Racers Hall of Fame location. If you want to rent a venue that will astonish your guests, this is the place. Santa Ynez Botanical Gardens Local people recognize the need to educate children about native plants. The two-acre garden Santa Ynez Botanical Gardens was created and is maintained by volunteers. This welcoming garden takes measures to preserve fauna so it thrives in this watershed area. Schools use it for tours. I loved the Wishing Tree, which now has my wish dangling from one of its branches. An Additional Stop at Dorwood Distillery Dorwood Distillery, located on Industrial Way, is the perfect place to be introduced to fermenting and distilling process used to make liquors. Jay, one of the owners, is there six days a week and delights in showing visitors the process. End the tour with tasting sips of the liquors while relaxing in their welcoming tasting room. All Good Things Must Come to an End No trip to Buellton, a stop on Highway 101, is complete without seeing the Sideways Inn, the site for the movie Sideways. The Inn served as the home for a week of two men on a bachelor trip before one of their impending weddings while exploring wine tastings and playing golf in the Santa Ynez Valley. The Inn has recently been remodeled. The lounge was the perfect place to end my day with a nightcap while sinking into one of their comfy lounge chairs. My three-day trek was more than worth the drive. I learned, and I laughed. I met gracious people, and Buellton, California, is now no longer a small town on Highway 101. It is a place with a great soul, and I look forward to what the next few years bring to this welcoming community. Kathy Condon is a freelance journalist and travel writer. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News. Kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com Facebook Instagram

I have a friend who is a photographer and adventurous as I am. In fact, on this last adventure, she turned and said to me, "We are such cool seniors." We laughed as we followed the dirt road that got rougher and with no perceivable end in sight. Caution needs to be taken when traveling in the high desert. Her daughter had sent her a link to a place we had not explored in the high desert. Since we had both been up there many times, and I was one time the marketing person for the Joshua Gateway Communities, we couldn't believe there was a place neither one of us had heard of, and we had lived in the area for nine years. We set a date, met up, and started our journey from Palm Springs on a recent Saturday morning. With the internet a tad unreliable in the high desert, she used her survival skills and took a snapshot of the directions in case our GPS went out, which it did about two miles from our destination. Street Signs Traveling in the High Desert I couldn't resist having her stop so I could take a picture of this street sign or, should I say, lane sign. How fun, and not something you see every day. The grading of the road obviously caused the road washboard effect. Yet, we wondered why people would take such care grading the roadway up here. Then we looked into the horizon and could see there were some homes on large plots of land. Second homes or full-time residents? There was no way to know. The directions told us to turn on the road to God's Love. Hmmm, was that a hint about what we were to experience? Welcome Sign At the entrance, two signs greeted us. On the Welcome Sign, which was permanent, and another welcoming wedding guests. Really? A wedding out here?? It must be a special place. We still had no idea what was in store for us at this point. We stopped to check in and met a man who was knowledgeable about the area and told us he and his girlfriend led nighttime sound baths. He told us to follow him up the last .8 of a mile. It was getting more interesting all the time. We parked our Car With hat, suntan lotion applied, and our cameras and water in hand, we set out on the final leg of the journey traveling in the high desert. Just a short walk and we looked up, and there was a house made of concrete perched among the branches of a tree with mosaic decorated wall aligning the stairs. The house from the Jetson cartoons was right before us. We proceeded up the hill, turned the bend, and entered a valley surrounded by boulders reminiscent of the ones found in Joshua Tree National Park. In the distance was the teepee the man had told us about and occupied by a long-time area resident. The man at the gate told us to be sure and stop and talk with him because of his knowledge about the area we were about to explore. We smiled as we approached, for a large solar panel was right outside the cement teepee. We timidly approached, but no need. Sitting outside were two gentlemen having lunch. They were open and graciously shared what we were about to see. Yet, it still did not fully register what a unique experience we were about to have on this journey. After warning us about the snakes, (my greatest fear), they sent us on our way and told us the places to explore. First, we came to the pond with a picturesque stone bridge, fish, frogs, and quails coming for a drink. Then we wound our way up a path and came to a manmade small pool with an outstanding tree art installation made of stone gracing the one end of it. I think it may have seen many incidents of skinny dipping there underneath the star-filled nighttime sky. In the distance, we heard roosters and a strange bird sound. It turned out to be peacocks secured in an art designer pen between some boulders. Similarly, the chickens had a pen with a large metal sun mounted at its entrance. There was a table and chair under a tree, surrounded by nature, which became my refuge as my friend set out to capture the beauty of this quiet meditative space. When she returned, I asked if this place was a photographer's dream. She replied, "I could stay here for hours." Yet, we had heard the winds were to pick up, and this was no place to be caught in a windstorm, for it was clear blowing sand could close the roads quickly. As we drove home, we marveled at what we had seen, and both said it was one of the more unique places we had experienced. I'm not sure I need to go back again, but I think my traveling companion will head up there again with a member of her family. A word of caution, this is not a place to travel all alone. It is too desolate if you run into an issue. Traveling in the high desert brings many great rewards. Where is it located? With respect to the residents, I have not shared the name of the place nor its exact location. If you want to know the name and location, please leave your address in the comment section, and I will send you the information. Kathy Condon is a freelance journalist and travel writer. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. Her book It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's All About Communication was named Best Book Finalist By USA Book News Kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com Facebook Instagram

I developed my website and blog because I was frustrated with how visitors thought Palm Springs and Coachella Valley were only about retirement, playing golf, lying in the sun, and drinking craft cocktails. Thus, I started writing about places I was discovering in the area. When you look at some of my blogs, I think you will understand there are a variety of attractions and places to explore. About two weeks ago, I got a personalized email asking if I would like to experience a massage at The Spa at Desert Springs in Palm Desert. With a road trip coming up, I immediately thought this might be the perfect activity to schedule after a week-long road trip. Last week, the time had come. I was working on emails and kept watching the clock because I didn't want to miss my 3:00 p.m. appointment. Seriously, I do not know what possessed me not to go earlier and relax in the spa before the allotted time. Besides, the resort is a gigantic complex, and I had no idea where the spa was located. I set out on this adventure. I call practically everything I do an adventure, for when one keeps her eyes open, one will notice beautiful things happening around you. The key is to look for the positive things happening. Pulling into the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa Fortunately, the Marriot's signage is superb. I wound my way past the pink flamingos wading in the pond lined with tall palm trees. The signs directed me past the main building, a parking lot, and down to the end of the complex. I smiled because I was running late and was concerned about parking. No problem, there is plenty of parking steps away from the entrance. Checking into the Luxury Spa in Palm Desert I walked into the entrance and immediately felt calmer, for the greeter assured me there was absolutely no problem and all was well. I was escorted to the hallowed area of this luxury spa in Palm Desert to the women's locker room. What struck me immediately was the walnut-colored wood paneling that graced spaces wherever I looked. With my locker assigned, I changed into the provided white robe. If the attendant asks if you want a slide shoe, say yes, for you will be going through wet areas at the pool. Plus, you can wear them in the shower. I discovered I should have asked for a size smaller than I usually wear—a subtle nod, but it felt good--maybe my feet weren't so big after all. Time for a Massage at the Spa Immediately after walking out of the locker room, my masseuse was waiting for me, and we walked down the hallway graced with beautiful wood paneling and apparent new carpet. As I lay down on the table, my anticipation of letting some stress go made me sink even deeper into an appreciation for this experience. A lavender scent permeated the room. For one hour, yes, it was all about me, and I loved every minute of it at the luxury spa in Palm Desert. Time to Explore the Spa Since I hadn't had time to tour the spa before my massage, an attendant showed me the many experiences I could have while luxuriating in this spa. Love saunas? I have never been to a spa where there was a very hot sauna, one you have experienced before, and my favorite is the lavender sauna. Watermelon and Zinc-infused water was refreshing and made you think you were having a craft cocktail without the alcohol. An inside hot tub was steps away from the sauna. Take a step through the door to the outside, and the co-ed pool, used only by spa clients, is waiting for you. Lounge chairs in royal blue and umbrellas were so inviting, but time was running out, for the spa closes at 5:00 p.m. Lounge Areas at the Spa I chose to head to the quiet room. I stretched out on the lounge and sipped more infused water as I listened to the soft music playing in the background. The women next to me took a nap; like me, I believe they felt so safe, relaxed, and very pampered. Next to this lounge area, long subtle colored, gold sheer drapes provide a refuge with comfy sofas hugging the walls and lined with pillows—the perfect place to pull out the book you have been wanting to read. No cell phones are allowed. Need a Bite to Eat When You are at the Spa? The bistro offers healthy food options. If you want to eat poolside, place your order with an attendant. Time to Leave the Spa The shower is roomy and stocked with body wash and hair products when ready. Wrap yourself in a white plush towel and take your swimming suit to the spin dryer. After your shower, creamy, fragrant lotions add to the experience. Checking Out of the Spa Since I was a newcomer to the spa, I was pleased. Dawn, the manager, asked me if I wanted to see a couple more spaces. Again, we walked down the hall, and she opened a beautiful space for rent for ten people. There was a large comfy sofa, a large spa tub, and a patio with tables and chairs if you desired to order a meal from the bistro. The private attached patio has ample space to stretch out and appreciate the California weather. Our second stop was really a couple's space. Two massage tables and a giant tub are there waiting for their guests. Imagine this: they light candles, you can have champagne, etc. Romantic? You bet. When I was driving home, not only was I relaxed my aches were substantially reduced. I hadn't been noticing how my body was crying out for attention. AND I couldn't wait to get home and call my friends about the adventure and discovery I had made this afternoon at the spa. One of them I knew would undoubtedly want to include it on her schedule the next time she visited me. If you need a quiet change of pace, I highly recommend you call The Spa at Desert Springs and make a reservation. Yes, they offer a Day Pass, in which the fee is eliminated if you also schedule a spa treatment. You are welcome. 😊 Kathy Condon is an award-winning author, journalist, and travel writer with numerous articles published online and in magazines. Kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringInsiderGuide.com Facebook Instagram

Many of you followed my quasi-vacation to the Northwest, specifically Bellevue, Vancouver, Washington; Gearhart, Oregon; and Astoria, Oregon. My 17-day odyssey included laughter, hugs, exploration of new areas, and fabulous food. My transportation included: Airplanes, which I can happily report were on time and had no lost baggage, a scenic train ride, and a road trip. Now that I have recovered from Travel Fog, it is time to focus on the many articles queried and approved by publications before I left on the journey. Meanwhile, my brain dances with new possible queries, like writing about The Coffee Girls, a place hidden away on an Astoria, Oregon pier and frozen in time. Planning a Visit to Bellevue Washington The planning for the trip began when my friends in Palm Desert, Sheri of California Caftans, and her husband, David, came home from a date. I took care of their dogs that evening. When they came home that night, they took out their calendar and asked when I was coming to stay with them in their Bellevue, Washington, home next summer. We settled on the end of August. Arrival in Bellevue the beginning of Exploring the Washington and Oregon Attractions The August day came, and I flew into Everett Field, Washington. Immediately upon being picked up, David began a tremendously informative tour through easily accessible areas of the Boeing manufacturing complex. Believed to be the largest one-level building in the world, sliding open doors revealed planes in various stages of construction as far as the eye could see. I got out of the car at their home and started breathing in the fresh evening air on the patio surrounded by evergreen trees. I sensed it was going to be a very good six days. Indeed, it was relaxing, filled with laughter, good food, and winetasting. I am grateful to Visit Bellevue for organizing some of our adventures. Amtrak Train Ride to Vancouver Washington The bus ride from Everett to connect with Amtrak was filled to the brim. With its ornate cornices and snow-white interior, Union Station in downtown Seattle was a joy to see again. The train ride was filled with beautiful scenery, following along the Columbia River to my destination of Vancouver, Washington. My friend of 30-plus years, Molly Silva, picked me up and ushered me into my room in her beautiful new condo, again with a lovely patio surrounded by tall evergreen trees. Reconnecting with Friends in Vancouver Washington Vancouver had been my home for 26 years before I moved to Palm Springs 10 years ago. I was thrilled to have breakfast with friends, coffee, dinner, and just quick conversations that resulted from people seeing my posts on Facebook. Checking into the AC Vancouver Waterfront Hotel I was asked to review the AC Vancouver Waterfront Hotel through my travel writing work and was granted a two-night stay. This beautiful hotel perched on the Columbia River's edge open in June of 2022. I quickly noticed the little things, cocktail cubes embossed with AC, Tug the robot ready to serve, a square-shaped toilet, and a spectacular view from my room overlooking the river. Again, more information will come out in my articles about this casual yet luxury feel hotel. Road Trip to Gearhart Beach With the journey of Washington and Oregon attractions on the Washington side on Highway 4, we marveled that there was no traffic, even on a holiday weekend. This destination was truly a vacation for me, an arranged stay with a dear friend of 30-plus years. Her former beach house has now become her permanent residence, and the gardens surrounding it flourish under her green thumb. We made morning trail walks to the ocean beach, dined in the area, and reveled in Mary's knowledge of history and places surrounding the beach towns of Seaside, Cannon Beach, Astoria, and Gearhart. As a trustee of the Columbia River Maritime Museum in Astoria, her knowledge and tour brought to life the essence of the ships' perilous trips over the world's most dangerous bar where the Pacific Ocean and Columbia River meet. Checked into the Cannery Pier Hotel and Spa in Astoria Oregon On this trip, I was assigned the great duty of reviewing the Cannery Pier Hotel and Spa on the ocean's edge in Astoria, California. On a hunch, we arrived mid-morning and were thrilled we could check into our room with a full ocean view. So much to share with you in the future. Let's say, for now, it was terribly hard to pry ourselves away from this luxurious yet casual, romantic hotel, newly opened after an entire remodel in April 2022. Trip Through Portland Oregon on the Way to Lake Oswego Oregon My final planned stop was lunch in Lake Oswego. I was hoping we would have lunch on my friends' deck, which I knew was surrounded by evergreens, so I could get one last time to enjoy the incredible weather of the Northwest that followed me for the entire time of my journey. Paula and Scott did not disappoint. Greeted with Prosecco and a toast to long friendships, we thoroughly enjoyed a shrimp salad accompanied by fresh garden tomatoes. Let's say all had a good time. Flight Home on United Airlines An early-morning flight on United Airlines from Portland was made stress-free by my friend Pennie's ride to the airport. With no delays in Portland or San Francisco, where I changed planes, arrival was on time for a terrific greeting from Palm Springs friend Rob. Final Part of the Journey With a suitcase in hand, I opened the door to my condo. All was well, even though temperatures had hovered over 110 degrees a fair amount of the time I was gone, while I enjoyed perfect weather in the Northwest. For many reasons, seeing Washington and Oregon attractions was a magnificent trip. I am thrilled I get to relive the adventure and will share more detailed descriptions of the places mentioned above. Now, it is time to settle in, tends to my dog-sitting duties, and write my promised articles for various publications. Kathy Condon is a journalist and travel writer who has been to 29 countries, 16 islands and 49 states (Alaska on the bucket list). www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094 Instagram