Are you wondering what you can expect? Here is a view of what to expect in our community as of today, July 30, 2020. Please understand conditions can change. You will be greeted by flashing, temporary signs stating masks are necessary. A little farther downtown Palm Springs Drive you will see the banner stretched across the street again reminded you masks are mandatory. AND our community is VERY serious about this regulation. Shopping Our retail stores are open. As one would assume, this period tested our retailers to the max to become innovative. You will see lots of plexiglass, and signs in the window warning you masks are required. Some stores are more bare than usual and understandable since many of them are struggling to pay their rent. New inventory is not in their budgets, which have shrunk for customers who are few during the weekdays. However, you will still find fun, useful items you need or to remind you of your visit to our quaint community. Shopkeepers will welcome you and willing to share their knowledge of their many products and the great attributes of our community. Dining Outside dining is available. Many of our restaurants have been able to adapt their patios, lawns, and parking lots to delightful places to enjoy time with your friend and families. If you have been to our community and have developed an appreciation for a particular restaurant that has only indoor dining, it is closed to diners. However, it behooves you to check those restaurant websites or give them a call. They may offer curbside pickup. Museums are Closed We are looking forward to the time when we can see exhibits. You might want to sign up for Palm Springs Art Museum newsletter, which offers some peeks in the collection through videos. The Palm Springs Air Museum is closed. However, recently they honored our essential workers with a flyover across the entire Coachella Valley. Hotels and Rental homes They are open, with strict regulations. Large groups can be sure they will not be looked upon kindly by local citizens. While wanting to welcome you, we trust you will honor the community in which we live. Hiking Trails Our trails are open and request you honor social distancing and wear your mask when you are in the vicinity of others. However, it is extremely hot now, so your hiking needs to be scheduled in the morning. Be sure to carry more water than you think you will need. Morning and Evening Walks in our Neighborhoods We all require exercise. A great way to explore our community is to walk through our neighborhoods. Each one of them is different from unexpected landscaping, unusual gates with both western and modernism architecture. Sculptures show up in unexpected places in this community. Don’t forget to look down and see our stars dedicated to movie stars who once graced our area and leaders who made this community a place we all love to call home. We welcome you and appreciate your patience as we adjust and look forward to the day where we can welcome you to our many events and special places. Kathy Condon is a freelance travel writer and blogger. 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 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

One of the most asked questions: I have a half day available. What would you do with the time? One-Half Day Trip to High Desert from Palm Springs There continues to be controversy about whether the area 40 miles from Palm Springs should be called the high desert. Recently, the community has embraced the phrase Joshua Tree Gateway Communities for describing this 100 mile stretch on Highway 62. In any case, let me share with you my adventure, just yesterday, I highly recommend. You will need your own car. This particular journey is NOT taking you into Joshua Tree National Park. We Are Off My traveling companion picked me up at my home in Palm Springs at 10:00 a.m. We headed straight North on Indian Canyon Drive. It dead-ends at Hwy 62. Turn right, and you are on the way. As you head up the winding mountain, the passenger should keep an eye open for Big Horn Sheep grazing on the floor of the canyon. Joshua Trees are found at elevations of 2,000 to 6,000 feet, so you will start seeing them as you go up the mountain. I’m writing this at the end of March and they are beginning to blossom. If you have never seen a Joshua tree, even when they are not blooming, it is worth the trip to see these magnificent trees. If you want to get up close and personal with a Joshua tree, without going to the National Park, as you come over the mountain into Yucca Valley, you will see places to pull over and get a closer look. Once you take you Joshua tree photos, get back on Hwy 62, head east until you get to Old Women Springs Road. Turn left, and you are on then on the way to the Gublers Orchid Farm. It is 15 miles from the town of Yucca Valley in Landers. As a visitor, you will find it interesting to see the change in the landscape. Gubler Orchids Greenhouses in Landers Yes, there is an amazing orchid farm in the desert that grows and ships orchids to Lowes and Ralphs in Southern California. Frankly, people don’t know about this place. I guess that is why I might even call this The Palm Spring Insider Guide Secret places. When you see the sign for Landers, turn right. Go straight until you see the well-marked sign to turn left to the orchid farm. It’s down about a mile on the left. There is plenty of easy parking. Don’t be alarm when no one in the parking lot. People just don’t know about this place. It is just before the Integratron if you have been there for their sound baths. By the way, wear closed-toed shoes. Without them you can view the gorgeous showroom, but you will not be allowed into the greenhouses, so you would miss the tour. When we arrive, this particular day, there was a sign on the door, We’re open; but please call this number, and we will greet you at the door shortly. We called, and they graciously opened the door. We looked around the showroom and then we were off on our terrific 20 to 25-minute tour. We purchased a couple award-winning orchids in the showroom. There is a large selection of sizes and varieties available. I could go on and on about the tour, but I don’t want to spoil it for you. Let’s just say, no matter how many times I go there or who I take, we walk away thinking I’m so glad we did make an effort to come here. Joshua tree Saloon Bar and Grill Stop for Lunch Retrace your steps; go back down the mountain to Hwy 62. Once there, turn left and head to the town of Joshua Tree. Travel about six miles and you’ll see the town at the foot of the hill. Keep your eye open as you travel through the town. The Saloon is at the far end on the right. There is plenty of parking. This is the place where the serious hikers stop, and people wanting a feeling of the Old West without going to Pioneer town. I have a different motive; however, for I’m determined to have my friend experience deep-fried dill pickles. As suspected, he agreed they were tasty, real dill pickles and a new, fun experience. Lots of items on the menu so the most discriminating eater, can find something here. Time to head back to Palm Springs. Our entire trip was 4.5 hours. So plenty of time to relax around the pool, then get ready for Happy Hour or dinner. If you choose to spend more time in the Joshua Tree area and have an RV, you might want to check out this link about camping in Joshua Tree National Park https://www.your-rv-lifestyle.com/rv-camping-in-joshua-tree-national-park/ Kathy Condon is a travel writer and blogger. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guider 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

While much of the world believe it is very expensive to live in Palm Springs, locals know their budgets are smaller once you get your housing situation figured out. We have a plethora of activities, many of which are admission free. Here is a list of newsletters you might want to sign up for in advance of your arrival. Palm Springs Art Museum The museum has free admission from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m on Thursday nights. When you sign up for its newsletter, you will be able to review a list of lectures and other events. The newsletter is a wealth of information for art aficionados. Palm Springs Library This library is a source of a number of interesting activities. For example, the library is a participant in the development of Palm Springs Speaks: A series where national figures share their opinions and expertise. Rancho Mirage Library This newsletter is an eclectic source of lectures and activities. Their lectures include authors from various genres, movie series, concerts and educational programs in conjunction with the Observatory. Sunnylands Behind the Pink Wall Activities on this 200-acre estate given to the City of Rancho Mirage abound. With a mandate by the Annenbergs to provide educational opportunities, the Board stays true to the mission. There are far too many regular events to mention. Thus, when you sign up for the newsletter, you will see events and activities ranging from yoga to movies on the great lawn in the evening to specialized tours of the grounds and the house. University of California Riverside Palm Desert Campus We are fortunate to have this campus in Coachella Valley. Lectures are frequent during the academic year. Authors and scientists present in an intimate venue, where one can easily ask questions. These presentations are becoming more and more popular; thus, you will want to make reservations in advance if you want to attend. The resources above provide you, the visitor, a wealth of information to enhance your visit. If you are visiting our community, more than a couple of days, you can learn while meeting many local people who are engaging and willing to share more information with you. Kathy Condon is a freelance travel writer and blogger. 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 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

The journey through Needles, California on, Highway 40, shouldn’t be just a stop for gas or food. There are interesting sites, beautiful views, and much to learn about United States history. It is an easy drive three-hour drive from Palm Springs, California. Once people learned, I was going to Needles, California for three-days they said things like: Have you ever been to Needles? Why in the world would you want to go to Needles? Frankly, a search for articles online about Needles were not any more encouraging. A believer in the fact there are always stories to uncover, the trip continued. The link below gives a prospective visitor an overview of the history and location of an awakening town of 5200 people. https://www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/blog/post/needles-california-located-on-route-66-embraces-its-heritage/ When you are planning your trip to Needles, California, you will not want to miss this information about places where to stay or things to see. https://www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/blog/post/plan-a-trip-to-needles-california/

Visits to Palm Springs often include the prerequisite visit to the Tramway, the Living Desert, Thursday nights Street Fairs, and the Street Fair of College of the Desert. One can read many articles written about them, and most certainly, they are interesting and informative stops for anyone coming to Coachella Valley. There are several newsletters and social media sites you can sign up in advance of your trip. By doing so, you are more likely to discover more special events and hidden opportunities to discover the “real” Palm Springs. Listed below is a partial list by category. Interested in Art? Palm Springs Art Museum If you sign up for the Palm Springs Art Museum’s newsletter, you might be able to catch the informative lectures or catch one of the Docent tours. International Film Festival Coming in January? Surely, you will want to get the list of movies that will be shown and get your tickets in advance. California Desert Arts Council Their newsletter covers new installations, lectures, and events happening in the Joshua Tree area. You might even find an opportunity to volunteer while you are visiting. Interested in History? Historical Societies No question, newsletters from the various cities Historical Societies will reveal some interesting factoids about the history throughout the Coachella Valley, and you will learn if there might be a special lecture scheduled during your visit. A particularly active one is the Palm Springs Historical Society, for most of the Valley’s development began in Palm Springs. Modernism Week Modernism Preview week happens at the end of October. However, 2020 dates are February 13-23, 2020. Sign up for their newsletter to get tickets and announcements of additional events. Overview of the Area Great Palm Springs Convention and Tourism Bureau This newsletter is always fun to get. Not only do they highlight major locations in the area, they often release videos that will serve as advertising for us throughout the world. Palm Springs Point of View This site does a great job of highlighting our valley through videos. The duo has made it their profession to show you and all of us places throughout the Valley. Oh yes, you can expect to smile while watching them. Palm Springs Insider Guide An unabashed plug, my own Palm Springs Insider Guide, continues to involve and include in-depth articles about places of interest you might not discover on your own. The tips, in italics, are meant to provide you information that will enhance your visit. The information listed above is not an exhaustive list. Yet, it is an excellent start for anyone planning to spend time in our community. Kathy Condon is a freelance travel writer and blogger. 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 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

Many of us had the privilege of going to the Educational Center at Sunnylands on the 200 acres Annenberg Estate in Rancho Mirage. Behind the Pink Wall, we may have taken the garden tour and scored the scarce tickets for viewing the inside of the 2500 square feet house. It was the center of social scene in Coachella Valley when the Annenberg’s were alive. The house is now used as a meeting place for world leaders and a gathering place for think tanks on world issues and is self-supported through the Annenberg Foundation. Yet, up until now, the private golf course remained off-limits. Then there was the announcement, 200 total volunteers were needed over two days to help harvest the olives from the trees which line the private course. Access would be through a gate that would be opened only for us. Entering the Gate and Team Assignment We brought with us papers granting photo rights, and proof we were one of the privileged few to be registered. We arrived at the gate full of anticipation of what lies ahead for this unusual adventure. Our cars were parked along an idyllic pond covered with water lilies. We received our nametags and colored coded wristband to identify team placement. Then we were whisked off across the fairways on golf carts to our assigned team. Meanwhile, we appreciated the crisp desert morning air, the majestic view, and watched as the clouds danced on the distant mountains. The Annenberg’s planted 600 olive trees on the estate for their beauty. However, they were sprayed, so they did not produce olives. Realizing the spraying was detrimental to the trees in the long term, caretakers decided to let the trees bear fruit. So this year, with its abundance of olives, provided an opportunity for the estate to offer an educational experience. The Process A cherry picker is used to lift a person high into the tree. Once positioned, using a tool that has prongs on it is slipped in among the leaves. It literally shakes the olives off the trees into the waiting nets place strategically around the tree. Then with a blower, excess debris is blown off the olives. The volunteers found their spot on the ground next to a pile of olives. Then they proceed to pick off still attached stems and put the olives into five-gallon buckets. The pails of olives are then transported to a mobile olive pressing trailer. The oil goes into a stainless steel tank. Olives used are at all different levels of ripeness, so both green and ripe olives are treated equally. The pulp goes into giant tubs and looks like thick mud. Some of us took home some olive pulp and treated ourselves to a facial. Very cooling and refreshing. The Final Product The olive oil is taken to the Temecula Olive Oil Company, about 75 miles from Palm Springs. The olive oil will be bottled and receive a Sunnylands label. It is anticipated it will be for sale in the Sunnylands gift shop in November. Rest and Celebration Once our half-day adventure came to a close, we were invited to a delicious organic lunch, complete with bamboo utensils and cookies made with olive oil. We were delighted to be given a little cup to taste the olive oil from the olives we had just help harvest to taste. Once we were ready to leave, we were handed a great Sunnylands apron. We found our chariot, well golf carts, and were taken back to our cars. By now, the temperatures had risen. The gentle breeze was welcomed. During the ride back, we had still another opportunity to be witness to even more acreage of this vast estate. Next Year? It is anticipated volunteers will have the opportunity to have this terrific adventure next year. I would advise you to sign up for Sunnylands newsletter, Behind the Pink Wall. Then you will be the first to receive notification of not only this fabulous experience but many other experiences they offer through the course of the year. Kathy Condon is a Palm Springs freelance travel writer and blogger. 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 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

Deciding whether or not you want to come to Palm Springs in October? Here three good reasons why it is a good idea to make reservations for your trip: 1. The weather, more than likely, will be terrific. 2. Modernism Fall Preview Week is October 17 – 20, 2019. 3. October is a month of renewal here. Restaurants have revamped their menus, and store owners open their doors with an array of new products. In truth, we consider it the beginning of the tourism season in our lovely communities. Check Palm Springs Life Magazine event schedule. You will see many of the activities throughout the Coachella Valley have no cost attached to them. Modernism Fall Preview Week If you haven’t heard, February 13 – 23, 2020, dates are set for Modernism Week. Yes, I know that is ten days, but who am I to quibble with a name, when it serves as a fabulous marketing tool for this outstanding event. Over 100,000 people from all over the world came to Coachella Valley last year. They came to learn, look, and receive inspiration from the many scholars, open houses, and tours which permeate throughout our communities. Last year, there were 320 events. So if you are not into large crowds, I highly suggest you hop over to the Modernism Week website and seek out tickets for a visit in October instead. This is a scaled-back version of Modernism Week. My suggestion would be to get tickets for the tour on the open-air, double-decker bus. The tour is usually about 2.5 hours and lead by extremely knowledgeable volunteers. You will receive a terrific overview of the residential and commercial buildings, in Palm Springs, which stand as a beacon for the architectural called “Modernism.” Note, I said, “Open Air.” So bring your sunscreen and a hat. If you are going early in the morning or late at night, you might want to bring a jacket. Reminder, a refillable water bottle is pretty much a “must-have” staple for any visit to Palm Springs. I’d like to say, you can make up your mind what you would like to see close up after the tour. Alas, the tickets for the popular places pretty much will be sold out for Preview Week. However, if you plan to come back in February, you still may have a chance to get tickets for even the most popular destinations and lectures. Oh, I forgot to mention, there are some opportunities to attend some great cocktail parties at some of the homes, which are typically not accessible to the public. Remember, we are a town where Old Hollywood came to play. You can and get a glimpse of the homes where they lived and played. So head over to the Modernism website, check the event list, and sign up for something that piques your interest. You will not be disappointed. Kathy Condon is a freelance travel writer and blogger. 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 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

Palm Springs Site for filming and recording The Dreamboats new song Water Under the Bridge.

The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage is perched high above Coachella Valley. Those who discover this hotel find a place of tranquility and the perfect place to rejuvenate after a busy workweek. Located 150 miles from San Diego and 120 miles from Los Angeles, it is quickly becoming a destination weekend for residents from these cities. For those who have stayed and appreciate The Ritz hotels, they can expect the same level of quality and service. Drive up to and Parking The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage is located on Frank Sinatra Drive. Though since most of use Hwy 111 as we traverse through Coachella Valley, you will want to turn West on Sinatra Drive from Hwy 111. You know you are on the way to the mountain top, and the hotel, for you will see a beautiful water feature on the right side as you make the turn. More than one person mentions the beauty on the drive up. Landscaped with stone planters that overflow with deep red bougainvilleas cannot be unnoticed by you for they are spectacular. No building of any kind for most of the drive enables you to soak in the beauty of the landscape, which includes mountains in the distance and native plants, which abound. You’ll see a sign for the entrance on the left of the road. Park your car right in front. All parking is a valet. Once you are up there, you will clearly see why. If you are coming for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, get your parking ticket validated, so there will be no cost. Though keep in mind the valets, very much appreciates a tip. Entering the Hotel The minute you walk in, you will feel like you are in for a special treat. If you are not staying here, be sure to walk over by the Registration Desk and see the creative, ever-changing fresh floral displays. Straight ahead is a direct path to the restaurant and bar area called State Fare. If the weather is to your liking, ask to be seated on the patio. The food and drinks here are superb and very creative. Frankly, my surprise was the avocado fries. Not only are they addictive, but also avocado fries are a treat to share with your friends while getting caught up. Craving for a superb Old Fashion, you will find it here. Stroll through the grounds of the hotel. They are beautifully landscaped and beckon you to the area where the fire pit, with the hot tub nearby, can warm you on a breezy evening night while you take in the view overlooking the entire Valley. The Edge Restaurant Looking for a place with fabulous steaks, impeccable service, and a view, then you will want to go here. This is the place to celebrate for there is no way you will be disappointed. The restaurant is small and in demand. Often it takes up to two weeks to get a reservation, so be sure to plan ahead so you can have this special experience and delectable meal. Other Amenities on the Premises As you would expect, there is a full-service spa connected to the hotel. There is a privately owned gift shop called California Style, which has become a favorite spot for locals to buy unusual gifts for their inventory changes frequently. So what are you waiting for? Make your reservation to stay at the hotel, meet friends for cocktails or a meal, and experience this venue many people miss when they come to Coachella Valley. The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage 68900 Frank Sinatra Drive Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 844-383-5983 Kathy Condon is a freelance travel writer and blogger. 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 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

You have always wanted to visit Palm Springs; however, your only vacation time is in the summer. Is there anything to do? Perhaps, the most asked question by tourists visiting Palm Springs of we locals is, How do you survive the summer heat? Listed below are places and activities that are readily available for anyone who decides to brave our summer with an average temperature hovering around 108 degrees in July. It is strongly recommend you do the following things before you leave your hotel room: 1. Put on suntan lotion. 2. Fill your refillable water bottle. 3. Grab your hat. 4. Put on your sunglasses. Shopping Activities I recommend you head out before 10:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. to go to the store to get supplies. Yes, the stores will be more crowded, but trust me the thought of even carrying a bag of groceries from the store to car in 110 temperatures is not for the faint of heart. If you want to shop for anything else, our storekeepers will be thrilled to have you enter their stores at any time. This is a terrific time for bargains for store owners are trusting their sales will lure you into their establishments. Keep in mind, once you are inside you will be perfectly comfortable for air conditioning abounds in Palm Springs. Pool Time Needless to say, pools are everywhere. Here is an article from our local paper, in the Desert Sun which, shares with you all the places you can go, and if there is a cost associated with them. This would be a fun way to expand your pool experiences throughout the Coachella Valley. So you want to tan? We locals highly recommend, in the summer, work on your suntan before 12:00. Be sure to use suntan lotion. If that isn’t enough pool time for you, just know it is heavenly going for swims in the warm desert air after the sun goes down. Want to meet with friends in a casual atmosphere? Invite them for poolside cocktails. I have always wondered if Pool Parties originated in Palm Springs. Dining Gone are the days, when you visited Palm Springs, most of the restaurants are closed. They may take a couple of weeks off or a month for refurbishing, but most are operating as usual. Perhaps, they will have reduced hours; yet, you can check their websites. Outside dining is still available on many of the restaurant patios for water misters produce a lovely cooling effect. You can eat out three meals a day at a different restaurant and not repeat a restaurant for they are so many choices. I have started writing about some of them on my blog, Palm Springs Insider Guide just search category Food on the blog menu. Activities The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you up to an elevation of 8,516 ft, on the world's largest rotating tram car. You can expect to find it 15 to 20 degrees cooler at the top. The ride is spectacular. A great time to go is about 4:00 p.m., so you can experience the ride up in the daylight, and then have dinner or cocktails up there and come down after the sunsets. Love art? You will want to visit our Palm Springs Art Museum. This magnificent building has an expansive art collection and even its own sculpture garden. There is a branch of it down the street which holds abundant information on the architecture of our city and definitely worth in-depth look at our Modernism architecture. Check their website to see what exhibit, lectures or films being offered while you are in our city. Aviation Enthusiasts will be thrilled to see the Palm Springs Air Museum. Visitors may meet veterans sharing their stories about the vintage planes. Be sure to check their summer hours. Make sure you take your water bottle with you for the hangers are not air condition. The museum is totally handicap accessible. If you fancy gambling and are feeling lucky, you can head to our newly remodeled Agua Caliente Spa Resort Casino There is no spa there at the moment. When you see the massive construction going on near the casino, that is where the new Spa will be located along with the long-awaited Indian Cultural Museum opening in 2020. In Closing Palm Springs no longer is a sleepy little village or perceived as the town with just older people. Summer is the perfect time to explore. So when are you going to book your airline ticket or plan your road-trip for a weekend getaway? Kathy Condon is a travel writer and blogger. 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 http://www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

Let’s assume you are staying downtown Palm Springs. Read my blog Plan Your Visit to Palm Springs so you will understand why I am starting out with this point. I am assuming you have a car for this day’s adventure. The mornings are glorious here. So if you are a hiker, you will want to put on your hiking clothes and head out about 7:00 a.m. There are plenty of trails. Check out All Trails for a detail list of trails in the area. First-time visitors find Tahquitz Canyon Loop an easy one to maneuver without taking up a significant portion of your day. Be sure to wear a hat, comfortable hiking shoes, flip-flops won’t work. Take more water than you think you will need. You will be surprised once the sun comes up, how warm it gets. Breakfast Don’t want to go back to the hotel just yet? Then head down to Pinocchio’s It is in the middle of downtown and where we locals hang out. You can expect hearty breakfast. You earned it after your hike to see Tahquitz Falls. Back to your hotel It’s time to shower and dress in your casual clothes. Anything goes in Palm Springs, though it appreciated if men wear shirts downtown. Otherwise, just dress in your hip summer clothes, and you will fit right in. Plan ahead and make a reservation for dinner at Spencer’s for the evening. When you call, mention you would like to sit on the patio. While they say they can't promise you a table there, it is good to ask for when you come in there is a better chance you will be seated in this magnificent setting. Exploring Begins Sunglasses and water in hand, I suggest you head out to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert for two reasons: 1. The drive down Hwy 111 from Palm Springs, will take you through the communities of Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, and Palm Desert. You will start to see all the cities have their own personalities. 2. The Living Desert is like no other place you have been. Just stay on Hwy 111, and you will see signs for the Living Desert. Park in their vast parking lot (it’s free) Remember to grab those hats and water. While the entrance fee seems a bit steep, I can assure you all the members of your family will have a delightful time. It is educational, relaxing, and exposes all to the plants and animals that live in the deserts throughout the world. It was my first exposure to a desert oasis, for example. This is a place to relax, learn, and marvel at a world, most likely, you have been unfamiliar. It is totally handicap accessible. For a small fee, you can get a ticket to ride a golf-cart-like vehicle, throughout the park. You can get off and on whenever you want. There are strollers available for the little ones. Time to Head back to Palm Springs By now folks are probably getting a bit hungry. The plethora of places for snacks downtown Palm Springs is a bit overwhelming. I’d recommend you try one of our famous date shakes. Be prepared, after eating one you will be more than full. If you want lighter fare, there are lots of choices. If shopping is on your agenda, here’ the place to browse and get your souvenirs. Pool Time We, locals, tend to forget people come to Palm Springs to relax around the pool since we do it practically year round here. Thus, I have built it into this schedule. While some will say the afternoon is the hottest time of day, I have found, this when I need to be refreshed. Besides, with suntan lotion and umbrellas, you’ll be just fine. Dinner Time As the sun sets, you'll be reminded it is time for dinner. Business, casual clothes are perfect attire for dinner at Spencer’s. No matter what you order, you cannot go wrong. Food is superb, ambiance beautiful and service impeccable. This is also our go-to place for special celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. Please note when I mention a place, I have provided a website link. I want to make sure you have current information. It is my goal to support you on your brief visit to Palm Springs, located in the north end of Coachella Valley. Kathy Condon is a travel writer and blogger. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guider 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

Since I have had the experience of working in the gift shop, California Style in the Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage see what people wish they had packed. Thus, here is what I deem as essentials items for a Coachella Valley visit. I am using the term Coachella Valley since you may be staying in any of the nine cities that make up our valley. See my blog www.palmspringinsiderguide.com A hat Especially during the mid-day sun when you are at the pool, hiking or even running errands, you will be grateful you remembered to pack a hat. Don’t forget to pack hats for the children too. I learned from a dermatologist one should make sure the brim is at least 4 inches wide to receive the best protection from the sun. Sunglasses We go no place without them here. As a side note, one rarely loses her sunglasses here for they are always in use. You may also want to buy in advance sunglass readers if you are planning to spend time around the pool reading. Swimming Suit Even if you think you don’t want to be seen in a swimming suit, you are much better off buying one while you are home. More than likely you will be cajoled into at least a hot tub experience while you are here. It should be noted, while you would think we have plenty of places to get swimming suits here, the variety and styles are limited. Merchants have come to believe you already have one so, few places carry them. A Book or your Kindle You are thinking to yourself, Surely, they will have lots of reading material. Nope, nada. Bookstores are rare in the Valley. The chances of you finding the exact book you have been wanting to read slim. Magazines are also scarce here too. Water bottle Palm Springs is getting on the bandwagon. I suspect before long, disposable water bottles will be banned in our area. So bring your favorite one or else you’ll end having to buy one here. Hiking Shoes More than likely you will succumb to the lure of the many hiking trails in the area. Especially if you are planning to go to Joshua Tree National Park, you will need them. Suntan Lotion You’ll need far more than TSA will allow you to carry on. So unless you have checked luggage, you are far better off buying it here. Day Attire Pretty much anything goes for both men and women. Shorts, sundresses both long and short are pretty much standard dress for women. While certain areas are pleased to have men topless (wink, wink) other locals appreciate men wearing,shirts while enjoying our downtown districts. Be sure you bring good walking shoes or sandals. I suspect you will be walking much more than you expected. Keep in mind, once the sun goes down, our temperature changes a great deal, so pack more than one sweater any time of year just in case. Evening Attire Men: Ties and suits can be left at home unless you know you are going to a formal wedding or fundraiser. However, men should bring a pair of nice slacks for a few restaurants have a “no shorts policy” for evening meals. Don’t forget to pack a belt. By the way, when going out to dinner, men are often seen with great print shirts, often long sleeve, throughout the year. Women: Pack some of your glitzy tops, skirts and long dresses. Palm Springs still appreciates a little glamour, especially when going out to dinner. Now is the time to bring along the light-weight shawl, Aunt Mable gave you, for the air conditioning in our restaurants can get pretty chilly. Finally, if you are coming in the winter, say mid-December through the end of January, be sure to pack sweaters, clothing you can layer and a jacket. We’ve discovered a down vest is perfect for our colder days. Send me a note if you are wondering if you should bring something you are the fence about, I’ll be happy to share my knowledge and opinion with you. Kathy Condon is a travel writer and blogger. She is the Founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guider 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