Palm Springs Getaway

Poolside at the Palm Springs Riviera Resort & Spa

Southern California offers a cornucopia of nearby getaways.  It’s possible to play in the snow part of the day and spend the afternoon boating or swimming.  Head to the desert, the mountains or the seashore…so many options to choose from in the Southland.
One sunny January day I decided to head out to the desert, Palm Springs to be exact, for some R&R.  The venerable Riviera Hotel was my base mostly because of its convenient location…walking distance from the heart of town.  I found the pool area particularly inviting and enjoyed several poolside meals under the warm California sun.  A massage was just the ticket to get me relaxed and in the mood for my mini-vacation.  My friend and I were shown into the spa’s attractive waiting area complete with several water features and private relaxing rooms.  We immediately hopped in the hot tub, fortunately wearing our bathing suits since this is a co-ed area although we found no warning signs that we might be joined by spa goers of the opposite sex.
We had booked reservations for the Palm Springs Follies now in its 22nd season,

Home of the Palm Springs Follies

each year offering a brand new theme and featuring a cast of 50 plus – that is age – not how many in the cast.  The Follies presents men and women who have obviously discovered the fountain of youth.  These are glamor girls with Las Vegas showgirl bodies sporting fabulous costumes and delivering exciting dance routines.  The more than two hour show filled with a variety of acts including the wit of Impresario Riff Markowitz plus a revolving cast of famous names in show business.
Every Thursday evening Palm Springs main drag is blocked off for an open air fair featuring fabulous food and fascinating items for sale along with a variety of live entertainment.  Lots of shops and restaurants stay open extra late so it becomes quite a happening.  We strolled through the milieu, stopped to admire several items on display and for dinner, settled on delicious paella under the stars while watching the crowds pass by. It’s a warm and welcoming weekly neighborly gathering.
We spent one afternoon enjoying a ride on the rotating Palm Springs Aerial

Palm Springs Tram

Tramway into the snow covered Mount San Jacinto State Park. The ride to the top offered spectacular views of the mountains and the desert for miles.  It is California at its best when you can lie poolside in your bathing suit and minutes later be frolicking in the snow.  We investigated a small part of the miles and miles of open snow-covered space filled with towering trees and interesting rock formations. Our day concluded with a delicious meal at the Peaks Restaurant, a perfect choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner. Be sure to make an advance reservation.  It’s a delightful getaway for all ages.
There are so many choices for Palm Springs visitors.  We saved several options for the next time.  It’s a golfer’s and tennis players paradise and a place to explore gardens and the oasis and visit its galleries and museums.  And those who are looking for an upscale shopping experience, it’s all close by.

For information:
Riviera Palm Springs Resort & Spa
1600 N. Indian Canyon Dr.
Palm Springs
760/327-8311
www.psriviera.com

Palm Springs Follies
Plaza Theatre
128 S. Palm Canyon Drive
Palm Springs
760/327-0225
www.psfollies.com

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
One Tram Way
Palm Springs
888/515-TRAM
www.pstramway.com