It took me going away for a week to reconnect and appreciate my love for Palm Springs's beauty and climate. I just spent a week in New York City attending the IMM conference (International Media Market), which happened to be the coldest week of the year. It hovered around 20 and about 9 degrees during the mornings as I headed to the subway each morning.
We Palm Springs residents learned long ago to always keep winter clothes nearby. I was thankful I had a full-length, lined coat. It was the perfect protection from the wind that unexpectedly decided to reveal its presence. I did quite well in the cold with snow boots, keeping my feet warm, and a hat. Only FYI, leather gloves don’t do the trick—I had trouble keeping my fingers warm.
Heading to LaGuardia Airport
While riding in the backseat of a taxi to LaGuardia Airport, I watched the gray and brown landscape whiz by, revealing occasional patches of white snow still hiding from the bright sunlight. Thankfully, the sun found its way out each day, so the colorless landscape was alive with light the entire time I was in New York City.
With few evergreen trees, the outline of deciduous, leafless trees allowed one to see the façade of more of the buildings. The ornate features are often above the doors or pillars and add interest as you walk and explore New York City’s mixture of classic and contemporary architectural design.
Arrival in Palm Springs at 11:00 P.M.
With my coat on, I arrived at our beautiful Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) and rode down our open-air escalator. Visitors keep in mind that our evenings are often lower to about 20 degrees, so you will want a warm wrap if you explore our area at night.
A Good Night’s Sleep
After seven hours of sleep, it was time to repack with regular Palm Springs clothes and head out to dog-sitting. I made a note to take the long coat to the dry cleaners because I accidentally dragged it on the subway steps along one of many subway journeys.
Yes, as a single, mature woman, I had no problem navigating the subways. Plus, New Yorkers were very helpful, pointing me in the right direction if I was momentarily confused.
Journey from Palm Desert to Palm Springs
Many of you know I recently moved down Valley about 16 miles. So, with the car loaded with a suitcase and a computer, I was off to one of my clients with two great dogs.
You can read here how to prepare for a winter visit to Palm Springs.
One of the things I thought I would miss living in Palm Springs was the mountain views. Soon, I found myself smiling as I drove down Country Club Drive; the mountain range loomed before me, the sun casting shadows as it met the crevices worn deep from the mountain runoff of melting snow and rain.
After seeing barren trees in New York City, along most of Country Club Drive, red bougainvillea lined the gated communities and hotels I drove by, and they seemed to stand out to me more than usual. I must pay attention now, but I think bougainvillea blooms most of the year. In any case, it thrives in the winter.
I knew I loved palm trees, but now that I have seen so many barren trees, I appreciate that they are green and loom at appropriate places throughout our Palm Springs landscape.
Renewal of Wash Destroyed during A Big Storm Last October
Nearing Highway 111, on Country Club, which takes me directly into Palm Springs, I popped over the hill and was thrilled to see the scene before me. Thousands, if not millions, of California poppies, were about ready to pop open in our sunlight. Obviously, they were planted to help stabilize the hillside surrounding the wash; the landscape crew must have planted them.
This is a big statement, but I have been to the Poppy Reserve in Lancaster. Once they are open, I think this scene will be as beautiful as anything you would see there. Yes, I have been to Lancaster.
Arrival at My Destination in Palm Springs in Winter
At my appointed destination, I took off my jacket and marveled at what a temperature difference a plane ride could make. Well, okay, I transferred in Dallas on American. However, you may discover a direct flight from your destination if you check. We now have 13 direct flights to Palm Springs International Airport.
After settling in, I called my roommate and said, We are fortunate to have a beautiful home, a warm climate, and incredible views.
I smiled, for I knew I loved it here, but visiting New York City helped me remember the feeling I had when I moved here 13 years ago. It reminded me that the Greater Palm Springs theme No Place Like It is appropriate because it is true.
Kathy Condon is a Travel Journalist and Award-winning Author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadow of larger cities. 760-902-2094
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