View of Agua Serene Spa at Night Photo Credit Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort and Villas Perhaps I am becoming somewhat well-known in the Greater Palm Springs area. I arrived at the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort and Villas , and the doorman, while opening the door, said, “Good afternoon, Kathy Condon.” Let’s say I have learned to appreciate the staff at the Grand Hyatt. They have a knack for being there to meet your every need.  A public relations company invited me to experience yet another segment of this resort. I would also like to note that there is a bus by the convention center each time I come. The center is a busy place for corporate meetings. Frankly, who wouldn’t want to go on a retreat here in Coachella Valley to a beautiful 400-acre resort with private lakes and waterways? Arrival at the Agua Serena Spa The resort is so large that I was unsure of the Agua Serena Spa location, so I entered it into Google Maps. I smiled as it took me to the same parking lot, I was familiar with from past visits. Parking at the Agua Serena Spa is free of charge. They will validate your ticket. Checking into the Agua Serena Spa I was scheduled for their Signature Codage Facial, which lasted 50 minutes. Since I had never been there before, I received a tour and was directed to my locker, where my robe was already hung. Slippers just appeared and were the correct size. Once in my swimsuit, I headed to the lovely, updated waiting room. I appreciated its lightness and small patio adorned with plants. Through the door, I had access to the co-ed outdoor lounging area. Treatment Room at the Agua Serena Spa Entering the Treatment Room I met Alma, who has the same name as my mother, who graciously accompanied me on the short walk to the treatment room. While the room was small, I noticed the door was wide open to the outside, where a patio with a lounge chair waited for an occupant. After a few questions and admitting I couldn’t remember the last time I had had a facial, Alma shared her process with me. She said, "I’m going to let my hands guide me, so let’s begin." The Facial at the Agua Serena Due to the wide range of products used, Alma asked me to keep my eyes shut the entire time to avoid getting anything in my eyes. Sometimes, she covered my eyes with lovely, relaxing cool pads. I should have asked, but I think Alma used about five different products on my face. One stung a bit, which she had warned me about, but it certainly didn't cause me to be concerned. Her strokes were so rhythmic on my face. I smiled as the grainy rub was used with ocean waves lapping in the background.  I asked if she had designed the mixed music tape played during the hour. Her voice, amused, said, “No, I didn’t, but that’s not a bad idea.” At one point, she was squeezing areas of my face. I asked what she was doing; she said she removed minuscule blackheads. How interesting—they were invisible to the naked eye. I asked, “So, is that why the pores on my nose seem large?” Her reply was, “Yes.” After the facial, I looked in the mirror. To say my face was smooth and without red marks would not be accurate. Alma had worked hard to use products that would help repair the damage over the years. Since I planned to relax the rest of the afternoon at the spa, Alma applied sunscreen. Now, I was set to go out and enjoy the other amenities. Whirlpool at the Agua Serena Spa Photo by Kathy Condon First Stop the Whirlpool From the waiting lounge, I spied the whirlpool through some glass doors. So, after my treatment, I went out to the patio, turned on the jets, and settled into the hot water. I had it all to myself and reveled in the feeling of the jets hitting my tight muscles—as a writer, my shoulders often start tightening up. It was a divine interlude in my day. Reflection Co-Ed Lounge Area of the Agua Serena Spa Photo by Kathy Condon Wrapping myself in a towel, I headed out to the Reflection Pool. It was a long, narrow canal-like waterway surrounded by columns that separated the individual lounge areas. The area had an abundance of palm trees, truly making it feel like a tropical paradise. I walked by couples enjoying lounging, reading, and having quiet conversations. I found an empty area, set my lemon water down, and settled in. Before long, the relaxing sound of the waterspouts created on each column lulled me into an even more relaxed state. Yes, I fell asleep and was refreshed by my usual 15-minute nap. I know I am one of the lucky people who can take a short nap and feel like a person with much more energy. Time to Head Out I stopped in the steam room and enjoyed the heat of the sauna—both seemingly the perfect temperature. Then, I headed to the shower. A note said, “Spray this on the wall and let the steam elevate the scent.” To my great pleasure, the eucalyptus scent permeated the shower stall. I had never experienced this before and appreciated that I could control the strength I wanted. I was surprised that the products in the shower were labeled with just the name Agua Serena. So, I had no idea what product I was using. When I asked at the desk, they seemed not to know either. Typically, the type of product used is touted throughout the spa. Agua Serena Shop and Registration Area Photo by Kathy Condon After getting dressed, I headed out to the Boutique Shop, which also serves as the reservation area. They offered a wide array of products, many of which were used during my facial. With the sun still shining, I headed out to my car. Relaxed, knowing my face had been well cared for, I added the Agua Serena Spa as still another reason the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort and Villas is a place to recommend when you want a reprieve from the outside world. Kathy Condon Travel Writer and Award-winning Author Kathy Condon is a travel writer and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences, hidden delights, and communities in the shadows of large cities. 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com      kathy@kathycondon.net

Entrance to the Waters Cafe within Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage Photo by Kathy Condon A curious travel writer doesn’t turn down opportunities to explore or review places that come her way. Admittedly, this travel writer hadn’t considered herself a food writer, but since the invitations were coming, I thought, “Why not?” These invitations to review restaurants have sharpened my palate and helped me understand and honor the roles chefs play in a restaurant's success or demise. I have also learned that most chefs will appreciate your sharing if something isn’t quite right. Dinner at Agua Caliente Casino Waters Cafe Note that I said, “Hidden Delight" in the title of this article. I will use this new term to replace the overused phrase “Hidden Gem.” I call Waters Café , located inside the Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage a hidden delight for two reasons: 1. It is hidden on the far west side of the Agua Caliente Casino. Granted, it is by the pool and outdoor patio, but if you are not staying there, you might miss it entirely. 2. The food is outstanding and plentiful, and the cuisine is unexpectedly fine in a café. Irish Mojito Served at the Waters Cafe Photo by Kathy Condon Cocktail starts the Meal I sat down with a friend I had invited to accompany me. We hadn’t seen each other for a while, so I ordered a cocktail. When the waitress asked what I wanted, I said, “Something photo-worthy.” We laughed, and she said, “What would you like the main ingredient to be?” I said, “Whiskey.” Let’s let the bartender decide. Much to my delight, this citrusy cocktail arrived—the bartender named it an Irish mojito. It was refreshing and flavorful, and I would order it again. Meanwhile, my dining partner smiled when offered two types of iced tea. The waitress observed and kept her glass filled to the brim throughout the meal.   Farm to Table Salad with Goat Cheese, Berries and Toasted Almonds Photo by Kathy Condon First Course We decided to share a salad, and our eyes landed on the Local Farm Table Ingredients Salad. My dining companion said, “I’m not normally one to finish a salad, but this one is outstanding.” Meanwhile, I enjoyed the fresh blackberries hiding under the goat cheese and crisp greens. We both commented on the generous amount of slivered roasted almonds scattered through the salad.   Second Course We took Chef Juan Morales's recommendations. He said they were new items recently added to the menu and wanted our opinion. Jidori Chicken Photo by Kathy Condon My companion ordered the Citrus-Marinated “Brick” Jidori Chicken. It was semi-boneless chicken served with whipped garlic mashed potato and charred broccolini. She pronounced the meal excellent and appreciated the very moist chicken. Braised Short Ribs Photo by Kathy Condon My plate arrived with Braised Beef Short Ribs. I so enjoyed the short ribs, which were easily cut with my fork. The steamed baby carrots, something I hadn’t had in ages, and the whipped mashed potatoes were the perfect accompaniment. Since we had cleaned our salad plates, we found ourselves stuffed, and the next day, we had enough food from the entrée for lunch in our takeaway boxes. Caramel and Chocolate Pot de Creame Photo by Kathy Condon Third Course We wanted to be surprised with our dessert, so Chef Morales sent us Sea Salt, Chocolate, and Caramel Pot de Crème. Crumbles of pistachio brittle, whipped cream, and strawberries adored the one side of the dish. We took one spoonful and then looked at each other—Oh my! The salted caramel reminded me of seaside taffy. Only it didn’t stick to your teeth. It was so smooth. The dessert is extremely rich, so we decided it could easily be the crowning dish for a group of three or four to share. The fruit bathed in whipped cream went well to counter the sweetness of the pot de cream. The meal had ended, but we sat there and continued our conversation. No one rushed us. We had chosen to sit in a booth, but there are many tables in the café, with some along the large glass window where you can watch people enjoying the outdoor patio. They also have a wraparound bar right off the casino's hallway. Word is that Happy Hour is plentiful, too. This is a great place to dine in a casual atmosphere when meeting friends. Chef Juan Morales Shares His Goal for the Waters Cafe Chef Juan Morales was a delight and shared his pride in what he has accomplished overseeing all the restaurants at the Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage. When we commented on how surprised we were to find such food at a casino, he said, “There is a difference between a casino restaurant and a restaurant in a casino.” I want Waters Café to be known as a restaurant in a casino.” We asked him to repeat what he said, so we got it right. Yes, after dining here, I believe he is creating exactly what he desires at the Agua Caliente Casino Waters Café is a restaurant inside a casino. Kathy Condon is a travel writer and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences, hidden delights, and communities living in the shadows of large cities. She can be reached at 760-902-3094 or kathy@kathycondon.net .       www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

Art at the Entrance of the Palm Springs Art Museum Administration Offices Photo by Kathy Condon As a resident of Coachella Valley, I look forward to February each year when Modernism Week is in full force. Okay, I know it is only 10 days, but hey, I’m keeping the party line on the name for now. In addition to our normal winter visitors, the town has swelled by approximately 100,000 people. The official report is that 352 events are scheduled. That’s why it is important to understand that Modernism Week is not just about walking through a home and then stopping to eat at one of our many fine restaurants. On holiday, at 9:00 a.m., I found myself at the Palm Springs Art Museum Annenberg Theatre, settling into my front-row seat to hear a lecture entitled Stories Untold: Preserving Sites of African American Resilience, Activism, Achievement, and Architecture. Modernism Week Lecture at the Palm Springs Art Museum Photo by Kathy Condon Introduction of Brent Leggs for Lecture During Palm Springs Modernism Week Brett Leggs is the Executive Director of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. Brett began by saying that the Action Fund was developed to help document our diverse history. The project's mission is to uplift and tell stories about resilience, activism, and the power of people so that the United States’ complete history is told.    When working on his Master’s Degree thesis, he discovered Kentucky had 158 schools built for black people. He went about finding those schools. It is believed that 5,000 schools were built for blacks in the United States, but today, only 10% are still standing; most are demolished, and very few are repurposed. He noted that we had lost physical evidence of the memories we made in those buildings. He said, "There is the power of place, for it holds the stories of both the challenges and the joys ." I couldn’t help but think of many historic physical places I have visited. Tours of those places reveal so much I never knew about our history—for example, a tour of Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s estate, where I learned about the man and people who served him. Executive Director Brett Leggs and Bibby Answering Question Photo by Kathy Condon Development of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund He went on to explain that a crisis sometimes becomes an opportunity. In 2017, horrific actions happened in Charlotteville, where white nationalists gathered when a Confederate statue was to be removed. Counter-protesters arrived, causing the Governor of Virginia to declare a state of emergency.      In November 2017, the National Trust for Historic Preservation established the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. This fund aims to preserve sites that highlight African American achievements and resilience.  Today, the fund has 350 preservation partners. These partners realize that all stories matter to have an informed society. These preservation efforts honor the importance of family, empathy, and everyone as part of humanity on this earth. The Getty Conservation Institute, in partnership with the city of Los Angeles, hosted the first community event for African American Historic places on June 24, 2024. The goal was to identify, preserve, and celebrate African American heritage. You can find a list of the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund completed and sites in progress here: https://savingplaces.org/action-fund-projects I walked out of the lecture, thankful for Modernism's placing it on the calendar of events, the Art Museum's hosting it, and Room&Board Home Furnishings ' sponsoring it. I learned so much about the effort to preserve this part of our history. Now, I wish I had stopped more often to listen to the stories of the African American people I lived with and thrived within St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands. The moral of this blog: Get yourself out in the world, for there is so much to learn. Please turn off the news and learn firsthand about what affects our world. Modernism Logo on the Hyatt Downtown Palm Springs Photo by Kathy Condon Finally, I am now more convinced than ever that Modernism Week in Palm Springs, held in February each year and in a smaller version at the end of October, is much more than touring homes. It is a time to gather your friends and meet people from all over the world, learn something new, and appreciate more the people who turn challenges into places where memories are made. Kathy Condon is a travel writer and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of large cities.  kathy@kathycondon.net www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com     760-902-3094

Entrance to Escena Lounge and Grill Photo by Kathy Condon Nothing is better than heading out to breakfast in Palm Springs with a best friend. With our busy lives, we have found this part of the day is the perfect time to catch up. Since we do it often, I thought I’d share some of our favorite breakfast places with you. Breakfast with Fabulous Views When we can sit outside on their patios, we have two places we never tire of and usually say we should come here more often. Escena Lounge & Grill With plenty of parking, the ease of going to Escena Lounge and Grill is a joy. As you leave the car, the Modernist clubhouse looms before you. Walking into the building and looking to the left, there is a whole seating area where a water feature always draws my attention. It is window screen material with water flowing, causing an undulating unique effect. When seated, you have an unrestricted view of our distant mountains while enjoying the flowing greens of the golf course. Scarlet red bougainvillea borders the course, drawing your attention to the perimeter. With the clubhouse updated to a hip modernism vibe and eggs prepared to perfection, one cannot help but feel she made the right choice to start the day out this way. Indian Canyons Golf Resort Restaurants While there is a North Clubhouse and a South Clubhouse, our favorite is the South Indian Canyon Golf Resort Restaurant —for two reasons: 1. Parking is easy, and 2. We love the outstanding view. Take time to look at the magnificent sculpture at the entrance. You have an unrestricted mountain view once you are seated, especially on the patio. Nearby are bridges over the streams flowing from one pond to another. Residents of those ponds include geese and ducks practically any time of the year. The menu is your basic breakfast menu, and it’s plentiful. Often, I end up with a takeaway bag. Breakfast Restaurant Downtown   Bongo Johnny’s Patio Bar and Grill We started going to Bongo Johnny’s because it was close to my friend’s store, Kimbals. It didn’t take long before we were hooked. Parking is on the street, it's never a problem early in the morning. It is located upstairs from LaQuinta Brewing . They have an elevator, but we prefer to walk up the winding stairs, which lead to an outdoor patio. If you sit here, you have a bird's-eye view of Palm Canyon, one of Palm Springs' busiest shopping streets. We are in a rut, but my friend loves and orders the vegetarian omelet, and I order the feta/spinach scramble. The staff is very friendly and attentive and keeps the coffee coming. North Part of Town for Breakfast in Palm Springs Billy Reed’s Palm Springs If you're looking for a place with nostalgia, Billy Reed’s Palm Springs will help you feel like you're stepping back in time. There is a large parking lot, and just outside the entrance door is a large koi pond with healthy-looking residents. There are double doors, and when you look to the right, you will see a parlor-like setting, which I am told was the location for dances in the past. There are high-back chairs, which help create the perfect setting for a movie set. Beautiful, original dark wood is everywhere. The bar has Tiffany-like chandeliers hanging over it, and it is stocked with every liquor you can think of for your cocktail. The cozy, wooden booths with comfortable cushions provide the perfect cocoon for private conversations. My favorite is a good old American breakfast of eggs, hashbrowns, and sourdough bread. Breakfast for Special Occasions Spencer’s Frankly, I’m unsure why I save Spencer’s for special occasions. It is beautiful without feeling pretentious. There is valet parking, but parking on the street can be problematic whenever the restaurant is open. Ask to be seated on the patio, which showcases real trees with linen-covered tables scattered around them. It is a wonderland at night, and hanging lights add a magical touch. The patio is climate-controlled, so it is open year-round. Since I am picky about eggs benedict (the best chefs get the hollandaise sauce just right), this is my go-to item on their breakfast menu. Oh, and their coffee is excellent. Since it’s my birthday soon, I will suggest we go there to start my day. Of course, many restaurants are scattered throughout the area, but I thought it would be helpful to learn where these two locals regularly eat breakfast in Palm Springs. Kathy Condon is a travel writer and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of others. kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-2094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

Little Island at Pier 55 in New York City Photo by Kathy Condon 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. Gray Skies of New York City Photo by Kathy Condon 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. Palm Springs International Airport Photo by Kathy Condon 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. Palm Springs California Mountains Photo by Kathy Condon 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. Hedge of Bougainvillea Along Country Club Drive Photo by Kathy Condon 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. Home where I am dog sitting Photo by Kathy Condon 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 Travel Writer and Award-winning Author 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 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com kathy@kathycondon.net

New Palm Springs Book by Assouline Publishing Photo by Kathy Condon One day, I received a request to help promote a new book on Palm Springs. We all know there are many books on Palm Springs in print, but I was not about to start now promoting things I hadn’t experienced or seen in person. I started Palm Springs Insider Guide because I wanted a place where people could go, knowing I was writing from my own experience and being truthful. Thus, I sent a note to Assouline Publishing and told them I would need to see the book first. Palm Springs Book by Assouline Arrived I had forgotten our conversation, so when what appeared to be a book was delivered to my door, I was mystified. The package weighed a bunch. Opening it up, I smiled. This book, about 1 ½ inches thick, was a coffee table book with Palm Springs written over the cover. Now, I was curious to learn more about the publisher and author of the book. Assouline Publishing It all began with a visit to the La Colombe d’Or Hotel in France in 1993. Prosper and Martine Assouline stayed at this enchanting location. As they wandered the grounds, they marveled at the landscape. Then, finding nooks to enjoy their love of books, an idea came to them. What if we create beautiful books and tell stories of places? ·  They went into action. Prosper took the photos, and Martine created the text—their first book published in 1994. ·  In 1996, they published Memoir Collection, a compilation of influential people, art movements, fashion, beauty, food, and architecture. ·   In 2003, Bergdorf Goodman devoted an entire window on their 5th Avenue to store Assouline Books. ·   In 2006, the first Assouline stand-alone store opened in Paris. ·   In 2017, they introduced a travel series (Palm Springs Book is part of that series) ·   A 2019 partnership with One Tree was developed to plant one tree for each book sold. Author Page of New Assouline Publishing Book on Palm Springs Photo by Kathy Condon Sheila Hamilton is the author—and 5 Emmy Award Winner. She wrote All the Things We Didn’t Know. Plus, she is a speaker on resilience and mental strength for the prestigious APB International Speaker’s Bureau. Inside the Cover of Palm Springs Book Published by Assouline Photo by Kathy Condon What I observed looking through Palm Springs Assouline Coffee Table Book Opening the cover, I smiled when I saw the colorful, whimsical drawings depicting Coachella Valley attractions scattered on the back of the hardcover and the fly page. One quickly gets the impression that this book will be fun to explore. Let’s get the negative out of the way first. I don't like the font used in the periodic narrative or the quotes scattered throughout the book. While it is large enough and on a white background, which we mature individuals appreciate, the text and wide spacing between the letters makes one wonder if they chose it to fill the page. Of course, what do I know? This is a well-established publishing company, so they have their reason. I don’t happen to like it. Photos of Palm Springs Desert X in the Palm Springs Book by Assouline Photo by Kathy Condon Photos in the Palm Springs Assouline book It is evident that the author dug deep to find some of the historical photos in the book. Often, the historical images are juxtaposed next to a current photo. Sometimes, the photo takes up two-facing pages. Some pages have single images, while others have two images, for example, showing a home's interior. The author obviously transversed our valley to illustrate a true representation of Coachella Valley, recognizing that we have nine cities. Even Salton Sea’s Salvation Mountain found its way into the book. However, most of the photos are of Palm Springs proper. Since I have often been involved in Western events held in the area and am honored to get first-hand information about that period of our history, I was pleased to see the author include our Western heritage on the pages. The colors are vivid, and the perspectives of some of our well-known buildings and attractions are interesting. The photographer used some angles that made one notice details previously missed. I was a bit frustrated at first, I thought to myself, but most people going through the book will not know what this picture is portraying. Then I discovered that at the back of the book, there is a key, with a miniature of the picture and a brief description of the photo. Narrative in Palm Spring Assouline Book Sheila Hamilton's, the author’s, descriptive writing style captures the carefree feeling we residents pride ourselves on experiencing each day. She mentions that we are both a time capsule and a modern city. It is evident she has spent time here, for she mentions everything from our beautiful cloudless sky to fruit trees to cacti finding their homes in front of our residents. As you turn the pages, random quotes show up. Here are some examples: There’s this sort of weirdness and wackiness about Palm Springs that makes it work. Douglas Smith, proprietor of the Korakia Pensione After all my years of traveling the world and seeing what this area is all about, I’ve come to realize that you can’t find another place quite like it. Jenson Button, former Formula 1 Driver What’s special about Palm Springs is that it’s a place where both the extraordinary and the ordinary occur simultaneously. Jon Hamm of Mad Man This Palm Springs Coffee Table book is a terrific gift—especially for those who appreciate and love Palm Springs like this writer. You can pick up a copy at Just Fabulous on North Palm Canyon Drive, Amazon, or the Assouline Website. Yes, Palm Springs, California, is a special place. It is hard to put into words, but Sheila Hamilton helped figure out how to display it in photos. The quote on the back of the book: It's where the sun spends its winter. Bob Hope Kathy Condon Travel Writer and Award-Winning Author Kathy Condon is a Travel Journalist and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of large cities. 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com kathy@kathycondon.net

Frank Sinatra Pop-Up Art Photo by Kathy Condon The photos of pop-up art accompanying this blog are entitled "Neighbors" by muralist John Cerney. They are located on Sunny Dunes near the antique stores and Townie Bagels. Many of you know me well; others have learned a bit about me through my site. In any case, I wanted to share that I consider it a real honor that you have chosen to follow me. Thirteen years ago, I moved to Palm Springs, California. I was frustrated that most people thought Palm Springs was only about golf courses and pools, where we sat around and drank cocktails with tiny paper umbrellas. Because there was so much to do and see, I wanted to share what I was learning about my new community through the Palm Springs Insider Guide and include the other eight cities in Coachella Valley. Yes, I recognize that I write the Palm Springs Insider Guide, but frankly, the rest of the world thinks that when they land at our beautiful Palm Springs International Airport, they are staying in Palm Springs, though the address of their accommodations may be 30 miles away in Indio. Marilyn Monroe Pop-Up Art Photo by Kathy Condon Expansion of the Palm Springs Insider Guide You noticed I have expanded to one-half-day, day trips, and three-day trips from Palm Springs. Yes, even we residents who have balmy weather need a change of scenery, so we want to explore unfamiliar places. If I have learned anything, as a travel writer, every community has its own culture and things that will delight us if we slow down. Even 45 miles away, residents have amazing things to show us, and they tell us stories that make their area of the world a special place. Recently, I was contacted to write a guide about day trips from Palm Springs. I smiled because I loved the idea. Did you know we had an orchid farm 45 minutes away? Have you explored Redlands? Idyllwild? Dean Martin Pop-Up Art Photo by Kathy Condon Exploring More of the United States and World Since I am being asked to go on occasional Fam Trips (Typically, six journalists are invited to dine and visit attractions of an area as outlined by the tourism bureau or PR company), I will be adding a Tab on Palm Springs Insider Guide that says Beyond California. I am doing that because the teacher in me wants my readers to see and learn from my adventures. From those trips, I also glean article ideas that I pitch to other places, such as Ionic Life , LuxeBeat Magazine , and Extended Weekend Getaways. As much as I love Palm Springs, California, I know there is so much to learn anywhere I travel. Smiling, plus, I do feel the need to get out of the 110-degree temperatures in our summer, even for four days at a time. Conferences I Will Be Attending in 2025 I am so pleased to have been selected to attend IMM (TravMedia International Media Market), where 1,000 people spend a day at the Javits Center in NYC at the end of January. Approximately 500 travel writers meet vendors throughout the United States and a few out of the country, pitching their designations and exploring whether there is a match for a travel writer/location that warrants a trip in the future. In July, I will be in Chicago, where I am happy to announce I will be one of 600 travel writers to attend an IPW Conference , which provides a valuable in-person platform to conduct business and strengthen relationships worldwide. The conference will welcome 6,000 people spending four days together attending seminars and interviewing each other to see if there is a way to visit a location and create a win/win/win. I gave up long ago, just going for just a win/win. I mention these conferences because it appears I will have much more to share with you in 2025. My ethics guide me by never sharing something I haven’t experienced. If you read my blog, you need to trust that what I write is from first-hand experience. Sammy Davis Jr. Pop-Up Art Photo by Kathy Condon On a Personal Note Some of you know my daughter, granddaughter, and son-in-law have a place in Southern France. I am pleased to share I’ll be going there in mid-October 2025. I will likely add other places to my agenda while in Europe—thus, the two conferences will be a great place to test the waters and see if I should make additional stops while I am overseas. As the year ends, I am reminded without readers, there would be no need to spend time writing. Frankly, writing after I have visited a place brings me immense joy as I relive the visit. Thank you for following me and recommending my site to others. May 2025 be a year of exploring our world. Think of it this way: Incredible experiences await you when choosing a less-traveled path. I know it is trite, but it is true. Even taking a different street in your city can reveal wonderful surprises. Please keep your eyes open to truly experience and see our magnificent world. Kathy Condon Travel Writer and Award-winning Author Kathy Condon is a travel journalist and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of larger cities. 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com      kathy@kathycondon.net

Exterior of Trio Restaurant in the Uptown Design District of Palm Springs Photo by Mollie Kimberling If you are a foodie planning to stay in Coachella Valley, consider one of the Palm Springs Preferred Small Hotels. Then, you will be strategically placed to visit one of our outstanding restaurants. Lissa Gruman Public Relations invited me to dine at Trio’s in the Uptown Design District. My review is based on what I experienced. If you haven’t been to the Uptown Design District, may I suggest you park your car and stroll down the street? This area is sometimes overlooked but shouldn’t be because it is a thriving shopping mecca. Lining North Palm Canyon Drive vintage clothing and antique stores may hold that missing piece from your collection, while art galleries entice you with their window displays. You may have meant to order some flowers, drop into one of the floral shops, and surprise someone. Decorating your home with a modernist theme? You will be in décor heaven, finding original and reproduction items from the 50s and 60s. Interior of Trio Restaurant Photo Credit Mollie Kimberling Remodeled Trio Restaurant Trio Restaurant has been a staple place in this area for residents since 2009. However, it has recently been remodeled. I am delighted that the lighting fixture over the private dining area has not been changed, for it is unique and always draws my attention. The long bar is still in place, where we gather to talk to the bartender who serves craft cocktails. However, the rest of the restaurant has been updated with warm desert colors and contemporary art while keeping a welcoming, casual feel. Chef Gladis at Trio Restaurant Photo Credit Mollie Kimberling New Chef at the Helm Chef Gladis, the young, talented woman, has led the team to design a new menu. Yes, I said, woman Chef; few woman Chefs are leading major restaurants in Coachella Valley, so that is a reason to come and support. However, there is a more substantial reason: her creations are both bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. Admittedly, I am a sucker for miniature flowers on food that is served to me. However, Chef Gladis takes it to a new level: miniature orchids, smaller than the tip of your small finger. Our Dinner Menu It is always fun to share a new experience with a friend, so there is more than one point of view. The evening started with my favorite cocktail, an Old Fashioned. I was delighted that it was taken to a new level by being presented at the table with two people—one lighting a small fuse to produce smoke while the other ceremoniously unveiled the cocktail. I loved it! Homemade Biscuits with Herbal Butter Photo by Kathy Condon The White Cheddar Biscuits  were served with Compound butter, which I could pass on next time. My dining partner enjoyed the biscuits but agreed that the butter did not enhance the experience. Japanese A5 Beef Carpaccio Photo by Kathy Condon Our first course was Japanese A5 Carpaccio , which included Horseradish Aioli, Fennel, Chive, Mustard Frill, and Olive Crumbles. I loved it, and this could easily be the perfect meal for me, with a salad. Hamachi Crudo Photo by Kathy Condon When Hamachi Crudo  arrived, we both went "wow"—again, it was the presentation that was superb. It was presented with yuzu (a citrus fruit native to Asia, a cross between the Ichange Papeda and sour mandarin orange), Alice Oil, Lemon Radish, and Fresno, Chile. No, it was not too spicy, and the small bites of Hamachi (yellowtail fish) were perfect for dipping in the plentiful sauce. Beet Tartare Photo by Kathy Condon Chef Gladis learned that I love beets. She smiled and said, "I know what will serve you." Then, Beet Tartar  arrived, a tower of red beets that had me smiling. It was created with avocado mousse as the ingredient holding it together, fennel, chives, mustard frill, and olives crumbled over the tower. Oh my….I want more. Salad with Local Lettuce and Beets Photo by Kathy Condon Ready for something familiar, a salad made of local lettuce arrived. The surprise, hiding at the bottom, was beets, apples, candied pecans, and goat cheese. Why does everything with goat cheese always taste so good? Oxtail Ragu Photo by Kathy Condon Thankfully, I mentioned I wasn’t a squash lover—long story, I’ll share sometime—so arrived with a sampling of Oxtail Ragu Pasta instead of butter squash. Again, if I were stopping into the restaurant for a smaller, fulfilling meal, I would seriously consider it. Chef Gladis has a knack for unusually combining flavors. Portk Chop with Fall Vegetables Photo by Mollie Kimberlling Yes, we were pretty stuffed, but who turns down Dupoc Pork Chop , yam, spiced carrots, spinach, and roasted tomatillo sauce with vignette? Since the pork chop was marinated for an extensive period, it was so tender that it was no fighting to cut it into bite-size pieces. Again, the presentation was a show-stopper—picture perfection. Dutch Apple Pie Photo by Kathy Condon Room for dessert? Usually, I would say no, but now that I have experienced a meal where flavor combinations were superb and beautifully presented, how could we say no? Especially since I grew up in an apple orchard and was told the grand finale would be Dutch Apple Pie. Yes, we were full, yet we ate the whole thing. Tart apples were used, and just the right spices were added to make it rival my mom’s famous apple pie. Trust me, I am particular, for my mom’s apple pie was known far and wide as outstanding and attracting relatives often during apple season. I think I will head up to Trio’s for the pie some evening. It was so exceptional. Worth a Revisit If you have been in Palm Springs and haven’t had dinner at Trio’s for a while, you should make a reservation and enjoy Chef Gladis's modern American cuisine. She has the right touch and a personality that listens well and adapts to your needs and desires. New to Palm Springs? Make a reservation at Trio Restaurant in the Uptown District. They welcome vegans. Even if you only have time for Happy Hour, stop by. I am confident that once you try their food, you will decide to make it a memorable evening dining there with your friends. Kathy Condon Trave Writer and Award-Winning Author Kathy Condon is a Travel Journalist and Award-winning Author. Her niche is luxury experiences, and she shares her experiences visiting communities and living in the shadows of small communities.   Kathy@kathycondon.net   760-902-3094        www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com

As a resident of Palm Springs, I eagerly await learning what events our 350 days of sunshine will attract each season to Coachella Valley. We certainly are off to a great start—just this week, I attended a preview of the 10th International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Cathedral City and the Live with Kelly and Mark Show in Rancho Mirage. 10th International Hot Air Balloon Festival Agua Caliente Casinos is the Presenting Sponsor for the 10th Annual Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival. Activities begin on Friday, November 22, 2024, and occur throughout the weekend. To help understand the breadth of the weekend, I was fortunate to attend a Media Event at Century Park. A few hearty souls met at 6:00 a.m. for a hot-air balloon experience with Fantasy Balloon Flights . This company provides opportunities to have hot-air balloon rides over Coachella Valley. We watched as the balloons unfurled and began reading them for the flights of two balloons—one blazon with the Agua Casino logo and the other Visit Greater Palm Springs. I entered the basket of the Agua Casino balloon and patiently waited as the hot air continued to be infused into the balloon, which slowly righted itself. Then, we could feel a small lift and soon found ourselves floating above the Valley. One quickly notices the silence, except when the pilot regulates the hot air by adding some at various intervals. We spent about a half hour floating and enjoying the panoramic view. All good things must come to an end. The pilot guided us, and we soon found ourselves on the ground—everyone intact and smiling. A chase car had been following us, so they saw us land and stood by as we walked to the car to take us back to our beginning spot, about 4 miles away. Yes, it was delightful. I would do it again; it was a beautiful way to start a day. Special Events in Coachella Valley Connected to the Hot Air Balloon Festival ·       Friday, November 22, 2024: The Hot Air Balloon Launch and Competition will be held adjacent to Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage Casino. It is a great place to watch the flights. ·       Food trucks at the Cathedral City Community Amphitheatre in the evening. ·       Saturday, November 23, 2024, Sunrise Balloon Launch at Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort. Then head back to Cathedral City Festival Lawn and Community Amphitheatre for activities (ACE Club Members and Cathedral Residents admitted for free.) ·       Leann Rimes performs that night in the Amphitheatre—ACE Club members and Cathedral Residents can pick up free tickets at the Aqua Caliente Casino Cathedral City ACE Club. ·       The Balloon Glow, with free admission, will light up the sky all night. ·       The weekend closes on Sunday with a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Launch. Go to: VisitHotAirBalloonFest.com or AguaCalienteCasinos.com for more information. Live with Kelly and Mark Show at Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort and Spa With two tickets for Live with Kelly and Mark in hand, I asked my friend, Mary Guiane, to attend. We developed our logistics plan for arriving at the resort. Finding the right line, we wound our way first to get our tickets validated and get our wristband for this massive undertaking, rumored to be 2,000 for each of the two shows on Sunday at the Westin Rancho Mirage Resort and Spa. I was impressed we were greeted with music, but alas, we were soon in line out of earshot of music as we waited to be ushered to the 18th hole, where the stage, large screen, and chairs were set up. It took standing, winding our way on the walkway to our seats about 1.5 hours. Our weather report's “cloudy” sky was merely wispy clouds, so we were glad we had used sunscreen and longed for a hat, which was not allowed at the taping. Gelman took the mike and, with a great sense of humor, explained how the taping would proceed. Mary and I looked at each other when he said,  "If you clap shorter and more, it makes more noise. " Sure enough, it worked. Kelly and Mark Wound Their Way Through the Chairs Recording time was approaching—this was on Sunday but taped for Veteran Day release. Kelly and Mark came through the aisle and headed to the stage. One of the first things they did was welcome the assembled Veterans—a lovely gesture under our beautiful Coachella Valley sun. My Observations: ·       The audience was a mixture of ages, genders, and diverse couples. ·       Watching what happens between the scenes is busy—moving furniture, checking makeup, and getting directions from staff. ·       Once those things were accomplished, Kelly, in particular, interacted with the assembled audience. ·       They never seem to stop smiling. ·       Their love for our area was evident, and they did an excellent job explaining we are nine cities to the television audience. ·       Everyone, including the guests, must talk loudly, at least outside, to come off sounding normal on television. Winding our way to our seats was an adventure, but in the end, we both said it was worth it because it was a unique way to spend a Sunday morning. Now, it will be even more fun to watch Live with Kelly and Mark each weekday morning. These two special events in Coachella Valley are a sample of what will happen in the coming months. Think about it. We are only in mid-November; we have a long, active season ahead, so stay tuned. I plan to keep you updated as much as possible about our corner of paradise in the winter. Kathy Condon is a Travel Journalist and an Award-winning Author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of larger cities. 760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com   Kathy@kathycondon.net

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 47-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

Before it officially opened, I took a hardhat tour of Drift Palm Springs , located on South Indian Canyon Drive. Their goal is to provide an alternative to a home rental. From what I saw, their design was carefully thought through, and the flexibility for room occupancy was clearly evident. If planning a family reunion, you could get three adjoining rooms, or if you want complete privacy, you certainly can have that alone space, too. A Snack at Maleza When the Malaza restaurant at the Drift Palm Springs opened, I stopped for a snack one day. After perusing the menu, I ordered something that did not fully register. I remember feeling it was alright but wasn’t particularly impressed with my stop there. Maleza Restaurant Dinner Invitation A couple of weeks ago, their PR company invited me to a full dinner. I asked a friend to join me, and we scheduled a whole dinner experience. I am so glad I was invited; my attitude about the restaurant turned around. Things We Tried at Maleza Frankly, I will say I’m not fond of ceviche. Yet, my dining partner was thrilled to have Shrimp Ceviche with spicy coconut milk, salsa macha, cucumber, radish, serrano apple, and cilantro. He licked the plate clean, while it was a bit too spicy for me. So, if you enjoy ceviche and spicy food, this looks like a dish you should most certainly include as your appetizer. I liked the tuna Tostadas, almond salsa, avocado, fennel, cilantro, and dill. Frankly, I was obsessed with the tiny yellow mustard blossoms, which added a happy touch to the presentation. Once I took a bite of the Grilled Maitake Mushrooms, I immediately looked at the menu to see what made them taste so good. Apparently, it was the trout roe supported with a Blanco BBQ sauce. Oh my, so good. I could’ve eaten a larger portion of this outstanding dish. Baja Mussels, salsa verde, chorizo, cream, garleek, and dill were served with sourdough bread, perfect for soaking up the fantastic sauce. My entrée was a Whole Branzino (European Sea Bass) fileted perfectly, with nary a bone to be found. It was served with salsa verde, lemon, and herb salad. Again, I marveled at the flavors, for the unusual flavors blended perfectly. My dining partner ordered the Carnitas—pork demi-glace, pickled onions, radish, and a mixture of herbs. The serving was plentiful, requiring a takeaway box, for he was not about to leave any behind. PRO TIP: Their menu is divided into segments: Small Plates, Large Plates, Sides, and Desserts. Everything served to us was on a platter, making it easy to share. So, bring friends you enjoy and share so you can try even more of their dishes. We shared the chocolate tres leche cake with meringue, pistachio, brown butter powder, strawberry gelato, and those mustard flowers I liked so much. We suggested that the cake would be better with vanilla ice cream. The strawberry gelato was excellent, but it seemed to fight for attention with the cake. We were both sooo impressed with the food. Each serving brought a unique experience to our taste buds. Now, totally stuff. We asked if we could talk again to Brian Gil, the General Manager, who greeted us when we arrived and left us in the capable hands of this outstanding staff. I started with, “Brian, I’ve heard locals complain about the price of the food on your menu, so they have been avoiding coming here.”  However, after a complete meal, I have to say this restaurant is one I would return to for a special occasion because of the outstanding food . He smiled and replied, Kathy, you got it." Maleza is very proud to have Chef Ysaac Ramirez create food you cannot find anywhere else. He is a master of blending flavors and using unusual ingredients that are not readily available. As a result, we are more expensive than other restaurants serving Baja Mexican cuisine. We also pride ourselves in having rare Mezcal and tequila, making it possible to try this spirit, whose popularity is snowballing . I had an Old Fashioned made with Mezcal, agave, angostura bitters, and orange oil. They, indeed, were not stingy with the spirits. Stroll through the Grounds Feeling satisfied, my dining partner and I marveled at the décor, which included minimalist and contemporary furnishings scattered throughout the space. While there were other diners, we felt we were in our private world at our table. Huge kudos go to the attentive staff, who sometimes helped us figure out how to eat a particular dish. They were attentive without being too intrusive. With the rolling restaurant side door open, it was easy to stroll out to the pool area, which was quiet and serene this evening. However, I can only imagine how it could be a great place to relax with music when local musicians and DJs are hired to entertain the guests. Plus, there is an extensive list of craft cocktails made from Mezcal and tequila to try while swaying with the music. When I had the whole dining experience at the Maleza, my eyes were opened—or, better yet, my tastebuds were opened. If you are looking for some excellent, different cuisine for a special occasion, I suggest you consider going to the Drift Palm Springs Maleza Restaurant. Kathy Condon is a Travel Journalist and Award-Winning Author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of large cities.   760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com     kathy@kathycondon.net

I cannot tell you how often I passed Pasadena on my way to Los Angeles. Frequently, I’d think to myself, I really should explore Pasadena sometime. Now that the time had come, I explored it for 2.5 days before heading to a meeting with Visit California at the Intuit Dome. The first thing I Learned about Pasadena If you love Starbucks, you will be in Starbucks heaven. It's my fault I didn’t read the note in an email telling me which Starbucks I should meet Visit Pasadena representatives at. I put Starbucks downtown Pasadena into Google Maps and confidently thought I would arrive on time. Wrong move: there are three of them downtown. You guessed it—wrong one; I went to the second one, the wrong one, but then it was too late for coffee, so we opted for lunch at my hotel, Hotel Dena . Pro Tip:  If someone sends you a specific Starbucks to meet, pay attention to the address. Arriving at the Hotel Dena I was in for my first surprise. The Hotel Dena is connected to the Pasadena Convention Center . There could not be a better hotel if you were there for a conference. But there is more. Old Pasadena, a 22-block area of preserved historic architecture, is an easy walk from the hotel. The staff welcomed me warmly. I acknowledged that I was there way before check-in time, but with a bit of checking, they graciously announced there was a room ready for me.  My room was spacious, with every amenity one could ask for and a special touch. I didn’t know if it was because I was a writer—I think so—but over my bed was a large print with a typewriter and a saying. I couldn’t help but smile. Perfect. Lunch with Visit Pasadena Colleagues Visit Pasadena Colleagues were waiting for me at Agents Only at a table near a wall of musical instruments. Child-like drawings graced the elevator area on the 4th floor, where my room was. I was a bit confused by the apparent nod to the arts, so I stopped at the desk for clarification. With a proud smile, the desk attendant said, “We are honoring people's creativity.” Ahh, now this all makes so much more sense. Our lunch was animated as we shared our thoughts and helped to design my stay in Pasadena. There was a plethora of places to visit, and it quickly became evident I couldn’t cover everything on this short visit. We talked about what we thought Palm Springs residents would be interested in, for making Pasadena a day trip is possible. Setting out to Explore Old Pasadena As I mentioned, Old Pasadena was an easy walk from the Dena Hotel. On the walk, I marveled at the large oak trees and admired the flowers flourishing on this fall day. I found myself in a world where ethnic diversity was alive and flourishing. Many restaurants offered everything from sushi and BBQ to Indian curry meals. Interspersed through the restaurants, retail stores carried unusual gift items. I did notice national brand hotels such as H&M, Banana Republic, and Sephora. In other words, this area has abundant shopping and dining opportunities. After my exploration, I went to the Dena Hotel bar, Agents Only, and met bartender Juan Carlos. During my stay, I got to know him well and marveled at his ability to create cocktails, serve food, and make everyone feel special. He also makes terrific Old Fashioneds. Dinner at the Agents Only It was a delight to meet General Manager Marlon Gonzalez. His pride in the hotel, which was transformed from a Sheraton to the Dena Hotel about a year ago, was evident. After talking to him, I learned how he honored his staff, trained them well, and fostered an environment where everyone wore smiles.  Marlon brought Chef Raul out to meet me. Chef Raul is a pleasant man who greeted me with a huge smile. I had had a chance to peruse the menu before he came to my table, but I was lost on what to order. He asked what I would like. I replied, “Would you mind selecting the items for me? Except I knew I would like an order of plantains, which harkened back to my life living in the Caribbean.” He smiled and said, “I bet you haven’t had them like this.” (He was right; they were cut into inch-long chunks and were more like candy.) First Course Grilled Romaine Salad: Charred poblano dressing, cotija, spicy pita, pomegranate, hardboiled egg. I could have added chicken, skirt steak, or shrimp, but thankfully, I didn’t, as I felt Chef Raul would have me stuffed by the end of the meal. I thought to myself, this would be such a great lunch meal. Main Course Enchiladas Divorciadas – Chicken, salsa roja, salsa verde, crema, queso fresco onion. There were four of them, so my eyes widened when the plate was set before me. Indeed, I couldn’t eat them all. However, I must confess, I had no problem eating three of them, for the flavors blended in a way I had never experienced with enchiladas, and I loved them. Three people had come to the restaurant because they had heard good things about it. Since we sat next to each other, they learned I was a travel journalist and asked if I wanted to take photos of their fajitas plate adorned with shrimp. The conversation turned animated, and we shared what we were learning about Pasadena and compared notes about our activities the next day. Stuffed, Chef Raul suggested I take dessert, flan, to my room to eat later. I confess that not only did I do that, but I also had him box up the remaining plantains. You can imagine my surprise when I opened the to-go box in my room and saw the flan artistically arranged with fresh strawberries, blackberries, and whipped cream.  I smiled, for this touch is indicative of the “little things” I discovered during my stay at the Hotel Dena throughout my stay. In Part II, I will have more to share about the hotel and what I found in Pasadena, making a trip here totally worthwhile. My first half-day in Pasadena had already made the trip worthwhile. As I crawled into bed, underneath the linens, I was thankful for planning a visit. Kathy Condon is a travel journalist and award-winning author. Her niche is luxury experiences and communities living in the shadows of large cities.  760-902-3094 www.PalmSpringsInsiderGuide.com     kathy@kathycondon.net