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

By now, you have figured out Palm Springs has so much more to do than lying around the pool and having cocktails. You are ready to explore. Here’s a half-day trip literally 10 miles away. This means you will need a car, though you can check Uber or Lyft, more than likely they would take you there. First Stop Two Bunch Palms Myth has it that Al Capon used this land as his hideout for one can see for miles across Coachella Valley; thus, he could see any approaching intruder. Whatever the case, the 72 acres of grounds are incredibly well-cared for among the ancient palm and tamarisk trees. Give the resort a call before you go for one cannot come and just wander the grounds. You have to be checked in and out. This is to assure the privacy and security of visitors. Reservations Unless you want to book an overnight stay, you have two ways to experience this tranquil, beautiful place. 1. Arrange for a day pass. This pass will allow you to spend the day and enjoy the mineral baths. Call for exact details about what is included. 2. Make a reservation for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The restaurant, Essense, has a fantastic view, healthy farm-to-table cuisine. There is valet parking only. I found I was able to explore the grounds before and after lunch. I, of course, honored their code of silence throughout the grounds so as not to interrupt the tranquility for the guests. Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa 67425 Two Bunch Palms Trail Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 800-472-4334 www.twobunchpalms.com Next Stop Cabot’s Pubelo Museum A very short drive up Magic Hill from Two Bunch Palms is this magnificent museum which provides a capsule in time. It reveals the life of an individual, Cabot Yerxa, who did not give up the harsh conditions of the desert in 1913. Instead, he homesteaded 160 acres in what is now called Desert Hot Springs. There is plenty of free parking. After parking your car, head down to the path to the Gift Shop where you get your tickets for the tour. Be sure to check their hours before you head out, for they have both summer and winter hours. If it is warm, go early in the morning. In any case, take water with you for the circulation of air through the home’s tour is practically non-existent. The tour is not handicap accessible. It should also be noted all rooms are not available for viewing by the public. The tour includes the biography of Cabot’s life and intimate details about how he discovered the hot mineral springs and cold water in this barren land. You will marvel at his engineering abilities. He constructed his home, with 35-rooms and 5,000 square-feet with found objects. After your tour, take time to wander the grounds and take in the view and enjoy the authentic desert fauna. You will find yourself wanting to take lots of pictures on the property for there are many great photo opportunities. Then head back to their outstanding gift shop, which has a fine collection of Indian art, jewelry, and hard to find books of the area’s history. Cabot’s Pubelo Museum 67616 E Desert View Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240 www.cabotsmuseum.org 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

Bargain shopper? Well, then you have come to the right place. Ask a local person, and they’ll regale the virtues of garage and estate sales throughout Coachella Valley. Since I had worked on a project in Palms Springs, I was well aware of the bargains that could be found at these two kinds of sales. Once I decided to make the move from Vancouver, Washington, I decided it made absolutely no sense to move my stuff to Palm Springs. Like the declutterers are recommending, I packed only things that brought me joy, my Caribbean artwork, and my clothes. Just saying, six years later, I have no regret about leaving stuff behind nor do I miss it. Garage Sales and Estate Sales Hunting For many of us, these sales have become a hobby. One never knows what treasures one will find. My girlfriend and I head out at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday mornings with a sense of expectation and adventure. She happens to love research, so she has with her a list of sales, with addresses, she has found on Craigslist, Facebook or Palm Springs Neighborhood Newsletters. If you are here a short time, ask a local what is considered the most affluent area. For these areas are most likely to have the sales with often pristine items. As you drive around, you will see a number of signs posted on main streets, competing for your attention. By the way, be sure to put sunscreen on and wear a hat. Also, keep in mind, when in Palm Springs a bottle of water and sunscreen is a must ANYTIME you leave the confines of your home or hotel room. What Kinds of Things Can You Expect to Find? One time I went to an estate sale and there was a black, all leather, perfect condition sofa for $150. Admittedly, that is an extreme bargain; however, none-the-less it was for sale. As I write, I’m sitting on my deck writing on a wrought-iron table with four chairs that rock purchased for $75. One time, I decided I wanted a waffle maker. Second stop, I found one that made four waffles at a time for $5. Works perfectly. Linens? I think I’ve gone overboard on my napkin collections. Hey, at 25 cents a piece for brand new ones, why not? How Do I You Keep from Cluttering your Home with Bargains? It soon became apparent to me I needed my own guidelines. So I made two of them: 1. It has to be an upgrade from something I already have in my possession. An example, I had a standard office-type stapler. At an Estate Sale, I found a Cadillac of staplers for $3. The other promptly went in my giveaway bag. 2. It has to have an art component to it. Since I am a jewelry connoisseur, this guideline prevented me from buying many a normal piece of lovely jewelry. I look for movement in it or it is created by an artist. As for wall art, I must love it. Why are Bargains so plentiful? Actually, there are three reasons: 1. Often these are winter homes of elderly people. Children find themselves overwhelmed when parents pass on. Thus, they have sales to purge their parents’ things. 2. Condo and homes are sold often here with contents in tack. New owners want an entirely different décor. 3. Neighborhoods often decided to go together to have one grand community garage sale since they do not have enough time/energy to put one together on their own. By the way, there is still another reason why I enjoy this Saturday morning activity. You meet the most fascinating people, and you get to peek in peoples’ backyards. With Estate Sales, you get to see an entire house, which may or may not be to something you might want to consider owning. It should be noted sales are often on Friday too. People say that is when you get the really good stuff. Also, do not be afraid to bargain, especially if it is getting close to closing time, which is usually no later than 2:00 p.m. 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

Often overlooked for breakfast by both, visitors and locals alike, is this restaurant that will quickly jolt you out of your routines when visiting, or even living in Palm Springs. In fact, it is one of my go to places when I want a celebratory breakfast with friends or enjoy the beauty of the mountains in Coachella Valley. Escena Lounge and Grill Admittedly, I had heard about this place long before I actually made a decision to go there for breakfast. People raved about the view and were often quoted as saying; it has the most beautiful view of the mountains in the valley. Honestly, can’t remember the occasion why the time had come. Just remember the experience. The entrance is off Vista China Drive in Palm Springs. There is plenty of parking, even though it is the official clubhouse for the Escena Golf Club. This area can be very windy. IF you want to experience eating out on the patio, I would advising waiting until the winds calm down. Our weather forecasters clearly have handle on wind situations in our valley so check with them. As you walk in, check the patio to the left. The water screen is fascinating and draws you in for you can see this is not your ordinary water screen. Then you will marvel at how simple the design is to create the great look. It is not often you walk toward the entrance of a restaurant and see before you a reflection pond with great sculpture. You immediately feel you are in for a special experience. A gracious hostess will greet you. Ask to be seated on the patio. In spring, any table will do, but if you are in the warmth of the summer ask to be seated where you will be protected from the sun. There are umbrellas, but the sun angle makes all the difference. If you like breakfast beverages, this is the place to order them. Once you are seated, you will want to bask in the beauty that surrounds you. As far as you can see, is the manicured golf course landscaped with rivers, palm trees, flowering plants and the mountains in the distance. What’s on the Menu? Frankly, I’m the wrong person to ask. I’m a connoisseur of eggs benedict--totally fussy about the béarnaise sauce. This restaurant is one of two in the Valley, I have discovered, that never let me down with the perfect sauce. Thus, my go to order is always eggs benedict at this restaurant. You will find the normal American menu. My friends have shared with me that the omelets are superb. This is the place you want to linger. Great place to catch up with friends, and enjoy the mountains in the distance. Depending on the sun, and even sometimes the presence of clouds; you will discover no visit is ever the same for the view is constantly changing. I’m sure you noticed I emphasized Escena Lounge and Grill for breakfast. I want to make it clear you can also go there for lunch or dinner. I have a bias for breakfast since it is such a magnificent way to start one’s day. If you want to go on Sunday morning, be sure to make reservations—they are on Open Table. It is located near the airport, so it is a bit away from downtown. However, if you have a car it is a very easy drive. Otherwise, taxi, Uber or Lyft can easily find their way for you. Escena Lounge & Grill 1100 Clubhouse View Drive Palm Springs, CA 92262 760-992-0002 http://www.escenagolf.com/dine 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

Rain, rains go away. Wait! No, I don’t mean that for I have had one of the most beautiful, short road trips I can remember. All our winter rain has brought us a Wildflower Super Bloom. A Super Blooms means that a number of seeds that have laid dormant; perhaps for years, have decided to grow and display their blooms in a most majestic way. The warmer temperatures have urged them to bloomer sooner than most predicted. Packing for my Excursion As a desert rat, an endearing term some of we locals ourselves, I knew I needed to pack a bag for my journey. My bag included: 1. Two water bottles filled to the brim. One learns never to go without water in this region. I was traveling mostly on a major highway and just a short distance. However, accidents have known to cause major backups. Why not be on the safe side? 2. Since I planned on taking lots of pictures, I figured a phone charger was a must. 3. Tennis shoes if I decided I wanted to walk one of the plentiful trains in the area. 4. A snack. Well, maybe I packed two. With sunglasses in hand, phone in its case, along with a pair of reading glasses, I headed out the door for my 40 mile journey East of Palm Springs. My destination is the Southern Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. When traveling in the area for Palm Springs, if you can, plan your activities after 9:00 a.m. People here have to get to work. So avoid the semblance of any traffic situation by leisurely starting your morning. The sun was shining brightly; the weatherman predicted an 80 degree day. My spirits were high as I headed out on this new adventure. By the way, check your gas gauge. Once you pass the town of Indio, in the distance, there are no gas stations between there and your destination. I was on my way. I quickly noticed anytime there was a piece of land not landscaped for residential or commercial purposes, there were beautiful purple flowers hugging the ground. Taller bushes of yellow flowers cry for your attention too. The canyons in the distance were awash in the color yellow. Note, I have not used flower names, because I don’t know them. However, if you are curious Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Centers have a plethora of books on plants in the area Southern Entrance of Joshua Tree National Park. You can’t miss the sign for the national park. It is about 40 miles East of Palm Springs on Hwy 10. Turn left over the bridge. AND then, you eyes begin to focus on what lies ahead of you—thousands, if not millions of wild flowers, as far as you can see in purple and yellow hues. The park entrance, where you have to pay, is up the road. If you haven’t been to the park, I encourage you to pay the fee and go through the park. I’ve been through it many times. I could tell my adventure to see wildflowers could be filled in this area alone. The pictures I have attached to this blog have not been retouched. I told a friend, I feel like I am in heaven as I text her one of the many pictures that now grace my photo album. Speaking of texting, this area is very spotty for Wi-Fi, so don’t get frustrated if your pictures, attached to a text do not go out right away. Alas, it was time for me leave this wonderland behind me. Though on the way home, I thought about how, if I write and post a blog on this adventure, just maybe it will encourage others to get out of their routine and experience this wonderful gift of nature. 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

Your friend owns Kimbals, a clothing and accessory shop in Palm Springs, California. She asks you go on a buying trip to the Garment District of Los Angeles. Now really, what are the chances anyone would say, No? Natta. The day arrived. The weather was checked: Cold but sunny! A heavy sweater should do it. Comfortable slacks and top for ease in out of the car multiple times. Oh yes, the most comfortable walking shoes completed the comfort outfit. Day Bag This is what I included: • Two of my reusable water bottles filled to the brim. I’ve seen way too many documentaries on plastic water bottles to think they would be a good idea to take on this trip or any other trip. • An extra pair of shoes. I find a change of shoes half-way through a walking day makes a big different to my feet and my disposition. • Snacks. Those corn muffins I made from scratch and have in the freezer would be perfect. Also included some almonds, love their portability. Bananas are good too to give you a boost. A welcome fruit for my drag time around 1:30 p.m. • Mobile phone battery charger. Not only do I post pictures of the sites I see, I use my phone to send gift ideas to friends, keep up with text and phone calls. One needs it because before I know it my phone is drained have a 2.5 hour drive back to Palm Springs. First Stop – Often called Chinatown Even if you are not shopping for something, this area of the Garment District between 1st and 4th and Los Angeles is an experience. Think of huge warehouses with vendor booth upon vendor booth filled with things you equate with Made in China items. Want a fan to cool yourself in summer heat? No problem, you can buy them by the dozen and hand them out to friends at your next hot backyard party. Need ribbon? Every color and size imaginable is available. Party favors? Adorable boxes for favors as your friends go out the door. You get the picture. All these vendors and items produce a sensory overload. Next Stop Near 12th Street and San Pedro Street, we find ourselves surrounded by small boutiques selling their brands. Mannequins beg us to come in to view next season’s lines. Yet, this trip, the goal was to purchase jewelry so their beckoning to us to come in proved to be ineffective. We were on a mission. Now if you want jewelry, this area will most certainly meet your needs. I commented to my friend, since I am a lover of jewelry, this place makes me feel like A little kid in a candy store. Each store has hooks of row upon row of earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. I found a pair of gold earrings I liked, but I wanted it them in silver? No problem, I found a silver pair right next to the gold one. At this point, I knew if it wasn’t there, it would be, more than likely, located in the silver aisle. Thus, I ended up with jewelry I didn’t need, but it was arty and unusual, so how could I leave them behind? Alas, we looked at the clock. If we didn’t head back, we would get stuck in traffic with the in Los Angeles folks traveling to Palm Springs for the weekend. Snack on the Way Home My friend, and driver, was getting weary, so we made a stop at Starbucks. She selected a cheese/fruit plate and we sat there and ate while smiling about our purchases. She was pleased for her next Las Vegas trip tasks had been cut down considerably and she has great new merchandise for the store. As for me, my treasures are still on my kitchen counter. As I finish this article, I am smiling for now it is time for me to open, my bags, and put away my treasures. PS - People ask if you do not have a business can you shop in the Garment District? The answer is, "It depends." In the stores, most likely you will need a vendor number assigned to your company. However, it doesn't hurt to ask. The street vendors are happy to sell you products, which include things such as hats, shoes, toys etc. Kathy Condon is a travel writer and blogger, and founder of the Palm Springs Insider Guide. She was recipient of US Book News Finalist Award for her book: It Doesn't Hurt to Ask: It's About Communication. www.palmspringsinsiderguide.com kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094

It is not often a bunch of 10 foot babies or 8 foot rabbits come to an area at the same time. However, that is the case for our community. Let me explain. DESSERT©WARREN If you are driving on Hwy 111, near Ranch Mirage, don’t be surprised if suddenly you see rabbits somewhat hiding from the Palm Springs sun. These colorful sculptures beacon you to stop and touch them. There is plenty of parking so it easy for you to stop and take playful photos. These nine colorful rabbits are approximately eight feet high. They are made out of highly polished steel and finished in bright colors. They are the creation of Karen and Tony Barone. The artists have work throughout out the world, but proudly call Palm Springs their home. They have always understood public art is important to a community. This warren, a name used to describe a bunch of rabbits, will be on site through the end of the May 2019. Individual rabbits can be adopted and will be taken to their new homes in June. I’m partial to the one named by its adoptive family, Happy. BABIES Behind the new Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs one can find 10 fiberglass black babies with no faces, but barcodes. They are found in the sand of the future home of an underground parking lot in an area we presently call the “The Sand Pit.” It’s located right in front of our beautiful Palm Springs Art Museum. These figures are at least 11 feet long and weight between 200 and 300 pounds. They are placed throughout the area so they look like they are crawling within the space. In one case, one is even crawling up a wall. Fiberglass, in the hot sun, can heat to extremely high temperatures. Thus, visitors are not allowed to touch and interact with them. The artist is David Cerny, Czech sculpture, originally created the “babies” for the Zizkov Tower in Prague. When they were returned, he found a home for them in Palm Springs. Listening to comments from visitors one can hear words such as creepy, disturbing or ugly. Since they were created to represent the societal dehumanization, it appears Cerny has accomplished his goal. Kathy Condon is a travel writer, blogger and founder of Palm Springs Insider Guide. She received US Book News Finalist Award for her book, It Doesn't Hurt to Ask; It's All About Communication kathy@kathycondon.net 760-902-3094 www.palmspringsinsiderguide.com