Desert, Palm Trees, and Palm Springs

California...desert, palm trees, sunshine, and days of adventure.  I have never experienced Cali, other than passing through LAX which was an experience all in itself, but I am so glad I was able to get away for a few days with my BF.

We flew into John Wayne National Airport, grabbed our bags and took off to get the car...a convertible of course. We had open highways to cruise!  Top down, shades on, wind blowing through our hair, music, and venturing our way down the 111 to Palm Springs.  It was the perfect beginning to our vaca. We stayed at the Riviera Palm Springs and this resort is nothing but amazing.  We had a great view of the pool, brightly colored orange lounge chairs, palm trees, mountains, and plenty of room to soak up the sun.  

We explored downtown driving along Palm Canyon and Indian Canyon Drive. Think a lot of local shops and eateries but ended that evening having cocktails at Melvyn's, a local joint just off the beaten path.  We strolled along the streets and did some shopping before heading back to the resort. The weather here is warm, but no humidity so it's very enjoyable from sunrise to sunset.  

The next day we headed back downtown to grab brunch at Lulu's California Bistro before spending the rest of the day poolside.  The food was amazing and they had some of the best coffee I have ever had. I went with the infamous Strawberry Crepes, with a side of bacon of course, and he had the California Norwegian Benedict.  We spent the rest of the day relaxing at the pool, reading our books, and enjoying the warm sun and water.  That evening we went to Village Fest, a traditional downtown event of arts, crafts, a farmers market, and for us, people watching.  

Friday morning we grabbed a few snacks at the local 7-11; you know the essentials, water, mini-tacos, mozzarella sticks...and of course I got a Coke Slurpee..not to be confused with the original "Icee" and we headed to Joshua Tree National Park.  It was a relaxing drive while enjoying the desert scenery.  I will share more of Joshua Tree and our experience there in the next blog post :) 

Friday evening we spent our last night getting all dressed up. First things first, cocktails at the resort lounge. A Cosmopolitan for me and a Negroni for him. We then headed to Trio, a restaurant filled with vibrant splashes of colors, for a light dinner of Calamari and Wild Mushroom Linguine followed by a cocktail at Eight4Nine, which boasted a chic and swanky atmosphere.  

Saturday morning, we hit the road early, stopped for a quick bite at In-N-Out burger...I can check that off the list, and caught an early flight home to get prepared for the rest of our weekend that we would spend at the lake.  California delivered all that I expected and I would definitely return again. I love the architecture, the desert and mountains, the sunshine, the breeze, no humidity, great places to dine, great cocktails, and mostly experiencing it with the one person who loves the adventure as much as me!  

Until next time Cali...

Shona