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Desert Paradise in California
I am sitting on my private balcony at the Marriott Desert Springs Resort, overlooking a desert paradise. Directly below me is a manicured lagoon with profuse waterspouts, lush, vibrant foliage and tropical flowers. The sound of the gushing water lulled me to sleep last night in stereo. This morning it is bested by the occasional squawking of the resident ducks and exotic birds.
In the near distance are the resort's Venetian-like waterways, which begin in the lobby and guests are transported around via the gondolas. In front of me is a huge swimming pool and beyond that is the greenest of greens, the golf course with the most intense, verdant green I've seen in years. Except for the occasional golf cart, this is a picture perfect scene of stillness. This tranquil oasis is set amidst the striking contrast of stark mountains in the distance. The only barrier between this desert scene and me is the iron railing. There are so many Palm trees and lush gardens, I have forgotten that only a few hours ago I was in a foggy, overcast city of Los Angeles, with falling leaves and dried up dreams.
While watching the latest breaking reports on CNN, it seemed surreal in contrast to the comfort of this soothing spa resort, where the only stresses are "where do I go for dinner?" After watching several weeks of horrific traumatic world events, the only respite for the world-weary soul is to "get away from it all!" This was just what the doctor ordered! In fact, it is the best remedy for what ails you. You will gain more than just the priceless experiences of peace and comfort, the residual effects are worth the trip. It is essential for everyone to remember that there are still places on this planet with absolute beauty, resplendent gifts from nature for all of us to behold. In spite of what has passed, we can still find comfort and peace in a picture-perfect setting, like Palm Springs.
Situated on 400 acres, the Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa is a self-contained universe. The Spa has state of the art fitness facilities and a variety of the most popular classes. My favorite is of course, the variety of massage therapies. They offer a complete Ayurvedic ritual including the Abhyanga massage for purification.
In addition, I was able to experience the Shirodhara, which uses soothing warm oil to balance the nervous system; I left feeling an overall sense of well-being, something unheard of in Los Angeles!
The Spa has all the best amenities, including steam, sauna, and hot and cold plunge pools. "You will leave refreshed, in both body and spirit." The only problem is that there are so many fine restaurants on the property; you will end upover-indulging at the end of the day!
My original plan was to stay at the resort and not use the car for the entire stay. However, I was visiting a long-lost cousin who was staying at La Quinta, and ended up spending the next day at this most luscious resort property. It is truly the most elegant place in the desert. It boasts the most upscale amenities at this residential resort community, with a fabulous spa facility as well. It is designed with more of a traditional flair, and quaint Spanish features. The spa treatment was a stone therapy with the use of hot, smooth stones to soothe my aching muscles. The masseur placed the stones underneath my back as I rested and then in strategic chakra points. He then used these stones to massage my entire body, starting from my feet to my hands and even between my toes! It felt so unique, almost otherworldly. The healing properties of these warm stones are unfathomable. All I know is that I didn't want to get up and could have spent the rest of the day lying there, on my back without moving. After the Spa treatment, I had an excellent meal, dining al fresco in the moonlight with a live band of Mexican honchos. The setting was so picturesque; it felt like we were in Mexico! Designed by TAG Galyean, the creator of renowned spas at The Greenbrier Hotel, The Broadmoor Hotels and the Lodge at Pebble Beach. Orange County-Based PIDA Group — Internationally acclaimed for their expertise in the planning, architecture and interior design of resorts and recreational facilities.
On the final day, I was convinced that I felt so good on the inside; I needed a makeover on the outside. I noticed that Jose Eber, the famous hair maven to the stars, had a salon at the Marriott. I quickly enlisted the help of a very kind and patient stylist and asked for his honest opinion of my one-week old, new coif. He told me the truth (which was exactly what I had thought), I had a bad haircut. So I asked him to "fix it" and he really gave met the best haircut for my curly hair. He got rid of the "Roseanne Rosannadana" bob and made me into the hip, stick straight look of a "Friends" gal. I was thrilled with his artistic expertise and happy to finally have the "look." Unfortunately, it was raining when I got back to LA and I had my Farrah Curls again! Now, at least my hair looks good curly, too, because Patrick Marchesson is really a master, like Edward Scissorhands. You can reach him at the Jose Eber salon, 760.340.6363, when he's not doing a hair show for Sebastian.
If you want to get away from it all, call the Desert Springs Marriott Resort and Spa at 800.255.0848. You can also try the La Quinta Resort and Club, at 800.598.3828. They are both featured in "The Connoisseur's Guide to The World's Best Resorts and Great Hotels."
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