Expert: Steve Summers - 3/22/2004

Question
dear Steve

we have booked a long weekend at desert hot spring at Two bunch Palms, do you know that resort? If you know the area pls tell me what wothwhile to see and to do also restaurants, walkings ,we dont' like very turistic places.
We are Italian from rome thank you in advance .

ciao esa

Answer
Hi Esa,

I am familiar with Two Bunch Palms Resort. I have heard it described as a "rustic getaway", which means (to me) that they never have to buy any new furniture. It is one of those getaway places that celebrities supposedly like, but you will never see them there because they keep to themselves. I think a good description of it is "Bohemian spa at Ritz-Carlton prices". It is good for getting away from the fast pace of Los Angeles, and is relaxed and private. A relaxing place, but I would probably never go there because my in-laws live in Palm Desert, and I can stay there for free.

With that said, we have now established that this is a getaway. This was supposedly built originally in the 1920's by the infamous gangster Al Capone to hide from the government. As such, it is not really close to anything.

Some places to visit include the Living Desert (a zoo for desert species), and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which takes you out of the desert heat to the top of Mt. San Jacinto. The Indian Canyons, located on Agua Caliente tribal land, are a must-see. Undisturbed natural beauty is combined with remarkably easy access - the canyons are located just minutes from downtown Palm Springs on South Palm Drive. North Palm Canyon Drive is home to many shops, restaurants, and boutiques. If you like hiking and rock climbing, then visit Joshua Tree National Monument, north of Desert Hot Springs.

There are plenty of Mexican restaurants in the area. I always like to ask the desk staff what their favorite restaurant is. I have never been disappointed.

Have fun,

Steve