I don’t know about you, but I have a thirst for new adventures, an uncontrollable sense of wanderlust, if you will. Of course, responsibilities and a job prevent me from giving into impulsive one-way flights to Paris or Bali, but I found the next best, and quite doable, thing: a weekender. So, to test the waters of my newfound answer to vacation on a time-budget, I headed to the desert, to La Quinta Resort & Club in Palm Springs.
As a winter breeze rolls in on our paradise, it’s the perfect time to chase the golden rays to their permanent home in Palm Springs. Although its reputation is that of a golfing destination or the last stop before a wedding, the city has so much more to offer. Along with my boyfriend, I took it upon myself to prove just how much you can get out of a weekend at the renowned resort.
After battling bumper-to-bumper traffic, we finally drive through the lit up, palm tree-lined entrance like many guests, and celebrities, before us since its opening in 1926. Full disclosure: I was under the impression we were heading to a top-tier hotel of the La Quinta Inn chain…
Needless to say, entering the luxury car-filled lot was a more-than-pleasant surprise. Upon check-in we learn this is in fact a Waldorf Astoria Resort, which pretty much says it all, and explains the gorgeous, Spanish style property. Due to our traffic-induced tardiness we rush past shimmering fountains and evergreen lawns to the resort’s Mexican restaurant, because I’m a Santa Barbara girl and I know that a good margarita can fix almost any problem.
In traditional Oaxaca style, a vibrant mural dresses up the walls of the Adobe Grill, while an artisan tequila selection does the rest. We choose an outdoor spot near the fire pit, where flames dance against the faint mountain backdrop as we sip on fruity margaritas bigger than our heads. After three sips, all is right in the world and the relaxing weekend truly begins.
It could be that we finished every last drop of our cocktails, the citrusy fresh ceviche and sizzling fajitas we devoured, or the overall ambiance of the resort, but whatever it is, we walk to our room with dreamy anticipation. We enter our hideaway casita to discover a private outdoor hot tub, a king-sized bed and our mini fridge fully stocked with a delicious and nutritious Pressed Juicery cleanse for the weekend. I’ve died and gone to heaven. We jump into the bubbling Jacuzzi and admire the star-filled sky, because what’s more romantic than that?
As the sun peeks through the window of the suite I wake up more well-rested than I have in months. Hand-in-hand, with the other hand gripping a Citrus 2 juice, we walk to Twenty6 for a breakfast buffet that has literally everything. I get a made-to-order omelet, crispy hash browns, a side of bacon, a chocolate croissant, and a bowl of seasonal fruit — I’m on vacation so diet rules do not apply. After a few hours of tanning, aka recovering from a food coma that I absolutely do not regret, I head to the spa for a Himalayan Salt Stone Ritual. On my way I take a detour to explore Greta Garbo’s cottage, which is impressively preserved, from her bedroom to her luxurious entertaining space, where she hosted notorious soirees for Hollywood starlets. I never expected to find such rich history and a legendary guest list, including President Eisenhower, Arnold Palmer, Frank Capra, and later, even Britney Spears, at any resort.
The spa is tranquil in every way — from the friendly attendants to the thirst-quenching lavender lemonade. As this is my first stone massage I am going in with no expectations. I lay down on a plush table and my masseuse works on my kinks and tension with smooth, rosy stones. I’m shocked at the precision and effective pressure they deliver. My thoughts and concerns begin to dissipate, just as the heat from the stones permeates my skin. All the stress I’ve been holding onto melts away, and I’m mildly embarrassed to say I fell asleep. I leave completely carefree, and just slightly disoriented due to the detoxifying qualities of the stones. This has to be the best massage of my life. To reboot before heading back to the pool (the resort has 41 pools!) I sip on a gingery beet juice on one of the shaded lounge chairs and take in the calming beauty of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
After swimming under a sunset to remember, we head off to Morgan’s, which was part of the original La Quinta that opened in 1927. Clearly, cocktails are in order to celebrate a day well spent. We go with the White Linen, a frothy gin concoction with elderflower liqueur and lychee-like syrup. My date says it’s the best drink he’s ever had, and that is quite an honor. For a starter we opt for the Confit Quail Salad from the “seasonal inspiration menu.” The quail is a delicate alternative to chicken, and along with fig slices it elevates the starter that we finish every last bit of, leaving behind a clean plate. Next, comes the entrée: the Montana Pork Chop. Poached rhubarb and beer vinegar create irresistible tang while crispy pork belly adds texture to the flawless pork chops. I must admit, I am not usually a fan, but this dish left a lasting impression and perhaps changed my perception of pork forever… My favorite time of the meal, dessert, is here. Due to indecision, our knowledgeable waiter brings us two desserts, which I wish happened everywhere. The Lemon Curd is a work of deconstructed genius, taking the classic lemon tart to the next level: lemon and mascarpone dollops are separated by refreshing sorbet, and decorated with shaved white chocolate. It’s irresistible. The “All About Chocolate” Cake hits all the sweet spots the curd missed with black tea ganache, brownie, and chocolate mousse. To say we left satisfied is an understatement.
We rise bright and early for a Gentle Yoga class followed by two classic eggs Benedicts and rich cappuccinos with a view. After a quick swim we’re ready for our last La Quinta adventure, tennis. We pass by a bridal party (our fourth sighting of the weekend) en route to one of the 23 courts. An hour of rallying under the beating sun and I am exhausted, but in the best way possible. Not much compares to competition with a stunning mountain backdrop.
Although we have to leave, we do so with smiles on our faces, and a golden glow. The weekend was a huge success; filled with activities, delicious meals and quality time together. Whether you’re going on a girls’ trip, planning a wedding party, or just want to get away for a few days, La Quinta Resort & Club has something for everyone, and its years of experience, mean five-star everything.
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