Hotel guide: Sands Hotel & Spa
Heading out to Palm Springs for a weekend getaway also means stepping into the old 1950s Hollywood era. Located in the heart of Indian Wells, the petal-pink Sands Hotel & Spa is one of these hotels build in that era. However, the 46-room boutique hotel recently got a total revamp by Hollywood interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard.
The friendly staff make you feel at home and this is a place for relaxation an unwinding - their gorgeous spa is a gem unto itself. The pool is a simple but elegant and has a variety of seating options including individual lounge chairs, cabanas and day beds.. There’s also a jacuzzi - perfect for those cool desert nights.
When "May Gray" kicked in this was just the perfect weekend getaway from rainy and cold Los Angeles. This resort is chic yet cozy, think California boheme with a twist of pink Moroccan luxe - it's hard to fault this upscale Palm Spring's resort.
THE TURN DOWN
ACCOMMODATION CATEGORY: Designer boutique hotel
ROOMS: Beautiful rooms with large comfortable bed, upscale linens, lots of pillows, air condition, flat screen TV, amazing mini bar with a large selection of beverages and snacks. Wide array of Acqua di Parma toiletries, spectacular walk in shower.
POOL/GYM/SPA: There is no gym here but both the pool and the spa exceeded my expectations.
TURN DOWN SERVICE: Yes
FEEL: Modern mid-century with a boho Moroccan twist
DESIGNER: Hollywood designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard
A LITTLE HISTORY: Built back in the 1950s — this 46-room hotel got a total reboot with glam interiors by Hollywood designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard:
LOCATION: The Sands is located in the heart of the wealthy desert enclave of Indian Wells, between Palm Desert and La Quinta. Scenic desert mountains are in the vicinity, and contrary to the name, there are more luxe green golf courses than sand patches in this upscale desert area.
RATES: 149$ +
WIFI: Yes, free.
RESTAURANT: The restaurant, called the Pink Cabana, featured a delicious Cal-Mediterranean menu and meals of eclectic, seasonally focused food from Michelin-trained chef Jason Niederkorn. Chef Niederkorn has received world renowned accolades from Condé Nast Traveler, LA Times and Forbes, amongst others.
BAR: Excellent selection of drinks, both on trend craft cocktails, as well as non-alcoholic juices and teas. Served by very accommodating waiters, no swim-up bar here.