GROOVIN' — The Weekly Opine

Turning left from the Westin Mission Hills Resort onto Dinah Shore Drive is one of the great left turns in America. Fun adventures abound in the Palm Springs area. (Photo credit The Weekly Opine)

Twice is nice

Traveling to Palm Springs eight months ago, in early June, we were greeted by temperatures that hovered around a daily high of 110 degrees. It was hot. However, due to low humidity, it was mostly pleasant. Despite a few dire warnings it turned out to be a splendid trip.

So, I jumped at the chance to return to Palm Springs last week. February temperatures are in the mid-70s with a few 80s sprinkled in. Lucky for me, my role during the planning phase was easy-peasy. All I had to do was reserve a rental car and make dinner reservations for Wednesday night.

My significant significant other handled all the other details. Bethanny organized a spectacular vacation, including two days experiencing Modernism Week and a visit to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. At the zoo we fed a giraffe, petted goats, and witnessed a just-born addax struggle to stand up. The anxious mother patiently encouraged and nudged the baby as ravens loitered nearby. Finally, the baby addax was able to stand and take a few wobbly steps.

Impeccably modern

The highlight of our winter getaway was attending several Modernism Week activities along with seeing Frey House II, built in 1964. Frey House II was constructed on the side of the San Jacinto Mountains and offers stunning views of Palm Springs and surrounding mountains. The Palm Springs Art Museum, at ground level below Frey House II, is a repository of enjoyable, inspiring artwork. Spacious and well-organized, the museum is a delight.

We kicked off Modernism Week with a tour of Limon House, an all-steel architectural masterpiece that’s been converted into a luxurious boutique hotel. There are seven guest rooms, a spacious community kitchen, ample outdoor space, and an elegant outdoor pool situated in the center of the one-level structure. You and your friends can rent Limon House for the tidy sum of $4,500 per night (chef not included).

Our last Modernism Week stop was the Royal Hawaiian neighborhood. This is a unique enclave featuring immaculately stylish homes. The architecture, interior design, and landscaping make this neighborhood (cue Jim Nance) “unlike any other.” There are two sections, each with a beautiful community pool as the centerpiece, surrounded by 20 cool-as-cool-can-be houses. All single-story. All wonderfully appointed. A must see if you attend Modernism Week next year.

Rather than wax on and on, here are photos!