Change is the only constant

 

About 10 miles separate Desert Hot Springs from Palm Springs, but they are different worlds. It can be a bit discombobulating.

We had time to kill before checking in yesterday, so stopped at Moorton Botanical Garden, a place we visit every trip to Palm Springs.

Our timing was perfect-- we caught a tour with a very entertaining and knowledgeable master gardener. We learned so much about the beautiful and unusual desert plants. It was a real treat.

Then on to our hotel, a historic downtown inn where Lucy and Desi once stayed. We knew it changed name, ownership, and was remodeled since we were here last. What to expect?

This should appeal to the well-heeled Coachella Music Festival crowd. Not sure about the regulars like us, who have been coming back for years. It's lost that "old California " vibe we loved. The overgrown vegetation that gave the grounds such a sanctuary feeling was cut back to paint the exterior.  Fewer birds, of course.

The furnishings and plumbing fixtures are modern and sleek (European?) but frankly, not functional. There's a fancy espresso machine, but they forgot to give us cups. However, we have a complete set of cheese knives. Ha!

The overstuffed furniture is gone, also the useful kitchen table. The walls are white with modern art instead of desert scenes. Sadly, someone thought it was a good idea to paint the beautiful, natural flagstone floors black. 

Anyway. Only an ungrateful person would complain about this lap of luxury! We will certainly enjoy our last stay here at last year's prices. Having made the reservation long ago, we were grandfathered in.

A before and after picture of the pool:

And our private courtyard:

Well, that bad weekend weather feels like it never happened. Warm, sunny days ahead for the rest of our visit. Looking forward to a walk in the desert and some downtown Palm Springs vibe. After all, we're staying with the the hip crowd here. Last night was quiet and the bed comfortable.

All is well.