Palm Springs in Southern California is like the backdrop of a fabulous, never-ending pool party. It’s a living museum of mid-century chic that meets desert vibes, a match made in design heaven. It’s like stepping onto a vintage Hollywood movie set – with modern amenities and divine mountains watching over us while we’re sipping margaritas under palm trees.

The local scene is as vibrant as a set of new neon markers. Art galleries and vintage boutiques are the daily catwalks. Nightlife sparkles like a favorite sequined jacket. Relax and adventure: There are few places as charismatic, where you can go from a chic bistro brunch to hiking through the wild, rugged Agua Caliente Indian Canyons. Or 6,000 up the Aerial Tramway with views of Coachella Valley below. One moment you’re sunbathing by a retro pool, the next you’re dancing the night away. But Palm Springs has history, the Palm Springs Art Museum, and substance too. Rat Pack era landmarks, oh they’re everywhere! It’s like a step back into an era of suave sophistication, except everyone’s invited to this party!

For ease of planning, Joshua Tree National Park is a mere 45 minutes away; LA is two hours and the gay Mecca of West Hollywood is 2.5 hours (depending on traffic, always). — Kim Grant