Top 10 Week: Luxury LA weekend getaways @ Examiner

Top 10 Luxury LA Weekend Getaways

DRIVE

1.) Santa Barbara

A trip up the coast to the famous Bacara Resort and Spa is a much needed escape for anyone.  Enchanted nights and glamorous days by the sparkling pool await you. Bacara Resort and Spa, 8301 Hollister Ave., Santa Barbara, CA 93117 805.968.0100

2.) San Diego

A weekend at the Four Seasons Aviara Resort and Spa includes golf, tennis, world class spa and elegant dining. Four Seasons Aviara, 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, CA 92001 760.603.6800

3.) Big Bear

Rent a luxury cabin from bigbearresorts.com and become one with nature. Admire the lake views, cool breezes and four season charm. bigbearresorts.com

4.) Solvang

Mellow, small town feel with big ambiance.  Stay at the Hadsten House Inn and Spa for a quaint, European-inspired getaway. Relax and indulge in wine tasting, theater and great dining. Hasdsten House, 1450 Mission Drive, Solvang, CA 93463 800.457.5373

5.) Palm Springs

The longtime escape for Hollywood royalty, Palm Springs still holds the charm of yesterday. Hide out at the newly remodeled Palm Springs Riviera. A modern touch on an old favorite, this desert oasis features Spa Terre, fine dining at Circa 59 and unlimited sunshine. Riviera Resort and Spa, 1600 N. Indian Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.327.8311

6.) Coronado

The historic Hotel Del Coronado has embodied luxury, class and elegance since its 1888 opening.  Beachside Victoria splendor graces the peaceful shores and is known as one of the top beach vacation destinations in the world. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, CA 92118 1800.468.3533

FLY

7.) Napa Valley

Terraced down a rolling hillside with views of endless vineyards, Auberge du Soleil is a jewel in Napa Valley, CA.  California living is showcased at its finest with plush decor, original contemporary art, and world class dining by owner Claude Rouas.  Enjoy art galleries, hiking, golf and wine tasting. Auberge du Soleil, 180 Rutherford Hill Rd., Rutherford, CA 707.967.3111

8.) San Francisco

A quick flight to Northern California unleashes a whole new perspective on California. Spend your days wandering the miles of streets, shopping for knick-knacks in Chinatown or the Fisherman’s Wharf, riding cable cars and dining at Taylor’s Automatic Refresher and Ponzu. Rest your head at 1 Knob Hill, at Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco.  onlyinsanfrancisco.com

9.) Las Vegas

The city that never sleeps can keep you in luxury and decadence all day and night long. From drivers, villas, VIP club service and every known chef in world taking up shop in Sin City, your time in Vegas will be well spent. The new Steve Wynn tower at Encore is sure to please, as is the top celebrity chef lineup. From Chef Jet Tila (Wazazu) to Theo Schoenegger (Sinatra) your taste buds will be happy. Encore Las Vegas, 3121 Las Vegas Blvd. South, Las Vegas, NV 89109 702.770.8000

10.) Scottsdale

The picturesque Camelback Arizona Spa and Golf Resort Hotel has quickly made a name for itself as one of the top luxury hotel and spas in the world. Private patios and balconies are standard in the 453 spacious casitas, as is kitchenettes and the occasional private pool. Solitude and peace are imminent. Camelback Arizona Spa and Golf Resort Hotel, 5402 East Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85283 480.596.7040

For more info: k@kimberlyfisher.com
Author: Kimberly Fisher Kimberly Fisher is a National Examiner. You can see Kimberly’s articles on Kimberly’s Home

Find out more about Kimberly: Kimberly Fisher is a model, actress and freelance writer based in Los Angeles,CA. Originally from Alaska, she travels extensively, having visited almost every state and 28 countries, with new ones added every month. Check out more at www.KimberlyFisher.com.

Top 10 Week: flight etiquette tips @ Examiner

Proper jet etiquette.

1.)Your purse, makeup bag, laptop bag, backpack, shopping bag and duffle all don’t need to be carried on the plane. They have a carry-on limit for a reason. Only so much space is alloted to each passenger. Please limit carry-ons to the necessities.

2.)Be considerate to your seat mates. If the lights are lowered and they have on an eyeshade, it may not be the best time to tell them how excited you are to be en route to your cousin’s wedding in Panama.

3.)If you are prone to frequent potty breaks, book an aisle seat.  On a flight to Korea I sat in the aisle, while my seat mate went to the bathroom every hour on the hour. LAX-Seoul = 14 times I had to get up.

4.)Board when your row or group number is called. The reason behind this is the efficiency it brings to the boarding process.

5.)Share the arm rest!

6.)Coughing. Sneezing. Recycled airplane air. Do your best to cover your month when you cough or sneeze, as to not spread swine flu (or the latest ailment) to everyone on the plane.

7.) When exiting the plane, it is polite to let the seat rows in front of exit first. It IS NOT polite the bum rush those in the aisle for a quick exit.

8.) If you have children, please control them. We know how cute little Jimmy or Susie is to you, but that cuteness some how disappears when they are running down the aisles or kicking th back of your seat non-stop.

9.) Be nice to flight attendants. They are no longer referred to as “stewardess”, and are not their to service your every beck and call as your own personal butler.

10.) Dress Appropriately. Maybe the plane isn’t the place to wear your denim miniskirt and cutoff half shirt. Remember that temperatures vary greatly in airports and planes, so dress in comfy layers.

For more info: contact k@kimberlyfisher.com

Splurges We Love @ Examiner.com

Villa Estrella/Cabo San Lucas

Third world country for your getaway? Only if it’s done in style and top notch elegance. Try one of the Solstice Group’s many luxury vacation homes, including the breathe-taking Villa Estrellas in Cabo San Lucas. The magnificent white structure sits high on the hill in El Pedregal (the Beverly Hills of Cabo ) and boasts 5 bedrooms, 6.5 bathrooms, mesmerizing views, infinity pool and spa, outdoor fire pit, private balconies in all of the guest rooms and spacious deck areas. A final touch includes an optional personal chef and the use of a Hummer or state of the art suburban for your exploring pleasures.

Wayaka Island/Fiji

Entrepreneur David Gilmour (of Fiji water fame) bought Wayaka Island and turned it into a tropical paradise for even the most disconcerting adults. 9 “bures” situated on the Oceanfront house a total of 18 guests at any given time. The 12 to 1 staff ratio ensures maximum comfort for the guests, and includes a world class chef, private beaches, guided walking tours, every water sport imaginable, and private jet service from Nadi. Surrounded by clear blue waters and white sandy beaches, be sure you actually can stand the accompaniment of your significant other.

St. Regis Resort and Spa/Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Crystal clear lagoons. Serene Landscapes. Experience the culture and natural beauty of one of the most mysterious islands in the world. Relax on the white sand beaches and try new activities such as sailing, shark feeding, or helicopter rides in a pristine environment. Opened in 2006, The St. Regis Resort and Spa is known to be one of the most lavish hotel chains in the world. At The St. Regis in Bora Bora, you are treated like Hollywood royalty, and this hotel has been known to be a sanctuary for more than a few celebs, including the honeymoon location for Nicole Kidman’s wedding to country star Keith Urban. The Aussie newlyweds no doubt enjoyed the new levels of opulence by dining at the famous Lagoon Restaurant by famed Chef Jean Georges Vongerichten or relaxing in the Oasis Spa.

Casa de Santa Domingo/Antigua, Guatemala

The shockingly quaint colonial town of Antigua, Guatemala is home to Casa de Santa Domingo. Winner of several travel awards, this former Monastery will charm you with its dreamy gardens, open archways, and sprawling grounds. Parrots perch happily in the trees, and the art and history of Guatemala is showcased in several of the Museums located on site. At night, gaze out your window at the hundreds of tea light candles across the landscape while sipping on a cocktail at the cozy dark wood bar. Walking distance to town, the cobble stone streets and pastel colored houses lead you to shopping, church ruins, and scenic exploration.

Happy Travels!

Quick Travel Tips @ Trazzler.com

 Eating Authentic Greek in Manhattan Beach, CA

For dinner head to Zagat rated Petros Greek Cuisine and Lounge where beach modern meets a classic Greek menu with Mediterranean flair. Local favorites include feta crusted lamb, moussaka, and the petros horiatiki salad. The ingredients are fresh and combine into a medley of flavors, textures, and colors for a truly astonishing, innovative dining experience. The sophisticated environment emulates a warm, welcoming atmosphere with its muted neutral colors and offers friendly service. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a Greek wine, or a classic Greek coffee to compliment your meal. Make sure to save room for the decadent deserts, the baklava and baby Greek doughnuts literally melt in your mouth. After an evening of culinary treats, stroll outside into the Metlox Plaza located in downtown Manhattan Beach. Boutiques and shops line the boulevard leading all the way down to the strand, featuring a wide variety of shopping, dining, and crafts.

By Kimberly Fisher | Photo: Kimberly Fisher

Dining Where the Screen Legends Hung Out in Hollywood, CA

The last stop of the your trip to the City of Angels is also the oldest; Musso and Frank Grill. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, this eatery has been around since 1919. It is a former hangout of great writers F. Scott Fitzgerald, William Faulkner and Ernest Hemingway and favorite refectory of Charlie Chaplin and Rudolf Valentino. The menu keeps the old school charm and ambiance with its dressy red coated waiters, dark mood lighting, and open counter dining. Known for its steaks, Welsh rarebit, and (on Tuesdays) Corned Beef and Cabbage. Locals recommend trying the best martini in town, possibly at the back bar while watching the waiters use the old fashioned cash register and run orders to the lively tables. Stop by the front counter and share a laugh or two (and magic tricks!) with Manny Felix. On staff for 40 years at the grill he exudes all the charm and exhilaration in the world. The blast from the past is refreshing and elating; as the nostalgia of Old Hollywood is remembered and appreciated by the old and young alike.

Shopping on the Rodeo Drive of the desert in Palm Springs, CA

Relaxed and refreshed, journey to North Palm Drive for shopping and lunch. Stroll down the boutique filled avenue, and stop into the high end store Trina Turk for attire. This trendy, modern boutique carries high quality wears for even the most disconcerting shopper. Bold patterns mix with flirty flowers in the new lines for the season. Adagio Gallery is the next stop for a sampling of southwestern art work, and then Bon Vivant for antiques and collectibles. Palm Canyon Drive has been described as being the heart and soul of Palm Springs and features world class dining, shopping, and history. As you stroll through the streets, glance down and take note of the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. Over 250 stars embellish the sidewalks of North Palm Canyon. You might see the names of Lauren Bacall, Marlene Dietrich, or Debbie Reynolds while you window shop. For lunch, stop in at Maracas, conveniently located amidst Palm Canyon Drive plaza. Grab an ice cold beer while you munch on crisp tortilla chips and fresh salsa on the outdoor patio. For a refreshingly healthy lunch, try the skirt steak salad-a bed of leaf lettuce, spinach and radicchio tossed with apple slices, fennel, roma tomatoes, gorgonzola cheese, crispy onions, and balsamic vinaigrette. Afterwards, continue the desert shopping spree, and duck into Dazzles and 20 First to check out mid century furnishings.

By Kimberly Fisher | Photo: Kimberly Fisher

10 Must Have Travel Products @ TangoDiva.com

Coming Soon!

Packing 101: 10 Tips for the Jetsetera @TangoDiva.com

	Email a Friend Printer-Friendly

Packing 101: 10 Tips for the Jetsetera By Kimberly Fisher I have been known to pack in less than 10 minutes. Yes, less than 10 minutes! It is not a miracle, or an act of God, merely good pre-planning and organization. Whether your trip is 2 days or 2 months, here are some tips to help get you where you’re going… with your sanity intact. 1. Have pre-packed toiletry kit. Nothing is worse than scrambling for product in the middle of nowhere. In my Chanel Toiletry Kit I keep the essentials: travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, shampoo, conditioner, facial scrub, body wash, comb, razor, q-tips, deodorant, baby powder, shaving cream, facial moisturizer, band-aids, toenail clippers, tooth whitener, lint brush and misc. pills for different ailments. For longer trips (1 week plus) I also pack wrinkle-free spray, jet lag pills, spot remover stick, Vaseline and sunscreen. Everything comes in sample size for your convenience! 2. Pre-pack your makeup bag. The grab-and-go approach will do wonders for your pre-packing stress levels! My essentials include: foundation, cover up, eye shadow, blush, lip glosses and moisturizers, powder, lip and eye liners, eyelash curler, and mascara. Tailor your bag to fit your needs! 3. Have a clothing-to-pack list. No matter where I am going, my clothes list stays pretty much the same. Mine is like this: lingerie, jeans, black pants, black skirt, knit wrinkle-free dresses, black dress, knit layering tops, sweater or sweatshirt, denim jacket, lightweight trench, pashmina, tennis shoes, flip-flops, ballet slippers, heels, workout clothes, bikini, evening bag, jewelry bag. It pays to stay with a neutral color palette, so you don’t have to worry about not matching! Make sure all clothes are “easy to wear” and “go anywhere”. 4. Have a “you kit” . Make sure you have all the comforts you need while away. A typical “you kit” could be scented travel candles, eye masks, a great book, packets of your favorite tea and Splenda™, plus mints, candy or gum. On the plane, indulge in your favorite healthy snack, your own bottle of water, travel blanket and your iPod. 5. Personalize a luggage tag. I used to work in the Lost Baggage Department of a major airline…and one of the hardest things to do was relocate passengers’ bags with no nametags! One of the cheapest and most important things you could do is invest in a Bag Tag. Not only will it identify your bag, but it makes it easier to spot on the carousel! 6. Less is more! With today’s travel fees for extra and overweight baggage, who can afford to overload? Imagine the ease and simplicity of traveling when you have one well-packed and organized bag. Planning ahead can save you stress and pointless airline fees. First, make sure you know the weight and size of your bag—it might be time to toss that hard side bag for a lighter, more flexible soft one. Second, pack light! Third, make sure you know your airline’s baggage regulations. 7. Keep important items with you. Never pack the important/expensive stuff (cash, passport, medication, jewelry, and camera) in checked luggage. Make sure it is with you at all times! 8. For your consideration. Some other items you my find useful are a compass, a small umbrella, portable rain poncho, travel flashlight, zip-lock bags, a power converter or a travel alarm clock. 9. Know what to leave out. Leave at home anything that could be questionable to security. Say adios to matches, lighters, and flammable liquids, household items that contain chemicals or any other flammable or potentially toxic material. 10. Be prepared. Traveling is easier when everything’s in order. Check your flight status and baggage requirements, pack ahead of time, and make sure you have important documents on you. Happy Travels! Kimberly Fisher is a model and actress based in Los Angeles, CA and Las Vegas, NV. She graduated from Mt. St. Mary’s College and is a part time freelance writer. She is a contributing writer for Trajan Magazine and Tango Diva. Originally from Alaska, she has lived on the West coast for the past 8 years.

La Quinta

La Quinta Resort and Spa.

Article and photo by Kimberly Fisher.

Called the “Land of the Eternal Sun” by the Cahuilla Indians, La Quinta’s history dates all the way back to the 16^th Century, when Captain Juan Batista D’ Anza recognized La Quinta as the fifth base between Mexico and the San Gabriel Mission. La Quinta, which is based on the Spanish word for five and the Mexican Quinta, which means ”secluded country retreat” still lives up to its name today.

The La Quinta Resort and Club were established in 1926 by the son of a wealthy San Franciscan businessman, and opened its doors to the general public in 1927. Plans to lure the glitz of Hollywood to the secluded resort worked; as stars like Frank Capra, Katherine Hepburn, Greta Garbo and Errol Flynn soon endorsed the desert retreat. Visitors still flock to the resort to this day to enjoy the world class amenities, including the full service spa, fitness center, beauty center, tennis club, shopping, dining, and five championship gold courses.

Start the day in the desert with a light breakfast on the patio at Twenty 6, an American bistro with a fresh and lively menu. Try out the breakfast buffet, or order a la carte. The fresh squeezed orange juice tastes especially refreshing under the morning sun, and the eggs Benedict is done to perfection. After breakfast, head over to one the 23 tennis courts to play a quick match or to the fitness center for a late morning workout.

As you send your significant other out to play on one of the five award winning, top-rated golf courses, head to Spa La Quinta for an afternoon of relaxation and rejuvenation. Mixing the great outdoors with the indoors, the Native influence is noticed throughout the spa…from the open air central courtyard to the al fresco treatment rooms. Try the Signature Celestial Shower or the Desert Rose Bath, a unique feature at the health spa due to its outdoor treatment rooms, and then move on to a La Quinta Custom Facial and a Deep Tissue Massage. The top rated spa features everything from body scrubs, hot stone massage, exfoliation, rehydration, and much more. After your treatments, head to the adjoining Yamaguchi Salon. The salon is unique in the fact that Feng Shui is intertwined with a holistic approach to beauty. Celebrity hairstylist Billy Yamaguchi will consult you on the best color and style for your hair, as you indulge in a Feng Shui manicure and pedicure.

After getting all dolled up, head across the resort to the Adobe Grill for a delectable dinner. As you walk over the sprawling lawn, the cool breeze touches your face and flawlessly done hair. You can hear the festive sounds of the Mariachi Band, the Inka Kings, in the outdoor courtyard. Inside the restaurant, you’ll be comfortable and cozy in the delightfully colorful décor. The refined, elegant cuisine brings a touch of class to traditional dishes. Start off with the guacamole, and watch it be done to perfection table side. Pair it with “The Best Margarita in Town”, presented in an oversize hand blown glassware from Guadalajara. Signature dishes include the Caldo de Mariscos, a southwestern bouillabaisse, and Ceviche de Mariscos Marinera. After your meal, try the Mexican Chocolate Banana Lumpia, a special creation paired with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup. After a scrumptious meal, head back to your suite where you will find a special little treasure awaiting you. In the nature of the resort, you will find small little dolls on your pillow. These little guys are a Native influence and are here to sleep under your pillow…in the case that you have bad dreams; they take them all away for you. As you sleep soundly at the La Quinta Resort, you’ll remember the perfect day in the desert.

Playing in Palm Springs

Photo courtesy Palm Springs Air Museum.

Article by Kimberly Fisher

Are you ready for some fun in the desert sun? Then pack an overnight bag and head 110 miles southeast of Los Angeles to beautiful Palm Springs. Located in the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs is the perfect escape for a girlfriend weekend, romantic getaway or guys golf outing. The desert is sure to accommodate your every need.

Start the day by exploring the heart of Palm Springs: Palm Canyon Drive. Stroll down the star-studded street and explore the many boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants and coffee shops. The charming desert community embraces the fact that this is safe, pleasant and melodious place to live and visit. Grab an ice cream cone from Cold Stone Creamery or a decadent coffee from the always packed Koffi as you shop for anything from designer garb to antiques.

Mix in education with entertainment when you visit the Palm Springs Air Museum. This not for profit museum has 28 fully operable planes on display, as well vast amounts of memorabilia. Check out the models, collection of uniforms or the art work by famed artists Robert Taylor or Stan Stokes. Popular with the kids are the interior tours of a B17 and the flight simulators, as well as a special education corner. Staffing the museum are former vets from all of the armed forces, who are happy to give you a personal tour or answer any daunting questions you may have. The library upstairs features 8,000 volumes and an immense DVD collection, and you can grab your own flight jacket in the gift shop on your way out.

For an outdoor adventure, Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway; one of the world’s largest rotating tram cars. The ride gives you spectacular views of Mt. Jacinto State Park as you travel two and a half miles in just 10 short minutes. At the top, enjoy a mountaintop snack in the Peaks Restaurant, or grab a libation at the Pines Café or Lookout Cocktail Lounge. Explore the Natural History Museum or watch one of the two documentaries on the history of the State Park and Tram System. If feeling adventurous, discover the picnic areas, hiking trails, and campgrounds.

Grab dinner at hip Azul Restaurant. This tapas inspired lounge and patio has great ambiance, a super friendly staff, and yummy food. Pull up a chair at the bar or grab a swing on the patio as you nibble on delectable delights such as the jerked beef skewers, chicken pot stickers and choice of several flatbreads. The fresh ingredients make the mixture of California, Mediterranean, Asian food selections truly unique. If you’d like to make your happy hour that much more cheerful, try out the fantastic mojitos. Made with fresh mint and delectable rum, this concoction will keep you smiling for hours.

If you brought your dancing shoes, head over to Zeldaz. One of the few clubs in Palm Springs, it has been bringing good times to locals and tourists alike for over 30 years. Housing two dance floors and 8 full bars, take your pick of tables by the dance floor or if your feeling feisty grab a spot on the stage. So whatever your need may be, Palm Springs is sure to satisfy even the most disconcerting traveler. Having fun in the sun is just a way of life while vacationing in Palm Springs!

What & Where:

Cold Stone Creamery (155 S Palm Canyon Dr, Ste B-2; 760-327-6892)

Palm Springs Koffi (515 North Palm Canyon; 760-416-2244)

Palm Springs Air Museum (745 N Gene Autry; 760-778-6262)

Azul Restaurant (369 North Palm Canyon; 760-325-5533)

Palm Springs Aerial Tram (One Tram Way off highway 111; 760-325-1391)

Zeldaz (174 N. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-325-2375 Check for special events)

“Palm Springs: Luxurious North Palm Canyon Drive”

Top: Pepper Tree Inn.

Bottom: Lunch at Maracas.

Article and photos by Kimberly Fisher

Need to get away from everyday life and pamper yourself in the perfect surroundings? Whether you want to do everything or nothing at all, Palm Springs is the perfect luxury getaway.

If you are lucky enough to begin your day in Palm Springs, there is no better choice than the Spanish Colonial boutique hotel of the Pepper Tree Inn. This hidden gem offers romantic charm while remaining an intimate experience.Ideally located on North Palm Canyon Drive it is walking distance to downtown Palm Springs. The hand-painted walls throughout the structure captivate the desert ambiance and make you feel at home. Enjoy a quick bite from the continental breakfast before heading out to enjoy your day.Embrace the desert oasis and get comfortable in your new surroundings by working on your tan at the Inn’s chlorine-free saline pool. The relaxing atmosphere can’t be compromised with a gorgeous view of the mountains in the background. As you unwind in the desert sun, feel the calmness engulf you.

Relaxed and refreshed, journey to North Palm Drive for shopping and lunch. Stroll down the boutique filled avenue, and stop into the high end store Trina Turk for attire. This trendy, modern boutique carries high quality wears for even the most disconcerting shopper. Bold patterns mix with flirty flowers in the new lines for the season.

Adagio Gallery is the next stop for a sampling of southwestern art work, and then Bon Vivant for antiques and collectibles. Palm Canyon Drive has been described as being the heart and soul of Palm Springs and features world class dining, shopping, and history. As you stroll through the streets, glance down and take note of the Palm Springs Walk of Stars. Over 250 stars embellish the sidewalks of North Palm Canyon. You might see the names of Lauren Bacall, Marlene Dietrich, or Debbie Reynolds while you window shop.

For lunch, stop in at Maracas, conveniently located amidst Palm Canyon Drive plaza. Grab an ice cold beer while you munch on crisp tortilla chips and fresh salsa on the outdoor patio. For a refreshingly healthy lunch, try the skirt steak salad-a bed of leaf lettuce, spinach and radicchio tossed with apple slices, fennel, Roma tomatoes, Gorgonzola cheese, crispy onions, and balsamic vinaigrette.

Afterward, continue the desert shopping spree, and duck into Dazzles and 20 First to check out mid century furnishings.

If you happen to find yourself in Palm Springs on a Thursday evening, one must-do event is the VillageFest. Started in 1991, this weekly street fair features everything from artists, entertainers, local businesses and artisans among the open restaurants and shops. Purchases of fresh fruits and vegetables are popular, as well as hand made jewelry. The smell of baked goods and hand crafted soaps drift down the stalls in the casual open air marketplace.

For dinner head to Kaiser Grille. This old world steak house embodies the desert lifestyle with high quality food. You will appreciate this casually elegant restaurant for its immense layout, friendly service, and first-rate food. Have a glass of wine with your 14. oz. prime rib, and indulge in a luscious specialty appetizer as the knowledgeable staff entices you with the perfect desert.

End your evening by heading back to the inn for a midnight swim. Relax and gaze at the clear skies while floating in the pool, or lounge around the inner courtyard; complete with fountains, stone tables, and desert-themed motif. Jump into the Jacuzzi and admire the desert landscape one last time…a perfect way to end a perfect day in Palm Springs.

What & Where:

Pepper Tree Inn (622 N. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-318-9850)

Trina Turk (891 N. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-416-2856)

Adagio Gallery (193 S. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-320-2230)

Bon Vivant (457 N. Palm Canyon Dr. #3; 760-534-3197)

Maracas (155 S. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-322-9654)

Dazzles (1035 N. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-327-1446)

20 First (1117 N. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-327-5400)

Villagefest (Palm Canyon Dr; every Thursday; 760-320-3781)

Kaiser Grille (205 S. Palm Canyon Dr; 760-779-8946)

“Haunted Hollywood” @ 52PerfectDays.com

Top: Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Bottom: Haunted New York set at Paramount  Pictures

Article and photos by Kimberly Fisher

What makes a good haunting? First-rate folklore, the stories of unfinished dreams, and opulent history. Glamorous Los Angeles possesses all these traits and the ghostly haunts that come with it. Check out these spooky places for a perfect haunted day in Hollywood:
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Start your day in the heart of Hollywood at the final resting place of many celebrities and Tinsel town royalty: Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Formerly the Hollywood Memorial Park, this beautiful, old burial site has the look of a park in the daytime, with its arresting architecture and perfectly manicured grounds.

The memorial park is the final resting place to Hollywood icons director/producer Cecil B. Demille, Gangster Bugsy Segal, and screen gem Rudolph Valentino. Rumor has it these greats still haunt the grounds of the cemetery.

Helpful employees distribute much needed maps to tour the mausoleum, headstones, and gravestones of Hollywood’s legends, which are spread out over the 100 acres.

Actor Clifton Webb is said to haunt the mausoleum he is buried in, The Sanctuary of Peace. His soul wanders aimlessly and his semi-transparent shape can be seen along with hearing whispering voices, smelling cologne, and seeing odd lights. Silent movie star Virginia Rappe can be heard sobbing from her grave, and Rudolph Valentino’s number one fan, the Lady in Black, still brings roses to his gravesite after her death.
Paramount Studios
Situated in the heart of Hollywood and backing up to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, this studio has been around since 1912 and is the last studio still standing from the golden days. All of the old Hollywood glamour has been retained in this classic movie-making landmark. Explore the massive sound stages, home to your favorite television shows and classic movies.

On a typical day, Paramount employees 2500-6000 people and the bustling lot is truly a city within a city. Even on the most typical days, it has been said that other entities also inhabit this movie making lot. The stories and legends of ghosts are as much a part of history as the films created here.

An unknown ghost is said to roam the catwalk above Studio 5, as well as stories of odd footsteps and strange mists being present. Night watchmen refuse to walk down New York Street, a real life mock up of New York City streets for fear of seeing an unknown strange man run right threw the walls, crossing over into Cemetery.

The most haunted area is said to be stages 29-32. Not surprisingly, these sound stages are closest to the cemetery. Equipment and lights turning on and off, strange tapping, and costumed apparitions from the 1930’s and 40’s are all common occurrences. Another ghostly hotspot is the Hart Building. Once inhabited by Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz as DesiLu Studios, this structure is one of the oldest buildings on the lot. Several witnesses say the upper floors are haunted by a female presence that smells of a flowery perfume. Among her shenanigans is throwing things on the floor, usually taken from private places and people’s desks.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
Make your way to one of the oldest landmarks in Hollywood and end your day with a cocktail at Teddy’s Lounge in the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. This piece of Hollywood history was once a beacon of shining stars, and is supposedly haunted by famed actor Montgomery Clift, who prefers to wonder the 9th floor. He stayed in room 928 while shooting “From Here to Eternity” in 1953, and he can sometimes be seen practicing his lines or playing his bugle in the hallway.

Guests of room 928 have also claimed to feel a pat on the shoulder from an unforeseen force. An image of Marilyn Monroe has also been seen on numerous occasions in a full length mirror that was originally in her poolside suite when she lived at the hotel for two years. The mirror has since been relocated to the lower level next to the elevator, where tourists try to catch a glimpse of the screen siren looking back.
Exploring the glamour past of Hollywood and all its ghostly glory, you can see the framework for eerie haunts in this big city of dreams. Haunted Hollywood can be fact or faction, but that is for you to decide after a perfect day in Haunted Hollywood.

What & Where:
Hollywood Forever Cemetery (6000 Santa Monica Blvd; 323-469-1181)
Paramount Studios (5555 Melrose Ave; 323-956-4488)
Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel (7000 Hollywood Blvd; 323-466-7000)