Tour the Frey House II during Modernism Week, Palm Springs.

Although you may not be one of the fortunate few to tour the Frey House  ”in person” you can experience the world-famous mountainside home of eccentric Swiss architect Albert Frey up close and in detail in an exciting VIDEO produced by BeHereTV and narrated by award winning travel expert Christopher Baker. 

The video release coincides with the city’s annual ‘Modernism Week,’ February 12, 2010, when the Palm Springs Art Museum briefly open the doors of FREY HOUSE II to the public for just three short days.

Modernism Week in Palm Springs is the only time one can personally tour this architectural gem of ‘desert modernism.’  With high demand and a very limited tour schedule, only a select few get the opportunity to actually visit the residence and experience the elegant simplicity of this amazing home, built in 1963.  With the video tour’s release, everyone can get to see and learn about this remarkable structure.

With special permission by the Palm Springs Art Museum, BeHereTV recently had the pleasure and privilege of touring this 800 Square foot landmark and taping a segment about the architectural icon and its creator Albert Frey. 

Its originality and significance within the architectural style known as Palm Springs Modernism are evident everywhere you look.

From the mammoth rock situated inside the house, to the corrugated metal ceilings, extensive sliding glass walls and bright yellow curtains in tribute to a native flower, the FREY HOUSE II embodies the personality and style of Albert Frey and the attributes of Modernism so loved today:  simplicity and minimalism. 

Narrated by Christopher Baker, travel writer and author of Palm Springs & Desert Resorts: A Complete Guide our VIDEO TOUR takes you inside the pristine home perched high on the craggy hills above Palm Springs to experience the epic views Frey enjoyed.

Concrete, glass and sheet metal, the elements of sparseness and simplicity are seen in detail.

Tour the kitchen, bedroom, views and pool and see for yourself why the FREY HOUSE II is a closely guarded part of the Palm Springs Art Museum architectural collection.

For more on architect and Palm Springs resident Albert Frey
and Palm Springs Modernism week 2010,  visit: www.modernismweek.com

The hospitality industry of PALM SPRINGS-DESERT RESORTS loves weddings and collectively rolls out the red carpet to couples wanting a weekend of fun, relaxation, romance and pampering for their wedding party and guests. 

Laurie Lund, event coordinator and owner of  THE EVENTS DEPARTMENT  shares with us the magic that is available in the greater PALM SPRINGS AREA as well as the convenience and affordability of a Califonria mainland destination.  

When couples are considering a tropical, warm weather location, they often consider Hawaii, the Caribbean or the Bahamas. While these destinations are fantastic, their distance from the US mainland and the associated travel costs often preclude many guests from attending.    

Palm Springs-Desert Resorts is located in Southern California, just a few hours’ drive from Los Angeles and San Diego and a very short plane trip from all major cities in the Western United States. Palm Springs International Airport has connecting flights from all over the world with a flight schedule tailored to the leisure and resort traveler.

7 major resort hotels, countless, quaint boutique B&B’s, numerous country clubs, exquisite private estates, 130 golf courses, more spas than you can list and five star catering companies  all say “welcome” to the destination wedding. It’s no wonder PALM  SPRINGS-DESERT RESORTS is a wedding destination of great popularity.

For the wedding couple looking for the epitome of individuality and a wedding experience like no other, private estates and secluded villas dot the greater PALM SPRINGS area  from Indio to Palm Springs proper. You won’t find these exclusive venues in any destination guide as they are “by appointment only” and strictly guarded by  their property managers.

Laurie Lund, owner of THE EVENTS DEPARTMENT and seasoned wedding and event coordinator is one of the select few that represent many of the spectacular and discrete properties. She recently gave us a whirlwind tour of a few of her favorites.  Although exclusive and a bit pricey, you may be surprised at the value when you consider many estates include overnight accommodations for the Bride and Groom.

Imagine being married on the lawn of MARILYN MONROE & JOE DIMAGGIO.  SANDACRE was the alleged home of the couple for years and behind the massive wooden entry gates,  lies elegance and Hollywood mystic beyond description.  A sprawling front lawn, private tennis court, small side yard lawn and poolside all serve as beautiful ceremony  sites. Guest lists of 100-175 find this venue comfortable and gracious. Use your imagination and you just might see Marilyn herself, blowing you a kiss from her famous bedroom balcony!  

Petite and gem like, best describes THE RUSSELL HOUSE, a Mid Century Modern masterpiece in very much the Albert Frey style, perched in the hills of Palm Springs with views of the entire valley from its Infinity pool backyard. Suited for only the smallest, most intimate events, this venue is perfect for 2-5 people  and does accommodates overnight guests

Hip, Cool, best describes the retro “Rat Pack” home of FRANK SINATRA. Known as Twin Palms, this trendy Palm Springs original still has Sinatra’s, mark everywhere.  A piano shaped pool, his original LP record player and lest we forget the infamous bathroom sink, said to have been cracked during a heated quarrel between him and Ava Gardner. Rehearsal dinner, ceremony,  reception and post wedding brunch can all be accommodated within the estate with little sense of repetition.

 The drama and opulence of the SOLOMON estate is the perfect setting for the platinum wedding.

The nice thing is, per Laurie Lund, you can have a platinum wedding without the platinum price tag!  Save on flowers and décor, the natural setting is “over the top!” 10,000 Sq Ft of grand elegance, fully furnished (or not) and majestic private grounds perfectly manicured with walkways, pools, and conversation cabanas can comfortably accommodate events of 300+ guests.

Do the old world styles of Spain and Italy appeal to you?  The BOUGAINVILLIA estate in Indio will transport you without ever leaving the USA!   Fully self contained this hacienda style venue can comfortably sleep 10, has a   1 acre lake, water features, lanai and a 5000 Sq Foot lawn area.  Gorgeous pool, outdoor BBQ & Full outdoor kitchen, game room and multiple conversation areas are just a few of the amenities within this gated estate.

For the nostalgia and history of old Palm Springs, THE O’DONNELL HOUSE, high on the hill overlooking downtown Palm Springs is a spectacular venue. Rich in history, the O’Donnell House is ideal for guest lists of 100 or less. The ceremony site is a pristine, private grass area nicely tucked behind the main house. After the ceremony guests will migrate to the reception patio with views that you can hardly believe, The evening stars above and the city lights below create a magical evening of dining and dancing your guests will never forget! 

 The CREE Estate is a lavish hacienda built in the 1930s.. Sprawled over two and a half acres of lush landscaping, 2 swimming pools, multiple patios, meandering lawn areas, the Cree Estate captures the simplicity and warmth of old-fashioned Mexican architecture, The best way to appreciate all of the Cree Estate’s amenities is to book the entire compound  for a wedding weekend. With six bedrooms, three kitchens and a formal dining room, the Cree can effortlessly take you from rehearsal dinner to post-wedding brunch. Known as one of Hollywood’s most discrete celebrity accommodations, Christina Applegate in fact selected this estate above all others for her wedding. Close to Palm Springs, easy access from the airport, your wedding guests will find an assortment of additional accommodations just minutes away.   

If you are considering Palm Springs as your destination wedding location, plan a weekend to browse the area, meet with vendors and preview various venues. To make the most of every minute of your scouting weekend and to get the “inside scoop” on PALM SPRINGS-DESERT RESORTS, schedule time with Laurie Lund, an expert on Palm Springs and a professional destination event planner with 20 years experience in helping clients realize the event of their dreams. 

For more information on these venues and planning your destination wedding weekend,

contact  LAURIE LUND  800 525 7634
THE EVENTS DEPARTMENT

THE INDIO DATE FESTIVAL

During the annual INDIO DATE FESTIVAL AND RIVERSIDE COUNTY FAIR, held in Indio, the entire city springs into action with a week of activities and entertainment. An Arabian-themed play is held every night, world class entertainment comes to the town of 50,000+ residents, and livestock, camel races, beauty pageant queens and a huge carnival all keep locals focused on fun. 

Opening ceremony includes blessing of the dates, and award-winning Arabian Nights Musical Pageant starting at 6:15 p.m. at the Pageant Stage. An entertaining show that mingles contemporary humor with classic folklore, magic and mystery are at the heart of “Aladdin and the Heart of Agrabah”.

Also arriving on the first day are the Llamas, Dairy Goats, Poultry.  Opening Ceremony & Blessing of the Dates at 9:30am; Camel & Ostrich Races at 11am & 3pm – Arena; WGAS Motorsports Monster Trucks at 8pm – Arena and Carnival rides from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Affordable admission makes this event a great family outing and draws California vacationers and beach dwellers from as far away as 100 miles.

Location: Indio is located about 70 miles east of Palm Springs or 125 miles east of Los Angeles in Riverside County.  

Riverside County Fairgrounds

82-503 Hwy 111, Indio, CA 92201. Call: (800) 811-FAIR or (760) 863-8247. WWW.datefest.org

Presented by the City of Rancho Mirage and the Recreation Commission, the event celebrates the love of art and life in the greater Palm Springs area.  Festival coordinator, Diana Beck smiles as she reflects on how the quality of the exhibits as well as the popularity of the show increases exponentially every year. 

Casually walking through the peaceful, fresh, park setting you will find ceramics, sculpture, textiles, glasswork, watercolor and oil painting, metalwork, photography, and mixed media projects. Many of the same artists return to the Rancho Mirage show every November with great pleasure.  

Painter Jim Stallings, whose clients include individual and corporate collectors from every state and around the world shares that he looks forward to seeing all the friends he has made here over the years.

Complimenting the extensive collection of local, regional and national artists are the live jazz performances center stage. This years performances included LORI ANDREWS, solo harpist. Lori and her quartet have a unique style and sound that enchanted new listeners and veteran fans alike. Lori performed award winning hits from her latest CD release, “After Hours.

 Also performing was NILS, in a return engagement. After wowing the crowd in 2006 with smooth grooves from his CD “Pacific Coast Highway”, Nils presented  his newest release, “Up Close and Personal”.

The Rancho Mirage Art Affaire is a family occasion. Kids and grownups alike will find the creativity and whimsy of the very popular  MAD HATTER paper hat artist irritable.  Streamers, sequins, wild feathers and tons of glue are in great supply as Dads, Grandparents and kids work side by side to create their version of the “best Hat.” The play station is FREE and your creation is yours to keep forever.

Look for information about the 2010 Festival.  Although a year away, mark your calendars so you don’t miss this desert destination treat!!

RANCHO MIRAGE ART AFFAIRE

Their event becomes much more than just a beautiful ceremony, it becomes an experience, a weekend of individuality and expression, perfectly orchestrated to reflect their style, graciousness toward their guests and love for each other.

The greater PALM SPRINGS area is a magical destination for couples wanting to create a wedding event that is distinctive and unique, truly their own.

The beauty of PALM SPRINGS is its proximity to several large metropolitan cities and the ultra easy access for national and international air travel. The greater PALM SPRINGS area does everything it can to lure and romance couples seeking an original, elegant wedding experience.
 

 Beautiful churches, gorgeous country clubs and 7 grand hotel resorts all present wonderful options for the PALM SPRINGS DESTINATION WEDDING weekend. But, the slightly off center, eclectic, unique and discrete venues found only through a professional event planner is where the Palm Springs area really shines!

PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING

When planning a destination wedding, the first 2 questions you must discuss and resolve are:

Question #1. What is your budget?  Truly, in your heart of hearts, before you ever make a single phone call, decide on what you would “like to spend” and what you are “willing to spend” on your event. Somewhere between these two numbers is your “reality.” 

Question #2. What type of weekend experience do YOU, as a couple, want to share with our family and friends. Quite often, well meaning family and friends weigh in very early and impact your original ideas and true wishes. Keep in mind, although family is very important, this is your day and should evolve into an experience exquisite and uniquely your very own.

When considering a destination wedding, having the assistance of a professional “on the ground” in your desired area, is invaluable. She or he, will most certainly help you save precious time and yes, even money! They know the ropes, so to speak, and can efficiently help you sort through and organize all the details that can become overwhelming and unfortunately, if mismanaged, costly. They will help you select the perfect mix of required vendors and introduce you to many location-venues you may have never even considered.

 Cathy O’Connell owner of “Celebrations of Joy” is a professional wedding-event planner in the greater PALM SPRINGS area. Her experience, connections and local insight opens doors you may never find on your own! She recently took us on a tour of 4 of her favorite wedding venues, a variety to be sure, each spectacular and original and certainly off  the beaten path.

THE LIVING DESERT. Located in Palm Desert Ca, was established in 1970 as a non-profit education and conservation center dedicated to preserving desert plant and animal life.  It contains lush botanical gardens and more than 430 desert animals representing 150 breeds including endangered species such as Grevy’s zebra, Arabian oryx, Mexican gray wolves and Peninsular Bighorn sheep. Throughout the park are amazing areas perfect for social events both large and small.  With the assistance of an experienced planner, this rustic but refined outdoor establishment can be transformed into an unforgettable wedding venue.  

The Commissioners house, an intimate living-dining room authentically appointed  accommodates parties of 50 or less and  is a slice of African heaven.

The Palm Patio, for larger parties of 50-400 lets you dine and dance under the stars surrounded by beautiful Palm trees and the natural sounds of the desert.

The newest event space is the Chase Building. The epitome of cultural class, this indoor-outdoor space offers an outdoor patio space for cocktails and dancing , interior space for formal dining and a private collection art gallery for continued socialization.

 HOME OF WILLIAM HOLDEN.

A private home perched in the hills above Palm Springs still reflects the life and times of William Holden and Stephanie Powers. Their love for Africa, and their zest for gracious entertaining are evident in this spacious 7000 SF home with indescribable views.

THE ACE HOTEL recently transformed, is a trendy, campy hotel located in Palm Springs, Ca. that appeals to the hip style seekers of Hollywood, San Francisco and New York.  Edgy, original, and extremely comfortable, it is part of a very successful hotel chain out of Portland Oregon.

Chrome, glass, steel, lashed canvas and concrete create the huge gymnasium like event compound adjacent to a gorgeous pool. The glass walls completely open and dissappear to create an amazing indoor-outdoor venue. Hosting your entire wedding at the Ace Hotel with 450 guest rooms, restaurant, room service, 2 pools and a relaxed atmosphere is a spectacular option.

THE LA QUINTA RESORT.  Nestled at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, tucked within this amazing resort is LA CASA, the  former personal retreat of Greta Garbo. A petite lawn and garden  is transformed into your very own, very private ceremony site. Migrate to the intimate covered patio with outdoor fireplace for cocktails then enjoy your reception under the stars as you dine and dance the night away surrounded by flowers and citrus trees. Nicely secluded, this venue is away from most resort traffic, personal, private and quite perfect!

A DESTINATION WEDDING CAN BE THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME. Enjoy the process from planning to savoring every single minute of your weekend. Spend the weekend in Palm Springs and discover the magic of the California desert resort area and all it has to offer. For a destination consultation and area tour with a true professional, contact Cathy O’Connell. 

Visit   CELEBRATIONS OF JOY or call  760 777-8420  Tell her you saw the desert on  BeHereTV.com!

 Set along the San Andreas fault, the preserve is dotted with beautiful standing ponds, Fan Palm oases including  including the Willis, Hidden Horseshoe, and Indian Palms and is home to many endangered species like the Coachella Valley Fringe-toed Lizard and the Pupfish.

Join Christopher Baker, travel writer, as he takes us on a quick tour.

 The Coachella Valley Preserve system was designed to protect and endemic, threatened animal, the Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard, found nowhere else in the world, this lizard is a member of a rich array of organisms specialized to live on sand dunes

Desert sand dunes harbor one of the most species rich communities found in our southwestern deserts.

There is fewer than 5% of that habitat remaining in viable condition. Over the years, the lure of mild winter temperatures and beautiful scenery has resulted in an explosion of human development.

As canyons filled with houses, development pushed into the valley’s center, blocking the vital sand movement processes that keep the dunes alive. Today the majority of the remaining, viable dune habitat is contained in the Coachella Valley Preserve system.

On any given day you may see a Coyote, Roadrunner, rabbits, a Rattlesnake and yes, if you are lucky the elusive Fringe-toed Lizard!

 There are over 20,000 acres of pristine desert landscape protected within the preserve with miles and miles of nicely marked trails for hiking and exploring.

Get a map at the Visitors Center and you will find a trail perfectly suited to your fitness level. 

 Hiking from the rustic visitors center to the top of Vista Point takes you through two of the major Palm groves and gives you an overall perspective of the vast desert dunes.

For a wonderful day hike for the entire family, plan an early morning departure.  Bring a light jacket for potential weather changes, and while in the desert, always remember to carry sunscreen and plenty of water.

There is so much more to the Palm Springs desert resorts area than wonderful restaurants, world class golf, gorgeous pools and non stop shopping. Take a day, hop in the car and explore what nature has to offer. It’s spectacular!

    For more information visit:

COACHELLA VALLEY PRESERVE

THE LIVING DESERT IS ALL THIS and so much more.

A single word could not begin to describe all that The Living Desert is and does. One must string words together, like beads: zoo and endangered species conservation center – botanical gardens – natural history museum – wilderness park – nature preserve – education center. The thread that holds all the beads together is the word “desert.” 

The Living Desert, located in the town of Palm Desert, California, provides a one-stop opportunity to explore all the great American deserts and learn about their plants and animals. The Living Desert occupies 1,200 acres of the California Desert, 200 of which are developed as a zoo, botanical garden and natural history museum.

 A visit to the Living Desert and Gardens is an opportunity to see remarkable native plants, animals and the natural landscape of the Palm Desert area. 

A walk along the well manicured winding paths brings you up close to desert flora and fauna in a natural setting.  You feel as though you are walking through a natural landscape. 

Meet over  400 different species, including Mexican wolves, bobcats and falcons. Visit the outdoor theater that offers live presentations twice a day.  Don’t miss the Butterfly and Hummingbird compound or the enormous model train exhibit that defies your imagination.

THE MODEL TRAIN EXHIBIT IS WORLD CLASS.

Throughout the year, The Living Desert is host to several annual events. WILD LIGHTS in December is a family tradition for many locals. Hundreds of thousands of lights decorate the trees and walkways creating a wonderland of light and color. Hot cocoa, chili and toasted marshmallows are served with a background of music and entertainment.  HOWL-O-WEEN is celebrated 2 nights each year with vendor booths and treats for children. 

A highlight to anyone’s visit to the Palm Springs area, The Living Desert is a great outing for the entire family

THE LIVING DESERT 47900 Portola Dr. Palm Desert CA 760 346 5694

http://www.livingdesert.org

Open to the public and the trade, the studios and galleries feature contemporary paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and experimental artwork by knowledgeable and approachable artists.

Backstreet hosts a monthly ART WALK and open studio reception the FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH from 6:00-9:00 PM.  You can find poetry readings, book signings, private art classes, theatrical productions and monthly artist’s receptions at the various galleries.

 
The art district is located at Highway 111 and Cherokee Way behind the Mercedes-Benz Dealership. Look for the big red “ART” on the wall of the building. Most galleries are open Wed-Sun 11-4 and always by appointment.

We invite you to visit the websites of the following Backstreet Art District galleries

ART BY PETER

TED PHILLIP DENTON

ANNETTE MARIE ART COLLECTION

IMAGES BY GIDEON

REDDOT GALLERY

TREVOR GOSS

Come and experience the energy and relaxed vibe of the Backstreet Art District.

Fitting, then, that Countryman Press (TM) contracted with him to produce Palm Springs & Desert Resorts: A Complete Guide in its ‘Great Destinations’ series.” –a 285-page guidebook to the Coachella Valley and surrounding attractions.

 In reading this magnificent book, illustrated throughout with Baker’s own superb photography, you soon discover that there’s so much more to the desert oasis than golf resorts, gorgeous pools, luxurious spas and fine dining.

 There’s geology, history, folk lore, amazing outdoor activities, and fascinating nooks and crannies where Mother Nature can be seen in all her glory.

Join us as we tag along with Christopher to the Coachella Valley Preserve.

He will share with us his fascinating knowledge of California fan palm ecology and the animals that call the sandy dunes and oasis their home. (VIDEO feature coming soon).

Next, our local expert takes us to the world-renowned Albert Frey home for an insight into the remarkable architecture and ascetic lifestyle of the late Swiss-born father of “desert modernism” architecture.

The complete Palm Springs & Desert Resorts: Great Destinations provides information on; History, Culture, Recreation as well as helpful information on lodging, dining, shopping and transportation, with recommendations throughout for enjoying the region to its fullest.
If you are planning a quick trip, the chapter “If Time is Short” may be of special interest!
Planning a trip to the Palm Springs area, or just interested in detailed information about all there is to see and do?

“Purchase your copy of Palm Springs & Desert Resorts: A Complete Guide today”!

Visit Christopher at CHRISTOPHER BAKER

www.moon.com/blogs/cuba-costa-rica

Lowell Thomas Award 2008 ‘Travel Journalist of the Year’

Contributor to Caribbean Travel & Life, Islands, Maxim, National Geographic Traveler, Robb Report and more than 200 other publications worldwide.

Author of:
Cuba Classics: A Celebration of Vintage American Automobiles
Eyewitness Travel Guide Costa Rica
Eyewitness Top 10 Cuba
Eyewitness Top 10 Puerto Rico
Great Destinations: Palm Springs & Desert Resorts
Lonely Planet Bahamas
Lonely Planet Jamaica
Mi Moto Fidel: Motorcycling Through Castro’s Cuba
Moon Costa Rica
Moon Cuba
Moon Havana
National Geographic Traveler California
National Geographic Traveler Costa Rica
National Geographic Traveler Cuba
National Geographic Traveler Dominican Republic
National Geographic Traveler Panama
Puerto Rico: A Beautiful Isle
And more…