JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort

A Diamond in the Desert

by Audrey Langerman

An hour outside of LA, and we already feel like we are on vacation. Here in the middle of the desert, a romantic tropical oasis bids welcome, the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort in.

Upon entering the sprawling 500-acre property, we couldn't help but feel transported to a haven of relaxation, with lavish gardens and shining lakes where a flock of pink flamingos frolic and play. The impressive main lobby features a massive indoor atrium that is home to exotic birds, cascading waterfalls, an indoor lake and some of the most delicious white chocolate chip cookies, which we enjoy during our quick check-in.

Our room is spacious and inviting with a balcony opening to unending vistas of endless green golf courses, majestic purple mountains and magnificent desert sky. A relaxing bath, a tasty fruit plate from room service, and a short nap enveloped in the comfort of a luxurious bed resplendent with crisp white sheets and a generous assortment of soft white pillows set the perfect tone for a magnificent vacation.

We'll save the Golf, the Aerial Tram, and the hot air balloon ride for later. Right now, two comfy chairs at the pool have our names on them.

Dinnertime beckons us to Ristorante Tuscany, one of the six on-site restaurants and a romantic taste of Italy. We arrive in the lobby a few minutes early to board the boat ride and are carried on our two-minute journey to our Mediterranean-style destination and truly exquisite food.

A peaceful after-dinner stroll leads us back to our room where the vista beyond the pools, bridges and palm trees now appears almost ocean-like - deep, dark and vast with an infinite display of warm lights glistening on the mountainside.

That's just our first day. Tomorrow, we'll bask in the soothing relaxation of their 30,000 sq.ft. Spa.

Make your own escape to the Marriott Desert Springs Resort, located at 74855 Country Club Drive in Palm Desert. Reservations can be made by calling (760) 341-2211 or (888) 538-9459. Visit their website at: www.desertspringsresort.com.