Seattle Gay News
Issue 25, Volume 41, June 21, 2013
PRIDE travel special
by Beau Burriola SGN Contributing Writer When I was a kid, I used to get so excited about travel. Before we went to Disney World, I hardly slept at all, imagination flaring brighter than dreams ever could. As a well-traveled adult, I rarely find that chill of excitement anymore. So when I hardly slept before my second trip to Palm Springs, I knew this trip would be one for the record books. Since I first visited in 2009, Palm Springs has been my idea of the Gay Disney World I can’t wait to get back to. This time I was bringing along Iz and Sean, my two best friends, to share the experience.
If Palm Springs is memorable alone, it is unforgettable with friends. When my plane touched down, I felt that same excited chill I miss so much from kid traveling. This year, I was in a dark place in my life. Having recently been through a hard breakup ending an eight-year relationship, I knew this was the trip I needed. So, with memories of my first trip strong in my mind, I packed a very small bag (it is a desert, after all) and took a plane 9,000 kilometers to Palm Springs, California, fully expecting another life-changing vacation. Immediately after unpacking my bag, I slipped on a swimsuit and went straight to the pool. What I love most about Palm Springs compared to any other place I’ve
been on earth – Spain, Greece, and Italy included – is the way you can put on a swimsuit and walk up to just about any pool and instantly feel comfortable with the people around you. Maybe it’s the resort culture, the sun and the beautiful mountains behind you, or just being American-born, but the friendly vibe in Palm Springs just makes me feel open and social in a way I’ve never felt anywhere else in my travels. I am always amazed to see people I’d never imagine mingling anywhere else mixing together effortlessly and openly. That sense of community – that feeling of belonging and knowing you’ll always feel like you are welcome – is exactly what makes Palm Springs the place you always
want to come back to. Well, that and the ever-present undercurrent of wild, waiting for you to dip your toes into ... WHERE TO STAY The single most important decision of your trip is where you stay. Don’t stay on a friend’s couch! The unique Gay resort culture is the jewel of the Palm Springs experience and can really make your trip. Which one you choose depends on who you are and what you are looking for. If you’ve never been to Palm Springs before, consider what you are looking for. If, like me, you are looking for a memorable, see palm springs page 20