ARRIVE Palm Springs

ARRIVE Palm Springs, a Michelin Key Selected property, stands out as a stylish, adults-only boutique hotel in the heart of Palm Springs. It's lauded for its distinctive modernist architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and a focus on communal, yet relaxed, guest experiences.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

ARRIVE Palm Springs generally receives very positive feedback, with an overall score of 7.9 on Agoda and an 8.6 on Hotels.com, indicating an "excellent" rating from many guests. The sentiment is largely one of appreciation for its "hip spot" vibe, relaxing environment, and well-designed spaces.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently praise ARRIVE Palm Springs for several key features:

• Design & Vibe: The hotel embodies a mid-century modern ethos with industrial-chic touches and a fresh, 21st-century Palm Springs aesthetic. Its thoughtful design, including butterfly roofs and clerestory windows, creates a bright and engaging environment.
• Pool Area: The spacious pool and hot tub are central to the hotel's appeal, offering ample seating, mountain views, and a cool, non-exclusionary ambiance. The poolside bar, complete with weekend DJ sets, bocce ball, and fire pits, is a major draw.
• Adults-Only Policy: The 21-and-over policy ensures a more serene and sophisticated atmosphere, appealing to those seeking a relaxing getaway without children.
• Amenities: Complimentary features like Linus bicycles, pool cabanas, and valet parking are highly appreciated, especially the absence of a resort fee. The property also offers free Wi-Fi and allows dogs.

3. Room Quality

The 32 guest rooms at ARRIVE Palm Springs are described as modern, comfortable, and full of natural light. They feature king beds with Bellino Fine Linens, marble-accented bathrooms with rain showers, Apple TV, and DirecTV. Grown Alchemist bath amenities are also provided. Some rooms offer private patios with cozy gas fireplaces, enhancing the experience. While the design is praised for its sophistication and fun with tropical wallpaper, some guests note limited storage space and high-set windows that, while providing natural light, don't allow for outdoor views.

4. Dining Experience

ARRIVE Palm Springs offers a diverse dining experience focused around its central pool area:

• Palm Canyon Swim & Social (formerly Reservoir): This adults-only poolside restaurant and bar serves an all-day brunch menu inspired by Southern Californian cuisine, featuring dishes like Avocado Toast, Huevos Ranchiles, and Tuna Tartare Tostadas. It's also known for its cocktails, beer, and wine offerings, with happy hour specials available.
• Cartel Coffee Lab (formerly Customs Coffee): An on-site coffee shop provides specialty coffees and pastries.
• Ice Cream & Shop(pe): An artisanal ice cream shop offering gourmet desserts, including vegan and gluten-free options, alongside a gift shop featuring local artists. While there isn't traditional room service, guests can order food online.

5. Service & Staff

The service style at ARRIVE is described as modern and efficient, leaning into a "millennial" approach. Check-in occurs at the pool bar, and staff are available 24/7 via text message, a system that many find seamless and convenient. Guests frequently commend the staff for being friendly and helpful.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel is situated in Palm Springs' Uptown Design District, about a mile from downtown. This location offers a balance of being close enough to walk to numerous restaurants and shops, while maintaining a more low-key atmosphere away from the busiest part of the city. Nearby attractions include the Palm Springs Art Museum, Elvis Honeymoon Hideaway, and various shopping landmarks. Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is a short 10-minute drive away, with taxis, ride-sharing, and shuttle services available. The hotel also offers complimentary bicycles for exploring.

7. Value & Pricing

ARRIVE Palm Springs positions itself as a luxurious yet affordable option. While room prices can vary, starting from around $200 per night for two adults, the average room price has been noted around $519. Prices are generally lowest in July and September, and highest in December. The absence of a resort fee, coupled with complimentary amenities like valet parking and bikes, is often seen as adding to its value.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some recurring issues or criticisms include:

• Limited Room Storage: Guests have noted a lack of adequate storage space for suitcases and belongings, with some rooms having open racks instead of traditional closets.
• Room Windows: The design with windows set high on the walls means limited outdoor views and a greater reliance on air conditioning, even when evening air might be pleasant.
• Poolside Music Volume: On weekends, some guests have found the poolside DJ music to be too loud, making it difficult to relax or socialize.
• Checkout Time & Fees: The 11 AM checkout time and a charge for late checkout have been a point of contention for some guests.
• No In-Room Coffee Maker: The absence of an in-room coffee maker or kettle means guests need to visit the adjoining coffee shop for their morning brew.
• No Charging to Room: The policy of not being able to charge drinks or snacks to the room can be inconvenient, requiring guests to carry cash or a credit card to the pool area.

Sources

1. michelin.com
2. hotelspalmspringsweb.com
3. agoda.com
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9. travelweekly.com
10. expedia.com
11. palmspringspreferredsmallhotels.com
12. flungmagazine.com
13. arrivehotels.com
14. visitpalmsprings.com
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