05/29/2026
Don’t pay for hotel features you don’t need and won’t use.
When I’m booking somewhere to stay, I always ask myself:
✔️ Do I need free parking?
✔️ Do I want free breakfast?
✔️ Will I actually use the pool, spa, gym, or resort facilities?
✔️ Is the location right for what I want to do?
✔️ Is it near public transportation if I don’t have a car?
✔️ Is the area safe to walk around in?
Most importantly:
Am I paying for things I’ll actually use?
I’ve stayed in luxury resorts that were worth every penny. Miraval was one of them.
But recently, while planning a trip to Palm Desert, I found myself comparing a luxury resort with a much simpler hotel nearby.
The resort looked amazing, but once I added up the room rate, resort fees, taxes, meals, and everything else, the cost escalated dramatically.
A few miles away, I found a reasonably priced hotel with great reviews, free parking, free breakfast, a mini fridge, gym, and pool.
The most expensive hotel isn’t always the best choice.
The best hotel is the one that gives you what you need at a price that leaves room in your budget for the experiences you’ll remember.
This photo was taken at a lovely little motel in Palm Desert. One of my favourite memories was relaxing in the whirlpool bath on a balmy California evening, looking up at the stars while palm trees swayed gently overhead. 🌴✨
What matters most to you when choosing somewhere to stay???
The Living Desert
Inn at Deep Canyon