Kimpton The Rowan, Palm Springs, USA

In the centre of Palm Springs at the junction of South Palm Canyon Drive and West Tahquitz Canyon Way, the hotel rises to seven floors and is easy to spot. Transfers from the airport take a mere five minutes and there is valet parking or free self-parking close to the property. The Palm Springs Art Museum and a much-photographed, 26ft-tall statue of Marilyn Monroe, plus all the enjoyable shops, bars and restaurants of Downtown, are nearby.

By plane: flights to Palm Springs take 14 hours from London with a stop in Phoenix, Arizona. The hotel is an 8-minute drive from the airport. Free parking available. Book flights to Palm Springs.

Think California cool manifested in a statement lobby, artworks and crafts that pay homage to the location, snazzy sun-loungers and the latest tech. There's a caring attitude, too, reflected in numerous ways, from energy-saving lights and desert plants to providing mini-fridges for breast milk and discounted online therapy.

A decent-sized, well-equipped fitness centre can be found on the second floor, and while there's no spa, in-room treatments can be arranged. Complimentary Kimpton-branded bikes are available and the use of a house car for journeys of up to three miles is included in the daily resort fee.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Spa
• Bike hire
• Live music
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

The contemporary rooms come with large windows (floor-to-ceiling in the suites) that make the most of the hotel's panoramic views. The design is fresh and natural, with bare woods and a blue and grey palette. Amenities include a yoga mat and toiletries by Atelier Bloem.

Room types: Essential Room, Premium Room, Suite, San Jacinto Suite, The Arlo

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, hairdryer, desk, air conditioning, TV, free Wi-Fi

The ground-level Juniper Table café serves an excellent breakfast then moves on to pizzas and burgers from lunchtime. On the top floor, the dinner-only 4 Saints restaurant majors on Californian produce including country soup and smoked cactus. At the poolside High Bar it's all about colourful cocktails with please-discuss names like Soccer Mommy and Don't Kill my Vibe.

Juniper Table: café and takeaway, Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes include Panzanella Salad and Italian sub. All-day dining, open daily.

4 Saints: rooftop bar and restaurant. Creative cocktails and grills. Open Wed-Sun, 5-10pm.