Villa Royale, Palm Springs, USA

In the south of Palm Springs on South Indian Trail Road, the hotel is just north of East Palm Canyon Drive, a main highway in and out of the city. Transfers from the airport take around 15 minutes and there is free parking alongside the property. Southern Palm Springs has its own hot spots, such as Mr Lyons steakhouse and Bar Cecil, and you're not far from Downtown, with its enticing museums and shops.

By plane: flights to Palm Springs take 14 hours from London with a stop in Phoenix, Arizona. The hotel is a 15-minute drive from the airport. Free parking on-site. Book flights to Palm Springs.

Bordered by walls and hedges, Villa Royale is a leafy, three-and-a-half-acre holiday compound in a Spanish Revival style that dates back to 1947. Seven rooms rest in a separate enclave on the other side of South Indian Trail Road with its own pool. It's a friendly place where guests tend to find their own little spot to relax with a book or lover.

Although there are three small, heated pools, plus patios, fire pits and a roof terrace, the property can feel congested at times. The staff are helpful and like to by communicate by text, sending out handy messages, such as coffee being available from 7am.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Terrace
• Garden
• Swimming pool
• Jacuzzi
• Bike hire
• Adults-only
• Free parking
• Free Wi-Fi

Most of the rooms border a pool or courtyard - a few have patios, but there is limited privacy. The more you pay, the bigger they get, with the Impala category boasting a lounge area.

Room types: Capri, Deville, Impala, 2-bedroom Impala, Biscayne, Continental

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes, tea and coffee facilities, virtual concierge, bluetooth speaker, TV, free Wi-Fi

Only open in the evening, the Del Rey bar and restaurant is a high point and attracts non-residents. It's a small, low-lit, wood-panelled speakeasy-style joint with serious cocktails and a foxy feel. A Spanish-flavoured menu is served here or al fresco on a patio with strings of lightbulbs and metal furniture.

Del Rey: intimate bar and restaurant. Spanish tapas-style small plates. Open daily, 5-10pm.