BonvoyTraveler

    Oliver and I poolside at Triada Palm Springs            After leaving Ventura I made the drive to Palm Springs in heavy traffic though it was the middle of the day.  I had two weeks booked at the Triada before switching to the Riviera for my best-friend Sean's wedding where I would be best-man.  Unfortunately, arriving in early March 2019, it did not take long for things to deteriorate rapidly as a result of COVID-19.      Firstly, this was my first stay at the Triada.  The Parker has always been my favorite hotel in Palm Springs and I like many was not thrilled when they left the program after the Marriott takeover of Starwood.  The Riviera, where the wedding was to take place, followed suit after the wedding had been booked and just before my arrival, joining a different hotel group.  I have tried the Avalon which is great and central and the Westin which is also good but a little far ou...

            After leaving Santa Cruz I drove down to Ventura and checked into the Ventura Beach Marriott just before sunset.  There is ample street or onsite parking at the property located right by the beach and park.  Friendly staff checked me in and I dropped the bags in the nicely renovated room with pool view before heading right out on a great walk along the beach trail, though not on the beach as dogs were not allowed, and onto the pier.  Once back at the hotel I checked out the great M Club Lounge with good dinner appetizers in a large lounge space just off the main lobby which itself was modern and split level making it open and airy with a nice outdoor seating area.      The room was standard sized, very modern and standard renovations, with a nice view over the pool.  The gym was large and well equipped just off the pool.  Bicycles were onsite as well.      After a go...