The Desert Sun’s Xochitl Pena gives us her take on some Coachella Valley experiences that would make a great gift…or be fun to do anytime:
Spa Happy Hour: Omni Rancho Las Palmas takes a spa day to the next level. Each Wednesday from 4–7 p.m. the Rancho Mirage resort hosts a “Spa Under the Stars” where in addition to a 50-minute treatment, guests are also treated to a glass of wine, small hors d’ oeuvres, live music, and vendor demos. What a fun way to hang out poolside with friends or a significant other. Cost is $129. Omni Rancho Las Palmas, 41-000 Bob Hope Dr., Rancho Mirage, (760) 836-3106.
Cooking Classes: Cooking With Class in La Quinta has so many classes it would be hard to pick just one. They offer a variety of courses at different skill levels and all seem fun. There's a monthly food and wine tasting, “girlfriends’ night out” event, specialty food classes, and “Men in the kitchen” courses. They even make it easy for gift giving with gift certificates available from their website at cookingwithclasslaquinta.com. 47875 Caleo Bay, La Quinta. (760) 777-1161.
Windmill Tours: Palm Springs Windmill Tours offers the unique chance to see the clean energy turbines up close and you actually learn a thing or two. Cost is $47 for a 90-minute tour. 62950 20th Ave, Palm Springs. (888) 950-2847.
Feeding a Giraffe: The Living Desert has an elevated stand and offers an eye-to-eye giraffe feeding experience twice a day. It's $5 per person or $4 per member in addition to entrance fee. 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert. (760) 346-5694. livingdesert.org
Ice Skating at The Westin Mision Hills: Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa is offering outdoor ice skating for a limited time. How nice it would be to ice skate in non-freezing temperatures, surrounded by the picturesque mountains. The resort is kicking off its "12 Days of Christmas" with the opening of the rink on Dec. 21. It will stay open through Jan. 3. The cost is $15 for 30 minutes and includes skate rentals. Socks are required and skaters must be 6 years of age or older. A portion of the proceeds from the fee will be donated to Shelter from the Storm. Westin Mission Hills, 71333 Dinah Shore Dr., Rancho Mirage. (760) 328-5955. http://www.westinmissionhills.com/Tis-the-Season
Please use the following link to read the article and view the accompanying pictures, courtesy of The Desert Sun: http://www.desertsun.com/story/life/2015/12/17/christmas-gifts-dont-require-wrapping-paper/77504440/