Sean B.
Yelp
So pleasantly surprised. Like, probably, half of the people on this page... I started coming to Palm Springs when I was younger and a bit broke... staying at the cheapest option or couchsurfing with friends. Once I started making more grownup money, I made my way into a few of the midrange resorts; some were okay, some were a step up from okay, none particularly wonderful. A few years ago I upgraded a step further when I discovered INNDulge, which is still a favorite of mine... nicer facilities, a good vibe, friendly employees, better rooms. I also enjoyed the hosted happy hours and the continental breakfast.
This trip was VERY spontaneous; and a holiday weekend (Pride), so I wasn't surprised that my first choice, INNDulge, was booked and unavailable. I went back to my list of 'just okay' places from before... also booked and unavailable. I thought that Santiago, with its reputation of being upscale and popular, was a long shot, but gave them a call anyway, was pleasantly surprised that they had something Monday through Friday, so I booked it.
First impression, the grounds are amongst the nicest I've seen in Palm Springs in a gay clothing-optional resort. If you didn't know any better, you wouldn't know that it wasn't a four-star mainstream venue. The room was large and the bed was big warm and comfy. The shower was huge, which at 6'6 and 230 lbs. I appreciated especially. The continental breakfast was gorgeous (see pics) and that they include a delivered lunch poolside every day was a pleasant surprise as well. Loved the outdoor shower, the fully stocked cantina w/ Starbucks coffee machine and fridge full of soft drinks and La Croix.
The crowd is a bit more mellow - it's not a party place - people are relaxing, unwinding. I've heard that it's not as 'friendly' as some resorts, but honestly, didn't really find that to be the case. People weren't quite as drunk and extraverted as other venues... but when approached, were generally friendly. I think that it's just a classier place, you should come correct when you engage in friendly banter... which is honestly kind of good thing, if that's your vibe (it's mine).
Definitely another great option in addition to INNDulge. Real-talk, I'll likely be checking both places, in the future, choosing which one is available. No wrong answers between the two, and happy to have multiple options available for each future trip.