City: Palm Springs, CA

Category: Accommodations

Telephone: (760) 864-6411

Address: 257 South Patencio Rd.

Description: Owner/architect Doug Smith spent a lot of time operating a restaurant in the Greek islands, where he made a lot of connections with the rich, famous, and very hip, who frequent this Moroccan-style oasis just a few blocks from downtown. The main building was built in the 1920s by Scottish painter Gordon Coutts to remind him of his life in Tangiers. After Coutts died, it languished as an apartment house for many years. Then Doug got his hands on it and proceeded to work magic, cleaning and buffing and adding authentic bits and bobs from Greece and Morocco. The 20 spacious rooms are a TV-free zone, and the guests often gather in the main courtyard for a freshly cooked, full American breakfast or impromptu cocktail party. Doug has also restored the little adobe-style villa across the street and added guest bungalows to create a uniquely simple and luxurious compound that is consistently full. Rooms have minifridges and coffeemakers, and there are two pools. Deposits are required when you book. There is a two-night minimum on weekends and a strict cancellation policy—give at least two weeks’ notice (45 days on holidays) or lose the deposit.