Joshua Tree has become one of my favorite escapes from Los Angeles. Just two and a half hours drive outside of the city, it truly feels like stepping into another universe where the landscapes become dry and barren with Dr. Seuss-like joshua trees dotting the rocky landscape. A slower pace of life instantly unfolds as you exit off the 10 freeway towards Yucca Valley and skyscrapers and big chain establishments are replaced with mom and pop antique shops and western-style storefronts.
On my most recent excursion to the desert, we checked into El Rancho, a recently renovated 1957 cabin that truly feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. You’ll get your first hint of that on the drive out here along the bumpy terrain — ie. you really need a 4wd vehicle if you don’t want to risk getting stuck, but that’s all part of the fun, right?
Once we arrived, pure bliss set in as everything for miles became totally silent other than the desert thunderstorm that lit up in hot pink hues just before the sun set.
People have asked me several times what there is to do in Joshua Tree, and while the national park and certain establishments in town are a draw, hunkering down in a remote cabin for a night off your phone with only wine, a record player and good conversation to keep you entertained is probably my favorite way to spend any evening in this part of California.
Keep scrolling down for all the photos of El Rancho’s gorgeous renovated interior and the surrounding landscape. Give it a chance, I know it will draw you in.
Planning your own trip to the desert? Check out this round-up of the best Airbnbs in Joshua Tree.
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Planning a trip right now? Make your life easier with this checklist of my favorite travel resources.
Booking Accommodations:
Over the last decade of travel, Booking.com has consistently been my favorite site for finding great deals on hotels, boutique inns, home rentals and more. Plus, they have an amazing filtering system making it super easy to find the best accommodation that fits your needs.
Booking Flights:
Skyscanner is always the first place I look to compare and contrast routes and find the best flight deals.
Find the Best Tours and Experiences:
Viator is always my go-to when searching for the best experiences around the globe. They have everything from group tours and private experiences, to airport transfers and much more.
Book Car Rentals:
Rentalcars.com and Discover Cars are my two favorite sites for booking easy and affordable car rentals in any country I visit. They make the process super simple and transparent, so you know you’re getting the best price.
Stay Connected:
The days of purchasing physical sim cards are over. Airalo is the best and easiest way to stay connected around the globe with the best international eSim plans. Take 10% off your plan with code MICHELLE10.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance:
World Nomads has personally saved me thousands with their flexible travel insurance. Don’t leave for an international trip without this one!
Lastly, wherever you go. Don’t forget to check visa requirements, make sure your passport is up to date and purchase any travel adapters you might need on the ground!
Planning a trip right now? These are all the websites and services I love for booking everything from flights, tours, accommodation and more:
- Booking.com for the best hotel deals
- World Nomads for travel insurance
- Airbnb for awesome home rentals
- Skyscanner for finding the best flight deals
- Hostelworld for budget accommodation
- Rentalcars.com for easy car rentals
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