Teddy Travels: Palm Springs

Teddy joined me on a recent trip to visit my grandparents in Palm Springs, California, which is a 4.5 hour flight from our home in Toronto.

This was our second trip on a plane together.  The first, I documented in this How-To guide.  I must admit, this trip was much easier, and Teddy did not seem to mind the plane ride as much.  Palm Springs is an amazing, dog-friendly city, and I highly recommend visiting with your pup.

We flew Air Canada, on one of the busiest travel days of the year (the first day of March Break).  I was not able to check in online, so had to arrive even an hour earlier (6:15AM) to check in for my flight.  If I had followed the rules (your dog must be in their carrier at all times), this would have been problematic for Teddy, but, I let him walk through the airport on his leash.  Several families stopped us to say hello.

Teddy in the Lounge

I think that because it was so early in the morning, the flight/airport experience was even easier.  He typically would be sleeping at that time, so it was not a big deal for him to be in his carrier.  I first put him in while I went to eat breakfast in the Maple Leaf Lounge.  Here, I fed him a bit of kibble and water, but was apprehensive to give him too much as I did not want him to need to go to the bathroom on the plane.

The flight itself was uneventful.  Teddy stayed under the seat, even when I opened the carrier.  he just slept there the entire time without making a sound.  I did not need to resort to giving him his Bully Stick or Frozen Peanut Butter Kong.

Teddy on Board!

The Palm Springs airport is puppy heaven.  Aside from the gates themselves, the airport is outside.  You head down an escalator to arrive at a giant grassy area marked for dogs, where they can roam.  Teddy peed for what seemed like 10 minutes!

Where to Stay:
We stayed at my grandparents house while we were in Palm Springs.  We bought Teddy a super cute bed, and some toys ahead of time from Target, and he felt right at home!  There are many hotels in the Palm Springs area that welcome pets, just be sure to tell them ahead of time.  My top 3 picks would be:

1. Le Parker Meridien - I often visit this hotel to have brunch at their restaurant Norma's, which is on a beautiful patio (dogs allowed, of course!).  The hotel grounds are gorgeous and it features every amenity you could want or need.
2. The Westin Mission Hills - This hotel is on the same property as my grandparents house, and I have stayed here before.  It features large villas, many pools, a world class tennis court, and championship level golf courses.  They provide beds and bowls for your pups.
3. The Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage - This is a newer hotel, perched high in the mountains.  It is absolutely beautiful, and would serve as a wonderful quiet retreat.

Teddy on the golf course at Mission Hills

Teddy spent his days running on the golf course (see the video below, he loved it), tanning by the pool, but the best part, is that dogs are allowed EVERYWHERE.

Where to Eat:

Teddy enjoyed a burger at In-N-Out

Palm Springs is known for its wild brunch scene.  I however, spend most of my days outside, either by the pool, shopping, or playing tennis.  There is simply not enough time for brunch.  Here are some of my favorites, that love your dog too:

1. Workshop Kitchen - With a beautiful dog friendly patio, this place is great for brunch or dinner.  We shared a bunch of dishes with our group of 5.  Teddy had his own bowl of water, but the drinks were amazing too.
2. Sherman's Deli - A Palm Springs classic, this is the first place we always go to on our way home from the airport.  The meals are huge, the food is comforting, and the place is loud and friendly.  Teddy was comfortable lounging on their patio while we enjoyed our lunch.
3.  Norma's - Norma's serves indulgent comfort food on a BEAUTIFUL patio.  What could be wrong?
4. Cheeky's - The menu here changes often, so you never get bored.  The food is farm to table, and the patio is lively and fun.  They serve an amazing breakfast and dinner.
5. Chi Chi - At the Avalon hotel, this place serves good food, at a good price, with a beautiful patio for you and your dog. 

Dorky hat at Petco

Nothing like a trip to Target!

Sun Safety Everyone

On the flight home, Teddy slept in his Sleepy Pod, which I left unzipped so he could rest his head on my feet.  Without thinking, when I went to the washroom, he followed me! I did not realize until I walked back to my seat and saw him sitting on a stranger's lap.  WOOPS!

Hello? Remember Me?

Back on the plane

I would rate our trip to Palm Springs a 10/10

Is there anywhere you like to travel with your dog? I would love to hear about it!

For more how-to's, tips and ideas, make sure you keep checking KeepingUpWithTheodor.blogspot.ca, and subscribe! Don't forget to stay in touch on my Instagram @KeepingUpWithTheodor for a regular dose of cute pictures.