DESERT CLASSIC

The retro cool of California's Palm Springs soothes and amazes EMMA DEADMAN

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AS I drifted in and out of consciousness, I half expected to feel the "stroke of shame" But the light arm touch, affectionately called the "SoS" by my fellow travellers, to gently stir snorers deep in meditational bliss, never came.

My experience, on a Good Vibes Floating Sound Bath in a swimming pool under the stars, was like something from another dimension - at least that's how my mind felt when I was finally back in the real world.

The word bath is somewhat misleading - you don't get wet, just "bathed" in sound waves produced by singing bowls, gongs and chimes.

For someone whose mind is always whirring, it was an incredibly calm experience. And that's the vibe that pretty much summed up my time visiting Greater Palm Springs, Southern California.

GPS isn't a party destination. These days, it attracts an older crowd looking for a more luxurious and relaxing holiday.

And when the mind is calm, the body can follow.

But what the area lacks in a late-night scene, it makes up for in plenty of other ways.

Nestled in the Coachella Valley, Greater Palm Springs is at the foot of impressive, vast mountain ranges - you don't need to imagine picturesque backdrops here, they're right there. But that does mean you have to chase the sun at certain times of the day, as it starts to set and drop down behind the ridges.

Fortunately, GPS is made up of nine unique cities you can move around each with their own style and attractions.

Palm Springs is famous for its mid-century modern architecture and design, with homes ranging from traditional simple lines and large windows to the eclectic.

The Frey House II is built high up in the San Jacinto mountain range and even has a giant boulder incorporated into the lounge.

And a couple of hours spent on guide Michael Stern's Modern Tour takes you to some of the quirkiest homes you will ever see guaranteed.