Elvis is alive and well in, of all places, the desert town of Palm Springs. 

Approximately two hours from the glitz of Los Angeles, Palm Springs became one of Hollywood's favourite play grounds in the 50's after studio executives restricted actors from traveling more than 100 miles from the city.

The hot desert climate and intimate town where everybody has a pool, is nestled in a valley surrounded by snow-tipped mountains has to be one of the most contrasting areas in California.

Elvis wasn't the town's only famous resident, there's an endless list from the era and beyond including Frank Sinatra, Liberace, Bob Hope, Ronald Regan, Marilyn Monroe, Barry Manilow, and even Elizabeth Taylor with one of her many husband's.

Some houses, including Elvis' honeymoon home with Pricilla, is open to public tours giving fans access to their intimate dwellings.  The tours are also a great way to learn about the very unique architecture in Palm Springs, with some 100 designed by the famed Alexander, who constructed the modern home which later became Elvis's residence for a year.

To truly appreciate the landscape, visitors should take a trip up 8200 feet on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, located in the outskirts of the city.  The stunning 360 degree views from the top provides a fantastic vantage to take in the entire valley and sprawling townships across the dessert. 

Palm Springs also offers a variety of other activities, ranging from cycling, hiking and of course, country-club style golf.  Located just outside the main town, the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa also boasts not one, but two golf courses.  A great place to attempt the sport, with lessons offered by personal instructors paid to be patient with even the most trying types.

After an early morning lesson on the range and a speedy joy-ride in one of the golf carts, it's time to venture onto one of two private boats that offer lake tours - all within the grounds of the resort, the biggest in Palm Springs.

Spa treatments are a must to rehydrate dry desert condition skin, and the large resort pool beckons in the late afternoon before dining in the "dinner and a show" Teppanyaki  restaurant, all without having to leave the hotel grounds.