Erarey

First experience, great experience

I've never stayed overnight in Palm Springs on my own, and never at an actual Gay spot, and definitely never somewhere geared towards Leather/Daddy/Mature crowd, so, the whim reservation I made at Chaps Inn had me a bit apprehensive. All of this apprehension faded away as soon as I dialed their reservation line and was greeted by the friendly, professional and cheerfully British voice of one of the owners. About five minutes and I had my room. Fast forward an hour and a half and I arrived, entering into a closed off little corner of a busy Palm Springs street with nothing but their website to go off of. The crowd was Mature, for sure, but relaxed, friendly, respectful, and nude. Chaps Inn is clothing optional, in case I hadn't mentioned. Now, after a quick chat with one of the owners about my home town, the weather, the Salton Sea and a few other pleasantries, I made it into my room, a King Kitchenette. Upon entering, my first reaction was... well, nothing. The room was clean, neat, with a couch, a coffee table, several night stands, a large and wondrously comfortable bed and, of course, the namesake Kitchenette. A further tour of the room revealed a modern style bathroom, spotless and well appointed as the rest of the room. A brief check on the kitchen found slightly dated but functional and sanitary appliances. Zooming through my goings on in the room, I headed out to brave my first shot at choosing the optional part of clothing optional and test out the hot tub. The pool, which had been surrounded by the casually hanging (In more ways than one) loungers, was now relatively empty, only a wonderful couple from San Diego and a gentleman from up North keeping me company in the hot tub. Warm, relaxing and in the perfect spot to see all comers from any angle, I settled into easy conversation and simple comfort. Looking around, I saw a few of the more... interesting amenities. A Cross, a cage, some stocks and bonds, all set off to the side in their own little area for space's sake as well as simple neatness, their availability never in doubt, much like the grill placed nearby as well. Taking the opportunity to get myself a drink, I took advantage of the "Free For All" fridge, near a filtered water cooler and ice machine, which was a simple fridge with mixers, liquor, odd domestics and imports left behind or stocked out of generosity. Once again, zooming through the rest of my conversations and goings on, I went out for the night, had my fun, and returned to my conveniently located refuge, finding it a bit chilly (I never checked if I had a heater, luckily the sheets were warm, through other means) but peaceful and quiet, a welcome change from the sounds and sights of Palm Spring's main drag. The next morning, upon inquiring on check out, I was informed that no new reservations had been made and that, if I wished, I could stick around till noon, provided nothing came up. I took the chance to do so, packing up and sorting myself out before checking out. This again was greeted by friendly, familiar and fabulously British small talk with one of the owners, and as I handed in my key and said my final goodbyes, I felt what I almost never feel leaving any given hotel or spot; a sense of dismay that my stay had ended, and that my experience for now was over. Summary: Great customer service, fun clientele, decent facilities, peaceful atmosphere (If the crowd and the season are given to peace, still have to stop in during pride, summer, etc.) and convenient location. Definitely a favorite stop for an overnight stay.