Backyard OasisNo, you’re not seeing things. There really are two oasis realities happening right now in the desert. One is in Palm Springs. And the other is in neighboring Joshua Tree Oasis. One you check out and the other you check into. Both are filled with wondrous beauty. The one in Palm Springs is an extraordinary “Backyard Oasis” occurring now through May 27th at the Palm Springs Art Museum, Palm Springs. (760-322-4800); www.psmuseum.org

Kaio pool

The other is the best-kept Joshua Tree Vacation Rental Retreat, waiting to fill your senses with all kinds of natural wonders and soothing backyard beauty.

Check out:

Palm Springs contributes to the Getty Foundation’s “Pacific Standard Time: Art in L.A., 1945-1980” initiative with this examination of photographic artistry and Southern California’s pool culture from 1945 to 1982. Influential photographers explore the connection of the aqua oasis with postwar architectural and landscape design, suburban privacy, family fun, escape, subcultures, and Hollywood glamour.

Check into:

A vacation experience for incurable romantics, anniversary celebrants, best friends, families, artists, writers, poets, musicians, and everyone who ever needed to tune-out all essence of civilization in exchange for complete regeneration of the spirit.   Joshua Tree Oasis is an unprecedented vacation experience..

There’s definitely more to the desert than meets the (discerning) eye!

Cara Wilson-Granat