Thinking about going to Coachella, but not sure what to expect or how to prepare? We asked Rachel McIntyre, CEO of luxury accommodations service Black Door Experiences, for her expert advice:
How to score tickets
It is possible and fairly easy to get tickets if you’re on top of your game before they sell out, you can buy your passes directly on their site. You can also purchase camping lots, shuttle passes, etc. If you want more of a VIP/high-end “comfortable” Cochella experience, Black Door Experiences would be your go-to as we have access to the best VIP packages, tour buses, food and drink, air conditioning and lodging options where you can do Coachella like the musicians. We will customize your unique Coachella experience for you from beginning to end.
How to travel
Coachella is 110 miles East of L.A. If you fly into L.A., the best way to the festival is by car, it’s about a two-and-a-half-hour drive. You have plenty of rental options at LAX. If you are looking for a bit more luxury and don’t want to drive yourself, there are luxury car services that can take you from LAX to Palm Springs. If you don’t want to deal with the roads at all, fly into Palm Springs!
Where to stay
If you’re not into camping, but still want to stay true to the vibe of Coachella, you can do AirBnB or couch surf if you please. It’s a come-all-be-all festival and most people are open to sharing. If you don’t mind spending a little more and being a bit further way, Ace Hotel, Parker, Korakia are great options as well. Another option which not many people know about, again if you want a unique experience and are willing to spend more money, are the on-site Safari Tents which are in an exclusive area with your own off-site private check-in. They are fully furnished, shaker-style tents that are air conditioned and have upscale showers, restrooms and golf cart shuttles to get you to and from the shows.
What to wear
- Sunglasses: The sun gets as hot and bright as can be, so sunnies are essential.
- Bag: You will be carrying your essentials day in and day out, so it needs to be comfortable — I recommend a backpack. A crossbody or shoulder bag will make for a painful shoulder.
- Footwear: I can’t stress how important it is to be comfortable! Never flip flops!
- Hat: My favorite part of the Cochella “outfit” is the hat. A straw fedora would be my number one pick. It’s light, easy to pack, and can be worn at night.
What to do in Palm Springs
Palm Springs is gorgeous and known to be relaxing, partly due to its perfect weather. Aside from Coachella, there are many options to keep you busy during your visit. Outside hotels have their own hipster parties, most accompanied with a pool. Check out the Ace Hotel’s “Desert Gold” Party and the Riviera Palm Springs, which really gives off the vibe of old Hollywood glamour, throws the party “Beauty and The Beat.” The casino is always fun and if you need a break from partying, Palm Springs has other attractions such as amazing spas, The Living Desert, the Aerial Tramway, gorgeous hiking trails, fabulous restaurants and is close to El Paseo, which has amazing shopping.
