On February 8th, the desert oasis known as Palm Springs will once again open its arms to welcome thousands of frisky, furry bears, their friends and fans for International Bear Convergence (IBC).   It’s the week that encourages everyone to let out their hair.

This year, the more adventurous among us will dare to bare even more than that at Inndulge, the city’s leading clothing optional resort.  We spoke with resort owner, Jon Jackson, who shares the responsibility of running Inndulge with his husband, Sandy.

Are you ready for your famous kidney pool to become a watering hole for naked bears?

Oh yes, we look forward to it every year!  The city’s energy is already off the hook in anticipation.   The week seems to get bigger every year.  It’s as if the bears have wakened from hibernation and are dancing outside the forest, ready to bust in.  We will have a BBQ poolside on the Sunday of IBC weekend.

Will every bear be bare?

Not every bear but those that dare to bare are more than welcome to at Inndulge!  First and foremost, we’re about relaxing and socializing:  poolside, of course.   We’re also planning a nude hiking expedition through the mountains, but again, the more modest bears can wear bikinis or whatever they choose.

Are any room still available at Inndulge for IBC?  

We’ve been sold out since early December.  I always advise bears and their admirers to plan ahead for big weekends such as IBC.  The sooner you can book your room, the better.  We do keep a wait list and, on occasion, we are able to accommodate, but it’s rare.

Is it worth considering a trip to Palm Springs the weekend after IBC or have all the bears cleared out of Palm Springs by then?

We have plenty of bears all year ‘round but the next weekend is President’s Day weekend, and unfortunately, we’re sold out for that weekend too.  It kicks-off the very popular Modernism Week. 

What are other theme weekends bears should consider?  

Easter weekend.   We have an amazing Easter Bonnet Brunch at Inndulge.  March is also a great time to visit Palm Springs.  The energy is just a little more lively in spring time and the weather is perfect.  We have what others might consider summer weather in March.  Other big weekends for bears are Gay Rodeo weekend in early May.  It draws a particularly friendly crowd as does Leather Pride weekend in late October.  The first two weeks of June is “Restaurant Week,” a great time for foodies.

How do you feel about pot being legal in California? Do you expect it will help business?

It certainly helped tourism in Colorado, so yes. 

Are guests allowed to light up in the courtyard?

Smoking of any legal substance is permitted in the courtyard as long as its away from all food service areas. However, smoking is not permitted in our rooms.

Are pot brownies ok?

For sure. They’re encouraged!

What are you most looking forward to in the new year?

Seeing all of our repeat guests come back again for another fantastic year-round summer.

Visit www.inndulge.com

By Jonathan Demmers