“Droid in the Desert: R2D2 Checks In at Old Ranch Inn”
A Coachella Valley Exclusive from the Outer Rim
By Desert Dispatch Staff
Palm Springs, CA — In a surprise intergalactic detour, astromech icon R2D2 has touched down in the Sonoran Desert, reportedly seeking “more sand, but make it luxury.” Locals at the Old Ranch Inn were stunned—but not ungracious—as the beloved Star Wars droid beeped his way around the pool, reportedly bypassing check-in with a swift override of the front desk system.
“He rolled in like he owned the place,” said one guest, margarita in hand. “Honestly, we assumed he was here for Modernism Week.”
R2’s arrival is part of a broader, unsanctioned campaign by Tatooine’s tourism board to establish diplomatic ties with boutique hotel operators in Coachella Valley. Whether or not C-3PO will follow remains to be seen, though sources say he’s more of a mid-century bungalow type.
At the Old Ranch Inn—known for its throwback charm, poolside serenity, and subtle nods to Rat Pack-era indulgence—R2 appeared to settle quickly into vacation mode. Sightings included sunbathing in a private cabana, taking selfies with guests, and (accidentally?) triggering the hot tub jets at full power.
From Binary to Boutique
Desert Dispatch reached out to the Inn’s management, who issued the following statement:
“Old Ranch Inn is proud to offer refuge to all weary travelers. Even ones with a history of smuggling Death Star plans.”
Tourism experts are already speculating about the implications for Palm Springs’ hospitality scene. “We’ve always drawn stars,” said one PR rep. “Just not the kind who beep.”
R2D2 is expected to remain in the area through the weekend before departing for a scheduled oil bath and potential TEDx talk on interstellar navigation and desert minimalism.
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