The weather attracts
a variety of people, so
there is diversity here.
February/March 2018 83
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not to hide. The city is a desirable adult playground showcasing
mid-century modern buildings, mansions of the rich and famous,
design-forward eateries, shopping enclaves and fashionable hotels.
Meanwhile, the community of Desert Hot Springs checks off
several tourism boxes with golf courses and an array of lodging
emphasizing natural mineral waters. The vibe is low-key in this
tiny suburb for people who prefer the soothing sound of crickets
to the cacophony of clubs and bustling nightlife.
Puzzled by the plethora of seductive options? To help you
enjoy an experience in the desert suited to your personal tastes,
we profile three properties, each with a distinct personality. What
they share is a promise of warm sunny relaxation, recreation and
self-indulgence. From hip, mid-century swankiness to rustic renaissance
relaxation to boho-chic adult-only retreat, this shortlist
will appeal to a range of recreation enthusiasts.
Parker Palm Springs
In 2004, the Jack Parker Corporation turned back the clock on an
aging property. The hotel, then called Merv Griffin’s Resort Hotel,
made headlines years earlier when Robert Downey Jr. was arrested
there on suspicion of drugs and guns—not the kind of publicity
one seeks. After a $27 million remodel along with a contract with
famous interior designer Jonathan Adler, the stepsister property
morphed into the Parker Palm Springs, shocking naysayers who
doubted that the 13-acre plot could ever be the belle of the ball.
These days Parker Palm Springs hosts the coveted after-party
for the illustrious Palm Springs International Film Festival. Alisters
such as Brad Pitt and other celebs jockey for rooms.
The Parker set the trend for other hotels when it revitalized
desert style with bold looks in its eclectic rooms, spa, and restaurants
and lounges. In the lobby, ’60s collectibles
shock and awe: two suits of knight’s armor,
orange lampshades, an industrial “Drugs” sign
that once announced a pharmacy.
Each of the 144 rooms fall into seven types
at varying price points. The entry Estate Room,
smallish at 325 square feet, runs $395 per night.
The 2,200-square-foot Gene Autry private
house for $5,395 (yes, per night). Do note that
rooms do not come with any coffee makers,
so guests need to buy their own at one of the
Parker restaurants.
In addition, the hotel charges a daily $35
resort fee. This provides spa access, in-room
water, valet parking, wi-fi and gym use. Guests
can try petanque and croquet, or practice serves
on the clay tennis courts. Borrow a cruiser bike
or swing on the garden hammock.
The Yacht Club spa offers a clubby atmosphere
with a private pool. In keeping with the
nautical theme, packages are named Lost at Sea,
Yachtsman’s Voyage, and A Motley Mix featuring
a classic manicure, massage and facial.
While many come to spa, others come for extravagant
eats. At breakfast at Norma’s outdoor
restaurant, several deep-pocketed diners have
actually shelled out $1,000 for the Super Sized
Zillion Dollar Lobster Frittata that comes with
a 10-ounce side of caviar.
Counter Reformation, its newest watering hole, opened a year
ago with wines and tapas. The casual spot is tucked away and sports
bar stools and leaning space that encourages social interaction.
Bottom line: The Parker is certainly not for everyone. The
eclectic décor from Jonathan Adler may be too zany for some,
and folks may not like the a la carte charges for food and beverages
or the resort fee. However, the place is family-friendly and
features separate pools for adults and kids. It’s located away from
the downtown core, so guests will need the car to get around.
Local Attractions: Flight fans geek out at the Palm Springs Air
Museum (palmspringsairmuseum.org). It is the only one in California
where visitors can reserve a flight in a C-47 Skytrain, an
operational vintage warbird, for $195. The museum maintains 59
vintage aircraft and also houses planes from Korea and Vietnam.
Another notable site is the Shields Date Garden (shieldsdategard
en.com). Walkers can take the self-guided tour that meanders the
17 acres of date gardens featuring 23 biblical sculptures. At the
café, many order the famous date shake.
Dining Faves: John the concierge recommends the romantic
Mister Parker’s, one of only three five-star restaurants in the valley.
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