Travel: The Parker Palm Springs
Immersed in a rich resort atmosphere, there’s a certain way of life that’s almost hard to describe when it comes to Palm Springs, California. A desert city where palm trees meet a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and people travel from around the world to revel in the city’s splendor consisting of the ultra luxe versions of rest, relaxation and recreation. And while there are plenty of stunning properties to choose from, there’s one in particular that contains all of the glamorous fixin’s we crave from this Coachella valley town. Meet, The Parker Hotel.
Formerly home to Merv Griffins’ Resort and Givenchy Spa and a member of Le Parker Meridian family, The Parker Palm Springs sits along 13 expansive acres boasting 144 quintessentially midcentury-modern designed suites (some with a fabulous private backyard) and is a swift five-minute über from both the Palm Springs airport and the heart of downtown.
The getaway property’s exterior seems inspired by Versailles’ palatial grounds as its’ layout consists of winding pathways enclosed by lush and blooming greenery that open up into secret pockets of manicured lawns, perfect – and quite popular – for destination weddings and upscale business conventions. The landscape is full of everything from upscale lawn games like petanque and croquet, an exquisite spa, and a luxurious ballroom to double tennis courts, several pool areas and even an oversized fire pit for those midnight s’more cravings.
While the exterior of this expansive resort is certainly impressive enough to merit our praise, it’s the fabulous interiors that provide more than enough kitschy eye candy to excite us into returning over and over again. After receiving a gutting $27 million facelift back in 2004, it happily adds to the charm of Palm Springs’ famous midcentury-modern architecture thanks to interior design favorite, Jonathan Adler. His saying? “To unite happiness and chic”, and that’s precisely what he has achieved. The interiors are full of Adler’s design aesthetic and decor providing an eclectic laid-back mix of bohemian inspired pieces like Moroccan rugs, lacquered four-poster beds, fringe and sequined covered throws and pillows, palm tree molded ceiling fans and cheeky colorful geometric patterned accessories.
While there’s plenty to indulge in on the property it’s a must to mention the food as the Parker plays hosts to three on-site restaurants. First is a Le Parker Meridian staple; Norma’s. Perfect to quench your sweet tooth – do yourself a favor and order the doughnuts with lemon custard and blueberry jam, you can thank us later – or if you’re being “good” snag their Nice Salad because either way you’ll end up with a delicious meal that’ll have you drooling for seconds. Next is the Mini Bar. Situated in their superbly styled lobby it’s the perfect spot before heading out for the night to enjoy a cocktail or two with food meant for sharing (a la cheese fondue, tuna tartare flatbread and charcuterie plates). Last is Mister Parker, their swanky and sensual dinner brasserie which stays open “until the chef goes home”. This is where you throw your pinkies up and dine on wagyu short ribs, escargot and schezuan crusted duck breast before passing out supremely happy and full under your cozy down duvet.
As if The Parker didn’t have enough to offer to keep you planted firmly on location during your stay, you don’t even have to leave to get some shopping taken care of. Recently added around the corner from the concierge is a finely curated Trina Turk boutique. Having just turned 20 years young, the ageless brand has everything one would need while on vacation in the desert. From boldly patterned and colorful floor sweeping caftans, straw woven handbags and oversized floppy hats (to keep you ultra posh by the pool), to bikinis, crocheted coverups, home accessories, shoes and activewear, it’s safe to say you may need to bring an extra bag with you to pack what you plan on taking home.
