ABOUT THE PARKER

Who is The Parker Palm Springs? A Story

Imagine, if you will, that you are about to spend the weekend at your great aunt's. She is an extremely elegant lady of somewhat indeterminate age. She is beautiful both in spite of, and because of, the fact that she has avoided Botox and face lifts, and you can tell, that in her day she must have been a stunner.

Her estate is truly wonderful: 144 guest rooms, including 12 private villas (if you must ask 311 was Robert Downey's, and 308 was the one where Barbara forced Merv to tear the walls down so she would have more room), clay tennis courts (you'll have to wear whites); two Pétanque courts (boules to the less educated) and croquet (the way she plays it is rather nasty, to be honest), and of course the Gene Autry Residence. Rounding things out are her 10,000 (yes that's right 10,000) sq ft of banquet facilities. Perfect for Steve and Bob's wedding once the state of California catches up with Massachusetts.

The grounds are also home to the Palm Springs Yacht Club – Mrs. Parker is a charter member and honorary Commodore. A yacht club in the desert? Well actually it is a spa, one that takes itself a bit less seriously, you are still expected to go out for a drink after your massage and facial.

Speaking of eating, Mrs. Parker's chef offers two distinct dining experiences. Norma's is a five star diner – one can't wear Dior every night but you can get a $1,000.00 omelet – actually a frittata filled with lobster and caviar (for those who must eat couture even when they are not wearing it). Come early so you can get a seat at the best counter in town.

And mister parker's, a formal/informal hangout for her wastrel husband, and other drones. A place Mr. Parker decided was going to be his. He announced to his wife that he would be creating his own dining room, one where he would be entertaining his friends. She did not object. Menus would reflect the best of French cuisine, the chef would serve culinary delights and the right wines would flow liberally. The grand white piano would call to its patrons and glamorous guests would flow in and out like seasoned members of a private club.

So come on, come visit Mr. and Mrs. Parker, they promise to take only the best care of you...

Get the facts on the Parker Palm Springs