Desert oasis

The Parker Palm Springs

GETAWAYS • Palm Springs

I downed a shot of cucumber vodka after a Swedish massage; learned how to play both croquet and petanque; splashed around in an empty adults-only pool under the stars; sipped wine with a bunch of cheekily dressed guests from Willamette Valley; ate a “Wagner’s Ring” made of watermelon and assorted fruit; and possibly — quite possibly — rediscovered my will to live at the Parker Palm Springs, the sumptuous, immaculately-landscaped 13-acre resort ideal for couples and close confidantes.