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Back of the Envelope Travel Guide: San Diego Film Festival

August 6, 2008 at 1:06 PM | 0 Comments

You probably associate movies with Los Angeles, but we're here to tell you that the 2008 San Diego Film Festival is out to prove it can represent on its own.

Running September 25-28, the festival offers the usual in darkened-room entertainment, but also brings the fun. In fact, it was named best party festival in Chris Gore's Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide. The parties will be going right from the start at the Ivy Hotel, and there's no need to be a VIP to attend: All day pass holders will be admitted.

If you're hoping to rub some elbows, past celebrities at the fest have included James Woods, Joaquin Phoenix and Zach Braff.

Where to Stay:
Since most of the action is going to take place in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, the W San Diego is going to be the best choice. The rooftop bar, Beach, will host a Sunday-night party centered on its mojito bar--a great way to get that one last drink in before the festival is over. Rooms start at $209 a night for the weekend.

Where to Eat:
For baseball fans the obvious choice would be PETCO Park, home of the San Diego Padres. The Padres will be finishing off their season the weekend of the festival, so swing by the park, only a short walk from the W, and indulge in some ballpark fare.

If that's not really what you're looking for, then visit Gaslamp Strip Club. (It's named for the steaks.) You can get in on the action too by grilling your own meat right in the restaurant. If you're looking for some ladies, the restaurant is blanketed by artwork by pin-up artist Alberto Vargas.

Where to Drink:
Besides all the parties associated with the festival, you'll probably need somewhere to have a nightcap while staying close to home base. Try the Karl Strauss Brewery. Here you'll be greeted with 10 to 12 in-house crafted brews from the light to the dark. Mingle with the local professionals, festival attendees and probably some coeds from San Diego State. It stays pretty low-key, so no need to dress to impress. Best of all, it's close to your hotel--no taxi needed!

Related Stories:
· San Diego Film Festival [Official Site]
· W Hotel San Diego [Official Site]
· Gaslamp Strip Club [Official Site]
· Karl Strauss Brewery [Official Site]
· San Diego coverage [Jaunted]

[Photos: Renegade of Funk]

Where: San Diego, CA, United States

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Author Photo: kjb by kjb

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