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The 2009 Palm Springs International Film Festival

January 8, 2009 at 1:26 PM | by cmb | 1 Comment

The Palm Springs International Film Festival has been hiding in the shadows of another famous January fest for nearly 20 years but it looks like some star wattage is helping it come into its own. Tonight the festival officially opens with a screening of "Last Chance Harvey", starring Dustin Hoffman, and ends Jan. 19 with a "best of the fest" star-studded event.

Tuesday night, the PSIFF annual gala honored Sean Penn, Dustin Hoffman, the cast of "Revolutionary Road," and director Gus Van Sant. The gala also drew A-Listers Anne Hathaway, Dakota Fanning, and Amy Adams. But be prepared, if you are going to be surrounded by celebrities, you may be tempted to live like one.

Where To Stay:
For the ultimate in luxury, check into the Gene Autry Residence at The Parker Palm Springs. This two-bedroom home featuring a private patio, living room, dining room, terrace and kitchen can be yours for a mere $2,500 a night.

Guests at the singing cowboy’s estate get access to all of the resort’s amenities. With a world class spa, golf course, tennis court, and pool, your stay will be worth the years of credit card debt you are sure to rack up.

If you can’t bring yourself to blow the kids’ college fund on the Gene Autry house, The Parker does offer several package deals like the "Are You a Spa Junkie?" package, starting at $199 per night. This deal includes a $200 credit at the Palm Springs Yacht Club which is really just a silly name for their spa.

Where To Eat:
For breakfast, keep your PJs on and order room service from Norma’s. Known for serving decadent dishes like The Zillion Dollar Lobster Frittata with Cavier, Norma’s has earned the reputation of being Palm Spring’s only five star diner.

Nothing says first class dining in Palm Springs like Le Vallauris. In 2007, Zagat awarded the restaurant their highest rating of "Extraordinary to Perfection" in all categories, food, décor, and service. The most popular entrees are Maine Lobster Cassolette in a Crispy Potato Ring and Roasted Half Duck with Cherry Sauce, Carrot Mousse and Crispy Potatoes. It sounds worth the splurge, and after all, it wouldn't be right to stay in a five star resort and have McDonald’s for dinner.

What To Do:
To get a panoramic view of Palm Springs’ breathtaking desert, take a sunrise hot air balloon ride. The Great American Balloon Company’s packages come with a continental breakfast and champagne toast for $180 per person.

If you prefer land over air, Elite Land Tours gives HUMMER tours to Calico, Joshua Tree, and the desert. Prices vary from $25 for a one hour local tour to $299 for a full day.

Related Stories:
·Palm Springs International Film Festival has its own star power [Los Angeles Times]
·Back of the Envelope Travel Guide: PSIFF [Jaunted]

[Photo: Monsters and Critics]

1 Comment

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  1. ericram

    Jaunted Member

    This was a blast!

    If you didn't get a chance to make it to this, definitely mark it on your calendar for next year. It was amazing! Whether you plan on staying at a Palm Springs Discount Hotel or you decide to woop it up and stay at The Parker Palm Springs California Hotel, book your rooms now. They fill up fast.
    May 24, 2009 at 6:12 PM

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