Fall specials and festivals entice travelers to Mayan Riviera

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

November 9, 3:52 PM
Portland Travel Examiner
Deston Nokes

PLAYA DEL CARMEN, Mexico – As the U.S. economy shows signs of recovery, and travelers once again think about heading south for the winter, Mayan Riviera hotels and eateries are offering specials to entice vacationers to experience upcoming music and eco festivals.

“November and December are great months to visit as the rains have pretty much stopped,” said Russell Granger, manager of beachfront villa Casa de las Olas, Hotel Cielo and Restaurant Carboncitos. “Our warm days, cool nights and smaller crowds make the pre-Christmas season the perfect time to enjoy festivals, beaches and Mayan ruins.”

On Nov. 25-28, the free Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, will offer scorching tunes under evening skies. Combining varied expressions of jazz, the festival features headliners Herbie Hancock, Sergio Mendes, Spyro Gyra, Al Jarreau and nearly a dozen other acclaimed performers.

On Dec. 5, earth-conscious travelers will want to partake in the THINK GREEN 2nd Annual Eco Expo in Playa del Carmen. This December, Think Green will be comprised of an Eco-Expo, a health and wellness center and natural cuisine.

To make vacationing in the Mayan Riviera even more affordable, two Mayan Riviera properties are offering two-for-one lodging specials between Nov. 1 and Dec. 17, 2009.

Casa de las Olas in Tulum, and Hotel Cielo in Playa del Carmen, are offering a free night for each one purchased. The specials are to help jump start lodging in celebration of the Cielo Group’s acquisition of the Tulum property.

“This is an outstanding opportunity to enjoy elegant lodging at half the price,” Granger said.
Casa de las Olas is a secluded, five-suite villa perfect for those seeking a little time and space away from life’s commitments. This luxurious beachfront property is at the gateway to the vast Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a world-renowned, 1.3 million-acre, nature preserve.

“Tulum is more than a sunny getaway: it has Mayan ruins, swimmable, fresh-water springs and stunning ecotourism,” Granger said. “The area also has developed an international reputation as a center for yoga, meditation and massage.”

Hotel Cielo is a boutique-style property in the heart of original “Playa” with 18 rooms influenced by traditional Mexican décor. It offers air conditioning, free wireless Internet, beach club discounts and more. Guests also will enjoy complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, Carboncitos.