One of Earth’s Rarest Moments is Centerpiece for Paraiso de la Bonita’s Vacation

September 2002 - - If memorable vacations are made of special moments, what could be more special than a moment that occurs only twice a year, for a brief few minutes? Absorb this moment in a setting of exceptional elegance, comfort and beauty in the midst of one of the oldest civilizations in the world, and the result could be the vacation of a lifetime.

Paraiso de la Bonita Resort & Thalasso, in the heart of Mexico's ancient Mayan culture in the Yucatan, has created a vacation package as special as the earthly marvel it celebrates. During the autumnal equinox - one of only two times a year that the length of day and night are equal (the other is the spring equinox) - the sun seems to stop for a moment before proceeding into another half of the year. Intimately associated with the yearly cycle of life, the equinoxes have played essential roles in virtually all civilizations, notably the Mayans of Mexico. When the equinox's extraordinary light and shadows are viewed from the ruins of centuries-old pyramids designed specifically to revere the occurrence- such as those at Chitchen Itza, within easy reach from Paraiso de la Bonita - the moment takes on inspirational significance.

The "Equinox" vacation package includes three nights accommodation in one of Paraiso's sumptuous suites and round trip transportation to the Mayan pyramids to witness this magical event. To ensure that guests immerse themselves in the power of this important event, the package also includes a picnic dinner complete with a half-bottle of wine to be savored at the Mayan ruins on September 22, the moment of the equinox. The package is available September 20 - 23, 2002 and is priced $1715 for one, $1745 for two plus 12% tax and 5% service charge. Package is subject to availability.

Paraiso de la Bonita Resort & Thalasso is located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, on the Mexican Caribbean. This intimate beach resort and thalassotherapy spa is nestled on the secluded sugar-white beaches along Petenpich Bay in a 14-acre oasis carved from the tropical jungle, and combines the elegance of traditional Mexican architecture with the great Mayan culture that is the hallmark of the Yucatan Peninsula. Tucked into a protected private bay and surrounded by mangroves and a bird sanctuary, Paraiso de la Bonita is only 20 minutes south of Cancun International Airport, yet a world away on Mexico's Mayan Riviera. All 90 luxurious suites, including the Master and Bali suites, have breathtaking ocean views; 1st floor rooms have private plunge pools, while those on upper floors feature terraces with umbrellas and hammocks.

Taking advantage of the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, the finest influences from Europe and the abundance of fresh seafood and produce available, dining at Paraiso de la Bonita, under the direction of a French chef, is offered in a main restaurant, with its hand-painted murals and patio terrace; an adjoining outdoor Grill for broiled seafood, fish and meats, and La Canoa, the resort's posh dining room. Drinks, refreshments and conversation are enjoyed in the Library Bar.

Paraiso de la Bonita is a member of Leading Small Hotels of the World. For further information, or for reservations call 800-327-0200, Fax: (52) 998 872 8301, send email to resa@paraisodelabonitaresort.com or visit www.paraisodelabonitaresort.com.