Day of the Dead in Patzcuaro

All of Mexico stops during the first two days of November for a nationwide communion with their dearly departed, known as the 'Día de los Muertos' which translates as 'Day of the Dead'. This is a more joyful occasion than you might expect, as it's both a remembrance of deceased loved ones and a celebration of the eternal cycle of life and death. Visit the lake-side, colonial town of Pátzcuaro and nearby island of Janitzio, where the cemetery bell rings out all night long, calling souls to return and enjoy the ceremony. Itinerary Monday 27 October 2008: Fly direct to Mexico City with British Airways. Transfer to your hotel for a three night stay at the grand hotel Condesa DF in the fashionable Condesa district. Tue 28 Oct: Half-day excursion to visit the pyramids of Teotihuacán and the shrine of Guadalupe. Wed 29 Oct: Free day to explore Mexico City. Thu 30 Oct: Fly to the colonial city of Morelia and stay two nights at the hotel Villa Montana, a first class hotel. Fri 31 Oct: Day at leisure to wonder around the cobbled streets of the city or visit a nearby butterfly sanctuary. Sat 01 Nov: A stunning drive takes you to the lake-side, colonial town of Pátzcuaro where celebrations for Day of the Dead will be in full flow. Stay two nights at the Posada De Don Vasco hotel, a traditional-style hotel set in a lovely eight-hectare garden. Sun 02 Nov: Free time to enjoy the festivities of Day of the Dead. Mon 03 Nov: Drive to Zihuatanejo located on the pacific coast and stay three nights at the Tides Zihuatanejo, an exclusive and tranquil hideaway. Tue 04 & Wed 05 Nov: Days at leisure to relax on the beach or try activities such as horse riding, water-skiing, deep-sea fishing and sailing. Thu 06 Nov: Transfer by car to Zihuatanejo airport and fly back to the UK via Mexico City. Fri 07 Nov: Arrive UK.