Jaunted

The event promises a global view. In addition to Mexican directors and producers expected to attend, Italian filmmakers Arrivano and Corti, last year's winners, will offer up some unique looks at their country, and other films promise a look at Cuba and Argentina.

Where to Stay:
There are literally hundreds of hotels to choose from: After all, this is the Riviera Maya. For easy access to the main drag in town and a short walk to the ocean, our pick is the Illusion Boutique Hotel.

Although not the most luxurious of resorts on the coast, it still manages to feature the essential amenities and perks--without the price tag. Guestrooms all feature marble floors and bathrooms, and everyone has access to the terrace on the fourth floor with its pool and bar. Rates for the festival start at about $150 per night, and they'll even come get you at the airport for about $50 a person.

Where to Eat:
No need to make a late-night run for the border here, since Carboncitos is right around the corner from your hotel. It's just a standard taqueria, but this *is* Mexico. If you enjoy your dinner drenched in salsas, this is the place: In addition to the usual there's also one made from pumpkin seeds.

Manager Russell Granger tells us that there will be specials during the festival too, so make sure to take along your ticket stub or festival pass for some free goodies.

Oh, and if you decide to take that offshore fishing trip, you can even haul your catch in and they'll prepare it for dinner.

Where to Get Wet:
Grab your mask and fins and head into the ocean with Diversity Diving. They offer a great beginner level diving course where you can dive to about 40 feet. Although it's not an official program, you can use the hours toward your PADI certification.

If you're already a pro there are plenty of dive packages, including cavern dives and night dives. If you're just looking to get wet and try things out, it's going to run you about $100.

Related Stories:
· Riviera Maya Underground Film Festival [Official Site]
· Illusion Boutique Hotel [Official Site]
· Carboncitos [Official Site]
· Diversity Diving [Official Site]
· Film Festivals coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: RMUFF]