Golden Pass to Mexico

If a long stay in Mexico is planned, look into the expanded Golden Pass program offered by Los Angeles-based Mexico Travel Advisers. This year the company introduced a 15-night version of the pass and is still offering its original 30-night version.

The Golden Pass allows 15 or 30 consecutive nights at any of six Hoteles Dubin in Mexico City, Taxco, Acapulco and the spa resort of Tehuacan. Time can be split between hotels as long as space is available.

In addition, hotels give two a la carte meals a day--breakfast and either lunch or dinner. Beverages and tips are extra. Hotel and food taxes are included.

The 15-day pass costs $299 per person. The 30-day pass is $499, same as last year.

In Mexico City, hotels used in the program are the Reforma and Vasco de Quiroga. Taxco has the Hotel de la Borda or Hotel Rancho Taxco-Victoria. In Taxco the pass allows nights at one hotel and dining privileges at the other.

The Casablanca Hotel is used in Acapulco and the Hacienda Spa Penafiel in Tehuacan. At the latter hotel, the use of a nine-hole golf course is included.

Passes at these rates are valid until April 30. The program will be extended beyond that date but the rates beyond April 30 aren’t set yet.

There is no refund for unused nights. Travelers should book at least the first night’s room before departure, although you can book ahead as many of the nights as you want.

Once you are in Mexico, the hotel where you are staying can book the rest of the nights for you. Travel advisers also can make reservations from offices in Mexico City and Acapulco.