My husband and I want to take a second honeymoon - our first was very brief and family was along. We're interested in Mexico or South American getaways and are especially interested in having the trip coincide with any major festivals, such as Carnival. Could you please tell me which locations have festivals - we're open as to when we can travel.

A second honeymoon is definitely festive and a trip planned to coincide with a major festival will really be fun! There are several biggies that are definitely worth checking out; these, like New Orleans' Mardi Gras, are all pre-Lenten celebrations:

Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This mega celebration is the biggest in the world. Lasting four days, the celebration is also a pre-Lenten party but, since this is South America, takes place during their summer months.

Carnival, Trinidad. This is the largest carnival in the Caribbean and the world's second largest after Rio's. Mas bands start their preparations months in advance of this annual event and preparations are really in full swing by December. Travelers can "chip" down the street during J'ouvert's Mud Parade, getting smeared by mud of various colors. The next day, Carnival gets into high gear with parades in Port of Spain.

Mazatlan, Mexico. Mexico's largest carnival dates back to the 19th century. Today's activities range from a food fair and parades to fireworks and crowning of the King of Joy.

Cozumel Carnaval, Cozumel, Mexico. This festival lasts a week and packs the hotels of this often quiet island.

Regardless of which carnival you choose, there's one important factor: preplanning. Hotels book up months in advance for these special events as visitors and returning ex-residents pack the cities. Also, with some preplanning you can often arrange to take part in the parades, ordering costumes and joining in the fun.

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