La Rana Cansada, one of the first small hotels in Playa del Carmen, is now embroiled in a legal battle that raises many suspicions. This hotel, which has changed owners only once since 1984, has a rich history of hosting international artists and cultural events.
In its early days, members of the band Maná stayed there, international models visited as prizes, and renowned artists like Paco de Lucía performed. The hotel was also the birthplace of Playa del Carmen’s traditional Day of the Dead parade.
Today, La Rana Cansada stands empty, with new locks on the doors, awaiting either a quick rescue or a prolonged legal entanglement.
José Carlos González Anguiano, one of the first restaurateurs to invest in Playa del Carmen and a close friend of the late owners, commented on the hotel’s significance. “This place has a great tradition in our beloved Playa del Carmen. It was originally a very prominent hotel and later acquired by Swedish foreigners about 25 years ago.”
Ted and Pia, the Swedish owners, fell in love with Playa del Carmen immediately. Pia, who had a modeling agency in the United States, brought her clients to the hotel. When they saw the opportunity, they bought La Rana Cansada and reopened it with a new twist, adding the La Ranita bar.
The couple introduced European traditions to the locals, such as the celebration of Santa Lucia, and held the first Halloween costume contests. Ted, a member of the Rotary Club, brought in great artists, including a Rolling Stones composer. Alex and Fer from Maná also stayed there when the band was starting out, and they hosted memorable performances.
González Anguiano recalled a birthday party where Paco de Lucía played seguidillas with Alfonso from Málaga, while his daughters danced, creating a vibrant atmosphere. These moments contributed to the hotel’s cultural legacy in Playa del Carmen.
However, a few years ago, Ted and Pia fell ill. Ted passed away two years ago, and Pia followed in May.
“Many people think they were the absolute owners, but they were actually owners, partners, and operators of the hotel. I was very close to them because I love art and music, and we collaborated on gastronomic and artistic events,” said González Anguiano.
He expressed his surprise and frustration over the legal action taken against the hotel. “This issue dates back to 2009 and involves a labor dispute that led to the eviction and police involvement. It’s a dark issue,” he said.
González Anguiano hopes this isn’t one of those judicial tricks used to harm foreign investors, as has happened in other cases in the region. He emphasized that La Rana Cansada is a beloved place for the people of Playa del Carmen.
Source: Por Esto
