Additionally, any time you order a beverage at a restaurant it should be made with purified drinking water. Explore festivities ideal for maximizing the sweater weather season. Part of this is based on traffic in Cancun and the other part on whether or not theyre doing roadwork. Did I mention there isnt a beach? for safety info. Long story short, more secluded destinations like Tulum are a better option for animal sightseeing on land. Im very grateful for this information, Dirk. 2022 UPDATE Laws Tourists Should Know When Renting a Car in Mexico Scams to Avoid in Mexico When Renting a Car Is it Safe to Rent a Car in Mexico? There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state, which include tourist areas in: Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. Things to Do around Playa del Carmen. This place is first on the list. Another good travel tip regardless of destination is to always stay in touch with someone from home during your trip. Destination Expert for Yucatan Peninsula, Chetumal, Mahahual Some do note Xcaret's admission fees are expensive but most say it's worth it, calling out the well-maintained exhibits and beach and the pleasant staff. Planning a trip Tulum? When youre walking around the Hotel Zone, youll be bombarded with signs and people from tour agencies offering day trips from Cancun. In other words, stay off my lawn, and away from my tacos, punk. The water in Playa del Carmen is not potable, and you should never drink water from the faucet. 24. Picture-perfect skies and cool nights are standard but so are high prices. We spent a week in Playa del Carmen a week ago and never again. Next door, Gonzalo Guerrero is a lively jumble of international restaurants, taco trucks and supermarkets sprawling to Calle 40. Treacherous, mean-spirited, and deceitful. The Hotel Zone in Cancn is the spring breaker mecca, and where the majority of cheap hotels, bars, and nightclubs are located. The only bad think outhere is the hustling all the time, if you need a taxi dont get it from the hotel, just walk to the next main street and youll pay 40 pesos, thats less than 2 dollars, if you get it from the hotel they charge you 150 pesos, thats almost 9 dollars, and stay away from 5th Avenue. A lover of Guinness and window seats, Taylor got her first taste of international travel in 2007 and has been exploring the world slow and steady ever since. The general advice youll likely hear is to avoid going further from the beach than the highway. While this rising star of the Riviera Maya is a year-round destination, tourist numbers do ebb and flow throughout the year. If youre anywhere along the Hotel Zone of Cancun, expect to overpay for anything you buy. It was surreal to see this is real time. Not to mention, doing recreational drugs will open you up to the same vulnerabilities as getting overly drunk. So, expect a trip to Xel-H to include plenty of time underwater. Plus, all the good movies you can get back home are on the big screens. This means if you are driving on the Avenidas (1st,10th, 15th, etc) you can drive unless you see a stop sign or traffic lights. However, if youll be staying at a major hotel or resort, then chances are the water coming out of the tap has been locally filtered and is safe. There isnt a lot of traffic in Playa del Carmen itself, but once you venture to the 307 Federal Hwy, youll find a constant barrage of vehicles, particularly at peak hours. South of Cancun in Playa Del Carmen, this Hilton all-inclusive resort checks all the boxes for travelers who want to show up and let the hotel take care of every detail for them. A lot of these pipes are prone to bacteria that infiltrate the water and, upon consumption, make people sick. The most popular courses are theHard Rock Golf Club, the Iberostar Golf Club Playa Paraiso, theGrand Coral Golf Riviera MayaandEl Camalen Mayakoba Golf Club. This area suits those who arent hard-core partiers but still want to be near the center of the action. Making reservations beforehand also means you wont have to deal with tourist touts and other pier-side hassles. Copyright 2023 A Piece of Travel | All Rights Reserved |Privacy Policy, Laura has been wandering the globe for over a decade. Always be aware of your surroundings, go where other people are, and trust your instincts when it comes to leaving uncomfortable situations. Good, because you aint going nowhere anyhow. Its time to change things up a little bit. For tips from the better half of my bipolar self, be sure to see my/his 10 reasons to visit Playa del Carmen. MOST POPULAR EXCURSIONS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN Outside of the city, you'll want to explore. Mxico - Jul 11, 2023 - 15:37 EDT. If youll be staying in private accommodation such as an Airbnb, then my advice is to not drink the tap water and source it elsewhere. Note that not every ATM is safe to use in Playa del Carmen, as there have been cases of card cloning and counterfeit notes. Why? A Valid Driver's License (or IDP) 3. Worse place weve ever traveled to. What did you like about this post? Recent travelers loved this park, calling it adventurous and fun. Cenote Azul. Ah, the Riviera Maya. Check out our guides on Cancun and Playa del Carmen for more details about wheeling around these destinations. Ill also post your comment in our article on accessibility in Playa del Carmen to maximize its reach. You can technically drive from Cancun to Playa in just over an hour. Tulum was once a small but important port city that sits on the edge of a cliff, with a beach below where you can swim too. This bald faced lying attendant turned around, hid one of the bills, turned back around and claimed that I shorted him. Stop. But all in all was no issue ! Why I love it? Playa del Carmen isnt quite as keen on two-wheeled transport as Tulum yet. And throughout town, you'll find some appealinggolf courses. Only get into a taxi that has obvious signage, and always settle the price with the driver before you get in the car. In fact, Playa is a huge hub for remote workers. I read that the water in Cancun is bluer/prettier than in Playa. Snorkeling gear rental (mask, life vests, fins), WiFi, showers, and dressing rooms are available. The area's golf courses are picturesque and challenging in addition to drawing Playa del Carmen travelers, manyCancnvacationers venture south to play a round on the links. Psst! Centro stretching from the ferry terminal to Calle 8 is tourist central and the citys bustling heart. 11 years ago Save I have a very sensitive stomach. learn a little spanish if you come down. Scams and crime exist no matter where in the world you travel. Why do people move to live in Playa del Carmen from USA? We would be staying in an AirBnB. But when examining Playa del Carmen vs. Cancun, from my experience, the WiFi situation is pretty equal. Or on theflipside, keep in mind that Xel-H is strictly an aquatic park while Xcaret also includes an aviary and a small zoo, among other attractions. Theres no doubt about itPlaya del Carmen attracts a more backpacker-type crowd than Cancun. Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Langham, Boston. Mexico is absolutely notorious for car rental scams and hidden costs. You can stop reading right now if you're not going to travel to a beach destination during that time period. Whats the point? I'm wondering more about the pattern over time. Beachwear is a free-for-all; you wont be judged no matter what you want to wear. Not only are they stunningly beautiful, many of them are home to those little fish that eat away the dead skin on your feet. houses and food is cheaper electronics are a bit more. Explore the Archaeological Zone Tulum. Read our guide to solo female travel for more information. Here in Canada Ive paid $ 30 for a 10min cab to the hospital. Some do note that prices for cabanas and drinks can be steep. I get itI felt the same way until I spent time there. That said, Iberostar Tucan is an all-inclusive, family-friendly resort option in the Playacar area of Playa del Carmen. Youve made it to Playa del Carmen, satisfied? A bit unnerving . drove from California to Playa. If youd like more context for these destinations in the Yucatan, check out my guide on Cancun vs Riviera Maya. As for activities, youll be right near the cenotes, which are awesome. That said, petty crime and robberies have been known to occur, and cartel-related violence (although rarely directed at tourists) is a reality of life in Quintana Roo. With long-term rentals, it is much harder to decline the rental company insurance. Both is the operative word there. Ten to 15% is the standard at most restaurants that dont fall into the high-end or gourmet category. Police in Mexico rescued 20 kids ranging in age from 1 to 17 from rented rooms in the resort town of Playa del Carmen, where they were . Ever wonder what not to do in Playa del Carmen? To stay protected from the natural elements always carry reef-safe sunscreen, water, and a travel umbrella (for sun or rain). Authorities in Mexico say that police rescued 20 kids ranging from 1 to 17 from an apartment building in the Mexican beach town of Playa del Carmen, where they were forced to work 12 hours per day selling snacks and trinkets on the streets and beaches. MEXICO CITY (AP) Police in Mexico rescued 20 kids ranging in age from 1 to 17 from rented rooms in the resort town of Playa del Carmen, where they were forced to work 12 hours per day selling . Let them know of your general travel plans, including travel days and accommodations, and check in with them regularly to let them know youre okay. Solo travelers should avoid getting drunk alone or taking drugs on the streets. You might be wonderingbut what about once I arrive in Playa del Carmen? Follow the same advice in this post, and especially pay attention after dark. Your email address will not be published. Look for a darkest shadow they are usually in about 4 to 6 feet of water. #1 Holbox Island Okay. MEXICO CITY -. Ive also written a guide on Cozumel vs. Cancun. Make the most of its spectacular beaches and decadent clubs at a lower price this fall. At the midpoint between party-central Cancn and boho-chic Tulum, this mid-sized city has everything from wellness retreats to raving parties to gourmet restaurants. Renting a car anywhere in the world comes with a bit of risk, even in your home country. People congregate in the pedestrian 5th Avenue of Playa, with clubs and bars staying open into the not-so-wee hours of the morning. Or how can we improve it to help you travel better? A common scam in Playa del Carmen (one familiar to expats) is the distraction scheme. Nevertheless, Playa isnt a great destination for above-ground nature enthusiasts. Avoid changing money before getting to Mexico, as you wont get the best rates. Note that youll need be ready to pedal or walk 15 minutes to town. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. 6 Comments / Tulum / By Laura Olds / Updated on December 16, 2022 Let me start with thisvisiting Tulum or Playa del Carmen isn't a mistake in and of itself. The best beaches in Playa del Carmen for spring break relaxation, A guide to Playa del Carmen for digital nomads. But its also a great sign that good WiFi is in abundance. and Is Playa del Carmen Safe? Namely, theres no beach, safety is often mediocre, and there arent many touristy things to see. If you're interested exploring Playa del Carmen itself, you'll only need a few days, as the city's chief offers are its beaches, bars and restaurants. Often lauded as one of the best kept secrets on the Yucatan Peninsula, Ro Secreto (or Secret River) is an underground river and collection of caves. Of course, staying in downtown Cancun comes with its downsides. But its getting there. Youll love the turtles! Independence Day? There are turtles all out in front of Barcelo resort all day long. Mackenzie Roche|Amanda NorcrossJune 30, 2023, Katie Hearsum|Timothy J. ForsterJune 28, 2023, Recreation, Swimming/Pools, Tours, Sightseeing, Entertainment and Nightlife, Swimming/Pools, Tours, Monuments and Memorials, Sightseeing. There are also several all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya region between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. We did find a couple of places to charge my wheelchair at the pools. Both destinations offer necessities for long-term living: banks, WiFi, gyms, parks, etc. Be safe and keep your head on a swivel!!!!! Whether youre looking for a kid-friendly beach or seeking out the best surf spots, weve got you covered. The locals there dont understand how they may have scammed us from $100 but theyll never see us there again. Some visitors do caution that street vendors can be aggressive hawking their goods along the avenue. Its a favorite among digital nomads and sun-seeking families, thanks to its walkable streets, easily accessible beaches, and proximity to Mayan ruins, coral reefs and cenotes (natural swimming holes). Part of the reason is that I'm planning a trip in the fall. You are also in Mexico, where the beer flows freely and also home to many liquors. I agree with you the cartels are moving to Tulum, Cancun, and Playa del Carmen. The same cant be said for other parts of Mexico, such as Valladolid, where Im currently writing this offline keeping my fingers crossed that the WiFi company will resolve their internet issue yet again. As I mentioned above, drug trafficking and turf wars are very common in Playa, and foreigners who find themselves mixed up in these things leave themselves exposed to increased risk. A Piece of Travel is a blog offering advice on self-guided travel for wheelchair users and solo female travelers. Although Playa isnt a good place to have a vehicle, its a great asset to have when leaving town. Travelers also note you can save money by purchasing your tickets in advance online. Make sure to always check your bill carefully. Up to 25%! But overall, from my time spent in Cancun, the water in Cancun was bluer than in Playa del Carmen. Though there are robust water treatment facilities in the Yucatan, the issue arises in the piping system used to deliver the water to homes and businesses. Avoid driving at night, as its hard to see all the speed bumps and potholes in the dark. Check them out and choose your favorite Playa del Carmen cenotes! Avoid all restaurants, bars, ice cream parlors, and shops on 5th Avenue. Meanwhile, those looking to snorkel can borrow equipment from their hotel, buy equipment in town or try an excursion with Reef Quest,The Snorkel ShoporPlaya del Carmen Tours. Past travelers loved the party vibe and club atmosphere here, adding that the service staff is top-notch, too. Playa del Carmen is safe for American tourists granted they follow common travel tips and are aware of potential scams and dangers. Come with U.S. News on a tour of the XV Beacon Hotel in Boston. Let us help plan your perfect weekend with this two-day itinerary for a trip to the sociable, happy-go-lucky paradise of Playa del Carmen. I am not a scared traveler, but also know every major city has bad parts. Playa del Carmen is blissfully the opposite. Coralina features several pools, direct beach access, private cabana areas and a restaurant with seating and it's the place to see and be seen in this resort town. One gripe among reviewers: Visitors are not allowed to bring their cameras. Though an overall safe destination to visit, Playa del Carmens travel advisories by OSAC (Overseas Security Advisory Council) mention Covid-19 safety, water contamination, cartel relations, and natural disasters. Im in a small portable electric wheelchair and stayed in two different resorts last month: 1) Fishermans Beach Resort: Here I could access most facilities with somewhat excessively steep ramps and our room was OK but without handgrips in the shower or bathroom. In the Mayan language, Xel-H means "where the water is born." The tourism market in Playa del Carmen has absolutely boomed in recent years. For example, anything in the gated Playacar district will give you a luxurious vacation far enough from the party noise of downtown but close enough so you can get there via a quick cab ride or a long walk. As a result, when comparing Playa del Carmen vs. Cancun, Cancuns beaches often feel roomier than Playas. Im sorry to hear that Joseph. Though its good to be aware of hurricane season (June through November) and any other potential natural disasters, Id say being aware of potential heat stroke and heat exhaustion is even more important on a day-to-day basis. Psst! If you plan to go farther afield (for example, taking a daytrip to Chichen Itza, Xel-H Park or Xplor) and use Playa del Carmen as a home base, you'll need at least a week. The world is in flames, and you never know whats lurking underneath those mesmerizing blue hues of the Caribbean Sea. Required fields are marked *. In that case, this may comfort youits easy to visit Playa del Carmen from Cancun in a day and vice versa. This reef is the largest in the western hemisphere and the second-largest reef in the world after Australias Great Barrier Reef. As I mentioned before, sticking to Playas main streets is a good rule of thumb for not looking like a lost tourist. Selina offers a hostel right on the water and one by the ADO Cancun bus station. Thats it for my guide to staying safe in Playa del Carmen, Mexico! She's an early bird and backpacker at heart and can often be spotted with a dog or ten that she's befriended along the way. Often when incidents such as petty theft and muggings occur in Playa, its because thieves find a vulnerable tourist with an obvious display of wealth. Definitely would love to hear how you like living in Chetumal! Speaking of the sun, here in Playa del Carmen it shines over 300 days a year, and its just waiting to transport you to a tropical paradise far away from routines, overly-friendly Starbucks employees, annoying colleagues, and those mind-numbing commercials. While it has always been a dreamy destination, these days it's actually number two on the list of best places to visit in Mexico.. Playa - as it's known to locals - is a relatively safe area, with a beach backed by secure resorts and a buzzing town center with . Edited: 6 years ago. The cartel is in Playa del Carmen, although tourist-related cartel incidents are a rare occurrence. Duh! 17. I'd left behind a place with delicious $1 tacos for one that'd charge $10 for some mediocre quesadillas. That's all nice and good, but enough is enough. Dont be surprised to find military troops and police cars whizzing through the streets of Playa del Carmen: recent incidents have caused a need for heightened security. Everything Beyond Playa Playa del Carmen is generally safe right now for travel, but visitors should be aware of scams and health-related restrictions. Though youll have to leave the downtown core to find a wild jaguar, crocodile, or spider monkey, these animals do exist not far beyond the limits, and its a good idea to be conscious of their potential presence. Meanwhile, Iberostar Golf Club Playa Paraiso is a hit with golfers for its tough fairways and attentive staff. Our answer might surprise you! Your hotel or resort will likely occupy a stretch of pristine white sand, but if you feel like venturing off the property to explore more of Playa's shore, you'll find a bevy of alluring beaches. Mayans from all over the region would pass through Playa del Carmen en route to worship Ix Chel, the goddess of fertility. Like Cancun, every night is a party night in Playa. Beyond Playa del Carmens touristy core, theres a world of parks, weekend markets and neighborhood restaurants to discover Emma Shaw / Lonely Planet, Things to know before going to Playa del Carmen to make your trip more memorable. 2. Playa El Recodo, one of the most popular beaches in Playa Del Carmen, is one of those greatly affected, with local authorities announcing the natural attraction will remain off-limits temporarily. Thats not to say that Cancun doesnt have its fair share of hostels, though. Xaman-H was established here as a launchpad for pilgrimages from the mainland to Cozumel. Be the architect of your own trip as you discover the best things to do in Mexico through insider tips, suggested itineraries and handy maps. Beneath the surface of the Mexican Caribbean, stretching out over 900 miles between the short 75 miles between Cancun and Tulum, lies and underground system of interconnected, inundated caves that contain one of the worlds largest aquifers. Your email address will not be published. Retired and love it . Usually, a quick reset of the router takes care of the issue. Here, youll get to snorkel or dive around approximately 500 sunken sculptures. Nevertheless, like Cancun, Playa del Carmen has a world-famous Coco Bongo. By all means, have some fun while in Playa, but dont go so overboard that you make yourself a vulnerable target. However, after spending over three months between these destinations, I heard too many people say, "I wish I had known" I'm here to make sure you don't feel the same way about your trip. Most of the action is centered along Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrianized boulevard lined with knickknack shops, souvenir stands, restaurants and bars. You can see them for free most spots there. Hands-down, the fanciest parties are in Cancun. Playa del Carmen is safe for families as its easy to get around, has plenty of family-related activities, and is a relatively laid-back city. Im your waiter! just smile, nod and walk away. Though its a bustling city, make no mistake Playa is a mere stones throw from the jungle and the vast array of wildlife that lives there. As a digital nomad myself, Ive experienced dropped connections in both locations.