An astonishing destination in the Riviera Maya, on the Caribbean Sea, in the state of Quintana Roo, the old town is now a city of 150,000 inhabitants, which offers a varied range of attractions, in addition to its beaches.
In recent years, we hear a lot about Playa del Carmen. And it is not only because of advertising campaigns, but because different friends or acquaintances tell us about that paradise on earth.
Here, the five things to keep in mind when traveling to Playa del Carmen
1) When to travel
The Riviera Maya has a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 17ºC in January (winter) to 33ºC in August (summer). Humidity can reach 85%.
A good time to visit is December, because it is not so hot anymore and the hurricane season has passed. Another suitable month is October, with pleasant temperatures and more convenient prices than those of December. Also, there are fewer tourists.
2) Family fun
The Riviera Maya offers several theme parks, but X Caret is undoubtedly the most famous. For this reason, it is worth spending a whole day to enjoy its fifty attractions. Here, for example, you can walk or swim through underground rivers that pass under caves or flanked by lush vegetation.
Of course, there are beaches and swimming pools, with the possibility of snorkeling or diving. The Aquarium is home to different marine species, such as turtles and stingrays (the most daring can swim with dolphins or dive in a pool with sharks).
3) Many kind of attractions
The Aviary, the Butterfly Park, some archaeological sites, a striking cemetery and the Chapel of Guadalupe, with a Virgin carved from a wooden log. Among the shows we highlight the flyers of Papantía, who throw themselves into the void, on their backs, tied with a rope from a rotating pole several meters high. The México Espectacular show is the best ending to the visit.
4) Cozumel Island
45 minutes away by ferry, the Island of Cozumel has the second largest reef in the world. Of course, also, a dozen beaches, with very white sands and gentle or strong waves; parks and archaeological areas. Punta Sur, meanwhile, is one of the best places in the world to dive with 40 areas, which are between 3 and 30 meters deep.
5) Best places to go shopping
Fifth Avenue concentrates the commercial activity of Playa del Carmen. It is a pedestrian street, located very close to the beach, where visitors will find everything from large stores to shops that sell Mayan textiles, tequila, cocoa and handicrafts.
It is also an excellent place to stop and enjoy a coffee, flanked by the refreshing shade of its trees. At night, it is convenient to approach its intersection with Avenida 12, because there are all kinds of bars and restaurants.