Thats all nice and good, but enough is enough. 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. Mexico Travel Advisory Yes, I have been going to Playa Del Carmen for years. Beachwear is a free-for-all; you wont be judged no matter what you want to wear. Everyone was running and police and military were there instantly. You can also hop on local transportation in Playa del Carmen (and Cancun, to be fair), saving you lots of money and letting you be more in control of your time at these destinations. See, were on the same page on this one. Did I mention there isnt a beach? The city now boasts a city-wide bike-sharing system, with lime green BiciPlaya bikes for rent from numerous kiosks dotted around town. I enjoyed this article but am still confused. I even think the sand looks whiter and feels softer in Cancun than Playa. Keep yourself informed of the latest happenings in Playa del Carmen before you travel. They typically hang out near the black grasses and the yellow fish are always near by. However, if you have questions that I dont cover here, let me know in the comments section and Ill be happy to help. Ok, lets try to equip you with as much safety information as possible to prepare for your trip to Playa del Carmen: Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. However, Cancuns beaches are significantly longer and wider than those in Playa. Miss a meal, wake up late, take a tour, your in for a surprise! Snorkeling gear rental (mask, life vests, fins), WiFi, showers, and dressing rooms are available. You can see them for free most spots there. Hard Rock is praised for all-inclusive perks and challenging course; Grand Coral wins favor with golfers thanks to its fair rates and beautiful design, though some say the greens could use a bit of improvement; and El Camaeln Mayakoba is heralded as a "gem" of a PGA course with well-manicured greens and excellent service. The locals there dont understand how they may have scammed us from $100 but theyll never see us there again. Only get into a taxi that has obvious signage, and always settle the price with the driver before you get in the car. Solo travelers should avoid getting drunk alone or taking drugs on the streets. VisitorsCoverage is a travel insurance marketplace where you can quickly compare quotes from hundreds of insurers -- all it takes is a minute to enter your details! Im in Playa myself right now, and its a lot different than the last time I lived here three years ago. South of Centro lies the gated community of Playacar, which caters to couples and families with young children seeking green spaces and tranquility. It actually started late 2014 summer and at first everyone thought it was just some seaweed washing ashore. Travelers also note you can save money by purchasing your tickets in advance online. 3 Ways to Avoid Wild Spring Break Crowds (Or Not) - HuffPost They tend to charge tourists more than residents, so check with a local to suss out how much you should pay. The cartel is in Playa del Carmen, although tourist-related cartel incidents are a rare occurrence. There are a lot of cheap restaurants around the Cancun bus station, and youll be a short walk from Parque de las Palapas, which is a park worth the visit for its snack stands and the cultural activities they sometimes have. Double-check with your hotel on this, but its a generally accepted rule of thumb. However, Cancun doesnt have to be expensive. 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. (A month ahead will usually suffice.) Other pools here include a rooftop infinity pool, a cenote-style pool, a pool with a sum-up bar and built-in loungers, a . 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. If you stay in downtown Cancun, youll have access to $3 lunches and dinners, with portions large enough to give you two or three meals. Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Travelers? - Adventure In You Note that prices listed on menus in Mexico represent the total price; neither taxes nor tips are supposed to be added. Tip 7: All inclusive is supposed to mean food as well. Plus there are all kinds of trees, plants, and wildlife in the Riviera Maya jungle, and you wouldnt want to be devoured by a tropical Sasquatch or whisked away by a wicked witch. 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. On the flip side, where is a good area to get a more local feel of Playa? In order to keep yourself safe from theft, dress casually, leave the expensive-looking jewelry and accessories at home, and dont flash around electronics. 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. There are Walmarts and other grocery stores where you can purchase cheap snacks and water. Copyright 2023 A Piece of Travel | All Rights Reserved |Privacy Policy, Laura has been wandering the globe for over a decade. Your email address will not be published. This bald faced lying attendant turned around, hid one of the bills, turned back around and claimed that I shorted him. 25 Fun Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen, Mexico - Expert Vagabond 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. Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Langham, Boston. However, after wandering around many neighborhoods and doing a ton of research on the subject, I have to say there are no distinct areas to avoid. Theres no doubt about itPlaya del Carmen attracts a more backpacker-type crowd than Cancun. Definitely no sargassum when you take a dip in these waters! According to the website is was "Sweet and savoury snacks". Passion fruit caipirinhas and Peruvian ceviche are just some of the delicious plates you will never eat at one of my favorite Playa del Carmen beach clubs. 2) Hacienda Tresrios Resort just east of Playa del Carmen: Here again, the room was pretty good but without grab bars in the shower or bathroom and dangerously slippery. I think all the safety advice in this article still applies. Some visitors do caution that street vendors can be aggressive hawking their goods along the avenue. Travelers can "exercise normal precautions" when. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. As the fastest-growing town in the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen attracts hordes of travelers, especially during the peak season from December to April. Playa Scuba Dive Centeris another well-reviewed company that organizes scuba tours. Treacherous, mean-spirited, and deceitful. Playa del Carmen, for the most part, is safe for tourists and expats who steer clear of illicit activities. 1. To stay protected from the natural elements always carry reef-safe sunscreen, water, and a travel umbrella (for sun or rain). If youre into snorkeling or scuba diving, though, both Playa del Carmen and Cancun are excellent destinations for exploring the underwater world. Meanwhile, Iberostar Golf Club Playa Paraiso is a hit with golfers for its tough fairways and attentive staff. A quick internet search will tell you that homicides have been increasing in the area in recent years. Its time to change things up a little bit. Playa del Carmen offers access to some of the best diving spots in the Western Hemisphere, especially just offshore near Cozumel. Tickets are never paid on the streets, so any request for cash is a request for a bribe. Ill also post your comment in our article on accessibility in Playa del Carmen to maximize its reach. They are the worst thieves. Similar to Xcaret, this all-inclusive park is an outdoor playground with adventures that range from zip ling to rafting to spelunking. What is the best way to get from the airport to Akumal. 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. Checking the weather and actually preparing for it can be one of the best things you can do to stay safe in this region. And most of playa del Carmen if you bring bananas they will love you. That said, if you need to base yourself in Cancun and dont want to spend loads of money, know that its possible to do. Simply ignore their sales pitches and continue on your way and they'll get the message. Some restaurants offer a suggested sum for tips, which is fine; others sneak the tips into the total price, which is not. We would be staying in an AirBnB. 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. Take one look at Cancun's skyline and you don't need to be a rocket scientist to realize that there must be some really nice hotels among those glistening high-rises. There are lots of car rental agencies in downtown Playa. At the Museo Frida Kahlo Playa del Carmen you'll find a delightful gallery and exhibition dedicated to the life and works of Mexico's beloved Frida Kahlo. Mexico is safe generally but requires precautions, and Playa del Carmen is no exception to this. 10 Things Not to Do in Playa del Carmen I am going one more time. When considering water safety, the short answer is that the tap water in Playa is not considered safe to drink. There are tons of things to do in Playa Del Carmen, including shopping 'til you drop, doing an endless amount of water sports, swimming in iconic cenotes nearby, visiting Mayan ruins, and feasting on delicious Mexican food. 27 Best Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen For An Unforgettable Vacation Dive costs and equipment fees vary by company, but expect dives to start around $55 for a one tank ocean dive. Retired and love it . Ill address some of the most common ones below. Personally I feel like Puerto Aventuras is generally safer than Playa del Carmen (it is much smaller and more quiet), but your mileage may vary and the truth is that safety issues are present in all of Quintana Roo. Rather, many of Playa del Carmens safety-related incidents tend to be situational and occur when common travel tips are ignored. Thats when locals get paid, and many of them are eager to withdraw their earnings. The Best Time To Visit Playa Del Carmen: A Month By Month Guide Ask politely to have the ticket written and offer to pay it at a police station instead. But seriously, why take in some Playa del Carmen nightlife, go a Riviera Maya snorkeling excursion or eat at a delicious Playa del Carmen restaurant when you can do all of that at home and visit your mother on the weekends? From my experience, Id say thats generally true. Its almost certain that your friend is just trying to lure you into their overpriced shop. It is OK, however, to brush your teeth using it, and many find local tap water acceptable for rinsing vegetables, cooking pasta and washing rice. Because you aint welcome. Here youll find several family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, plenty of short-term rentals and one of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen. Be safe and keep your head on a swivel!!!!! If youve violated a traffic rule, theres a chance youll be asked to pay a fine. In other words, stay away from all those hip and happening beach clubs, too! Seaweed in the Riviera Maya and Playa Del Carmen. Tourists can stay away from cartel violence by not using recreational drugs, not being overly intoxicated, and sticking to central tourist zones. If youd like more context for these destinations in the Yucatan, check out my guide on Cancun vs Riviera Maya. Your Passport 2. Nevertheless, like Cancun, Playa del Carmen has a world-famous Coco Bongo. Up to 25%! 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. Is Playa still safe to travel? For specific tour options and costs, visit each individual company's website. Because youre not invited. Playa is overall a safe to travel to and I hope this article gave you the information and tools you need to travel here with confidence. Otherwise, blaring music and shouts from drunken crowds will likely wake you during the night. With long-term rentals, it is much harder to decline the rental company insurance. ATMs not only have a long wait at these times, but some also run out of cash. Youll find no shortage of attractive deals online but they dont usually include third-party liability insurance (required by law), airport fees and taxes. 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? #Sad! Additionally, any time you order a beverage at a restaurant it should be made with purified drinking water. The beach is free to access, but lounge chair or equipment rentals will cost you extra. In fact, its the largest underwater museum in the world! Cancn vs. Tulum: which should you choose for spring break? Keep an eye on your drink, and dont accept drinks from strangers. If you are driving in the center of Playa you need to pay close attention to the one-way system and remember if you are traveling north to south, in general, you have the right of way. Check them out and choose your favorite Playa del Carmen cenotes! Though a staff photographer is following you around and you have the option to purchase photos at the end of the tour, travelers said the photos are overpriced. Our room was on the ground floor and adjacent to the beach. In fact, some said you could spend two days here and not see the same thing twice. It is important to always keep your wits about you and stay vigilant. Ah, the Riviera Maya. Reef Quest has a variety of dive charters including reef dives and local cenote dives. While it was once a small fishing village long ago, today tourism is big business in Playa del Carmen. That said, its only a 10-minute walk or so to reach 5th Avenue from that bus station if you happen to get off at it. There are turtles all out in front of Barcelo resort all day long. Share. Coming off the main highway our taxi was stopped by a police blockade . A bit unnerving . If the weather is the most important factor, then December to March is generally the best time to visit Playa del Carmen. Use Discover Cars. Much of the content Laura writes on A Piece of Travel includes details on solo female travel and. 9 Mistakes to Avoid: Playa del Carmen vs. Cancun My family and I are planning a trip to Puerto Aventuras just south of Playa Del Carmen in April 2022. Are you also trying to decide between a trip to Playa del Carmen and Tulum? Explore the Archaeological Zone Tulum. The all-inclusive resorts are generally very safe. Staying up to date on Mexico Covid-19 infection and vaccination rates is your best bet for determining how safe your travel plans will be. There is plenty to do despite the weather, including: If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. And there are plenty of others around too. Avoid the ATMs on Fifth Avenue, and always use an ATM inside a bank rather than one on the street. Should I insist on staying at a resort instead of an Airbnb? The elevators were great and access to the many pools was great but the ramps were a tad too steep. The water in Playa del Carmen is not potable, and you should never drink water from the faucet. Over the centuries, the Earths surface eroded leaving behind openings that expose these freshwater bodies known better as cenotes. Before we dive into the biases people can have when considering a trip to Playa del Carmen or Cancun, I put together this nifty little chart to give you a glimpse of their similarities and differences. Havent you seen Jaws? Are there sections of Playa to avoid as a tourist? It really comes down to personal opinion. I dont have the statistics on me, but I think its safe to say that more tourists visit Cancun than Playa del Carmen. The Hotel Zone in Cancn is the spring breaker mecca, and where the majority of cheap hotels, bars, and nightclubs are located. So, in order to stay as safe as possible, there are some important things you should know before traveling to Playa, such as carrying travel insurance to Mexico. Coba Mayan Ruins. Seaweed in Playa del Carmen - how to avoid the algea - Leon Tours Bring a light jacket for chilly nights if youre traveling in the rainy season. The party never truly stops in Cancn, even during low season. Good travels! Head to the beach for an unforgettable time with your four-legged friend. Recent travelers loved this park, calling it adventurous and fun. The beach becomes extra crowded on weekends with locals off from work. There may not be many tourists getting murdered but Carmen del Play is rife with scams, scammers and thieves. As I was somewhat expecting a scam I made sure that I indeed gave him two 500 peso bills and I held them out there in front of the attendant for a few seconds so he would see them and also that he would know that I knew what I was giving him. Past travelers loved the party vibe and club atmosphere here, adding that the service staff is top-notch, too. There are more reasons to visit this beautiful nation than any list can contain but we've gathered togethersome of the best things Mexico has to offer. These incredible trips are sure to inspire romance and relaxation. Published: August 26, 2019 Mexico, North America The cenotes near Playa del Carmen are a must see, and need to be added to your Mexico itinerary. Part of this is based on traffic in Cancun and the other part on whether or not theyre doing roadwork. Police armed with assault rifles questioned where we were going etc and let us go. One of the most important things to know before your Mexico trip is about Mexicos four-tiered covid stoplight system. Do not Do These Things in Playa Del Carmen Mexico! We got scammed 3 times on 5th Ave to a point we decided not to leave our comfortable all inclusive hotel resort. For the past few years, we have rented a car with basic insurance for $525-$650 USD for the month. Whether youre looking for a kid-friendly beach or seeking out the best surf spots, weve got you covered. Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. So stay out of my tent, you clown. Travel Lemmings founder, Nate, has also spent many months in Playa del Carmen without incident. Contact them today at 888-537-9797 for the best deals this side of the Rio Grande! Speaking of which, I really hope your air-conditioning at your hotel works, because thats where youre going to be for the next however many days. A travel tip youll get almost no matter where youre headed, getting overly drunk while on vacation in Playa is a big no-no. Required fields are marked *, Get discounts on the top-rated tours in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Whatever your travel style, here are our top things to do in Playa del Carmen. Your email address will not be published. Long story short, more secluded destinations like Tulum are a better option for animal sightseeing on land. Today, we're going to tell you what not to do in Playa del Carmen. Thank you! If you want to be closer to all the action, Playacar Palace, seated by the ferry port but outside the gated portion of Playacar, is an excellent choice. In general, most tourists choose to stay in the areas close to La Quinta (5th Avenue) and within a few blocks of Playa del Carmens beach. For the many digital nomads making their way to Tulum, a sleepy beach town on Mexicos Maya Riviera, postcard-perfect views and endless sunshine have become, On Mexicos tiny island of Holboxwhere spotty wi-fi and sporadic siestas are part of the charmunplugging is as easy as arriving. Compare Quotes with VisitorsCoverage, Playa del Carmens travel advisories by OSAC, Mexico Covid-19 infection and vaccination rates. 1. No matter where you go there is terrible humans. Not to worry. 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. Do you have anything specific to watch out for? Pro Tip: Rent your car through Discover Cars to avoid scams. For a monthly car rental, expect to pay between $20-30 per day. 12 Best Things to Do in Playa del Carmen | U.S. News Travel Food to avoid etc. - Playa del Carmen Forum - Tripadvisor Few casual tourists know this, but Playa del Carmen is home to a set of Maya ruins that date back to the 13th century. Edited: 6 years ago. 2: Visit Ancient Mayan Ruins. In fact, by basing your stay in Playa del Carmen, youll be closer to popular and lesser-known, but beautiful, day trips including: You can easily visit these destinations as day trips from Cancun, too. Try not to pack anything for Mexico that would cause you major heartbreak if you did lose it. Despite the soaring temperatures, we recommend visiting during the shoulder season in July and August, when crowds are thinner. This is illegal to walk around town with an open drink. There are also several all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya region between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Your email address will not be published. Psst! Personally, I prefer Playa del Carmen for a long-term stay, although I wont go so far as to say that Im with the majorityor minority, for that matter. We have a trip booked in playa at an Airbnb in September. The Top Things to Do in Playa del Carmen - Culture Trip On average it takes around 1 hour, 15 minutes to drive from Playa del Carmen to Cancun. "A Complete Playa del Carmen Travel Playa del Carmen's Irresistible Call to Relaxation and Adventures" is your key to unlocking the secrets of this breathtaking destination. Know your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before you fly. In that case, this may comfort youits easy to visit Playa del Carmen from Cancun in a day and vice versa. Part of the reason is that I'm planning a trip in the fall. 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. That happens from time to time. Though rare, taxi scams in Playa have been reported. A Love-Hate Relationship with Playa del Carmen But the best parties? Hands down and eyes closed. # 1. Your email address will not be published. I'd left a city I adored for one I immediately wanted to leave. However, Id love to hear your thoughtswhether you have questions or have visited these destinations and have insight to add, feel free to leave a comment. For those planning to stay more than a week in town, sign up for an intensive Spanish class at the established International House Riviera Maya. You must be 25 years old at least but Renting a Car in Playa del Carmen: Common Scams (or perceived scams) Insurance add ons They made me a little ramp to access the outside patio. The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum are located South of Playa del Carmen in the town of Tulum. Grand Velas Riviera Maya is another option, located slightly north of Playa. 11 years ago Save I have a very sensitive stomach. Read our guide to solo female travel for more information. Thatll get you to where you want to go in Cancun quicker, especially if you only have a day to visit. Laid-back backpackers and well-heeled travelers alike tend to sport singlets, board shorts and flip-flops by day. 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. On the one hand, why get your expensive clothes all dirty and sweaty just for a little fun? Because you wont be going on any Playa del Carmen day trips. 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. Both destinations offer necessities for long-term living: banks, WiFi, gyms, parks, etc. Another good travel tip regardless of destination is to always stay in touch with someone from home during your trip. Head to Playas northern beaches. What did you like about this post? Ive also written a guide on Cozumel vs. Cancun. Tipping is not expected in casual cafes and local joints where you order at the counter, though most have a tip jar if youre feeling generous. The low season runs from May to June and from September to November. Cenote Azul. Mxico - Jul 11, 2023 - 15:37 EDT. Avoid the police at all costs. Visitors can swim in the river, climb through the caves and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. This reef is the largest in the western hemisphere and the second-largest reef in the world after Australias Great Barrier Reef. Things to Do in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: See Tripadvisor's 1,228,797 traveler reviews and photos of Playa del Carmen tourist attractions. 283.5, Carretera Cancn -Tulum Km 282, Puerto Juarez, Solidaridad, The number of days you need to spend in Playa del Carmen largely depends on the type of vacation you want. This means that you dont have to spend extravagant amounts on a beachfront hotel room or an overpriced day pass to enjoy the powder-puff white sand.
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