Part 2 in a series of 4 articles.
In our last commentary we talked about the coastal yucatan area south of Playa del Carmen and in the area of Tulum. In this column we can focus on Playa plus the recreational activities around this flourishing beachfront Caribbean town. What began as a quiet and small Mexican fishing community, has promptly evolved into one of the best travel destinations in the yucatan. Back in the early 90’s we visited that sleepy little village and I can say first hand it is a far cry from what it is today. Popularity brings growth and change, but if you are desiring for a wonderful get-away and tons of fun, Playa is the spot.
Playa nowadays represents a Caribbean destination that has it all. From world class shopping on the renowned 5th Avenue to a number of adventure parks, first class Playa del Carmen hotels and all-inclusive resorts to night clubs and dining options to fulfil even the most critical palettes. Whether by daylight or nighttime, you should notice no lack of stuff to do in this beautiful city!
Playa is so much more than just miles away from the small Tulum hotels and eco-chic cabana resorts you’ll find further down the coast, but it still continues to be a lovely, dynamic and culturally abundant spot to visit. By daylight hours, this town presents you with some of the better people observation to be found in Mexico, regardless of whether on the wide-open yucatan beaches or on the 5th Avenue walking mall you should see a extensive range of company from all over the planet. There is so much to do and experience in this centrally located small city, being a quick ferryboat ride to Cozumel for a wonderful day trip for snorkeling or scuba or heading up the seashore 30 minutes to the city of cancun for even more options.
Playa during the day means beach days, snorkel and SCUBA tours, daylight jungle excursions, adventure theme parks, golf and great shopping. By night this town brings out the wild side in many who embark out beneath the illumination of the moon. In addition to the first class dining choices there are at a minimum a dozen night-clubs that cater to the late night dance and adventurous crowds. Commonly recognized as a fun family holiday option, Playa del Carmen is promptly establishing itself as a rival for Cancun with the dance party entertainment options. A handfull of locations you will get the urge to visit for the nightlife in this amazing place include; CoCo Bongo for great stage shows with talented music impersonators, The Blue Parrot for the fire expose’s on Friday and Saturday nights, OM Playa for a beer in comfort and La Santanera for a hip-hop dance club.
Whether by daylight or nightlife, with family, a duo or single traveler, Playa del Carmen truly offers something for everyone who is looking for a little or a lot of the caribbean in their vacation. In our next report we will go inland and observe the majesty of the mexican world and culture of Merida and the encompassing areas. There is zero shortage of fun and positive energy when it comes to expeditions on the Yucatan!
Ron Williams is an experienced adventure writer dwelling year round within Tulum, Mexico focusing in details about playa hotels along with experiences around the Yucatan Peninsula. Feel free to e-mail Ron directly if you need local suggestions or information for experiencing an incredible journey throughout Yucatan.