PLAYA DEL CARMEN
LOCATION:
Playa del Carmen is located 32-km (20 MI) southwest of Puerto Morelos, 70 km (44 MI) southwest of Cancun, 11 km (7 MI) north of Xcaret, and 13 km (8 MI) north of Puerto Calica.
HISTORY:
Playa del Carmen started out as a sleepy fishing village. Now it is one of the fastest growing cities heading towards a resort destination.
WEATHER:
Playa del Carmen enjoys warm weather year round. From February to May, springtime, the average temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit. While the nights are cool, sweaters and jackets normally arent needed. Summertime in Playa del Carmen, from June to August can be very warm. Hats and cotton clothing are the normal dress. The Temperature for these months is generally around 84 degrees Fahrenheit. This is also the rainy season. Most rain falls in the afternoon in the form of a short but heavy thunderstorm. Winter months in Playa, September to January, are a little cooler, but not by much. The temperature usually sits around 77 degrees Fahrenheit and there may be a little rainfall during the night.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
There are hundreds of accommodations in Playa del Carmen. You can find everything from bed and breakfasts and motels, to inns and villas to luxury resorts. The more expensive and luxurious resorts are located in Playacar, at the south edge of town. The Iberostar Tucan and Quetzal is an all-inclusive resort with 2 bars, 3 restaurants, a spa, health club, shops and stores, and a nightclub. Around the grounds are turtles, toucans, ducks, hens, and even flamingos. Rates range from US$35 to US$330.
RESTAURANTS:
Many restaurants in Playa del Carmen do not accept reservations and can always come up with a table no matter how busy they seem. Most restaurants dont take credit cards.
NIGHTLIFE:
If you prefer a quiet evening strolling along the beaches, wandering the streets, and sipping a drink at an open-air cafe is a pleasant was to spend it. There are several bars, nightclubs, and lobby bars. Captain Tutiz, designed like a pirate ship has nightly live entertainment, bar area, and a large dance floor. If youre into partying and the rowdy scene head to Senior Frogs where theres loud pulsing music, Jell-O shots, and limitless drinks.
SHOPPING:
There are several shops, stores, and boutiques that sell exquisite arts, crafts, hand painted clothing, and textiles from all over Mexico.
CUISINE:
With all the different ethnic people visiting Playa each year, there seems to be a restaurant that caters to them all. From Thai to Japanese, Mexican to Yucatecan, and vegetarian to seafood finding something to appeal to your palate will be an activity all on its own.
SERVICES:
Banks: Most banks are open from 9 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday and several include 24 hour ATMs. Money exchange desks generally keep the same hours.
SURROUNDING AREA:
Xcaret: With an aviary, tropical aquarium, botanical gardens, a dive center, underground river ride, a replica of a Maya village, and even an artificial beach for snorkeling and scuba diving you wont lack for anything to do at this 250-arce ecological theme park. It is located just 10 km (6 MI) south of Playa del Carmen.
Paamul: This crescent shaped lagoon thats sheltered by a coral reef is perfect for snorkelers. In June and July you can see sea turtle hatching, located just 20 km (12 MI) south of Playa del Carmen.
Cancun: Playa del Carmen is just 70 km (44 MI) away from the hustle and bustle, excitement, and splendor of Cancun.
