Stuff to do in Playa del Carmen / Yucatan MX

[campbellcj]

Hi All,

We are going to be in Playa del Carmen this week and so I was wondering if anyone has personal recommendations (or warnings) about stuff to do nearby.

We've been in the area before and have seen Tulum and Xel-Ha (planning to visit both again if time permits - we have 6 full days plus 2 travel days).

I'm interested in great snorkeling spots and Mayan ruins in particular. We will also have a couple of 5-6 year olds with us, so cool stuff for kids would be great too.

Thanks,

[Dan in Pasadena]

Just got back a month ago so it is still fresh for me. I stayed in COzumel but took the ferry over to the mainland several times. If you're going to see Xel-Ha again, make the time to go see Xcaret. The same owners and similar but in my opinion, beeter because it is smaller and more intimate. Also, TRY to hear a timeshare presentation and you'll save a ton of money on the excursions; I did. They were cool when I told them I already own a timeshare and I liked theirs but have no need of another at this time. Snokeling on Cozumel particlularly the south end is supposed ot be best. I found the snokeling this time at both Xel-Ha and Xcaret to be murky but it was stormy bnoth days. It had been great in the past. Have a great time!

[Porsche-O-Phile]

If I found myself in either place again, I'd probably just sit poolside sipping drinks until the world fuzzed into a blur and it was time to come home.

In all seriousness though, I've been to that area of the world twice. All I can say is (and I hope this doesn't come off as snobby/hopelessly "ugly American") that the "touristy" areas are far and away the "best" areas. Get more than a few blocks off the beaten path (this includes right in Playa del Carmen), and you'll realize what a third-world country Mexico really is.

[Paco Anton]

You may want to visit the mayan ruins at Cobá. They are located along the road that goes inland from Tulum. When I was there there was a bike cart where the guide pedalled and you enjoyed the scenery.

Also if you have not been to Chichen Itza, please do so even if you do not do anything else. They have just been declared one of the new 7 wonders of the world.

[JeffO]

I will also recommend Coba. Very nice ruins along with a knowledgeable guide was a good day trip

[kaisen]

Originally posted by Porsche-O-Phile
If I found myself in either place again, I'd probably just sit poolside sipping drinks until the world fuzzed into a blur and it was time to come home.

In all seriousness though, I've been to that area of the world twice. All I can say is (and I hope this doesn't come off as snobby/hopelessly "ugly American") that the "touristy" areas are far and away the "best" areas. Get more than a few blocks off the beaten path (this includes right in Playa del Carmen), and you'll realize what a third-world country Mexico really is.

A rare instance that I concur with P-O-P. If you (or your spouse) like beating up locals for deals on crappy trinkets, the bazaar at Playa is a good way of wasting a few hours. Gotta visit the bars at night of course but don't wander too far away from the touristy places. The cabs are pretty efficient there, but - make sure to agree on fare up front. The fast hydroplane ferry to Cozumel is a must - diving there is a must. Any of the Mayan ruins are worth the time, hike, and money if you like that sorta thing.

But if I go back soon I would just sit by the beach and drink.

E

[TheMentat]

Originally posted by kaisen
AThe fast hydroplane ferry to Cozumel is a must - diving there is a must.

Agreed... If you make the trip to Cozumel and plan on hanging around the island, do it on a Sunday. There are no cruise ships in port, and the locals put together a fiesta of sorts in the town square.

[jhc]

I just got back from there. If you rent a car please pay close attention to speed limits, I got nicked for $100US for going 90 km in a 80 km (56 in a 50) on the way back to the airport, he actually wanted more but my wife told him thats all we had.

I highly recommend Coba and stop by Gran Cenote (sinkhole swimming) on the way back. The beach at Akumal is less crowded and more laid back than at playa.