What NOT to do when travelling to Playa del Carmen
I've been travelling around Mexico for 25 years. I've spent most of my time in the Yucatan peninsula along the Caribbean and I've learned a few things here and there. I still learn things every time I go. Therefore this is a living document that I will add to on a regular basis. I hope this helps you enjoy your stay!!
Don't buy silver jewelry in the shops on Fifth Avenue, or if you do, know that you can probably buy silver cheaper in your home town.
There are a few shops that are legit but most of them are selling overpriced silver or some unpure version. Now I can tell you I have purchased some beautiful fire opal earrings on Fifth Avenue at the Taxco store. I really enjoyed them for awhile and then they got all tarnished. I just haven't gotten around to cleaning them. But, I have no regrets. Look for those unique pieces that you can't buy anywhere else and just know that you're might be paying more than you should.
Don't overpack
Playa del Carmen is VERY casual. You can stroll into most of the restaurants wearing shorts and a tee shirt. But, if you like to dress up, take just a sundress and a little shoulder wrap. For men, a polo shirt and a pair of golf shorts or khakis are fine. NO TIES! You may wear a pair of jeans on the flight, but you won't need them once you arrive. You can honestly pack a carry on for a weeks stay. Especially, if you're staying at a condo with a washer and dryer.
Don't rent a car and expect to drive around downtown Playa del Carmen.
The narrow streets of downtown Playa del Carmen add to the charm of this beachfront gem. However, it's a nightmare for driving. Many of the roads are one way and not well marked. And parking is nearly impossible. The taxi drivers drive like it's the Indy 500. Renting a car is one of the great joys of staying in the Riviera Maya but use it for trips into the surrounding towns and attractions. An exception to this rule is trip to Chedraui or Walmart where there is ample parking.
Don't stay inland, away from the beach
You booked your vacation to Playa del Carmen BECAUSE of the beach, why would you not want to enjoy every minute of it with a beachfront condo? This is not the place to save money. So many people talk about their experience at a large resort "If I stand on the threshold of the sliding glass door and lean way out to the left, I can see the ocean." That's not the experience you were looking for, am I right?
Don't spend all of your time at the pool and beach
If you're staying right on the beach, you won't feel the need to spend every waking moment on it. And there is so much to do and see in the area. Check out one of several water parks in the area. I personally prefer Xcaret.
Don't skimp on sunscreen!
You don't want to deal with that nasty sunburn on your vacation. And please use one of the Eco sunscreens when swimming in the ocean. The cheap stuff is killing the reefs. I use Australia gold and I buy it at the local Playa Mart just a short walk from the condo
Don't drink the tap water!!
Even the locals drink bottled water. Most restaurants will serve you a bottle of water with Ice. The ice is nearly always ok. General rule of thumb is that if the ice has a dimple in it, it's ok.
Don't be shy with your Spanish. Give it a try
The locals love it when you try to speak their language. Nearly everyone in the tourist areas speaks English so don't worry, you won't be stuck in an awkward position. And you might pick up a few new words. Oh, by the way, forget about the taco bell names for many of your favorites. They don't translate into real Spanish. i.e. Tacos are always soft shell in Mexico.
Don't use ATMS on Fifth Avenue or other random places
Like everywhere else in the world, Playa del Carmen has some dishonest people. ATM fraud is one of the easiest ways to steal money in a non-violent fashion. For that reason, I recommend that you only use ATMS inside of a bank lobby. Here's a lot more info on this for you to peruse.
Don't let the rain get you down.
A rainy day is a good reason to see all of the great places that you probably wouldn't go to on a sunny day. Here's a whole lot of fun stuff to do when it rains.
Don't take any firearms, fresh fruits and vegetables, or certain medications with you
- I've attached a list of prohibited items for you to peruse. Never mind, it was written by a corporate relocation company; it still applies to you. Let me just make a comment about Sudafed. It's on the banned list and supposedly you can be arrested for it. I take it along with a cacophony of other over the counter drugs. Never been questioned about it. But one could argue I've been lucky. Don't expect to get cough syrup or other allergy products through customs. Now, if you declare it and have a letter from your physician for a specific drug, it may go through. Their mindset in all of this is " we sell allergy meds here, you don't need to bring them in" Especially if its a new bottle or sealed package.
- Travelers bringing in goods beyond their personal effects worth $300.00 or more must declare those goods with Mexican customs (SAT) or risk having them confiscated. This also applies to used goods and clothing, including items for donation. $300.00 US isn't much when you start adding up all of your clothes, ipad, etc.
So now go and have some fun!
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You always have such helpful guides Terry!
Thank you Bridget! I don't like being negative, but thought I'd take a little different approach