Playa del Carmen

Agree on the Taxi Fare Before Getting in

Taxis in Playa del Carmen do not use a meter. Always ask the price and reach an agreement with the driver before starting the trip to avoid surprises.

Drink in Moderation and Watch Your Drink

As with any party destination, be mindful of your alcohol consumption and never leave your drink unattended.

Say 'No' to Drugs

You will be offered drugs, especially on Fifth Avenue at night. Reject it firmly and politely. Getting involved with drugs is the quickest way to get into serious trouble.

Leave Fifth Avenue to Eat

The best and most authentic restaurants are often found a block or two down Fifth Avenue, on 10th, 15th or 30th Avenue. Prices are lower and quality is usually higher.

Tips are important

In Mexico it is customary to leave a tip of 10-15% in restaurants if the service was good. Check the bill, as some tourist places may automatically include it ('service' or 'tip').

Drink Bottled Water

Don't drink tap water. All restaurants and hotels use purified water and ice, so it is safe to consume drinks and salads.

Use the Collectives

To get around the Riviera Maya (to Tulum, Akumal, cenotes), the 'colectivos' are the cheapest and most efficient option. They are white vans that you can stop on the main road.

Walk through the Center

The center of Playa is very compact. Walking is the best way to explore, find interesting shops and enjoy the atmosphere.

Ferry to Cozumel

There are two main ferry companies (Ultramar and Winjet) that go to Cozumel. Their schedules alternate, so there is almost always an outing available. It is not necessary to buy tickets far in advance.

Bargaining

It is acceptable to haggle politely at craft markets and with street vendors, but not in established stores, restaurants or shopping centres.

Use Biodegradable Sunscreen

If you plan to swim in cenotes or the reef, you will be asked to use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the delicate ecosystem. Buy it before your trip or at local stores.

Learn Some Phrases in Spanish

Although English is widely spoken, a simple 'Hello', 'Thank you' or 'Please' in Spanish will be greatly appreciated by locals.

Tourist Tax

The state of Quintana Roo has a tourist tax called 'Visitax' that international visitors must pay. Check current regulations before your trip.

Don't take coral or sand

It is illegal to take coral, shells or sand from beaches and protected areas.

Drones

The use of drones is highly restricted, especially near archaeological sites and in crowded areas. A permit is required to fly drones of a certain weight.

Beware of 'Moctezuma's Evil'

To avoid stomach problems, avoid food from street stalls of dubious hygiene and eat in crowded and reputable places. Wash your hands frequently.

Use Mosquito Repellent

Especially at dawn and dusk, and if you visit jungle areas, use repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes.

Find the Less Crowded Beaches

The main beach in the center can be very crowded. Walk north to Punta Esmeralda or south to Playacar to find quieter areas.

The Sargassum Problem

Before traveling, especially between April and October, look online for reports about sargassum (seaweed). If beaches are affected, plan excursions to cenotes, ruins, or the islands of Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, which often have cleaner coastlines.

Change Money Wisely

The exchange rate at the airport is the worst. Exchange a small amount if necessary and then use the ATMs of recognized banks or exchange offices in the city to get better rates.