Visiting Mexico for the first time can be an overwhelming experience full of colors, smells, sounds, tastes and textures. Cultural synthesis of Mexico is a combination of ancient traditions and modern life, present in every aspect of Mexican life. Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya is the perfect example for this mixture of tradition and novelty, surrounded by the natural paradise of your dreams.
The Mayas and Mexicans in general are friendly people warm on the one hand and firm with rich traditions, and on the other, open to meeting and learning from them in the world.
As a tourist in Playa del Carmen is easy to relate to “Playenses” (local people), and become part of this city full of action.
Entry requirements
American and Canadian visitors must have proof of citizenship (valid passport or birth certificate and a photo id).
Visa extensions can be requested at the office of migration of Playa del Carmen.
On arrival, he is given a visa or tourist card that must get back at the airport when people return to their country of origin.
Clothing
Wear lightweight and casual, preferably natural fibers. Use sandal type shoes on the beach and pool, and tennis shoes or other comfortable shoes to walk in the jungle or archaeological areas, nature reserves or parks.
Do not forget a casual but elegant attire for dinner at exclusive restaurant.
Bring lightweight pants and a sweater during the winter months.
Suggest you use sunglasses and sunscreen.
The use of insect repellent is also recommended.
Transportation
The main point of arrival is the International Airport of Cancun.
Available at the airport buses, rental cars or taxis.
Playa del Carmen has an airport with small planes for short trips to places a bit far such as Merida and Chichen-Itza.
There are also ferries coming out of Playa del Carmen and Calic, connecting the mainland with the island of Cozumel.
In addition there are local bus lines that offer different destinations along the road.
In Playa del Carmen there are enough taxis with economical rates also exists for an option to rent bikes, scooters and cars of course.
Climate
The Riviera Maya is located on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, bordering the Caribbean Sea. The climate in Playa del Carmen is subtropical with summer rains. It is very pleasant with moderate temperatures average 26ºC. From November to February are cold winds and occasional heavy rains, the lower temperature reaches 17ºC.
Tropical rains, intense but brief, are common in the summer, a lot of humidity.
The season of hurricanes and tropical storms begins in July and ends in October.
Safety
The Riviera Maya is very safe. You can easily walk to the beach and tourist areas. In the Fifth and Tenth Avenue can walk without any concern may at any time of day or night. However, as elsewhere on the beach, do not leave money or valuables unattended in public areas.
On the beach
Swimming in the Riviera Maya is safe because it is home to the second biggest coral reef in the world, protecting the coast.
Money
The Mexican peso is the official currency.
Most banks are located on Juarez Avenue and there are several ATMs and exchange houses all over the Fifth and Tenth Avenue.
The exchange rate can vary from day to day and from place to place. Master Card, Visa and American Express are widely accepted as well as travelers checks and US Dollars
Tips
Tips indicate that you were satisfied during your stay.
Porters: a tip of one or two dollars per bag is adequate.
Maids: at the end of your stay, one US Dollar per day would be appreciated
Taxi: Give tip only when holding an additional service to transport
In bars and restaurants: a tip of 10% to 15% of the total value of consumption is usual. Always check that the tip is not included in the bill.
Language
Spanish is the official language in Mexico, but the natives in Maya villages and some towns speak Maya. But do not worry, in the tourist areas, everyone speaks English.
