Famed for its trendy atmosphere, sandy turquoise bays, and vibrant lifestyle, Playa del Carmen is a very popular spot within Mexico’s community of luxury beach-side resort towns. Its growth in recent years has seen it become a veritable tourism hotspot, with all of the amenities and opportunities that come along with that reputation. However, for those seeking a little more authenticity, the bustling touristic centre of Playa del Carmen may seem a little disenchanting.
You may be surprised to learn, though, that alongside its pristine beaches, Playa del Carmen also has a variety of unique cultural activities and natural adventures on offer – and a luxury villa rental can be the first step to appreciating its authentic side. Here are our tips for gaining a unique perspective on Playa del Carmen and immersing yourself in all the wonders that can be found off the beaten track.
Immerse yourself in nature
Playa del Carmen offers many pockets of authentic Mexican culture, as a rapid population expansion has created a strong sense of vitality. With bike hires at cheap rates widely available within the city centre, a cycle ride can do everything from immerse you in local areas to transport you to sites of natural splendour. Discover the limestone sinkholes (cenotes) of El Jardin del Eden and Cristalino by biking about 25km south of Playa del Carmen and delving into their exquisite waters. For those who wish to explore Mexico’s wildlife, a plethora of flora and fauna awaits in the Punta Venado Caribbean Eco-Park, which is roughly 10km from the city and offers daily horseback tours and other outdoor activities.
The local way of life
There’s no doubt that, when it comes to sampling the local cuisine, it’s well worth venturing away from some of the more touristy areas. By exploring some of the haunts that are regularly frequented by the residents of Playa del Carmen, you’ll experience magnificent, traditional flavors and catch a glimpse of the natural rhythm of life in the area. Delight in the fresh seafood found in dishes such as tostadas and shrimp tacos, let your spirits flow with a shot of tequila, enjoy relaxed brunches in a shady spot nestled within the haze, or do all three – the choice is yours.
Ancient Splendour
There’s no denying that a large part of Mexico’s unique draw is its fascinating ancient history, and taking a moment to explore the Mayan ruins lying within the vicinity of Playa del Carmen is a great way to add culture and history to your vacation. With the ruins of Tulum, Coba and UNESCO heritage site Chichen Itza all easily within reach, taking a trip to one of these sites is an excellent way to satisfy your sense of adventurous curiosity.
A luxury holiday in Playa del Carmen is sure to offer turquoise seas, blissful hours spent under the sun and classic Mexican hospitality, but that doesn’t mean your trip should be limited to this standard blueprint considering the variety of unique options available. On that note, Rental Escapes is always happy to assist you with all of your vacation plans, and the breadth of knowledge and expertise shared by its friendly team means that there’s always someone here to help put together the perfect Mayan retreat for you.
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