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Viva Mexico! Playa Del Carmen

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Me encanta Playa Del Carmen! If you want to visit a beautiful beach destination but with fewer other tourists, Playa del Carmen is for you. Only about an hour south of Cancun, its a smaller town but still has plenty to see and do. I hope you love it ...
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Luxury Resorts

You deserve a vacation and to be pampered like the Queen or King you are. With upscale dining, spas, or traditional Mexican rituals, you'll never want to leave.

 
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Over 30 Services and Amenities including a Spa, Nightclub, and Childcare Services. There are 8 onsite restaurants and multiple bars. A private beach area awaits you. While it is child-friendly, it is a true luxury experience.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya - All Inclusive
 
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Get ready for the most romantic, adults only getaway in the Mexican Caribbean. The Secrets brand has been delighting customer for years so they know a thing or two.
Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen - Adults Only - All Inclusive
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Looking for a wellness retreat? The focus of Palmaia is all about you! Multiple suite types to choose from as well.
Palmaïa the House of AïA All Inclusive Wellness Resort

Family Friendly Resorts

Fun for the whole family! From lazy rivers to water parks, kids clubs and more, you'll find something for everyone.

 
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Fun for the whole family! With a waterpark, kids club, and more family friendly activities, you'll never want to leave. Little luxury touches throughout will delight you as well.
Nickelodeon Resorts Riviera Maya
 
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Located in the exclusive Playacar Neighborhood, this is the perfect place for a generational trip. This resort is part of the Palace Family of resorts located all over the Caribbean.
Playacar Palace - All Inclusive
 
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Riu Resorts are focused on fun and food! With multiple gourmet restaurants, you'll never go hungry! They also have a full day of activities so you can do as much or as a little as you want
Riu Palace Riviera Maya - All Inclusive
 
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Not interested in an All-Inclusive resort? Check out these local homes available through VRBO so you can stay like a local!
Vrbo | Book Your Vacation Home

Restaurants

Want to experience the more local life? These are some of the best restaurants I have eaten at in the area.

 
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My absolute favorite local restaurant, El Fogon is a Playa institution. They have multiple locations and the BEST food!
EL FOGON, Playa del Carmen - Avenida Constituyentes
 
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Brazilian Churrasco with a Mexican Twist. This family owned business offers delectable meats and a salad bar. The owners are so warm and inviting. They offer holiday seatings as well!
Favela Do Brasil
 
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Have you ever eaten dinner in an underground cave? This local favorite is better for adult dinners but families are welcome. They have special tables you can book for a more intimate experience.
Alux Restaurant Bar and Lounge
 
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Located on Avenida 38, this local spot will fill you up and you'll leave with a smile on your face!
La Vagabunda
 
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Ever had Italian food with a Mexican flair? Then visit Papa Charly's and you HAVE to get the garlic bread!
PapaCharly
 
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Located on the famous 5th avenue, India Jones has authentic Indian Food. The owner brought over a traditional Tandoor oven from India and all the chefs are from India as well. I know you may be thinking, Indian Food in Mexico?? Just go, you won't reg...
India Jones

Shopping

If you want to support the local economy or are looking for handmade goods, check out these shops and markets

 
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A local shopping center with multiple restaurants and a movie theater. If you want a taste of local life, this is the place. If you are staying in VRBO rental, go grocery shopping at Soriana.
CENTRO MAYA
 
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A huge mall reminiscent of the early 90s malls in the US. Tons of stores, dining, a movie theater and even a casino! Underground parking will help you beat the heat and you can even go grocery shopping at Chedraui, a Mexican chain.
Plaza Las Américas
 
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One of the many shopping malls on the famous 5th Avenue of Playa Del Carmen. Not as many local goods, but still a fun activity to walk around with the family!
Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall
 
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If you are looking for more local shopping, go where the locals go! Located in the Real Ibiza neighborhood, you won't find any chain stores or imported goods here.
The Public Market Playa Del Carmen
 
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A list of several more local markets where you can find handmade goods and support the local economy.
6 Best Playa del Carmen Markets for Food, Handicrafts, Art & Fashion

Tourist Activities

Whether its water activities or cultural learning, there is so much to do in Playa, you'll have to come back!

 
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Xcaret is theme park company with multiple parks throughout Mexico, specifically in the Yucatan. Traditional Mexican Rituals and events, water parks, and more.
Xcaret Park with Mexico Espectacular Show
 
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Looking for something a bit more adventurous? Xplor is part of the Xcaret family of parks. Ziplining, cenotes, and more await you!
Xplor - A Natural Adventure Park - Food & Beverages Included
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Two full days of adventure! Ride an ATV, go ziplining, and learn more about the ancient cultures of Mexico during a visit to Chichen Itza
2-Day Extreme Combo: ATV, Ziplining, Cenote and Chichén-Itzá
 
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Can't get enough of the water? Take this catamaran tour to one of the most beautiful islands in the world, Isla Mujeres!
Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Lunch & Open Bar
 
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Take a quick ferry ride from Playa del Carmen over to the Island of Cozumel and visit Mr. Sancho's! An All-inclusive day on the beach with multiple activities to choose from if you want, from horse riding to parasailing!
Mr Sanchos Beach Club