Playa Del Carmen

Giving Back to Playa del Carmen’s Kids

Sarah — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 09:30:23 +0000

Playa del Carmen is a vacation destination people return to year after year. Its Caribbean location, world-class restaurants and cosmopolitan, laid back vibe draws visitors from all over the globe. For those of us who now consider Playa a ‘home away from home’, sometimes it’s nice to connect with the community in a more meaningful way, to give something back to the local people who have shared their home so graciously with us.

There is a special relationship between locals and visitors in Playa del Carmen. The town is primarily a tourist destination, and therefore visitors are welcomed with open arms from every corner of the globe. It’s a relatively new town and has seen exponential growth over the last 15 years, thriving on the tourism industry it created.

Children growing up in Playa del Carmen today will most likely find employment in the tourism industry, so learning English has become increasingly important for them.

That’s where the KKIS Project Comes in. The small, local charity organization run by a group of dedicated Playa del Carmen expats runs a volunteer English teaching program at a local primary school north of town and also provides much needed school supplies to underprivileged students, ensuring they have the best chance at a bright future.

I have recently become involved in the volunteer program, and have found it to be a fulfilling and rewarding experience that has enriched my experience of Playa del Carmen.

Every Wednesday afternoon, a group of about ten volunteers give an hour of their time to a group of very enthusiastic grade two and three kids at a local school, helping them to improve their English skills.

Games, reading, comprehension, drawing and story telling are just some of the activities program coordinator Janet employs to keep the kids entertained and engaged while they learn valuable language skills.

On my first day volunteering with the program, I was touched by the warm welcome we received by both the kids and teachers. We were assigned to a table of about six students to carry out the activities and they participated enthusiastically with lots of smiles all round.

An hour flew by and I was amazed by the politeness and eagerness of my group. I have since returned week after week, enjoying the interaction with the other volunteers as well as the students. It has become one of the highlights of my week here in Playa and has given me a greater feeling of connection with this town I love so much.

It feels good to be able to give something back to the community whilst seeing a different side of Playa del Carmen that many tourists don’t get to experience.

*For more information, to sign up for the volunteer program, or to make a donation to the school supplies fund, email kkisproject@gmail.com.

Sunday Bliss at El Taj and Indigo

Sarah — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:30:34 +0000

We awoke to a blazing blue sky on Sunday morning at El Taj Oceanfront and immediately knew it was going to be a great day. Though every day in Playa del Carmen seems like a weekend, Sundays have a special feeling of relaxation; a chance to completely unwind before the week ahead. First though, we had a few dilemmas to face in regards to how we would spend the day…

After waking up in our deluxe King bed clothed in high thread count linen,

Perhaps we’d brew a pot of delicious strong coffee in our fully appointed chef’s kitchen?

Then sip it on the terrace overlooking the pool, lush gardens and Caribbean Sea?

Or head to Imprevist restaurant to indulge in a gourmet breakfast of pastries, fruit, yogurt and eggs?

After breakfast, maybe we’d relax in the infinity Jacuzzi perched over the main pool like an overflowing champagne fountain?

Or simply chill out on our private terrace, taking in the view of the stunning Caribbean sea, streaked with ten different shades of blue…

Perhaps a soak in our private, heated Jacuzzi, relaxing our muscles against the massaging jets would be in order?

Then maybe we would spend the afternoon with a good book under one of the umbrellas at Indigo beach club, listening to the waves lap against the shore and watching pelicans soar overhead…

Later, we could make use of the complimentary ‘Manager’s Welcome Party’ buffet at Indigo, while sipping on fruity cocktails and listening to the live tunes of the resident band.

Then walk along the pier in our ‘front yard’ and watch local families haul shiny silver fish from the water with nets.

Perhaps we’ll stop on the pier for a while, watching the sun set over our ‘home away from home’, El Taj, wishing we could stay forever in this Caribbean paradise…

Then make our way back to the comfy lounges at Indigo, singing along to old favorites as the beach turns black and the palm trees are illuminated with golden light.

Afterwards, maybe we’d retire to the luxurious comfort of our condo to watch a movie on one of our three flat screen televisions, lounging on the spacious modular sofa with a large bowl of pop corn…

With so many options, how would we possibly choose how to spend our Sunday at El Taj?

By doing them all of course!

So that’s exactly what we did, experiencing a day of food, music, sun, relaxation and pure bliss; the perfect Sunday at El Taj Oceanfront and Indigo beach club.

I’m already dreaming of next Sunday…

Skydiving in Playa del Carmen: The Ultimate Rush

Sarah — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 09:30:40 +0000

It was something I was terrified of: falling from a perfectly good airplane at 10,000 ft, and yet, something told me I had to do it. I guess that’s the beauty of adventure, it’s scary, terrifying even, but the rewards of the experience outweigh the fear.

The guys from Skydive Playa were cool as cucumbers and put my mind at ease with their professionalism and experience – they have been operating in Playa del Carmen for seventeen years and have the act of falling from a moving aircraft over the Caribbean down to a fine art.

Before the jump I was beside myself with anxiety about the unknown, and yet, once I was on my way up the tiny plane, my fear was replaced with a calm knowing that I was about to experience the ultimate rush, and all my apprehension would soon be a distant memory.

What I didn’t know was that I was about to have the most fun I’d ever had in my life.

The thirty second free-fall was exilirating, mind-blowing and utterly incomparable to anything I have ever experienced!

Not to mention providing me with the best view of Playa del Carmen and the surrounding Riviera Maya as I am ever likely to get.

I was actually a little sad when the parachute was opened, slowing our free-fall to a soaring glide. The best part was over, but flying above the bright aqua sea looking out over to Cozumel, then to the white sand beaches of Playa was pretty wonderful too.

As my feet touched down on the soft white sand, my immediate thoughts were, “I did it!” quickly followed by, “I could do it again!”

Skydiving is certainly not something everyone will experience in their lifetime, but I’m so grateful to have experienced the ultimate rush in one of my favorite parts of the world, Playa del Carmen.

A Jungle Adventure at Aktun Chen

Sarah — Mon, 27 May 2013 09:30:48 +0000

Last week my partner and I decided to take a break from the beaches of Playa del Carmen, and have an adventure in the Mexican jungle. Aktun Chen Natural Park, otherwise known as ‘Indiana Joe’s', seemed the perfect place to start, located an hour south of town.

Our van veered off the highway and took us 3 KM into the jungle, before depositing us at the entrance of the park. We signed in and met our guides for the first part of the tour – zip-lining!

It was our first attempt at this adrenaline-inducing activity, so I was a little nervous, but the professionalism and friendliness of the guides who ran through our safety briefing immediately put my mind at ease and allowed me to focus on one thing – having fun!

Zip-lining over the canopy of trees was an absolute blast and was not even a little scary, just exhilarating! When the time came, I even went upside down, as the guides showed us how to do, letting my arms hang over my head as I flew along the line.

Soon, it was time to return to earth, and explore an ancient cave system. We followed our guide into the depths of an enormous limestone cave, decorated with an impressive array of stalactites and stalagmites. It was eerily beautiful, wandering through the bizarre landscape formed by millions of years of geological processes.

Fossils of shells and sea creatures were visible in the limestone, reminders that the cave was once the sea floor. It is now home to an impressive cenote, or fresh water pool, which is not open for swimming in order to preserve its natural beauty. Lit from above, the light shone straight through the crystal clear water, creating an ‘other worldly’ atmosphere, like a scene from the movie Avatar.

Afterwards, we enjoyed a delicious lunch of quesadillas and fajitas, entertained by colorful parrots in the trees outside.

The spider monkeys, however, stole the show. Tiny babies clung to protective mothers high up in the tree tops.

While the older members of the family caught up on some much needed beauty sleep.

Next it was time for the part of the tour I was most looking forward to – snorkeling in the cenote! As you know, I love cenotes, so I was excited to see what ‘Indiana Joe’s’ had in stall for us.

We made our way down a rocky staircase and were greeted by a beautiful limestone cave filled with crystal clear, turquoise water. It was breathtakingly beautiful. Everybody gasped as they entered the water, due to the refreshingly cool temperatures!

We donned our snorkels and followed our guide around the large cavern, observing the beautiful formations below through the crystal clear water. The water was so clear, that at times it felt as though I was flying over the deep caverns and the fish who made their home there.

After our guided snorkeling tour, we had some free time to swim in the cenote and explore the different pools within it. At one point, my partner and I were the only ones floating around in a small pool, with light streaming in from a narrow opening above us. It was such a peaceful and magical moment, filling me with gratitude to be experiencing this part of Mexico and its untold natural treasures.

Like all good things, our jungle adventure had to come to an end. We zip-lined, saw beautiful animals, explored ancient caves and swam in their magical waters. We experienced the exhilaration of flying over the tree tops, as well as the peaceful rejuvenation of floating in fresh water pools created by Mother nature herself.

Most of all, we were reminded just how special this part of Mexico is, and how much we love spending time discovering the beauty, history, culture and natural wonders of the Riviera Maya, a part of the world everybody should visit at least once in their life.

Contact the concierge at Condo Hotels to book your tour to Aktun Chen Natural Park today!

Experiencing Cafe Culture in Playa del Carmen

Sarah — Mon, 20 May 2013 09:30:26 +0000

The Caribbean Sea, fresh seafood and white sand beaches are the usual images that spring to mind when thinking about Playa del Carmen. But there is certainly more to this cosmopolitan, beach side town than meets the eye, including the thriving cafe culture I have been very pleased to discover during my stay.

For me, there’s no better way to start the day than a morning yoga class at The Gym, followed by a rejuvenating swim in the sea, then a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes around town. I sit at an outdoor table with a cafe latte and watch Playa del Carmen come to life.

The vendors along Fifth Avenue begin to arrange their colorful wares, gossiping and chatting about the day ahead in animated Spanish. I can only imagine what they see day after day, interacting with tourists from all over the world. I have to laugh at some of the lines they come up with to entice buyers into their stores – they really do have a great sense of humor which is necessary in their line of work.

Smartly dressed young people scurry off to work at the nearby resorts, while an older couple power walks along the shaded pedestrian avenue, fulfilling their daily exercise routine. A dog walker wrangles five pampered pooches of different sizes, as they run rings around him in playful commotion.

I love watching this eclectic mix of people that make Playa such a lively place to be. There is never a dull moment in Playa del Carmen, with so many different cultures converging in one place to experience life in paradise. Whether for work or play, Playa has an undeniable magnetism that is ever present. People work hard here, but they are happy and prosperous. Tourists who visit once seem to return year after year.

The coffee is good too, and, in my opinion, rivals any European brew. The baristas at the various cafes around town know how to create a rich, smooth blend with local beans from the plantations of Chiapas in southern Mexico. They are also very artistic, creating skillful works of art!

Sometimes I flick through a local magazine to practice my Spanish, challenging myself to understand celebrity gossip en Espanol. I also like to order in Spanish, and the staff are always friendly and patient about my terrible grammar.

Mostly though, I like to watch the comings and goings of the other customers, while trying to guess which country they come from. I have overheard English, Spanish, Dutch, French and even Japanese being spoken at a single cafe. Now, that is multi-cultural ism at its best!

I love spending time at the many cafes around Playa del Carmen which bring people together with a common bond – a love of coffee! Whether you are on your own or meeting with friends, down by the beach or in the center of town, there’s never a dull moment at Playa’s cafes. Sit back and sip on world-class coffee in a beautiful setting, and be entertained by the diverse and eclectic mix of people from every corner of the globe.

Top 10 Things To Do on the Riviera Maya

Sarah — Mon, 13 May 2013 09:30:48 +0000

Playa del Carmen is located on a pristine stretch of coastline on the eastern Yucatan peninsular, known as the Riviera Maya. The Riviera Maya offers world class accommodation, unique natural wonders, beautiful beaches and historic treasures which make it a popular vacation destination for people from all over the world. We’ve compiled a list of the Top 10 Things To Do to assist you with you next visit.

1. Experience the Unique Vibe of Playa del Carmen

‘Playa’ as it is known by the regulars, is a cosmopolitan town on the Caribbean Sea, securing a special place in the hearts of all who visit. Sparkling waters, fantastic restaurants, lively night life and friendly people are just some of the possible reasons why this town is the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Riviera Maya.

2. Swim In a Cenote

Natural, geologically formed pools filled with cool clear fresh water are scattered all along the Riviera Maya. Known for their refreshing, healing qualities, swimming in a cenote is an absolute must for visitors. Our favorites are Cenote Azul, Cristallino and Dos Ojos (Two eyes).

3. Snorkel with Sea Turtles

The protected bay of Akumal is the feeding ground for a number of sea turtles. All year round, these majestic creatures feed on grasses growing from the sandy sea floor and don’t seem to mind inquisitive visitors watching them eat. Snorkel gear can be hired onsite.

4. Step Back in Time at Coba

The ancient Mayan city of Coba makes a great day trip from Playa del Carmen. Take a guided tour and learn about ancient Mayan prophecies, hire bicycles to explore the vast grounds, then climb to the top of the main pyramid and imagine yourself as a powerful Mayan king surveying a great kingdom.

5. Chill out in Tulum

The beaches of Tulum are famed for their underdeveloped shores and turquoise waters. Grab a good book, spread out a towel and soak up the laid back vibe.The Mayans who inhabited the city in ancient times certainly had good taste in real estate!

6. Dive the World’s Second Largest Barrier Reef

The waters off the Riviera Maya are home to one of the world’s most spectacular reef systems. Most dive companies are located in Playa del Carmen or the nearby island of Cozumel, and can arrange a tour to suit you.

7. Celebrate the Day of the Dead at Xcaret

Xcaret is an ecological themed park offering excellent activities all year round, but its ‘Festival of Life and Death’ in early November is not to be missed if your visit coincides. Funerary exhibitions, ghoulish face painting, excellent theatrical performances and a variety of food stalls are just some of the highlights of the festival to mark the famed ‘Day of the Dead.’

8. Discover Untouched Natural Treasures at Sian Ka’an

South of Tulum, discover ‘Paradise on Earth’ at the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a protected area of untold natural and ecological beauty. Take a boat ride through the lagoon to discover manatees, dolphins and unique bird life, then feast on fresh lobster at a water front restaurant in the tiny town of Punta Allen.

9. Become a Beach Afficianado at Xpu-ha and Xcacel

Discover the lesser known beaches of Xcacel and Xpu- ha south of Playa del Carmen, then decide which is your favorite. Is it the natural, rugged beauty of Xcacel, or the laid back beach bars and aquamarine waters of Xpu-ha? You decide.

10. Slip into ‘Mexico time’ in Puerto Morelos

A sleepy fishing village just north of Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos retains a relaxed atmosphere whilst offering great restaurants and one of the best English book stores on the Mayan Riviera. Pick out a great book then read it over fresh ceviche or seafood tacos and forget about having a ‘To Do’ list at all.

For more information on transport options and tours for the above activities, contact our concierge service.

Making a Splash at Cenote Azul

Sarah — Mon, 06 May 2013 09:30:57 +0000

One of the things I love about coming to Playa del Carmen is visiting one of the many the cenotes (natural fresh water pools) along the Mayan Riviera. It is a special experience unique to Mexico and I believe you never forget your first time.

The first cenote I visited was near the Chichen Itza ruins last year, which was fantastic. Swimming in a natural lagoon caused by a geological phenomena is a special experience that stays with you for a while.

Returning to Playa del Carmen this year, I knew I had to experience another cenote, and chose Cenote Azul, about 20 minutes drive away. Each natural pool is completely unique, formed by thousands of years of geological activity. Azul is rather small, but that doesn’t detract from its beauty. The water is completely clear, revealing many interesting limestone formations, caverns and life below the surface.

I was glad I remembered my snorkel, as Cenote Azul is filled with fish of all shapes and sizes. Once I entered the cool water and adjusted to the refreshing temperature (cenotes are generally quite cold, which adds to their rejuvenating qualities!) I donned my mask and began to explore the waters.

The clarity truly blew my mind! At first it was a little disconcerting – I just wasn’t used to water so clear. The fish darted around me and into dark caverns in the distance. Part of me wanted to explore them too, whilst another was a little bit afraid of what I might find!

The good thing about Cenote Azul is that it is completely open to the sunlight, which makes it easier to see all the fish and interesting underwater rock formations.

A wooden platform was erected over the water for people to sit on, and as I made my way towards it, I discovered a large school of catfish living underneath. There must have been at least fifty pairs of dark eyes hovering under the platform staring at me!

I left them to it and hoisted myself up onto the deck to warm myself in the sun, watching as some adventurous souls jumped into the water from the elevated ledge opposite.

After watching for a while, I finally plucked up the courage to give it a go. The ledge didn’t look all that high from where I was sitting, but when I got to the top, it seemed much higher! I hesitated a little before taking a deep breath and muttering, “here goes!” before launching myself off the edge and into the refreshing water with a splash!

“Woohoo, I did it!” I thought to myself, high on the adrenalin rush of the jump.

I’m no daredevil by any means, and wouldn’t feel safe jumping from anything higher, but the jump at Cenote Azul was the perfect compromise on fun and safety. I was glad that I hadn’t just stayed on the sidelines and watched everyone else have all the fun.

Tip: Cenote Azul is about a 20 minute drive south of Playa del Carmen, and can be easily reached by van, taxi or car, as it is on the right hand side of the highway heading south. Parking is available, though it’s advisable to bring water and a snack/lunch if going for the day. There is an entrance fee of about 70 Pesos ($6) per person.

Getting Back to Nature at Xcacel Beach

Sarah — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:30:42 +0000

The thing I love about Playa del Carmen is its magnificent location on the Caribbean sea. Playa is a lively town filled with all the modern conveniences of stores, restaurants, cinemas, and fantastic accommodation options. There are a myriad of activities on offer from diving to paddle boarding, sailing, snorkeling and many more. With so much to do, it’s impossible to be bored in Playa del Carmen!

‘Playa’ is also perfectly located for exploring the surrounding Caribbean coastline, a pristine stretch of white sand and clear, turquoise water. I recently visited the nearby beach of Xcacel, about a 30 minute drive south of town.

Although not very far, Xcacel feels like a world away from civilization. There were no beach clubs or hotels to be seen as we made our way over the dunes and onto the shore. The wind whipped through my hair as I took in the rugged beauty of the scene, thundering waves crashing onto the sand.

‘This is wild,’ I thought to myself, reminded of the power and beauty of mother nature when she is left untouched. I sat on the sand and dug my feet into its cool embrace, watching as my friends took to the water to body surf the ferocious waves.

A few people set up on the beach for the day with chairs and umbrellas, whilst two inquisitive local residents waddled past. A little girl ran over to feed the iguanas some of her lunch as I watched them tentatively, ready to make a run for it if necessary!

My friends had enough of being whipped around by the sea and collapsed onto the sand, panting. After basking in the sun for a while, we decided to check out the nearby cenote (natural fresh water pool). We made our way over the dunes and into a clearing dotted with palm trees, where a colorful sign pointed in the direction of a jungle path.

Surrounded on both sides by a wall of lush green foliage, we made our way along the sandy pathway, occasionally catching a glimpse of the azure sea over the dunes to our left.

The path curved inland, taking us through a mangrove filled with cool, shallow water.

Suddenly, the cenote appeared at the end of the path. It was unlike any I had seen before, smaller and surrounded on all sides by tangled foliage which seemed to rise out from the water. I donned my snorkel and observed the many fish living in the natural pool, some of them coming over to nibble on my feet, giving me a natural (but very ticklish!) foot spa.

Sitting on a rocky ledge, I observed the scene; people swimming and laughing, the trees swaying in the breeze, fish darting through the clear water and birds perching on overhanging branches. It was hard to believe we were just a 30 minute drive from the luxury of our condo hotel in Playa del Carmen.

I was looking forward to getting back to civilization, but grateful to have experienced the rugged natural beauty of Xcacel beach and its ‘secret cenote’, an experience I won’t forget any time soon.

*Xcacel beach is about a 30 min drive south of Playa del Carmen, before Tulum, and can be reached by taxi, van or car. There is a small charge of 10 pesos (less than $1) per person at the gate.

Breakfast at Imprevist: A Gourmet Indulgence

Sarah — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:30:09 +0000

Imprevist restaurant is located on leafy 1st Avenue in the Maya Villa Condo Hotel, known on the Playa del Camen dining scene for its innovative modern cuisine and sophisticated atmosphere. Its understated facade, complete with cafe-style tables for al fresco dining, contains a stylish interior reminiscent of a New York bistro.

We arrived around 9 am for breakfast, and were greeted by a friendly, sharply dressed waiter, who delivered our menus and explained the options to us.

‘I won’t be needing lunch!’ I thought to myself as I looked down at the long list of menu options. The wide selection of fruit, granola, pastries and warm dishes were sure to give me more than enough fuel for the day.

While we perused the menus and made the tough decisions – hotcakes or eggs and bacon? Orange or pineapple juice?- our waiter poured piping hot coffee into our cups (coincidentally my favorite brand of Italian roast).

‘I think I’m going to like it here,’ I thought to myself as I sipped the smooth, strong, brew, energizing myself for the meal ahead.

Our waiter then delivered a pastry basket filled with miniature croissants, cinnamon scrolls and other treats, with two jars of specialty jam nestled in the middle.

‘Uh oh,’ I thought to myself, mentally un-scheduling all other eating plans for the day as I selected a cinnamon scroll to have with my coffee. We made our choices for the main course, which was no mean feat, considering the list of options.

I was extremely tempted to go with a favorite Mexican breakfast dish, chilaquiles, but instead settled on classic poached eggs and bacon.

There was nothing simple looking about the dish when it arrived, however. Presented beautifully on a large square plate sat two perfectly poached eggs, delightfully crispy bacon, a small sausage (added on our request), special fried potatoes with green peppers, and toasted bread.

This was no greasy breakfast, but a gourmet creation, using simple ingredients to create a delicious morning feast. After partaking in fresh fruit, yogurt and granola, I thought I might struggle to finish the meal, but I needn’t have worried – it was too delicious not to!

Washed down with fresh orange juice, more coffee, and just one more cinnamon scroll, I just couldn’t help but eating every delectable treat that was put in front of me!

I thought that if the breakfast was so good at Imprevist, their lunch and dinner menus must be something to behold. I made a mental note to return to find out, as I popped the third mini cinnamon scroll into my mouth.

Oops! ‘Oh well,’ I reasoned, thinking that three mini pastries really only equaled one regular sized one… didn’t it?

That sounded pretty reasonable to me! Plus, I figured an extra work out at The Gym was well worth my slight over-indulgence…

Any meal at Imprevist would be.

*Breakfast at Imprevist restaurant or Indigo beach club is complimentary for condo hotel guests who book in advance during promotional periods. Check the promotions page of the website for more details. During other periods, discounts are offered to all guests.

Foodie Paradise: Playa del Carmen

Ken Schmidt — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 05:30:23 +0000

Where to Eat on the Beach

When you stay at one of our Playa del Carmen hotels you not only have access to white, sandy beaches and fun in the sun, but you’re also in the midst of some of the best international restaurants and dining experiences available in the area. With a wide variety of cuisines to choose from, you’ll be able to enjoy different meals every day.

From traditional Mediterranean and Italian restaurants to rare Mayan-themed eateries, you have a range of places to dine at your disposal. There is a place to eat for everyone, even a Brazilian steakhouse! Don’t want to leave the comforts of your own room? No problem. You can still enjoy some of the food offered by these restaurants through room service at your hotel! Playa del Carmen has every dining experience you could want. Whether you want a quiet romantic meal, are looking for live entertainment while you dine, or want to bury your feet in the sand at a beachfront table, you’re bound to find an option that suits your needs. Don’t delay any longer! Book your stay at one of our four properties and enjoy some of the finest international food around!

Mediterranean:

17. Imprevist Rest & Wine (Mediterranean/Asian Fusion) – Imprevist is a gourmet restaurant known for serving up some of the best Mediterranean and Asian Fusion cuisine in the area. It ranks as one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen. Every item on the menu is homemade, and the menu changes every few months to highlight the best seasonal produce and ingredients.

Blue Venado – This hidden gem is located about 20 minutes away from the great Playa del Carmen hotels on a secluded beach, but it’s worth your time. It offers breathtaking views and features a variety of Italian Mediterranean meals to enjoy. Be sure to call ahead for reservations!

8. Mosquito Blue – If you’re looking for a cool, trendy spot to eat, Mosquito Blue is the place to go. This sidewalk cafe features gourmet Mediterranean and Italian dishes, and its modern interior design is sure to provide an excellent setting for your meal.

Italian:

25. G+G Fifth Avenue – As one of the best restaurants on 5th Avenue, G+G serves up homemade pastas and traditional Italian dishes. All of the food is prepared in an open kitchen for guests to enjoy seeing every step of their meal being prepared.

3. Casa Mediterranea – For a quiet, romantic dining experience, make your way to Casa Mediterranea. Slightly away from the 5th Avenue, this is the oldest Italian restaurant in the area and offers a cozy courtyard setting. The owners are present every day ensuring quality and the ingredients are always fresh in order to provide you with a traditional, homestyle Italian meal.

Seafood:

1. La Casa del Agua – Located on the second floor, La Casa del Agua offers great views and a beautiful ambience that includes live music on the weekends. In the heart of 5th Avenue and just steps away from the beach, they serve a menu full of international cuisine that focuses on fresh seafood.

24. Sushiclub – If sushi is on your mind, don’t pass up Sushiclub! Known for the best sushi in Playa del Carmen, this restaurant offers up fresh and tasty rolls daily, and their rooftop bar is a great place to relax. Be sure to take advantage of their two-for-one deal on Tuesdays!

Mexican:

12. Aldea Corazon – For a one-of-a-kind dining experience, try Aldea Corazon. With its setting inspired by Mayan culture, it features tropical trees and a cascading waterfall to go along with its local seafood and Mexican cuisine featuring a Mayan twist.

21. Los Aguachiles – Don’t be fooled by the plastic tables, chairs, and plates. There’s a reason there is always a big crowd at Los Aguachiles. It offers up some of the best unique tacos, lettuce wraps, and seafood in the area, all at an easily affordable price!

4. Mi Pueblo – If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican food, Mi Pueblo should be your choice. With recipes passed down from generation to generation, this restaurant has 73 homemade ingredients that help make up their menu. They feature two locations, but both will put you in a festive mood with live music from Mariachi bands.

International Cuisine:

15. Oh Lala – If you want to dine at this intimate, romantic restaurant be sure to make a reservation. There are only seven tables in the establishment, which means you’ll get great, personalized service. All their food is prepared in an open kitchen for you to see.

2. Fusion – For a taste of home and great entertainment, treat yourself to Fusion. Serving a wide variety of comfort food, this restaurant has a beachfront bar and grill, and it features live music every night. They also put on a fire show for you while enjoying your food overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

10. Indigo Beach – Indigo Beach provides a relaxing setting where you can kick off your shoes and bury your feet in the sand at your table. They offer an unlimited buffet at breakfast and an elaborate menu for lunch and dinner. Be sure to check with the restaurant before you go to ask about their themed nights, which feature special courses for the occasion!

9. Diablito Cha Cha Cha (Mexican/Asian Fusion) – You typically wouldn’t imagine a tropical ’50s scene with Mexican and Asian food in the same place. But at Diablito Cha Cha Cha the mix work well. Enjoy the large portions that are great for sharing during the day and then come back at night for the entertainment and social scene.

28. Canibal Royal – Another ’50s-themed restaurant, Canibal Royal offers great views and a party-like atmosphere all day long. With a wide variety of dishes to choose from, it’s common to find locals enjoying the great mix of funk and sophistication.

La Bodeguita Del Medio – For the best Cuban food in Playa del Carmen, visit La Bodeguita Del Medio. This restaurant has origins dating back to 1942. For delicious mojitos and Cuban cigars on Fifth Avenue, this is the place to check out.

Mayan:

23. Yaxche – Dive into authentic Mayan cuisine at Yaxche on 5th Avenue. Enjoy the unique flavors of the region with a mixture of traditional and contemporary dishes served to you in an ancient setting.

Restaurante Xulam – Get a taste of Mayan flavors at great prices by going to Xulam. With specials that highlight the local ingredients and regional cuisine, you’ll enjoy great service in a colorful setting, featuring decor from the ancient civilization.

27. La Cueva del Chango – One of the oldest establishments in the area, La Cueva del Chango has stayed true to its roots and hasn’t changed one bit since being built 20 years ago. All the food is fresh, including homemade bread, salsas, jams, and tortillas. Offering up some of the best breakfast food around your hotel, Playa del Carmen vacationers should make this one of their first stops for an early meal!

Steakhouse:

13. Sur – With a large selection of meats and cuts to choose from, this Argentinean grill has something for everyone. Overlooking 5th Avenue makes it a perfect spot to people watch, and they have a wide variety of foods to go along with their steaks, including salads, pastas, and even pizzas.

6. Ipanema’s Grill – This Brazilian steakhouse is a must for lovers of unique meats. They offer a selection of more than 20 meats to choose from. But you don’t have to just pick one! Waiters carry them around, offering you carvings of your choice. If meat isn’t on your mind, enjoy one of their many seafood alternatives!

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<p><a href=”http://blog.condohotelsplayadelcarmen.com/foodie-paradise-restaurants-playa-del-carmen”></a><br /><a href=”http://blog.condohotelsplayadelcarmen.com/foodie-paradise-restaurants-playa-del-carmen”>Foodie Paradise: Playa del Carmen: Where to Eat on the Beach</a>, Courtesy of <a href=”http://www.condohotelsplayadelcarmen.com”>Condo Hotels Playa Del Carmen</a></p>