;img.crop(width:650%2Cheight:460))
Walk like a Mayan at Xcaret theme park
This sacred Mayan site, pronounced essh-caret, has tastefully been turned into a theme park where you can learn about Mayan plants, see a real burial mound, and ride down the underground river. If you stick around for the evening show, you’re in store for a musical spectacular with 300 acrobats and dancers telling the story of Mexico from ancient times to the present day. Xcaret is a 5-minute drive south of Playa.North Playa del Carmen’s roll call of achingly cool beach clubs and scenic sands makes it one of the busiest sections along the coastline. You can rent sunloungers, and even 4-poster beds, to snooze away the afternoon on. In the background, DJs spin mellow house tunes. And when you feel your stomach rumbling, order up some fish tacos with a cold Corona – you can have them on the terrace overlooking the sands, or delivered directly to your spot of sand.
Read MoreThis Mayan themed restaurant serves its chicken impaled on an arrow and even has bug tacos filled with grasshoppers, worms and cockroaches. But if you want to play it safe, there are plenty of simpler options like grilled steaks and ceviche. Deserts are eye-catching, not least the Mayan pyramid made entirely of white chocolate.
Read MoreA handful of big international brands have set up shop on 5th Avenue, but it’s still the independent craft boutiques that are the best places to fill your bags. Here, you can snap up lucha libre wrestling masks, bags woven from chocolate wrappers, and Mexican cotton garments like guayaberas and huipiles. And if you’re partial to the odd Cohiba, root out the cigar stores. You’ll learn about the different varieties and get some personalised recommendations.
Read MoreWhen it comes to eating in Playa del Carmen, do as the Mexicans do, and fill yourself up with enchiladas, burritos, or asados – grilled meats. There are plenty of cheap, cheerful and really authentic spots on 5th Avenue where Mariachi bands play while you eat. And while you’re waiting for your food, nibble on some nachos with pico de gallo salsa. If you’re in a hurry to eat, you can’t beat the taco stands on the main strip. Go for the shrimp tacos – you won’t be disappointed.
Read MoreMost of Playa’s bars and clubs keep their doors late, with the volume increasing by the hour. Coco Bongo sets the standard. You can dance, sure, but you’ll also see live performers and Cirque du Soleil-style acrobatics. Or try the Blue Parrot, Playa Del Carmen’s original beach club, which has foam parties, fire shows, and swings dangling from the ceiling. In fact, all along the beachfront are nightclubs and lounge bars where you can dance to cumbia, salsa or hip hop – usually until sunrise.
Read More