So, Mexico was AMAZING! One week in Playa Del Carmen was a whirlwind and we were just going and going and didn’t want to stop. We had an absolute blast and have so much to tell you about. From beaches to jungles there were so many experiences we got to share together. Even beyond the experiences we learned so much.
We chose to stay in a condo in the middle of the city of Playa Del Carmen, which turned out to be absolutely perfect! We rented through AirBnb and really fell in love with the little town, our host was wonderful and everyone in the community was so welcoming.
Since we stayed in the middle of the town instead of a resort or hotel on the beach or in the tourist area I think we got a special experience.
Here are some fun things that we learned:
Everything in Mexico is negotiable
Seriously, everything, I’m not just talking about the tours and adventures. Even the taxi drivers would negotiate with you! This was pretty bizarre coming from America, where you have a meter that counts up the dollars you are about to spend. You start to walk away, the vendor goes lower. I think the only places that we spent the actual full dollar amount were restaurants and the ferry.
You can’t flush toilet paper in the toilet
At least not in town, maybe in resorts? Possibly the hardest thing to adjust to, didn’t realize how much of a habit this was until I couldn’t do it anymore. Haha
The best food you’re going to find is…
In the random taco trucks on the corner! We found the most delicious taco truck behind the Mega Mart, it was life changing. However the chili habanero sauce….is hot. HOT HOT HOT. Seriously, only use it sparingly. We did not and our lips were on fire for hours.
Seriously, don’t drink the water
I’m sure you’ve heard it. Some of you may have been like “psh, okay whatever,” I can drink it I have a strong stomach. Don’t. Even the locals warned us! But just in case, pack some Immodium and if you accidentally forget where you are and open your mouth in the shower then take that.
Also stock your room up with some bottled water, I think the resorts will do it for you but in our case we went out and got some first thing! And the great thing was we got huge bottles of water for 13 pesos, about 1 American dollar!
Everyone is extremely nice
When we told people we were going to Mexico the first thing everyone said was “Oh no, don’t get kidnapped!” I’m sure there are bad areas of Mexico as there are in all countries, but Playa was lovely. Everyone says “good morning,” and doesn’t just push past you. People always say “salud,” after you sneeze. And no matter what part of town we were in people were always smiling.
Colectivos are the way to travel!
Don’t take a taxi or rent a car when you can take a colectivo to your distant destination. Yes, you pile in with 10 other people in a van and its somewhat of a tight fit, but it’s soooo cheap and they’ll get you to your destination safely and cheaply.
Unless you’re going close by…
Then you should just walk or bike ride! It is a fairly small town and most people are walking and bike riding to get around. Watch out for crazy taxi drivers and “topes” (big giant speed bumps!).
