The once sleepy village
of Playa del Carmen doubled twice in population in the last few years,
mainly due to Europeans who discovered the alabaster-white beaches,
gentle surf, coral reefs and slow lifestyle were the equal of the more
expensive island of Cozumel just across the straits. Playa's dock is
the pier for the 'people ferry' to Cozumel, so it's only a short trip
over to snorkel or dive on Cozumel's incredible coral reefs.
The strong foreign
influence has created a unique vagabond traveler ambiance. Numerous
outrageously delicious restaurants provide sustenance and several
foreign-owned hotels raise the standards of service to exacting
levels. Combine that with a relaxed Mexican-Caribbean feeling and a
sprinkling of American free- spirits and you've got Playa. It's
definitely not the place to 'get away,' but it is a place to enjoy
marvelous beaches by day and a lively nightlife in the evening.
