Mexico Diaries | Playa Del Carmen Rental
13 years and 4 kids later, Daniel and I are on a trip JUST the two of US!!!
I’ve been feeling so emotional through this whole ordeal. Not in a bad way, simply feeling overcome with the love of good friends and family surrounding us. If it weren’t for so many being willing and happy to watch our kids, bunny and dog, we wouldn’t be here. But here we are, and I’m so excited for the adventures that await!
Playa Del Carmen | Why we chose it and first impressions
Why We Chose Playa Del Carmen
When planning this trip, I honestly had no idea what to expect. But here was our checklist:
✅Avoid the loud party vibe of Cancun
✅Be close to ruins + plenty of swimming holes
✅No rental car—we wanted to be mostly on foot
✅Somewhere safe
✅Affordable accommodations
Playa Del Carmen checked every single box. It’s walkable, filled with excursion options, and close enough to Tulum (a place I’ve wanted to visit for years) without the hassle of renting a car. So here we are, bags dropped off and ready for adventure.
First Impressions☀️
Here’s the funny thing: while we wanted to skip Cancun’s party scene, Playa is definitely not quiet. 5th Avenue, where we’re staying, is bustling with tourists, music, and energy. And in true “travel surprise” fashion, our rental is right next to probably the two loudest clubs on the street. (Note to self: pack better earplugs next time! )
But honestly, it adds to the adventure. The streets are alive with music, food, and people from all over the world—it feels like a constant celebration.
Travel Moments That Stood Out Today ✈️
We caught a local bus straight from the airport and then walked to our rental—super affordable and easy!
On the plane, we met the sweetest girl who is actually from Mexico but now lives in the same city as us back home. What are the chances?! She gave us a handful of local tips that we’re excited to put into action during the week.
Our first walk through the streets was filled with color, music, and the smell of amazing food.
Food places on the list to try in Playa
Don Lucas-Smoothies
Los Chocalacos-Tacos
Someplace vegan
Taco place outside our rental
Travel Notes for Readers
✅ Playa del Carmen is very walkable—no car needed if you stay central. With great public transit
✅ Tons of excursion options (ruins, cenotes, day trips to Tulum, Cancun other places inland).
✅ Affordable compared to Tulum or Cancun.
✅ Fairly touristy=safe | (More crowded than we were hoping for) But this makes prices similar to the United States.
⚠️ Be prepared for lively nights if you’re staying near 5th Avenue—it’s LOUD (and it goes late).
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