In August 2022, I had an opportunity to travel to Mexico after an 8 years hiatus. This time, I focused on a couple of well-known tourist destinations: Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
I must say, I had a great time, and here is the breakdown of my trip.
Airfare: Purchased a cheap ticket on Frontier airlines for a $185 round trip at the airport from ATL to CUN, saving $40 and avoiding internet fees. It's a weekend trip so there was no need to have a carry-on or checked bag; a backpack will be just fine!
Car Rental: Due to the fact we didn't want to be stuck in one location, we rented a full-size vehicle from Enterprise. Got a deal on the rental but the insurance purchase process was annoying and financially painful. However, I like the freedom of having a vehicle to move around freely versus coordinating through 3rd party transportation providers and scamming taxi drivers.
Airbnb: We rented a two-level apartment (2 bedrooms/2 baths) with a jacuzzi and one block of walking distance to the beach. Actually, we can see the beach from the balcony. Also, our Airbnb was next to 2 beach clubs so we had our choice to party and lounge. Highly recommend this place while in Playa del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen Experience
Overall, if you're looking for a place to party on the beach as well as experience city life, I highly recommend Carment del Playa. From great restaurants, private beach clubs, and vibrating nightlife, Carmen del Playa has it all. The costs are economical but there are a few upscale choices if you want to spend some extra dollars for the LUX experience. If you're looking for a weekend getaway, this is the place to come and better than Cancun You have more local experience versus Cancun. Check out some of the highlight videos:
Tulum Mayan Ruins and Chichen Itza Pyramids
Jumped in the rental car, and drove 2 hours out to check out the Mayan Temples in Tulum as well as Chichen Itza Pyramids. Worth to see the magnificence of these ruins as well as learning more about Mayan history. Must see when in Carmen del Playa. Check out the highlight video of the Mayan Temple
Tulum
Now... Here is my assessment of this highly hyped and overpriced location. Yes, I said it... it is grossly expensive and overly hyped via social media. If you want to check out Tulum, there is not a lot to see and do but it is good to say, "I've been there.". A day trip is all you need then head back to Carmen del Playa. If you are in Tulum, check out Taboo Beach Club and be prepared to spend some money. Also, if you're into taking pictures, then this is the place to be with interesting locations to take photos, but keep in mind there will be lines of people waiting to take the same photos for Instagram. Check out the highlight video of Taboo Beach Club
Overall, I recommend Playa del Carmen for a weekend trip getaway. Go visit!
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