Tips and Tricks for Mexico (As of 2011)

Playa Del Carmen:

Getting There – After flying into Cancun, we hopped on the first shuttle to Playa. The shuttle costs 114 Pesos per person. You can’t miss the ADO buses when you walk out of the airport. They are red, shiny and look brand new with reclining seats and movies as well. Wait, this is Mexico right?!

Staying – We stayed at a place called Hostel 3b. The place is really clean and every dorm room has 2 bathrooms and a shower. The bunk we stayed in actually had 2 double beds instead of singles and we paid 125 Pesos per person as we shared a double bed.

We also stayed at Hotel Colorado and Mom’s which both offer more of an apartment feel.  Both run around $30-$40 per night.

Eating – Our breakfast in the morning was at a little local place a few blocks off the tourist strip called Los Portales. If you can’t speak any Spanish you will be SOL. We ate so much we were about to bust, plus had a 1 liter banana shake for only 70 Pesos. La Fogata on the main road heading out of Playa has amazing combos, 40 Pesos for 4 chicken tacos and a drink. They are better than the tacos on the street too!

Getting Around – No need for transportation in Playa. The only thing you’ll be doing is walking. The ADO terminal is right in town and booking a ticket is super easy. Be sure to ask for the Mayab or 2^nd class bus to save some moolah.