Introduction
We didn't like Playa Del Carmen very much. It's expensive and hypertouristic. But if you like beaches, beers and discos, this is the place to be for you.
Our first plan was (coming from Chetumal) to spend the night near Tulum. They have all kinds of accommodation there, from cheap huts with no facilities and only a hammock near the ruins to more expensive bungalows further away. However, we arrived there at the start of the American Easter Holiday, and everything was fully booked or too expensive.
There was a lot of construction going on in 1994. It gave us the impression of a popular Spanish resort 20 years ago.
Hotels
If you arrive late (i.e. in the afternoon), you could have a hard time finding a decent room, especially during holidays. The general rule is: the further you go from the center of town, the less expensive.
We stayed in a nice pension a bit further out of the center, but I don't remember the name. It had a small swimming pool, and the owner was constantly lying in his hammock while his wife and daughter were working.
Hotel Dos Hermanos is not too expensive at 100 NS for a double with bathroom and fan.
Hotel Melina might have a room if others are full, but they charge 180 NS.
Have a look at the Rough guides selection.
Restaurants
There are plenty of good restaurants in Playa.
Restaurante Sergio's is recommended and charges 65 NS for a tequila, cola and ceviche (8/98). Have a look at the Rough guides selection.
What to do ?
It's easy to visit the sights South of Playa in a daytrip.
I went to see Tulum ruins. The ruins itself are OK, but especially the setting along the coast is unique. If you go there by bus, make sure they drop you at Tulum Ruins which is at a crossing 3 km in front of Tulum itself. If not, you'll have to hire a taxi to go back to the ruins.
You could hitch hike North from Tulum. There are some nice beaches where you can snorkel, but nothing which should not be missed.
Getting out
The only way to go to Cancun Airport without taking an expensive taxi is to take a bus to Cancun, and leave the bus at the "Crucero Aeropuerto" (11 N$ 8/98). Make sure the busdriver knows, otherwise you'll miss it. From there it's a 2 km walk to the airport.
There are direct buses to Merida, although they will stop in Cancun also.
Go to Merida
