The Mayan Riviera has always been one of my favorite destinations to escape winter (Even though I live somewhere warm now). The resort strip is long, just south of Cancun going all the way down to Tulum. Right in the middle is Playa Del Carmen. It has gotten a lot of bad attention in the news lately, however it is still a great place to spend an afternoon away from the resort. 

The Strip

Playa del Carmen has changed a lot since I started traveling down to Mexico during the winter breaks. The main shopping strip; 5th Avenue, has changed a lot from being a kitschy market with local stores, vendors and food.

You could say that it is very “developed” now. There are tons of new restaurants, American chains (like a Haagen-Dazs on every third block). My boyfriend, having never been to Mexico, was actually surprised just how new and built up it is. A lot of the original charm is gone, like many tourist destinations once they get a lot of foot traffic. However, between every sunglass hut is something for everyone.

Shopping

Good news, if Sunwing looses your suitcase, there is tons of shopping to make up for it. Since the opening of the mall a few years back, more and more chains have been moving into Playa del Carmen. You can find Forever21, H&M, American Eagle, Hollister, Victoria Secret, Zara, and a new addition from when I was here last year, Old Navy. While I wouldn’t necessarily buy anything from a chain I have at home, it’s nice to know if my suitcase got lost I could replace some things cheaply. There is also a Sephora and MAC for anyone (like my sister) who lost their makeup bag.

Some chains I will buy from are the one that don’t ship to Canada. Melissa is a great example. Their jelly heels are some of the most comfortable shoes I own. I also like shopping at Bershka, Pull&Bear and Stradivarius. They are all owned by the same company as Zara, but are rudely not in Canada or the US.

Between all the chains are your typical souvenir stores. The prices have gone up significantly, but they are still cheaper than at the resort or airport. A lot of new stores have opened up offering nicer souvenirs, rather than the typical tacky sombreros.

One new thing in town is the slight return of stalls and vendors like this one above. They are down the strip right where the taxi drops you off.

Food

Since I’ve always stayed at all-inclusive resorts I’ve never eaten in town other than some chicken nuggets at McDonald’s here and there.  A lot of trendy restaurants have been opening, including the (always advertised) Frida Kahlo restaurant. Many restaurants are new, and surprisingly there is a large selection of Italian restaurants. 

I have no idea about the quality of the food or drinks, but I loved the decor in Merendero Surf on 5th Avenue.

Other than Haagen-Dazs, there is a large variety of snack food. So many gelato places. There are also plenty of Starbucks for those who hate the only coffee served in their resorts.

Murals

For as long as I can remember I’ve taken pictures infront this Yan Ten mural. Over the years it has gone through quite a few changes, including the main one being painted over since last year. There are tons of great murals scattered through town just up and down the side streets.

What I Wore

I wore this dress that I got on sale at Urban Outfitters. Playa del Carmen is such a vibrant and colourful place,  I knew I wanted to wear something just as fun while still being comfortable.

I wore my favourite Danier backpack so that my hands were free to both shop and take pictures. This bag is also very good at preventing pickpocketing (the straps block anyone from opening the zipper). While I have never come across pickpocketing, its always best to make sure you don’t bring a purse that is easy to get into.

I wore these leather studded flats from Nine West. My sister has a pair in black, and after raving about how comfortable they were I managed to snap a pair. 5th Avenue is quite a long strip, so don’t wear uncomfortable shoes or you’ll end up being tempted to buy something you probably don’t need.

Playa del Carmen

The town has a lot to offer. If you are staying in a resort near town, it’s definitely worth the cab ride over.

Here is to hoping that any violence stays out of Playa del Carmen and doesn’t affect such a beautiful travel destination. I’ve always felt very safe in Mexico and would love to keep it as one of my go to getaways.