Destination information
Lies in the northeast of Mexico in Quintana Roo, on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean sea, right in the middle of the Mayan Riviera. Just a decade ago, Playa, as the locals call it, was a small fishing village with an amazing scuba scene, nowadays it’s a popular laid-back boutique resort with a decidedly European feel and a strong desire to keep true to its sleepy origins.
Its popularity began as the ferries to the renowned Cozumel Island, which has some of the best coral reefs in the world leave from Playa’s port.
Just a few miles out of town is the superb Xcaret (‘esh-caret’), a Mexican-themed Eco Park which explores Mayan culture and has a jaguar island, butterfly pavillion and even offers swimming with dolphins. Around an hour’s drive away is Tulum, the famous Mayan ruins which overlook the sea.
Canopy beds are popular on the beaches, draw the shades back to top up your tan and then pull down again for a secluded afternoon snooze. Try Playa Tukan or the funky Mamitas Beach club.
The main action in town takes place along Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) a mainly-pedestrian area that leads down to the port.
Eats & drinks
Many of the bars and restaurants are on Fifth Avenue, you’ll find everything from gourmet french food to pizza slice joints on this street. For a more authentic Mexican experience head to the pier and try a zingingly fresh fish taco for just a couple of dollars from one of the food carts.
Getting around
You can easily walk around most of Playa but a fun alternative could be to hire a bicycle. Taxis are fairly cheap but beware that ones taken from the ‘sitio’ (cab rank) are a few dollars more than if you hail one on the street. There are two ferry companies running trips to Cozumel for around USD10, get a ticket from the booths at the end of the dock before boarding.
Star attractions
- One of the Hippest Cities on the Yucatan Peninsula
- Lively 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida) for Shopping, Restaurants, Bars and Nightlife.
Additional info
Time zone offset: GMT -6 Hours
Language: Spanish
Currency: Mexican Peso
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Getting there
From June 2012: Fly non-stop from London Gatwick on Virgin Atlantic's award-winning service to Cancun. Flight time: 11 hours.
Pre June 2012: fly non-stop from London Heathrow on Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning service to Miami, where you conveniently connect on to your short flight to Cancun. (An overnight stay in Miami may be required). Flight time: Approx 10 hours to Miami, 1 hour 15 min from Miami to Cancun.
Please note: Only holidays beginning in June 2012 are web bookable. For holidays that start before June 2012 please call our call centre.