Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant beach town on the Riviera Maya, approximately 68 kilometres south of Cancun. It is known for its pedestrian-friendly 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida), beautiful beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Cancun. Playa del Carmen has a strong international community and is a popular base for lifestyle travellers exploring the Riviera Maya.

The town offers a mix of large all-inclusive resorts and smaller boutique properties, with a lively restaurant and nightlife scene along 5th Avenue. The beach clubs are excellent, and the town is well-connected to other Riviera Maya destinations.

Best time to visit: November through April for the best weather. The town is busiest during the Christmas and spring break periods.

Getting there: Cancun International Airport is approximately 45 minutes away. Shared shuttle services and private transfers are readily available. The ADO bus service also connects Cancun airport to Playa del Carmen.

Practicalities: Playa del Carmen is more walkable than Cancun and has a more cosmopolitan feel. The town has a strong expat community and most businesses speak English.