Playa del Carmen Local Tips

Mexican electrical currency is the same as in the United States: 110 volts.

Mexicans call the Yucatan coast the Riviera Maya, while North Americans tend to call it the Mayan Riviera. Both are fair game no matter which language you speak.

A departure tax is usually included in the airfare, but be sure to check. If it’s not, you’ll need to pay $38 (in cash; credit cards not accepted) at the airport.

U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere. In restaurants and shops your change will come in pesos, but many hotels can also give you change in dollars. You’ll find ATMs almost everywhere, except at hotels.

When renting a car, don’t rely on your credit card for insurance protection in Mexico. Buy the accident insurance and save yourself potential nightmares. The main routes you’ll travel follow relatively good roads, including freeways. Driving is a good option if you intend to visit the Mayan ruins independently.

Avenida 5, or La Quinta, is the main tourist drag in Playa del Carmen, and also the most expensive. The further away you can get from this street parallel to the beach the cheaper food and shops are going to be.