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Language
Spanish is the official language and Mayan is the local language for Playa Del Carmen, but English, French, Italian and German are also widely spoken.
Currency
Playa Del Carmen’s official currency is the Mexican Peso (MXP), although the U.S. dollar is accepted almost everywhere. Exchange rate is approximately 11 pesos to 1 USD, depending on the fluctuations of the foreign exchange rate. Credit cards are widely accepted except in smaller establishments, so it is best to travel with travelers’ checks and some cash.
Airport
The most convenient airport to fly in to with the most flights per day is the Cancun International Airport. From the Cancun airport it is a 45 minute bus ride that takes you to Playa Del Carmen. Buses between the two Playa del Carmen and Mexico leave every hour between 9.30 am and 9.30 pm.
Airlines
Aero Caribe, Aero Cozumel, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, American West, American Airlines, ATA Airlines, Aviacsa, Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, Frontier Airlines, LTU, Mexicana, Northwest Airlines, USAir.
Entry Requirements
Proof of citizenship is necessary to cross the border into Mexico. A passport is not required but is recommended. Upon arrival, visitors are given a Tourist Card that must be turned in upon departure at the airport. At that time, a departure tax is charged that can be paid in U.S. dollars or Mexican pesos.
Safety
Riviera Maya and the Quintana Roo areas are relatively safe to visit. There is little crime in Riviera Maya, and in most tourist areas you are generally safe late at night. Just like most destinations in the US and abroad, do not leave money or valuables unattended.
Getting Around
Once you arrive in Cancun, you can travel to Play del Carmen via the coastal highway that connects the city of Cancun with Tulum. Available transportation from the airport includes buses or taxis that depart from the terminal. Ferries also depart from Playa del Carmen and Calica, linking the continent with the islands.
Rental cars are available and driving is on the right side of the road. There are numerous car rental companies and rates will depend on the size and type of car available. You must pay for any gas, insurance, taxes, or extra equipment. If your reservation is for more than 5 days, a weekly rate will be quoted.
Water
The water tables in the Yucatan are easily contaminated. Play it safe and use bottled water (widely available all over the peninsula) for drinking, cooking and brushing your teeth. Most ice will come from a factory that uses purified water and restaurants typically have purification systems.
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