Real answers about the Riviera Maya
Everything you need to know about visiting, living, and owning property in Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya.
Popular Questions
Popular Questions
Start with what visitors and owners ask us most often.
How do I get to Playa del Carmen from Cancún Airport?
Three real options: pre-booked private transfer (~$60–95 USD, door-to-door, easiest), ADO bus ($16–20 USD, drops you at Playa's central bus…
Is Playa del Carmen safe?
Yes for visitors who use city-trip judgment. Tourist zones (Playacar, Centro, Coco Beach, Zazil-Ha) are calm day and night; petty theft is…
Where are the best tacos in Playa del Carmen?
El Fogón for al pastor (skip the 5th Ave location, go to the original on Av. 30). La Floresta for pescado/camarón. Taquería La Soriana…
How do I know if a property manager in Mexico is honest?
Honesty shows up as paperwork. A trustworthy PM will hand you a sample owner statement, a vendor list, a 12-month repair log from a…
Can foreigners buy property in Mexico?
Yes. In coastal areas like Quintana Roo, foreigners buy via fideicomiso (a 50-year renewable bank trust) — fully legal, fully transferable…
How do I avoid rental scams in Playa del Carmen?
If you're being rushed to wire a deposit before a live video walkthrough, it's a scam — full stop. Stolen photos relisted at 30–50% under…
What should I do if my Airbnb has no water?
Document in the Airbnb app first: time it stopped, photos, and whether neighbors/building staff see the same issue. Ask for an ETA and…
What should I do if the AC stops working in my rental?
Don't sit in a 32°C/90°F unit waiting for a callback. Try the 60-second checklist (remote batteries · breaker reset · drain unblock), then…
Browse by Category
Browse by Category
Seven clear topics — every answer sorted once, no overlap.
Getting Here & Transportation
Airport transfers, taxis, buses, ferries, and late arrivals.
10 answersAreas & Where to Stay
Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos, Isla, Cozumel, and neighborhoods.
8 answersBeaches & Things to Do
Best beaches, ruins, cenotes, diving, and day trips.
15 answersFood, Drink & Nightlife
Tacos, brunch, coffee, restaurants, bars, and where locals eat.
10 answersPractical Information
Money, internet, safety, groceries, weather, and mid-stay problems.
16 answersProperty Ownership & Management
Airbnb, buying, PM vetting, compliance, utilities, and owner protection.
13 answersLiving & Working in the Riviera Maya
Long-term rent, remote work Wi‑Fi, pets, and digital-nomad basics.
5 answersAll answers
Practical Information
Search or filter the full library.
How bad are mosquitoes at coastal rentals in Mexico?
Expect some biting insects near greenery/water — screens, fans, repellent, and closing doors at dusk help more than hoping for zero bugs.
How do I avoid rental scams in Playa del Carmen?
If you're being rushed to wire a deposit before a live video walkthrough, it's a scam — full stop. Stolen photos relisted at 30–50% under…
Is direct booking safe in Playa del Carmen?
Safe with legitimate operators — real company, traceable contacts, written terms, sane payments. Risky with anonymous chats and hurry-up…
Is Isla Mujeres safe?
Yes — Isla is generally calmer than mainland hubs. Normal travel judgment still applies: secure valuables on the beach, use licensed golf…
Is Playa del Carmen safe?
Yes for visitors who use city-trip judgment. Tourist zones (Playacar, Centro, Coco Beach, Zazil-Ha) are calm day and night; petty theft is…
Is Zazil-Ha safe in Playa del Carmen?
Generally yes — Zazil-Ha is a residential beach-adjacent zone locals and repeat visitors use. Petty theft is the main risk; use normal…
Should I use cash or card in Mexico on vacation?
Both — use card at hotels, restaurants, supermarkets (always say "pesos" not USD); carry 1,500–2,500 MXN cash for taxis, taquerías, tips…
What are the best gyms and yoga studios in Playa del Carmen?
Playa Fitness (5th Ave) and Anytime Fitness for traditional gym. CrossFit Playa for, well, CrossFit. For yoga, Yoga Loft (donation-based…
What should I ask before booking an Airbnb in Playa del Carmen?
Ask 10 blunt questions before you book: exact street + cross-street, WiFi speed test screenshot, last AC service date, electricity policy…
What should I do if my Airbnb has no water?
Document in the Airbnb app first: time it stopped, photos, and whether neighbors/building staff see the same issue. Ask for an ETA and…
What should I do if the AC stops working in my rental?
Don't sit in a 32°C/90°F unit waiting for a callback. Try the 60-second checklist (remote batteries · breaker reset · drain unblock), then…
What should travelers know about hurricane season in Quintana Roo?
Hurricane season runs June 1 – November 30; September-October are peak risk. Most weeks pass uneventfully. The smart play: buy refundable…
Where do I buy a SIM card or eSIM in Mexico as a tourist?
Easiest: Airalo or Holafly eSIM bought before you fly (~$15–25 USD/week unlimited). Cheapest physical SIM: Telcel Amigo at any OXXO ($150…
Where do I buy groceries in Playa del Carmen?
Chedraui Selecto for imports + reliable quality. La Comer for produce + general. Walmart for the cheapest staples. Mercado 28 or Mercado de…
Where do I find an English-speaking doctor or clinic in Playa del Carmen?
For non-emergencies: Hospiten Playa del Carmen has English-speaking staff and most insurance acceptance. Costamed and the International…
Why did the water stop working in my Playa del Carmen rental?
Message your host on-platform immediately with photos. It may be the unit (valve, pump), the building (cistern, pressure), or municipal…
About these answers
Written or fact-checked by our Playa del Carmen operations team. We update entries as ferry schedules, regulations, and vendor lists change.