Does it cost more if I book my vacation villa or family vacation package through Playa Beach Properties & Rentals?

Absolutely not! We earn our commission from the source, not from our clients. In fact, by working closely with the property owners and managers, we are able to offer special price breaks, discounts and special deals. As a well established company locally based here in Playa del Carmen, we guarantee highly personalized professional service through our knowledgeable bilingual staff. What is Playacar?

Playacar is a resort community connected to the southern edge of Playa del Carmen. The resort has an 18 hole golf course, upscale shopping, aviary, beach and stone paved avenues with tropical landscaping. Playacar Phase I is the residential beachfront section and is adjacent to the town of Playa del Carmen. Phase II is the second development of the private Playacar residential community. Our properties in Playacar Phase II are also within walking distance to town and the beach and are located on or near the golf course.

What documentation do I need to get into Mexico?

You are required to have a passport to enter Mexico, Canada and the USA regardless of your nationality. On the plane, you will be asked to fill out a tourist visa and customs declaration form. The customs official will give you a copy of the tourist visa that you must have to leave Mexico. Please be aware that if you are traveling with a minor, certain strict requirements apply. For additional information, see the US State Department web page: http://travel.state.gov/mexico.html

What do I do upon arrival to the airport?

Once you give your proper documentation to the customs official, you retrieve your luggage. Proceed to the "stoplight." You will be asked to hand over the declaration form and push a button. Green means you pass right through, but if you get the red light, you must open your belongings for inspection. This is usually a casual inspection, so don't let it make you nervous.

Now, where do I get transportation to Playa del Carmen?

You have several options:

1. Airport Shuttle Bus: There is an airport shuttle bus named "PLAYA EXPRESS" which has direct service to and from Playa del Carmen. After passing through immigration and customs, you will see several booths for transport, tours and car rentals. Continue outside and turn right. The buses depart from the far corner of the international airport. There is usually a bus there but if not either ask a porter or just walk over to the bus stand which is right at the end of the front of the terminal.The tickets are approximately $65 pesos per person and the bus has frequent departures. The shuttle bus drops you at the downtown terminal in Playa del Carmen and all of the Playa Beach Rentals properties are just 5 minutes taxi ride away. We've found this to be pleasant transportation option as the buses are clean and air-conditioned.

2. Taxi: Always available, and usually quite expensive.

3. Private transportation from/to Cancun airport: We would be happy to arrange your round trip transportation. We need your flight information at least 48 hours in advance of your arrival date.

4. Rental Car: Easy and convenient. Numerous agencies are available at the airport. Hint: always book the lowest rate you can get in advance, then negotiate from there with any company. You can upgrade at this time but beware of extra charges. We have heard good things about Thrifty. If you are planning on leaving the car in Playa del Carmen instead of Cancun, make sure the agency will let you do this. Renting a car is a good option. You need not book it for your entire stay. You can keep it just for a few days giving you a chance to: buy groceries, take a few excursions on your own, explore the town, etc. 

How can I keep in touch with home by phone or Internet?

There are abundant internet cafes in town as well as public phones. Mobile cell phone service is pretty good in the Riviera Maya area. Some US and Canadian cell phone providers have agreements with Mexican mobile phone companies to provide service to their customers. It is recommended you check with your provider at home regarding activation of this feature on your cell phone. Check with your provider on rates and be aware some additional local charges may be added.

You can call the US with an AT&T card or other calling cards but you must know your international access number. The AT&T number is 95-800-462-4240. The cheapest way is to buy a phone card called Tarjeta Ladatel (sold in stores and pharmacies all over town). They work with almost any pay phone and cost approximately $1.00 per minute. There are also phone/fax stores around Playa del Carmen that will make the call for you. They accept credit cards, but are sometimes quite expensive.

How far is Playa del Carmen from Cancun and other destinations?

Playa del Carmen is very centrally located. It is a quick 40 minute drive to Cancun as well as to the ruins of Tulum. Cozumel Island is a 40 minute ferry ride which currently costs about 120 pesos or approximately $12.00 US. The eco waterpark, Xcaret, is only 5 miles away and the fantastic Xel Ha eco park about 35 miles from Playa del Carmen.

How far are the homes to the beach and downtown Playa del Carmen?

This varies according to the home, but all of our homes are within walking distance to town, the beach and the Playacar Golf Course. Homes in Phase 1 are either on the beach or no further than 200 yards from the water. Phase II homes are all within 400 to 800 yards of the beach.

Is there a good supermarket in town?

There are many supermarkets in town: Sam's, Walmart, Soriana and Comercial Mexicana. There is a supermarket not far from most of our homes, but you might want to take a taxi cab or drive there. Near Sam's, you will find the Chedraui supermarket which is located on the left side of the highway just south of the Juarez Avenue entrance. Chedraui supermarket has just about all you need.... including fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry, bakery, liquor selection, clothing and other goods. There are also mini-supers and bakeries scattered around town.

Are there babysitters or cooks available?

Yes! We would gladly arrange a babysitter or cook at your convenience although we cannot ensure you that their English will be fluent!

Can I drink the water?

All of our homes offer bottled water, which is suggested for use in cooking and drinking purposes. Although the water in Playacar is potable and OK for brushing your teeth, it is best not to take chances.

Are there good doctors available that speak English?

There are good Doctors and Hospitals in town with service 24 hrs. We can also give you the name and phone number of a recommended doctor who will make house calls if needed.

Is there good dining in Playa del Carmen?

We will be glad to give you a list of our favorite restaurants but don't take our word for it! Get out and explore. Dining out is a major part of the nightlife and should be enjoyed as much as possible. Do not be afraid to try even the smallest places. The quality of food does not depend on the price and safe water and ice is used everywhere. Be sure and tell us if you find a "must do" restaurant!

Can you arrange my transportation, diving, excursions, etc.?

We would be more than happy to provide you assistance in any additional service you may wish from jungle tours, personal diving, snorkeling, fishing trips, excursions, etc. Some of these services require reservations or a deposit in advance. Although we cannot be responsible for some services, should you experience any problems we do want to know about it and will assist you.

Can you host larger family, friend or corporate groups?

Yes! Several of our properties are in close proximity to each other and can be combined to accommodate you. Casa Amigos de Corazon, Casa del Mar and Casa Irlanda are three lovely oceanview homes located in Playacar Phase I which can be combined for groups. Casa Miramar, Casa Orilla del Mar, Casa Vista Real, Casa Krusi and Casa Jalach Nah are in Playacar Phase I too and situated very near each other for convenient grouping. Also steps from the ocean, Casa del Sol and Casa Brilla, 2 new, luxurious and spacious homes located next to each other which can accommodate up to 32 people between the both of them! Casa Milagro, Casa la Perla Blanca, Villa Azucena and Casa Palapa are premium homes located in Playacar Phase II which are close to each other and can be rented together to accommodate up to approximately 36 people.

If you prefer even more exclusivity and privacy, the fantastic secluded estate compound in Playa del Secreto consists of several luxury oceanfront villas which together can accommodate up to 42 people and boasts a magnificent 75 foot high thatched palapa where your special event can be held for up to 200! The Hacienda is perfect for family reunions, class reunions, anniversary celebrations or even corporate get togethers.

Whatever the size of your group, Playa Beach Properties & Rentals has the perfect place! Now you and your family can vacation together, but never feel crowded. Call us and BOOK Today! You and your family can vacation together, but not feel crowded. Ideal for those family reunions!

When should I change money to pesos?

There is a Casa de Cambio (Money Exchange) at the Cancun International Airport. You may want to change a small amount upon arrival: however, don’t worry too much about money or changing your money. The dollar is widely welcomed, ATM’s are easily reached and give you the best exchange rate possible for withdrawing cash from your foreign checking account, and Visa and Mastercard are almost universally accepted as well. Note that American Express is not widely accepted nor is the Discover card. The days of travelers checks and changing your money before hand are long gone, so let that be one less worry for you.