Playa del Carmen Holidays

Playa del Carmen is a city on the edge of the Caribbean Sea in the Quintana Roo state of Mexico. Originally a small fishing town, the tourism boom has well and truly hit Playa del Carmen and it is a hugely popular destination for any type of traveller.

Playa del Carmen offers world class scuba diving so many of the activities centre around this. Reef Quest Divers are one of the city's best scuba diving instructors and it is well recommended visiting their shop at the famous Parrot Beach Club to see for yourself. A one tank ocean dive will cost around $50 but to get the most out of the activity it is recommended to book more as the individual dive price does come down the more your book. This will also ensure you see the diversity of sea life the Caribbean has to offer as you will dive in different locations each time. If you want to get up close and personal then look into the Whale Shark Tour for your chance to snorkel with these sea giants. It costs $179 but sightings are guaranteed or your money back.

For both diving and snorkelling packages it is worth trying to negotiate the price as there is an abundance of diving services and most will fight for your money.

If you prefer to stay on dry land the self drive Hummer Jungle Tour is perfect. For 129 dollars per person you get eight hours of adventure in the area's best jungle. You will drive to a number of ancient Mayan ruins, home of more than 400 iguanas, swim and snorkel in some of the region's best underground wells, have lunch in the middle of the jungle and visit an interactive zoo to meet and feed the monkeys, snakes, deer and crocodiles. For families with children this is one of Mexico's best attractions.

The nightlife in Playa del Carmen is vibrant and varied. If you want to tread the beaten path the famous Coco Bongo is a unique Cirque de Solei style experience that is well worth a look. Avenida 5th (5th Avenue) is packed with restaurants, cafes, bars, arts and craft galleries and nightclubs for your entertainment. Another tourist favourite is El Alux, a beautiful bar/restaurant and whilst you can have a wonderful evening here it does get extremely busy although the food receives mixed reviews.

If you are a little more adventurous head to Tequila Town for Mexico's national drink, take an authentic mojitos and stogies at the Cuban bar La Casa del Habano before retiring to a beach hammock at The Blue Parrot Club.

Most hotels will run daily shuttle buses to the downtown area but if not then taxis are inexpensive and common. Hiring a car will always enhance your holiday as you can escape the city's confines and Cancun is great day trip out.

With the great activities and variety for any type of visitor on offer it is easy to see why Playa del Carmen is quickly becoming one of Mexico's top holiday destinations.