Echando Raíces Podcast

Playa del Carmen: From a Charming Fishing Village to a World-Class Destination. EP2 (Part 2)

• Eduardo Vales

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This podcast episode explores Playa del Carmen's transformation from a fishing village into a major global destination, highlighting its strategic location within the Riviera Maya. The hosts discuss how improved connectivity, thanks to multiple international airports and the new Tren Maya, fuels tourism and real estate investment. They also emphasize the region's diverse attractions, including theme parks like Xcaret, unique cenotes (underground rivers), vibrant beach clubs, and the bustling Fifth Avenue with its wide range of gastronomic offerings. The episode concludes by reiterating Playa del Carmen's appeal as a promising real estate investment opportunity due to its rapid growth and increasing international interest.

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Coming soon: TikTok & YouTube

Welcome to Echando Raices!

Alexa:

Imagine this. You're standing somewhere, maybe you can hear the Caribbean breeze. And there are these, uh, whispers of ancient Mayan culture all around you. Then you turn a corner and bam, you're on this bustling street packed with people, shops, music just steps away from a beautiful beach. Now picture this. Just a few decades ago, that exact spot, it was basically just a sleepy little fishing village. Hard to believe, right? But that quiet spot has exploded. It's transformed into one of the most dynamic, seriously fast growing destinations on the entire planet. Millions of visitors, huge international investment that everyone is the incredible story of Playa del Carmen today. Welcome to the Deep Dive. Today our mission is, well, it's to get past those glossy travel photos. We've gathered a ton of sources, really comprehensive articles, some cutting edge research, plus our own notes from being there to explore exactly how Playa Del Carmen pulled off this amazing transformation'cause it's way more than just a pretty beach town. It's strategically vital, it's expanding like crazy, and it truly is the heart of the Riviera May.

Bob:

And that's what we're here to unpack for you. We want to give you insights that, you know, go beyond the surface level. We'll carefully look at not just what changed in Playa del Carmen, but maybe more importantly, why those changes are so significant, why they matter for tourism globally, for investment flowing in and crucially for the local communities living there. You'll see how it all weaves together, the, uh, infrastructure, the amazing natural beauty, the culture, and this like forward thinking, economic vision that really fueled it all.

Alexa:

Okay, so what's on the agenda for this journey? We'll look at Playa's incredible connectivity, how easy it is to get there now. It's got this unique mix of like accessible options, but also real luxury. We'll talk about the world class attractions, sustainable theme parks, those mystical cenotes, you name it. Then there's the iconic Fifth Avenue, that vibrant energy and a surprisingly sophisticated food scene that's even getting global awards now, and all of this builds up to why it's become such a hotspot for investment.

Bob:

Yeah. By the end of this, you'll really have a shortcut to understanding this whole growth story. You know, seeing the dynamics shaping global travel, shaping real estate. It's a prime example of how Vision Plus Smart development can turn a small village into, well, a global player. Let's dive in,

Alexa:

Right? So when we talk about this incredible change in Playa del Carmen, we absolutely have to start with connectivity. It's fundamental, it's the lifeblood, really for any destination wanting to play on the world stage. And Playa has just plugged itself in, in a really, um, almost shocking way. And the first piece of that puzzle has to be the airports. It's become a real powerhouse.

Bob:

That's the perfect place to begin. The Cancun International Airport, CUN. As everyone knows, it isn't just an airport, it is without question, the main gateway for this whole region. It holds the title of the second most important, second busiest airport in all of Mexico.

Alexa:

Yeah.

Bob:

That alone tells you the sheer volume of people passing through.

Alexa:

Mm.

Bob:

If you've flown in recently, you've felt it.

Alexa:

Oh, you definitely have our sources describe it so well, saying things like you can't even get through. You're in the waiting area and obviously there's no place to sit. Right? Yeah. There's just no way.

Bob:

Yeah,

Alexa:

And that's not hyperbole. It's just the reality of the overwhelming demand day in, day out. You see the expansion happening constantly for terminals humming with activity, and they're building a fifth right now,

Bob:

right.

Alexa:

Just trying to keep up with this massive flow of. People from all over the world and that volume, it creates this huge economic ripple effect. You see it everywhere. Tour operators, little artisan shops popping up, training programs, thousands of jobs.

Bob:

Its importance really can't be overstated. It's the primary gateway for international travelers, especially coming from North America and Europe.

Alexa:

Mm.

Bob:

Actually one whole terminal is dedicated just to international flights, which helps streamline things a bit. And when you hear figures like over 2 million visitors during high seasons coming just through CUN, you grasp the scale of the economic injection that provides, it fuels growth everywhere.

Alexa:

But interestingly, CUN isn't the whole story anymore. And this is where Playa Del Carmen's location gets really strategic. Just a couple of years back, a completely new international airport opened up shop Tulums. Felipe Carillo Porto International Airport.

Bob:

Yes, and its location is absolutely key With Tulums Airport now operational Playa del Carmen finds itself literally positioned smack dab in the middle of two major international airports. Think about it, you're roughly 50 kilometers, maybe 31 miles from Cancun Airport to your north, and then about 76 kilometers or 47 miles from the new Tulum airport to your south.

Alexa:

Wow. Right in the middle.

Bob:

Exactly. This dual airport access fundamentally changes Playa's role. It becomes this strategic city in the Riviera May. It makes travel smoother. Less friction for visitors heading south, but still easy access to Cancun's offerings. And for investors, it broadens their market reach, makes it super convenient whether their clients want the buzz up north or the Sheik five down south,

Alexa:

And it doesn't stop there as if two international airports weren't enough proof of this connectivity boom. We often forget about a third crucial point, which adds another layer. Cozumel International Airport, it's on the island. Just a quick ferry right away.

Bob:

That's a really good point to bring up. Yes, it involves a ferry, but Cozumel brings in a significant number of direct flights itself, primarily from the US and Canada, plus some key domestic flights within Mexico. It acts as another important entry point, especially maybe for divers. I. Cruise passengers or people wanting that island feel before hitting the mainland. So you've got this multi-pronged air access. It makes the whole tourism infrastructure incredibly robust. Very resilient.

Alexa:

Okay, so we've got the air covered, but then there's another huge piece, something relatively new that's really changing the game on the ground. I'm talking about the Tren Maya. The Mayan train, it just recently opened, and it adds this whole other dimension of connectivity. Fora Playa del Carmen. It feels like a real game changer.

Bob:

Oh, absolutely. It's impact is designed to be really multifaceted. Mm-hmm. It benefits tourists, residents, and investors. For tourists. It's not just cheaper. Sometimes it's convenient. It links the big hubs, Cancun, Playa, Tulum. Mm-hmm. But also connects them to smaller, culturally rich towns. Inland. So suddenly you can plan these multi-stop trips without needing a rental car or juggling butt schedules, right? This is expected to really boost weekend tourism, you know, shorter stays'cause it opens up areas that were harder to reach before people can explore deeper into the peninsula. I.

Alexa:

It's not just about tourists getting around easier. It also means, like you said, better commutes, better transportation for the thousands who live and work there. Think about it, someone might not be able to afford rent and Playa, but now they could potentially live in a nearby town, maybe Leono Rio or Shamu, commute in for work on the train and head home at night.

Bob:

Exactly.

Alexa:

That supports a wider workforce and makes things maybe a bit more equitable.

Bob:

Absolutely. And from an investment angle, the train literally opens up new areas for investment all along its route across the region. Plus there's a strong belief it will increase the length of stays for tourists. Why? Because now it's easier to explore new areas focusing on Mayan culture. Archeological sites, yes. But also contemporary communities.

Alexa:

Hmm,.

Bob:

It encourages a deeper dive, a richer cultural immersion, and importantly, it spreads the economic benefits. Those previously maybe forgotten little towns along the train line, get a piece of the tourism pie. New opportunities for local shops, artisans.

Alexa:

Okay, let's step back and connect these dots. What we're seeing here in play Del Carmen is this like fully integrated mobility network taking shape. Mobility access, it's always been key for any successful destination. Right, right, right. And now Playa has not one, but two international airports close by a modern train line, slicing through, and a very, very safe highway linking everything up. It's a perfect triangle of access.

Bob:

Precisely. This integrated system gives it a unique advantage. Very few places can match this level of combined access. It makes p Playa del Carmen more connected than ever, not just within the region, but globally. It cements its position as that strategic hub for the whole Riviera May. So the growth we're expecting, it's not just growth, it's likely to be exponential in the coming years. Really driven by this strong foundation. Yeah, that kind of seamless accessibility is like a magnet for tourists and for investment. It really reinforces its dynamic, future focused image.

Alexa:

So this amazing connectivity isn't just about making it easy to get there. It's about what that access unlocks. It really solidifies Playa del Carmen's role, as you called it, the versatile heart of the Riviera May. It's not just a stopover, it's the core.

Bob:

That's exactly it, because it's literally the heart of the Riviera Maya. Yeah. Geographically speaking, it has this incredibly privileged spot. It sits almost perfectly. In the middle, you've got the high energy of Cancun up north, the more, uh, bohemian vibe of Tulum down south and Playa is about 50 minutes drive from each. That central spot isn't just about miles. It's fundamental to why it appeals to so many different people. I. It's the perfect launchpad.

Alexa:

And here's where it gets really interesting. I think that central location, let's playa offer this incredibly complete, diverse package. Whatever you're looking for, it's probably here. You've got history literally woven into the city. You can see ruins even in residential areas. You can see ruins on Fifth Avenue.

Bob:

Mm.

Alexa:

They're not just fenced off sites miles away. They're right. There little altars and parks remnants tucked to between in modern buildings. Then there's the amazing nature. We'll get into a super vibrant culture, that diverse food scene, and just nonstop options for fun or relaxation. It's like a mini version of everything the region offers all in one place.

Bob:

That variety leads directly to another really unique, compelling thing about Playa.

Alexa:

Yeah.

Bob:

It somehow manages to cater to every wallet. Yeah. It's pretty remarkable actually how wide the spectrum of tourism is. It makes it feel welcoming. I. To basically everyone,

Alexa:

just think about the range, right? You could have a recent college grad. Maybe it's their first big trip after getting a job, they scrape together enough for a flight to Playa. They might stay in a nice, clean hostel, hit the free public beaches, eat amazing cheap street tacos, maybe swim in an open cenote that doesn't cost much,

Bob:

Right.

Alexa:

They have an incredible time. Make memories all on a budget. But then walking down the same street, you'll see a high flying businessman from the US or Europe. Maybe they're on a Lunchie retreat wanting that exclusive beachfront five star resort experience with gourmet meals and private boat trips. Playa offers that too.

Bob:

And that's exactly, its unique appeal and frankly, its resilience. Regardless of your budget, it feels like there's a type of tourism for every wallet here in the Riviera Maya. This broad appeal helps keep visitor numbers steady and supports that sustained growth. It's not just banking on one type of traveler who's spending might fluctuate.

Alexa:

Good point.

Bob:

It's built to welcome everyone, which fosters that really vibrant, diverse feel You get there.

Alexa:

Tied into that. Tourism for every wallet idea is this really fascinating local price dynamic you find in Playa. It's different from some other spots in the region where maybe everything feels geared towards international tourists and prices are uniformly high. Playa has this interesting blend.

Bob:

That's a critical difference. Yes, you can absolutely find very high end, expensive things, fancy restaurants, craft cocktails, designer shops, exclusive tours, but just a few blocks off the main tourist drag. You can easily find what the locals call for. Locals places, and these spots offer infinitely more accessible prices without sacrificing quality.

Alexa:

Yeah.

Bob:

You know, amazing little taqueria serving authentic food for a fraction of the tourist price or small family run places with traditional ukti conditions.

Alexa:

Yeah, those hidden gems.

Bob:

Exactly. That duality is a really distinct and frankly, cherished part of Playa's character.

Alexa:

I remember years ago when I first visited, there was this quirky system that really showed this dynamic. Too many restaurants used to have two different menus.

Bob:

Oh yeah, I remember that. With

Alexa:

two different price points, either in dollars or pesos, or maybe it changed depending on the season.

Bob:

Mm-hmm.

Alexa:

Sometimes the waiters would kind of quietly offer to exchange your dollars for pesos so you could pay the peso menu price.'Cause it usually ended up being way cheaper. It was a, a unique part of the experience.

Bob:

It really speaks to how quickly the place evolved, kind of organically trying to balance local life with this boing international tourism.

Alexa:

Yeah.

Bob:

Now those specific dual menus. Maybe not as common anymore, but the idea evolved into different kinds of local discounts.

Alexa:

Yeah.

Bob:

Originally the deal was if you are officially a resident of Quintana Roo State, you showed your id, you got discount maybe 10%, sometimes more on tours, restaurants, park entries.

Alexa:

But even that system has gotten super specific. Now it's kind of wild and some places nearby like Cancun or Isla Mujeres, it's not enough just to be a Quintana Roo resident anymore. Your ID has to show you live in that specific town.

Bob:

Right?

Alexa:

So if your ID isn't from Cancun, you might not get the Cancun discount in Cancun on Isla Mujeres. You pretty much have to be from Isla Mujeres.

Bob:

Very granular now.

Alexa:

Yeah. Really targeted to benefit the immediate local residents.

Bob:

Indeed. And while. You know, some smaller independent places imPlaya, I might still give you a little discount if you just ask nicely. This overall pricing structure where you can easily find both luxury and high quality affordable auctions side by side really contributes to, Playa's broad appeal and its unique identity. I. It definitely sets it apart from other nearby destinations that might feel more uniformly expensive. It helps keep it accessible, keeps it welcoming to a wider range of people, both visitors and residents. That blend is a big reason why Playa keeps thriving and has such a strong local community feeling alongside the tourism boom.

Alexa:

This mix of accessibility and diverse offerings, it leads us perfectly into talking about the attractions themselves, the really unique, unforgettable things that define Play Ade Carmen, because this place offers a world of things to do that goes way beyond just gorgeous beaches and blue water. I.

Bob:

Absolutely.

Alexa:

Mm-hmm.

Bob:

The region has this incredibly rich tapestry of attractions.

Alexa:

Mm-hmm.

Bob:

You've got pioneering sustainable theme parks. You've got these mystical natural wonders, a social scene that's always buzzing and changing. And of course, that iconic pedestrian avenue, that's like the city's heartbeat.

Alexa:

Mm-hmm.

Bob:

Each one offers something different and together they create Playa's. Multifaceted charm.

Alexa:

Let's kick off with something truly visionary. Something that has fundamentally shaped entertainment in the whole Riviera May. The Xcaret group. This isn't just a bunch of theme parks. It's like a leader in sustainable fun, a model for doing tourism, right? Sources say they have almost 10 parks now. US strategically located just minutes from downtown playa right there on the coast.

Bob:

And the variety within those parks is just astounding. They really cover all bases, every aid group, every interest. You have Xcaret Park itself, the original, very family focused offering, this great mix of Mexican culture and nature spectacular shows. And that night show is famous. Yeah. Then there's Xel-Ha, which is this incredible natural water park, which great for snorkeling, floating down Lee Rivers, exploring lagoons. For the adrenaline junkies Xplorer has zip lines over the jungle. Canopy, amphibious vehicles. You can drive swimming through underground rivers.

Alexa:

Sounds intense.

Bob:

It is. And then there's Rio Secreto. That's an experience unlike any other, exploring this stunning underground river and cave system. It's associated with National Geographic, this massive cave network, almost 50 kilometers, like 31 miles, and it's right near the edge of the city. It gives you this intimate look at the geology.

Alexa:

What's truly amazing and what really makes Xcaret stand out is the person behind it all the vision. Miguel Quintana Pali, the founder who apparently used to joke that only governments and crazy people build park Dolf.

Bob:

Yes, that's his famous line.

Alexa:

His foresight, his, uh, audacity really has turned Xcaret into a massive economic engine for the entire region. What was it about his vision specifically beyond just building parks that made it so powerful?

Bob:

That's a great question. His vision wasn't just about building attractions in isolation. It was about weaving them into the natural and cultural fabric so deePlaya that they created this like self-sustaining ecosystem for development. Mm. For example, really early on, he bought up huge amounts of land, not just for the parks, but strategically to protect the surrounding jungle and the synnott. Right? Very smart. That protected the long-term environmental quality of the experience, which in turn. Attracted tourists who value that, right? It kind of set the standard for responsible tourism there. Plus, Xcaret invests heavily in the community, employing thousands of locals, training them, sourcing locally. It creates this deep economic ripple far beyond just the park gates.

Alexa:

I. It really strikes me. The Xcaret model, it feels like Playa's version of Disney maybe, but so focused on nature and authentic culture. How would you compare its approach, especially on sustainability to a more traditional theme park?

Bob:

That's a key difference. These parks are certified sustainable parks. They have a real measurable focus on minimizing environmental impact. Unlike, say, a traditional park in the US where they might clear huge areas and build everything from scratch, totally reshaping the land. Execute. It's whole philosophy is about an adventure in the jungle. The idea is to integrate with nature, make the environment part of the park, not something to pave over, right? They recycle water, protect native plants and animals. They even have breeding programs for endangered species like Scarlet Macau. It's this unique blend of culture, nature, adventure, proving large scale tourism can work with conservation.

Alexa:

And it's fascinating that the land Excu sits on. Was originally a Mayan community, right? A historical port. Yes. There's that famous ruin, the Blue House, which was apparently a spiritual jumping off point for ancient Mayan sea voyages. That's correct. The layers of history there are just incredible. No wonder Xcaret is seen as this model company globally for sustainable tourism.

Bob:

It really is. It's become a benchmark for how you can leverage heritage and ecology for economic development, but do it responsibly.

Alexa:

But the region's wonders aren't just manmade, even sustainably made ones. Playa and the Riviera may are famous for these completely unique natural formations. The Cenotes.

Bob:

Ah yes, the Cenotes. They are truly stunning and, uh. Spiritually very powerful places. Essentially, there's spots where the limestone bedrock has collapsed revealing these vast underground river systems filled with crystal clear freshwater estimates suggest there are four to 5,000 soots just in the Yucatan Peninsula. Many are still hidden, undiscovered. It's this secret. Interconnected water world beneath the jungle.

Alexa:

Wow. Four to 5,000. Yeah.

Bob:

It's incredible. They offer these unique underground freshwater rivers, cool water. Proving Playa is way more than just beach and sand. It's a portal to another realm almost.

Alexa:

And they're not all the same. Right? There's a lot of variety in the experience.

Bob:

Definitely you have open cenotes, which are like natural swimming pools open to the sky. They get more sunlight, so you see amazing biodiversity fish turtles, lush plants around the edges. They feel like jungle oasis perfect for spending a day swimming and relaxing. Then you have the closed cenotes. These are more cavernous underground chambers. The experience there is more mysterious exploring stalagmites stalactites swimming in these echoing crystal clear pools. Very different vibe.

Alexa:

What's great is how close they are. You don't need a massive expedition to see them.

Bob:

Exactly. Many are right near playa, especially in Theto area, just west of the main town, or just a short drive away, maybe 15 minutes, maybe 40 minutes tops, so they're perfect for a half day trip. You can easily escape into this serene, natural beauty without spending hours traveling.

Alexa:

Okay, but here's where it gets really interesting for me. The Mayan spiritual connection.

Bob:

Ah, yes. Profoundly important.

Alexa:

For the ancient Mayans. Cates weren't just water sources. They were sacred, believed to be the gateway to the underworld Xibalba, they called it

Bob:

correct Xibalba.

Alexa:

They were deePlaya spiritual sites used for ritual ceremonies making offerings. They represented this union between two worlds. The world of the living and the realm of gods and ancestors. Hmm. Knowing that just adds this incredible layer of depth and mystery when you visit one, it transforms a swim into something much more profound. A connection to ancient beliefs.

Bob:

Absolutely. It's not just a pretty swimming spot, it's touching a living piece of cosmology.

Alexa:

Okay. Moving from nature and history to the social pulse of Playa. The beach clubs, they're such a central part of the fun, the vibe, the place to disconnect and kick back.

Bob:

They really are. Beach clubs typically offer everything you need for a full day by the sea. Easy ocean access, usually nice pools too. Plenty of food and drinks, music, often live DJs and just this great relaxed but lively atmosphere and the way most of them work economically is pretty smart. You usually pay an entrance fee or a minimum consumption fee, right? The

Alexa:

cover charge.

Bob:

Exactly, but that fee often gets credited back to you to spend on food and drinks. So it ends up being a pretty cost effective way to hang out on prime beachfront all day with chairs, umbrellas, service, the whole nine yards.

Alexa:

And Playa has some truly legendary beach clubs. Everyone knows Mamitas Beach Club. It's iconic, but the story behind the name. Is kind of surprising. Our sources say it's named after the owner's grandmother's nickname. Maita

Bob:

Chuckles.

Alexa:

Yeah.

Bob:

Not what most people assume.

Alexa:

Not Mamacitas. The sweet little piece of local history there. Then there's Coralina Beach Club, which became instantly famous or maybe infamous after that Lady Coralina incident went viral, really shows this sometimes wild side of play is party scene.

Bob:

You've got long standing places like Martina Beach Club and Mandarino Beach Club that are still major players known for their big parties and great locations. They consistently draw crowds.

Alexa:

But one that seems to be really evolving and trying to appeal broadly right now is Fragata Beach Club. They're aiming for all audiences, offering this really diverse schedule like they have bachata classes, ladies nights, these trendy ice bath immersions.

Bob:

Oh wow. Ice baths.

Alexa:

Yeah, and morning yoga. All alongside really good food and drinks. It shows how these clubs aren't just static party spots. They adapt. They offer wellness different kinds of experiences. They really contribute to that dynamic diverse social feel of Playa.

Bob:

It highlights that local entrepreneurial spirit always innovating to capture different segments of the visitor market.

Alexa:

Now, we absolutely positively cannot talk about Playa del Carmen without dedicating serious time to its pulsating heart, its soul. Fifth Avenue La Quinta Avenida.

Bob:

You really can't. It's the lifeline. It's of five kilometers, roughly three miles long, and the key thing is it's almost entirely pedestrian and it runs perfectly parallel to the beach. The city planning was quite clever. All roads in Playa del Carmen lead you to the beach. Fifth Avenue is just a hundred meters, about 330 feet back from the sand. So you can effortlessly stroll between beach relaxation and the buzz of the avenue. That transition is seamless.

Alexa:

It's so much more than just a shopping street, though. You described it as a microcosm of experiences with different micro spots and microclimates catering to all tastes. What does that actually feel like when you're walking it?

Bob:

It means that. Along those 50 odd blocks, the vibe changes distinctly. One section might be quieter, more bohemian filled with little artisan boutiques, local craft shops. Then you walk a bit further and the energy ramps up. You hit the big international brands, buzzing bars, maybe more upscale restaurants. Further still, you might find more family oriented places or even surprisingly calm stretches with lush little gardens. There are zones perfect for just sitting at a cafe and people watching areas for serious retail therapy, local and global, and just an incredible range of places to eat and drink every few blocks. It feels a little different. Offer something new.

Alexa:

Yeah. The food scene just on Fifth Avenue alone is mind blowing. You can grab a Markita, that crispy creep thing from a street cart for next to nothing, or you can sit down for a super sophisticated multi-course meal at a high-end restaurant. You've got quiet romantic spots, and then you've got places with live bands, dancing people bringing out birthday cakes with sparklers. That variety is, maybe it's greatest strength, always something for whatever mood you're in.

Bob:

And it really functions as the city's main social plaza. It's where people gather for big celebrations. Kinda like the Abaco in Buenos Aires apparently. Yeah. It's just alive constantly from early morning coffee seekers right through to the late night revelers, locals, tourists, everyone mixes there.

Alexa:

What makes it so usable, I think, is that walkability. Being almost entirely pedestrian means you really don't need a car. Once you're in Playa. Mm-hmm. You can just wander those 50 blocks, pop into shops, grab a drink, have dinner, maybe wander down a side street that leads directly to a beach club right on the sand.

Bob:

Yeah. Some connect right through.

Alexa:

It encourages this relaxed, immersive, car free experience. You just soak it all in at your own pace.

Bob:

So moving beyond the main drags and the big attractions Playa's, food scene in general deserves its own spotlight. It's become truly impressive. Another major draw.

Alexa:

Absolutely right. It's not just concentrated on Fifth Avenue anymore. You find incredible restaurants. Tucked away in unique, really captivating settings. Imagine dining inside a natural cave surrounded by ancient rock formations. There are places like that, or even astonishingly restaurants built inside a cenote. The ambiance is just unparalleled, totally mystical. And the food itself, high level international cuisine, yes. Incredible fresh seafood as you'd expect by the coast, but also crucially fantastic regional Mayan and Yucatecan food that gives you a real taste of the local culture.

Bob:

Okay. You mentioned regional Mayan or Yucatecan food. Give us a couple of must try dishes. If someone visits, what should be on their list?

Alexa:

Oh, definitely. You absolutely have to try coan people. It's slow roasted pork marinated in a Jeep paste and sour orange juice wrapped in banana leaves traditionally cooked underground in a pit oven or pib. Served with pickled red onions. It's incredible. Sounds amazing. Then there are Papa Azule. These are unique corn tortillas dipped in a creamy pumpkin seed sauce filled with chopped hard-boiled eggs, sometimes topped with a tomato sauce, very distinct flavor for something. Lighter soap of the lima lime soup. It's a tangy chicken broth with shredded chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and that unmistakable lime kick. So refreshing. Hmm. And maybe for a street food snack, especially on Fifth Avenue, grab a Maquecita. It's that thin, crispy rolled crepe, usually filled with edom cheese. That salty sweet combo is key, but you can get it with Nutella or kata too. These dishes really show the amazing blend of indigenous ingredients in Spanish influences in Yu could take in cooking.

Bob:

And all this culinary development leads us to something huge, a real badge of honor for the region. Michelin Guide recognition. That's massive. The Riviera Maya, including Playa snagged three Michelin stars just this year. It is massive, and what's truly fascinating is how fast this happened. You know, Playa isn't Paris or Rome, or even Mexico City with its deep culinary traditions. It's a relatively new destination. So for it to gain Michelin stars. Already really highlights that exponential growth we keep talking about. It shows its ability to cater to a very sophisticated high-end market. Especially impressive when you remember. The area's only really been developing for less than 50 years and Playa itself maybe 30. Yet here we are with world class dining. It often involves using amazing local ingredients, blending Mayan traditions with modern international techniques. It's also a sign of serious investment in culinary talent, bringing in top chefs who then train and inspire locals.

Alexa:

And the specific restaurants that got the stars. There's"HA" located in one of the Xcaret hotels, known for its elegant take on Mexican food. There's"Cocina de Autor" at the Grand Velas Resort. Famous for its artistic tasting menus. And"Le Chique", which is technically in Puerto Morelos, just north of Playa Helmed by the amazing chef Jonathan Gomez Luna it's renowned for really avant-garde experimental stuff.

Bob:

Mm-hmm. That kind of recognition truly elevates playa beyond just sun and sand. It makes it a serious foodie destination.

Alexa:

So we've covered connectivity, attractions, culture, food. Let's wrap up by looking at the final huge piece of the puzzle. The real estate boom. This isn't just a side effect, it's become a major attraction in itself for investors. It clearly shows Playa offers way more than just a vacation. It's a place people see a future in.

Bob:

Indeed. And the growth here is being driven by a powerful mix of factors. You've got massive domestic investment, both private developers and public projects. Like the trend mile we discussed. That's huge, but. Equally important, maybe even more so in recent years, is the flood of foreign investment.

Alexa:

Where's that coming from? Mainly.

Bob:

Primarily North America. Lots of Americans and Canadians buying second homes, vacation rentals for income or places to retire, but also. A very significant amount from Europe, particularly Spain, due to cultural links and seeing strong potential returns.

Alexa:

And you see the physical evidence everywhere, don't you? Nonstop construction everywhere. Innovative residential projects, luxury resorts going up, championship golf courses being carved out, new shopping centers appearing along the highway and spreading inland, it reflects the population boom too. Mm-hmm. Playa del Carmen now has over 300,000 permanent residents. That's a huge number for a place that was tiny not long ago.

Bob:

Astonishing growth.

Alexa:

And on top of that, it hosts more than 2 million visitors during high seasons. That creates this constant, massive demand for places to stay, things to do services.

Bob:

And if we put this into perspective. Play is still relatively speaking, a very young destination, only about 30 years into his major growth spurt. So even though real estate values have appreciated significantly already, the consensus among experts is that it's really just getting started.

Alexa:

Still has room to grow.

Bob:

Absolutely. The global market is hungry for exactly what Playa offers. That blend of lifestyle, nature, accessibility, and investment potential, all signs point to many more years of appreciation and sustained growth. But like the vision needed for Xcaret successful investment here requires foresight. Understanding the long-term trends, the fact that it consistently attracts national, state, and significant foreign investment. That's a very strong signal about its robust and promising future.

Alexa:

So the why. Behind Playa's explosion seems much clearer now. It's not just luck. It's this deliberate combination of strategic vision, leveraging incredible natural gifts, and fostering this really dynamic mix of culture, business, and just unbeatable access. It really is a compelling story of modern development.

Bob:

Wow. What an incredible journey we've taken today. Really digging into Playa Del Carmen's journey from that quiet fishing village to this. Global powerhouse. We've seen how all the pieces fit together, that amazing connectivity, the sheer diversity of attractions for everyone. The vibrant culture, the smart investment, that award-winning food scene, it all intertwines to create something truly unique, resilient. Globally significant.

Alexa:

It's such a powerful living case study. It shows how everything intertwines, history, Mayan culture, smart, visionary investment and irreplaceable nature to transform a place. Mm. You can really see the impact of strategic vision and like we discussed the potential for continued growth and appreciation. It feels immense. It's a fascinating model for development really. So as you our listener, think about everything we've discussed today, here's a final thought to chew on.

Bob:

Given this incredibly rapid, multifaceted growth fueled by both big investment and this deep connection to its natural and cultural roots, what lessons can we learn from Playa del Carmen's transformation? What does it tell us about sustainable development and what global tourism might look like in the 21st century? Lots to consider there.

Alexa:

And we're definitely not done with this topic. In our very next deep dive, we're gonna zoom in specifically on Playa del Carmen as a real estate investment opportunity. We'll get into the nitty gritty appreciation trends, potential return on investment, key factors to consider if you're thinking about buying property there. And also keep an eye out everyone. We're launching a brand new digital newsletter very soon. Thank you so much for joining us on this exploration today. This was the deep dive where we aim to bring you valuable information to help you make informed decisions, especially when it comes to real estate. Because remember, it's those well-informed choices that truly help you put down strong roots.

People on this episode

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Bruno Rovea

Co-host
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Guillermo Teyseyre

Co-host
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Laura Contreras

Co-host
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Marcos Perdomo

Co-host
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Miguel Rocha

Co-host
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Pedro Arbizu

Co-host
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Rocío Pérez

Co-host
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Eduardo Vales

Producer