The once sleepy village of Playa del Carmen doubled twice in population in
the last few years, mainly due to Europeans who discovered the alabaster-white
beaches, gentle surf, coral reefs and slow lifestyle were the equal of the more
expensive island of Cozumel just across the straits.
Playa's dock is the pier for the 'people ferry' to Cozumel, so it's only a
short trip over to snorkel or dive on Cozumel's incredible coral reefs. The
strong foreign influence has created a unique vagabond traveler ambiance.
Numerous outrageously delicious restaurants provide sustenance and several
foreign-owned hotels raise the standards of service to exacting levels.
