Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World had been on my bucket list for years, and when the opportunity finally came for a 5-day, 4-night adventure, I couldn’t wait to dive into the magic of Mexico’s Riviera Maya and check this off my bucket list. From cenote explorations to a flying dress photoshoot on the beach, every moment was unforgettable. If you’ve been dreaming about this tropical escape, let me take you on a journey to fun, relaxation and adventure through my personal experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Cancun and the Charm of Playa del Carmen
We landed in Cancun in the early afternoon, the humid air welcoming us as we disembarked from our quick 1-1/2 hr flight from Fort Lauderdale. Grabbing our bags and navigating the lively airport, our private transfer was ready to whisk us off to Playa del Carmen. The drive took just under an hour, with the sparkling Caribbean Sea occasionally peeking through the palm trees.
Once we arrived, we checked into our boutique hotel called La Pasion de Bunik, nestled in the heart of Playa del Carmen. The rooms had a charming blend of Mexican decor and modern comforts, and the staff made us feel right at home. Antonio our concierge made sure that all our questions were answered and gave us suggestions for dinner.
By evening, we were ready to explore the famed 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida). This vibrant pedestrian street was alive with music, colorful shops, and the aroma of authentic Mexican cuisine wafting from nearby restaurants. We settled on a cozy open-air spot for dinner, indulging in fresh guacamole and chips, tender cochinita pibil, and ice-cold margaritas. As the night unfolded, we strolled down the avenue, soaking in the lively energy and dreaming about the adventures to come.
Day 2: Cenotes, Chichén Itzá, and Valladolid’s Tequila Magic
Day two began early with an excursion that promised natural wonders, ancient history, and a taste of Mexican culture.
Our first stop was Cenote Suytun, a breathtaking underground sinkhole with a stone platform that seemed to float on the water. As sunlight streamed through the opening above, the cenote looked like something out of a fantasy movie. We took our time snapping photos and even braved the chilly waters for a quick swim.
Next, it was off to Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Standing in front of the iconic El Castillo pyramid, I was awestruck by the ingenuity and history of the Mayan civilization. Our guide shared fascinating stories about its purpose as an astronomical calendar and its role in ancient rituals. As a construction professional I was awestruck and fascinated by the precision of the engineering of this monument.
After immersing ourselves in history, we cooled off at Cenote Chichikan, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. Swimming in its crystal-clear waters was the perfect way to recharge before heading to Valladolid, a charming colonial town. Here, some of our friends enjoyed a tequila-tasting experience, learning about the intricate process of making Mexico’s beloved spirit. After sipping on several varieties, we walked around the square checking out the local Church from the colonial era. We left with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle and the beauty of this small town.
As we returned to Playa del Carmen that evening, the memories of the day’s adventures left me both exhilarated and exhausted as we journeyed 2-1/2 hrs back to Playa Del Carmen.
Day 3: Mystical Caves and Tulum’s Coastal Ruins
The highlight of day three was undoubtedly the Rio Secreto underground cave tour. Equipped with helmets and headlamps, we descended into the cavern, greeted by a world of shimmering stalactites and stalagmites. This adventure brought out my fears with swimming in springs or rivers. (A story for another time).
Walking carefully along slippery paths, wading through turquoise waters, and swimming through the more profound sections felt like stepping into another world and had me holding my breath most of the way. Some of our friends opted to end the tour early due to claustrophobia and other fears of being underground. The cave's silence was only broken by the occasional drip of water, adding to the daunting atmosphere. It was equal parts thrilling and scary to experience nature’s hidden masterpiece.
After emerging back into daylight, we enjoyed a delicious lunch of traditional Mexican dishes before heading to the Tulum ruins. Set against the backdrop of the turquoise sea, the ruins were a stark contrast to Chichén Itzá but equally impressive. Exploring the ancient cliffside city while feeling the ocean breeze was a serene and educational experience.
By evening, we were ready for a hearty meal at a local restaurant back in Playa del Carmen. Thankfully there was a outdoor market of food and art taking place in the plaza across from our hotel so we ventured to see what goodies were instore.
Fresh tacos and a plate of churros for dessert made the perfect ending to a full and satisfying day.
Day 4: Rest, Relaxation, and Retail Therapy
After three jam-packed days, day four was a much-needed opportunity to recharge. We slept in, enjoying the comfort of our hotel room, and spent the day lounging by the pool. With a good book in one hand and a refreshing cocktail in the other, I finally felt like I was on vacation.
As the sun began to set, we ventured back to 5th Avenue for a relaxed evening. This time, we browsed the eclectic shops, picking up souvenirs like handcrafted jewelry, colorful textiles, and locally made chocolates. Dinner that night was at another lively spot along the avenue, where the lively mariachi band added an extra touch of joy to the evening.
Day 5: A Flying Dress Photoshoot and Farewell
Our final morning started with an experience I’ll never forget: a flying dress photoshoot on the beach. With the Caribbean as our backdrop, I felt like a goddess as the flowing fabric of the dress caught the breeze. The photographer guided us through each pose, and by the end of the session, I couldn’t wait to see the results.
After the photoshoot, we returned to the hotel to pack our bags. It was bittersweet to leave, but as we headed to the airport, I couldn’t help but reflect on how much we had experienced in just five days.
Reflections and Tips for Your Playa del Carmen Getaway
Playa del Carmen offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Here are a few tips to make your trip as unforgettable as mine:
Plan Excursions in Advance: Popular tours like Chichén Itzá and Rio Secreto book up quickly. Reserve your spots early to avoid disappointment.
Pack for Variety: Bring comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear for cenotes and beaches, and casual outfits for evenings out.
Stay Hydrated: The tropical heat can be intense, so always carry water with you.
Embrace Local Cuisine: Don’t shy away from trying new dishes – the flavors of the Yucatán are incredible.
My Playa del Carmen escape was exactly the break I needed to reset, and refresh. and I left with cherished memories and a plan to return to continue my exploration of this gem of the Yucatan peninsular. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or someone who simply wants to unwind by the sea, this destination has something for everyone. Until next time, Playa! 🌴
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