Family Adventure in Playa del Carmen

Sensory Overload in Playa del Carmen

Today was a day dedicated to challenging our perceptions and indulging in the vibrant culture of Playa del Carmen. From the topsy-turvy world of Xenses Park por Xcaret to the exquisite flavors of local cuisine, it was an adventure for all the senses. The kids were especially excited, and Fatoumata and I were eager to join in the fun. It's moments like these that remind me why we started this travel blog – to share our family's experiences and inspire others to step outside their comfort zones.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Yum Yum, a place recommended for its eclectic menu. It was a great start to fuel up for the day ahead. The restaurant had a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a family outing. I ordered an omelette and Fatoumata had Belgian waffles. Aminata and Ibrahim enjoyed pancakes.


Experience exquisite Asian fusion cuisine at Yum Yum in Playa del Carmen – where traditional Thai flavors meet modern culinary creativity.

After breakfast, we headed straight to Xenses Park por Xcaret. I had heard so much about this place, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. As we drove, I couldn't help but reflect on my childhood in Goundam, Mali. Back then, amusement parks were just a distant dream. Now, here I was, ready to explore a sensory wonderland with my own children. It's a reminder of how far we've come and the opportunities we now have.


Experience the magic of Xenses Park, a unique amusement park in Playa del Carmen that awakens your senses with thrilling attractions and enchanting landscapes.

Xenses Park turned out to be everything I had hoped for and more. The park is designed to mess with your mind in the best possible way. From optical illusions to sensory challenges, every corner held a new surprise. The kids were in absolute awe, and even Fatoumata and I found ourselves questioning our senses. One of the first attractions we encountered was a town where the streets seemed to defy gravity. Walking through it was a disorienting experience, as if we were constantly on the verge of falling. Aminata and Ibrahim couldn't stop laughing as they stumbled around, trying to maintain their balance.

It's not about the destination, but the journey and the memories created along the way.

Next, we ventured into the Xensatorium, a dark maze that relied solely on our senses of touch, smell, and hearing. It was a truly immersive experience, as we navigated through different ecosystems, feeling the textures of various plants and listening to the sounds of wildlife. Ibrahim was a bit scared at first, but Aminata held his hand, and together they bravely explored the unknown. As someone who spends most of his days coding in front of a computer screen, it was refreshing to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with my primal senses.

We spent hours exploring the various attractions, each one more mind-bending than the last. There was a water slide that seemed to defy the laws of physics, a river of mud that left us covered from head to toe, and a labyrinth of underground tunnels that challenged our sense of direction. It was a day filled with laughter, excitement, and a healthy dose of bewilderment. Xenses Park truly lived up to its reputation as a sensory wonderland. It was a unique experience that I would recommend to anyone visiting Playa del Carmen.

After our exhilarating adventure at Xenses Park, we were ready for a late lunch. We chose Axiote Cocina de México, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a vibrant atmosphere that reflected the spirit of Playa del Carmen. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The restaurant's name, Axiote, refers to achiote, a seed used as a spice and food coloring, which I found to be a nice tribute to Mexican culinary traditions.


Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Axiote Cocina de México in Playa del Carmen—where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art.

We started with guacamole and some local appetizers. For the main course, I decided to try one of their seafood specialties, while Fatoumata opted for a classic mole dish. The food was simply outstanding, bursting with flavors and spices that danced on our tongues. It was a culinary journey through the heart of Mexico, and I savored every bite. The kids enjoyed their meals as well, although Ibrahim wasn't too keen on the spicier dishes. Aminata, on the other hand, was more adventurous, eager to try new and exotic flavors.

As we ate, I couldn't help but think about the similarities between Malian and Mexican cuisine. Both cultures rely heavily on spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and nutritious. It's a testament to the power of food to connect people from different corners of the world. Axiote Cocina de México was more than just a restaurant; it was a celebration of Mexican culture and culinary heritage. The staff were passionate about their craft, and their love for Mexican cuisine shone through in every dish they served. It was an experience that I will cherish for a long time.

For dinner, we decided to try Prime Steak House Playa del Carmen. I had heard great things about their steaks, and I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype. The restaurant was elegant and sophisticated, with a refined atmosphere that made us feel like we were in for a special treat. The staff were attentive and professional, catering to our every need. I ordered a ribeye steak, while Fatoumata chose a filet mignon. The steaks were cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a rich, smoky flavor that lingered on our palates. The sides were equally delicious, complementing the steaks perfectly. Aminata and Ibrahim opted for burgers, which they devoured with gusto. Prime Steak House was an experience in culinary excellence. The quality of the food was exceptional, the service was impeccable, and the ambiance was perfect for a special occasion.


Experience culinary excellence at Prime Steak House Playa del Carmen - where premium steaks meet unparalleled service in a luxurious setting.

To cap off the evening, Fatoumata and I decided to check out Dirty Martini Lounge for a nightcap. The kids were tired from the day's adventures, so we left them at the hotel with a promise to bring back some treats. Dirty Martini Lounge was a cozy and intimate bar, with a relaxed atmosphere that was perfect for unwinding after a long day. The bartender was friendly and knowledgeable, mixing up some creative and delicious martinis. I tried their signature dirty martini, while Fatoumata opted for an espresso martini. The drinks were strong and flavorful, providing the perfect ending to a day filled with excitement and adventure. As we sipped our martinis, Fatoumata and I reflected on the day's events, laughing and reminiscing about our experiences at Xenses Park and the wonderful meals we had enjoyed. It was a perfect moment, a reminder of the love and connection that binds our family together.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Playa del Carmen at Dirty Martini Lounge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.

As I sit here in our hotel room, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Playa del Carmen has exceeded my expectations, offering a unique blend of adventure, culture, and culinary delights. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit Xel-Há Park, another of the region's famed natural wonders. We'll start the day with breakfast at El Hongo, followed by a day of snorkeling and exploring the underwater world at Xel-Há. For dinner, we're planning to indulge in some authentic Mexican cuisine at Porfirio's Playa del Carmen. It's going to be another day filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Before I turn in for the night, I want to share a final thought. Traveling with family is not always easy. There are challenges, compromises, and moments of frustration. But it's also incredibly rewarding, providing opportunities to bond, learn, and create memories that will last a lifetime. As we continue our journey through Playa del Carmen, I'm reminded of the importance of cherishing these moments and embracing the adventure that lies ahead. Goodnight from Playa del Carmen, and stay tuned for more tales from our family's adventures!

Tomorrow, we are off to Xel-Há Park. After breakfast at El Hongo, we'll spend the day snorkeling and exploring the underwater world. For dinner, we're planning to indulge in some authentic Mexican cuisine at Porfirio's Playa del Carmen.