Playacar: The Jewel of Playa del Carmen

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
  [kee-see-eh-rah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSólo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
  [ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-har ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [sehs]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nwheh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl prohk-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

The area now known as Playacar was once part of the ancient Mayan civilization, which thrived in the Yucatán Peninsula. The Mayans established settlements in this region as early as 300 CE, utilizing its fertile land and proximity to the Caribbean Sea for trade and agriculture. Archaeological sites in Playacar, including the ruins of an ancient Mayan port, highlight the significance of this area in the broader context of Mayan culture and commerce.

Following the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century, the region underwent significant changes. The Mayan settlements were disrupted, and the area was claimed for Spain. During the colonial period, the Spanish established sugar plantations, which transformed the local economy and led to the introduction of African slaves who contributed to the labor force in the plantations. This era left a lasting impact on the culture and demographics of the region.

In the late 20th century, Playa del Carmen began to evolve from a small fishing village into a tourist destination. Playacar was developed in the 1990s as a planned community catering to the growing number of visitors attracted by the area's natural beauty and archaeological significance. This development marked a shift in the local economy from fishing and agriculture to tourism, fostering economic growth and modernization in the region.

Today, Playacar is not only known for its luxurious resorts and golf courses but also for its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. The archaeological site within Playacar serves as a reminder of the area's rich history. Efforts to maintain and promote local traditions, such as the celebration of Mayan festivals and the preservation of local crafts, contribute to the cultural tapestry of Playa del Carmen and attract visitors interested in the region's history.

Playacar today is a vibrant neighborhood that reflects a blend of ancient Mayan heritage and contemporary Mexican culture. The community hosts a diverse population, including expatriates and locals, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere. This diversity is evident in the culinary scene, art galleries, and community events that celebrate both Mayan and Mexican traditions, making Playacar a unique cultural enclave within Playa del Carmen.

Playacar is conveniently located just south of Playa del Carmen's bustling downtown area. From the Cancun International Airport, travelers can take a direct shuttle or taxi to Playa del Carmen, which typically takes about 45 minutes. Once in Playa del Carmen, Playacar is easily accessible by walking, as it is only a 20-minute stroll from the main avenue, Quinta Avenida. Alternatively, local taxis are available for quicker access to Playacar.

Playacar is a relatively small neighbourhood, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Many resorts and hotels offer bicycle rentals. For longer distances, local taxis are readily available, and they operate on a metered system. Additionally, buses and colectivos (shared vans) run along the main roads, providing affordable transportation to other areas of Playa del Carmen.

Playacar is generally a safe neighbourhood for tourists, with a lower crime rate compared to other regions in Playa del Carmen. However, it's advisable to exercise caution, especially in less populated areas after dark. Tourists should avoid venturing into the nearby Colonia Centro area at night, as it has been reported to have higher crime rates, particularly related to petty theft and scams.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, such as Hospital Playa del Carmen, which is equipped to handle various medical emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout Playacar.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate, but avoid overly revealing outfits when visiting local towns. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in religious sites; cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't engage in loud conversations on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine at street vendors and restaurants. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.

To experience Playacar like a local, take a morning walk on the beach before the crowds arrive. Visit the local grocery stores for fresh fruits and snacks, and consider enjoying a meal at local eateries away from the tourist spots for an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine. Engage in conversations with residents, who are often eager to share local insights and recommendations. Don't forget to explore the lush nature trails around Playacar for a peaceful escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.