« Back
Playa itself has
Mayan roots; its original name was Xamán-Xá. The Maya used it
as launching point for pilgrimages to Cozumel, which they held to be the home
of Ixchel, the goddess of the moon, love, pregnancy and childbirth. Though remnants
or buildings left behind by this ancient civilization still dot Playa’s
shores, the town has changed somewhat since the decline of the Maya, much less
over the last twenty years. Those who remember it as nothing more than a ferry
stop will be stared by the changes. Some locals claim the town is the fasted
growing community in Mexico. First time visitors are the lucky ones. They simply
arrive, find themselves dazzled by the charm, and never want to leave.
In a manner of
speaking, there are two playas: Playa Del Carmen (our subject), a former fishing
village that is quickly growing into one of the largest resort on the Mexican
Caribbean; and the Playa development. Playacar is an 875 acre-golf-course community
where you'll find a big beach-front hotel, more than 10 large all-inclusive
resorts, a championship gold course and, for anyone who might be interested,
attractive homes and lots for sale.
Scooting around
Playa Del Carmen to find a good place to eat lunch or take a dip, or better
still, for a dip and then lunch, is a grand way to get to know it. The town's
main thoroughfare is known as "Quinta Avenida", or Fifth Avenue.
|
