Hola from sunny (read: super hot 😂) Playa del Carmen! It’s my first time visiting this part of Mexico and I really like the vibe here. 

This trip is super special because it’s my first month-long solo trip and this trip has been everything. It’s been more of a workcation vs. a vacation, which is how I like to travel these days. A few months ago, I’d been feeling like I was in a creative rut and needed to get away for a few days. When I found a one-way ticket to Cancun for $151, I couldn’t pass it up. Ya’ll, I’m the queen of finding cheap flights.

What I love most about working online is that I can pick up my computer and go anywhere for as long as I want (or as long as immigration will allow me to be in the country on a tourist visa lol). 

If you’re looking for a workcation place to visit, I highly recommend checking out Playa del Carmen and here’s why: 

1. Cheap Flights 

Often times, especially if you live close to a major U.S. airport, you can find really great flight deals from the States to Playa Del Carmen. As I mentioned, I found a one-way flight for $151 and I booked it about a month before I actually left. 

2. Coworking Spaces + Cafes 

There are a few coworking spaces here. I worked from Selina when I first got here. I’m planning to check out Bunker before I leave. While I do enjoy working from the desk in my apartment, since I’m traveling alone sometimes it’s nice to get out and be around other people. There are also a ton of cute cafes and restaurants to work from with strong wifi connections, which is very important. Ojo de Agua is a great option. I love the vibe there and the food is great. They have a lot of healthy options. There are also a ton of coffee shops around the city. Ah Cacao is a popular coffee shop here. They’re all over the city and they’re typically filled with people working from their laptops. 

3. Nice apartments 

If you’re planning to stay for a while, and even if you’re not, you can find a nice place for a steal. However, this will also depend on when you’re planning to travel. Luckily, it’s warm here all year long. But if you’re planning to come when it’s winter in the states, expect to pay more for accommodations. I planned my trip for July and got a steal. July is also considered to be part of the rainy season. It rained a little, but overall the weather has been hot and sunny. And you can always cool off at the beach or a beach club pool. 

4. Cost of living

Food, accommodations, and entertainment are all a lot cheaper here compared to what it would cost in the States. The conversion rate is always pretty good. 

5. Easy place to live

If you’re traveling alone or if this is your first time out of the country, it’s a very easy place to live. The main strip in Playa Del Carmen is called 5th Avenue and there are tons of restaurants, bars, and stores for miles. There’s even a Walmart here. Crazy, right?

6. There’s a lot to do

Not only is there a lot to do here in Playa Del Carmen, but it’s also close to a lot of other cities like Tulum, Cancun, Merida, Isla Mujeres, Cozumel, etc. If you’re planning to stay for a while, definitely take a day trip to some of these places. 

If you’re planning on taking your first solo trip, definitely check out Playa del Carmen for all the reasons I listed above and the people here are so nice. Let me know in the comments if you’re planning to visit.