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Warm, soothing sun, soft sandy beaches, invigorating waters and an enticing cosmopolitan energy make Playa del Carmen the heart of Riviera Maya. Cosmopolitan Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from around the world. Less than hour's drive from Cancun , it is the region's capital and provides a world of fun and relaxation for visitors of all ages. With an eclectic mix of Mayan culture, Mexican flavor and multinational tourists, it is a vibrant town with decidedly sophisticated air. "Playa" as it is called, is where the old meets the new.
 The once sleepy village has acquired international fame in the unprecedented short span of just ten years. This numbers led to believe that Playa del Carmen is one of the fastest growing Communities in Mexico and Latin America.
1990 3,098
1995 17,621
2000 47,757
2005 123,005
2011 233,226
 First time visitors find themselves dazzled by Playa del Carmen's charm, and never want to leave. Some stay for good, others purchase their dream property and come as often as they can and rent it out while they are at home.
 Perhaps the most famous attraction is Playa's 5 th Avenue (Avenida Quinta)running north and south, parallel to the seafront. Pedestrians stroll this cobblestone-like pavement day and night, and are amazed by its array of shops, boutiques, intimate hotels, restaurants and sidewalk cafés.
 Adjacent side streets paralleling avenues are home to even more shops and restaurants. The real attraction of Playa is it powdery white "playa" or "beach" as we say in English. Bikini-clad beachgoers take shade under thatch palapas, sipping cocktails and enjoying the warm, tropical climate.
Water sports enthusiasts can take their pick from snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, kite surfing, sky diving and parasailing. Dive boats depart from the beach to dozens of dive sites along famed Great Maya Reef.
 Inland is just as much fun. Popular attractions include Aktun Chen, Garrafon in Isla Mujeres, Kantun Chi, Tres Rios, Xcaret and Xel-Ha are only some of your options.
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Playa del Carmen