I've been to Mexico a dozen times and have never ever felt unsafe. Locals are amazingly kind. In the last couple years we have noticed dollars are less preferred but still accepted almost everywhere. We try to use pesos as often as possible as it is the most courteous.
@@susanrogwest6013 I personally didn’t. I just used my debit card and the machine had it converted into USD. However I usually exchange my currency at the airport
I stayed at an Airbnb for a few days before arriving to the big upscale resort At The Grand moon Palace. I always like to book a cheap AirBnB and do excursions, waterparks, cenotes, Isla Mujeres etc.. and THEN enjoy my time at a nice upscale resort.@@Emerald-u4m
You are spot on with safety in Mexico . I went to Puerto Vallarta recently and it was incredibly safe and friendly and fun. But the amount of warnings I got from everyone at home in Canada was ridiculous. Thanks
I have traveled to Cancun / Playa Del Carmen with my wife and kids almost every year for the last 15 years. Tourist zones are very friendly and safe and the locals are very family oriented. We have done almost every excursion offered and have also been to Cozumel and Isla Mujeres . The people that seem to get into trouble while on vacation here are normally off of the resort late at night drinking to much and looking for drugs. Tourist that seem to have a bad time here, have not done their home work on the vibe and what each resorts offers for services ,location or time of year. Also the staff at any resort here are very hard working and are like one big family, if you insult or are very rude to any of the staff at your resort its like getting an x on your back ,good luck getting any kind of good service afterwards. Always be polite and tip when good service is given..
The workers prefer pesos, they have to pay a hotel or bank exchange rate on US dollars that is not in their favor to convert it to pesos. We normally take 20 pesos (1.16 US) and 50 pesos (2.91 US) with us for tipping.
James, spot on with your last point about safety in Mexico. I have been several times and never once felt in danger. Keep up the great work. Really enjoying the channel. On your way to 100k!
@@ninaking7222 he definitely didn't nail it. I spent the last 3 years traveling all over Mexico including the barrios and I speak Spanish. Police in Playa del Crimen,as locals call it, have robbed me 5 times. Met plenty of other long term and short term foreigners who have been harassed and extorted by local police. I was almost robbed at knife point on the beach one early morning by a punk. Locals in places like Oaxaca de Juárez and Guadalajara told me to hide my money and phone as assault and theft are very high in many areas including tourist areas. You people hanging out in tourist zones are usually safe but local police will find a way to extort you if they can. I can't recall how many times they harassed me at night walking on la Quinta avenida....i stopped going out after dark.
Im glad youve gotten lucky going to mexico, but to claim its “safe” or “not dangerous” is incredibly naive. Sure its dangerous everywhere, but playa del carmen is not a safe place to be point blank period. You may not like to hear the truth, but thats just the reality
I greatly miss the Playa del carmen from 7 to 8 years ago, I thought it was the perfect size then, even wanted to move there once. Today I'd question about even staying a short while. Good video.
A few pro Playa notes to add. Internet speeds vary greatly from hotel to hotel. I’ve stayed in hotels in Playa del Carmen that have faster internet than what I have available in the US. I think the internet speed may have something to do with the age of the hotel and the type of infrastructure at the location. With respect to the beaches, overall the Cancun area is best, but the best beaches are not in Cancun. The neighborhood of Playacar in Playa del Carmen has the nicest beach. The other positive is that all beaches in Playa are public and are more accessible. Getting around in Cancun requires a vehicle whereas Playa is very walkable and can be a lot less expensive than Cancun if you eat at the more local restaurants.
The tourist areas are heavily guarded as this is a massive source of revenue for the country. The last time i was in Playa, the military and federal police were everywhere. And as a tourist, you are generally safe, but don't get it twisted, Cancun's per capita homicide rate is 3 times that of Chicago and the city still ranks much higher for homicides and violent crime than the vast majority of American cities. But again, foreigners are not usually the targets of these crimes. Tourists are the targets of petty crimes though, such as theft.
I was there 3 weeks ago. No issues with English speaking people, and all vendors took dollars and even my debit card. They loved dollars. I never got pesos. The beaches were very nice by the way. We did see troops in full body armor but there were no issues....they're there just to overlook and protect. You'll be safe if you aren't stupid, looking for bad things. I felt very safe walking the streets.
I'm from the UK and stayed in playa del carmen in a RUI hotel and it was great 1st time in mexico, so I enjoyed it alot and people were really friendly food out side hotel was great and beaches were like the photos from a magazine looking to go again
For me i love Playacar phase2 in PDC, i stay at the same hotel five years straight and still in love with Playacar phase 2 , i did stay in Cancun for first two years after that no where but Playacar phase2😀
Thank you for this video it is very spot on. I have visited Cancun and playa del Carmen many times over the past 5 years and I like them both but I like different things about Cancun more so than Playa del Carmen and vice versa. And I've never had an issue with safety I felt safe in both areas, never had a problem as a solo traveler.
Beaches are just as beautiful as Cancun in the Playacar section of Playa Del Carmen, perhaps even nicer as there's more foliage. When the sargassum arrives it can be just as bad in Cancun. You should also always use Pesos in Mexico, it's their currency and the locals will respect you far more and give you better service in my experience, you'll typically also pay less as business owners must exchange your US dollars at a premium which costs them and hurts their bottom line. As Canadians we typically use Pesos everywhere in Mexico. I also recently stayed at the Riu Palace Mexico and the adjacent beaches were about as good as it gets.
I realllly felt the need to reply regarding the safety in Mexico!! You were 100% correct!! I visit Mexico quite often…even ventured over to Mexico City not knowing how to speak a tad of Spanish, but never ONCE did I feel like my safety was in jeopardy. I ALWAYS feel safe visiting there and I have gone alone! Thank you for saying this…they don’t say nothing about the crimes here in the states but let something happen there…most times if something does happen, the person probably was doing something they shouldn’t have been doing!
Thanks so much for sharing especially on the safety point! I'm going to Playa Del Carmen this week but my moms been sending me the travel advisory warnings for months. so real for pointing out the violence in the US by comparison haha 🧐
Hey you ok? I just wonder because you’ve lost a bunch of weight and I was curious if it was intentional or not. Hope ur bein safe out there. Great video 🙏🏿
I've been to playa del carmen twice and loved it, they speak English, it's clean, lovely beaches and safe through the day. I've been to cancun once I didn't like it, I didn't really feel safe, everything was too spread out, it didn't seem as clean as playa del carmen, all of the trips took 2 hours and only around and hour, if that in playa del carmen. I would never go back to cancun. Coco bongos was much better in playa del carmen too😊
We fell in love with the Akumal area. Maybe a ninety minute ride to Secrets Akumal. Love it. We get picked up about three fifteen in the morning!!! Less time to get back to the airport.We leave on the 24th for yet another stay and we can't wait.
Nice video, definitely Cancun beach are better, but the problem there is to access to the beach or parking lot, now Playa any street you have access to the beach easy,also you have more activities to do ,like cenotes, Mayan Ruins etc, the main thing is , what do you want? Enjoy beach, ..Cancun, more adventure Playa del Carmen, well Thanks for you nice video and hi!!! from California.
Hi thanks for the vlog it's been really helpful I'm just wondering what currency do you recommend and how much to tip the staff at the hotel as we go on the 30th April x
100 percent agree with you on safety! we live outside of Chicago and spend allot of time downtown, i love it there, but dont feel any less safe in mexico!
Awesome video, You got that right, Playa gets way more affected than Cancún when it comes to sargassum, here in Cancún are some beaches that do not get sargassum at all.
Great comparison James. I have friends trying to convince me to go to Mazatlan with them in December. I speak Spanish fluently so that wouldn't bother me at all. Keep the great content coming. We are gonna be in Vegas next week, super stoked to get out of the rain and cold here in Washington and enjoy the sun.
Interesting final point on safety, I guess the media has influenced my feeling on that because I definitely am more concerned about visiting Mexico than I am Las Vegas. Thanks for the info!
I live in Playa Del Carmen with my 6 years old daughter for over 3 years and never feel unsafe here. In Canada while pregnant there was a shooting during the day right in the front of the house, I didn't know behind what wall to hide with my big pregnant belly. LOL. Here in Playa Del Carmen I walk with my daughter everywhere and feel safe. Of course like everywhere you have to keep your eyes open however I don't feel unsafe. Mexican people are nice sweet friendly people, and I made more friends here in 3 years than I made in Canada in 20 years.
Right! 🙏 So good to hear this. I hope you and daughter have a good life down there. I'm also Canadian and can't stand it there! Lol. People are cold and selfish and like you said in 20 years how many new friends would we make in Canada?. One if were lucky! Hahaha 😉 I'm heading down to playa in a few days and I can't wait to check it out!
Many of the hotels do offer day passes. If there is a specific hotel you may contact them and they will provide the price and any rules. The big hotels have contact emails for this.
What is he talking about? Playa del Carmen beats Cancun on every level. I paid for a 5 star hotel in Cancun but found it overdeveloped and too American. It did not feel like Mexico at all. It’s like Las Vegas on the beach. I hated it so I remained in my hotel but I would take the bus every morning to Playa del Carmen and spend whole days there.
💯 Staying off the beaten path doesn’t always equal a better experience. I’ve found this to be true in many places I have travelled. Great observations!
what is the best place you have stayed in regards to great beaches, friendly, reasonably priced and stuff to do , in the warm weather where would you choose any where in the world
Just came back from Playa del Carmen. We stayed at the Hilton. Everything was beautiful including the beaches. Transportation to and airport wasn’t bad. Dollars were accepted however I will do currency exchange for going outside the resort when I go back in the future. Sorry you didn’t have a great time.
Thanks for making this video. Last time I was in Playa Del Carmen (1993) there were no large hotels yet. What is your favorite beach in Cancun without Sargassum?
Thank you for addressing the safety part, I get mad when i tell people I’m going to Mexico on vacation and everybody makes it seems like is the worst place on earth and even trying to convince me not to go. Those people obviously have never been to Mexico 🇲🇽. Honestly I get more scared walking downtown Seattle or Portland which are the closest cities of where I reside. Up course I’m not saying don’t be careful when you go on vacation, but that’s mostly any where you go on vacay not just Mexico, use your common sense. Sorry long script 😂
Washington they used to say mexico is the worst and unsafe country in the world and US is the first safe country in the world but the point here is they lies because millions of people watch videos in TH-cam the zombie 🧟♂️ city millions of people living on the streets homeless masacres everywhere shoring Schools every week ..what kind country you living you living in the skiy
I have booked a vacation to Mexico for next month and everyone is telling how dangerous it is…I’m getting really nerves as this will be my first time in Mexico. I keep changing my mind where to stay as well.
Hey amigo thanks for the video but i have to tell you my experience after traveling through Mexico by myself the last 3 years. Spent most of my time in playa del Carmen, or as locals call it, playa del Crimen. It was quiet during the pandemic because everything was closed but i noticed a severe increase in crime up until i left last year. Local police robbed me 5 times on the beach ,on quinta avenida, driving a rental. I can't recall how many times i have been harassed by police at night walking around Quinta avenida, looking for drugs or anything they can to extort me. I had them accuse me of urinating on the beach, which was untrue they hadn't even witnessed me doing anything. They threatened me with jail but decided to take 2000 pesos from me instead and told me to go on home but be careful as there a lot of theft around there. ..no joke that's what those dirt bags told me. I was robbed at knife point on the beach in the early morning around 6am but i scared the guy off luckily I'm a big guy. I have been all over Mexico and many places i have felt safe but the local police are almost all crooks in tourist zones around Cancun Playa del Carmen and Tulum. ..Policía Turística and municipal. Stay far away from them. In Guadalajara and Oaxaca city the locals kept telling me to hide my money and phone as the assault and theft were very bad. I even had a few asked me what i was doing there by myself as its very dangerous even the locals don't go there much. In Puerto Vallarta i met a few gringos who have been robbed in bars, by transvestites and local police. Beaten and robbed. One guy had to go to immigration because they stole his passport. So you see there are bad things happening and the more time you spend and the more people you meet them you will see. Learn some Spanish and talk to the locals. They'll tell you what it's really like. And not the ones who want your money because they'll always tell you it's fine.
they robbed you in tulum. at bathrooms you ass out security guys. owners. this group hangs selling drugs robbed u n beat u at coco bongo they give u tekila shots to roof u...then rob u. becareful at beachclubs by yourself
That's wild. Any other tips? First time going to Mexico this January, not sure which resort: I'm between xcaret, iberostar, ocean Maya Royale, barcelo, Bahia Principe... There's so many to choose from. For safety, I don't imagine we'll leave too many times, but I'd like to see some ruins that are a couple hours inland and some cenotes. All tips and opinions welcome
Bro. Thank you for this video. I’m recently single after being married 20 years I need to go to Mexico to get my head straight. I think about moving there for 1 to 6 months. My finances are in order. If you were me, what would you do?
What's your opinion on Akumal beaches? Do they come close to the beauty, expanse and crystal clear turquoise waters of Cancun, or are they closer to Playa del Carmen?
Ah man, this makes me very sad. There is this place I stayed at twice, casa ejido. Absolutely lovely, tranquil, and budget friendly place run by the nicest family ever. They helped us so much, from booking mayan tours at a discount, to getting cabs, even gave us daily vouchers for a delicious breakfast at a fancy restaurant around the corner. I haven't gone since covid hit, but I hope they are still around
playa is basically an extension of cancun, it’s essentially the same. go to El Cueva del Chango, feed the resident Iguana. I felt totally safe while there. Aside from walking in the scorching hear, nice place, I liked it
Ill be in Playa del Carmen next month. Staying north of the "downtown" area and happy about that as i dont even plan on going to 5th Ave - I will be close to a beach and local mom and pop restos and for 3 days, thats all I need. Thanks for heads up re traffic. 😊
Completely agree. This guy is a bit of a naive American when it comes to travel sounds like. But eh, it’s also the guy that complains about the price of steak on 5th avenue…
No you don’t know what you’re talking about. I agree with him. I’ve been in Cancun and playa de Carmen the distance from the airport is insane. No one wants to be in the cab for two hours.
@@markfennell1604 First world problems buddy!! Spoiled generation can’t handle a car ride!! Shows you’re not a true traveler. The best most remote spots in the world you have to travel either by boat or car even sometimes by foot.
Been in Cancun twice and the ride time to and from the airport was barely noticeable. For me, I’m quite happy with Cancun and have no desire to change.
@Coolist are you going to have a video on paradisus in playa del Carmen?? I saw some clips in this video and am super curious on your take?? Thinking of going there in June!
We stayed at Excellence, and it was true to its name. Having kids now, its going to be a while before we go back, but luckily, they have a family-friendly sister resort in Cancun and Punta Cana.
Going to Playa early next year. Since the peso is more prevalent where should I get my exchange done? You showed the ATM converter .. but is that the best route? I heard the airport gives the best exchange rate. Thanks in advance for any info. Another fantastic and informative video!!! 👍💪
i been whatching your videos of different hotels in punta cana, but I wonder, which ones do you liked. I have been in riu costa mujeres and it was nice, and also in moonpalace
Great video! I want to visit Cancun soon:) I am going back to Vegas in July but soon, I'll need to visit a beach...to have a more relaxed vacation! Your videos are ALWAYS so informative:) Thank you so much for sharing!
Trust me being out late at night in Americas cities especially since the pandemic , you better think very carefully where you go. Now Mexico if you aren’t stupid , respectful and just a plan normal person it’s just rarely anything will happen.
As a Canadian I feel very safe in Mexico. Obviously, it's important to not be stupid. As a single woman I would never go off resort at night by myself.
Great video James. I agree with you about the safety issue. Its way overblown- I've been down to Mexico City a couple of times. Paris of the Western Hemisphere.
Shhhh! Don't tell all the scared Americans about our secret! Let them keep thinking "it's so dangerous" so they won't come down! I've been going to Cancun/Playa Del Cramen for over 25 years and it's probably one of the safest places I've been other than Japan! I live in LA by the way. Thanks so much for sharing!
Yeah, you absolutely nailed it on your final point. I always shrug my shoulders when people beg me to reconsider going to Mexico again because of the gang/cartel violence and I'm like, "You obviously have never been to Mexico, haven't you?". Portland Oregon where I reside currently is a war zone compared to anywhere I've been in Mexico thus far. And insight like this and moving outside one's comfort zone is one of the most beneficial aspects of travel to me.
I spent the last 3 years traveling through Mexico and spent most of the time in Playa del Carmen. The locals like to call it playa del Crimen. The local police robbed me 5 times and a young guy in the beach tried to rob me with a switchblade but luckily I scared him off. I met many tourists who were accosted by police and extorted while driving, drinking on the beach, which is not illegal the locals do it. I met tourists who had their shoes and clothes stolen on the beach. You don't really have much experience as a casual tourist and usually it's safer with the military around but local police are as corrupt as can be. I also met tourist in Puerto Vallarta who had their backpack passport laptop stolen at a bar, local police also robbed a couple of 4k transvestite attacked a guy and beat him and took his money... Locals in Guadalajara and Oaxaca city told me to hide my money and phone and don't show anyone anything as the theft and assaults are common. Truth be told, you really haven't seen much of Mexico amigo.
Facts. People just bs or talk out of their ass lol. I've been to places in Mexico that most people wouldn't DARE venture to and people have always been really nice. The cartels DO NOT mess with people simply because they run the resorts and don't want their money messed up. Be respectful, stay around the resort, don't start shit and Mexico is a beautiful place to be. Going back next month to secrects moxchè
I lived in Mexico but never been robbed by locals..the only issue are the police,you may want to track or memo their lic and if they do injustice speak up.
Affirming point #10. I live in the Chicagoland area and you're probably more likely to be beaten in your own front yard over your pocket change here than while traveling in Mexico.
Happy Friday Sir James . Excellent comparison between the two places . I prefer Cancun..but both are nice . As for safety I have never felt unsafe in Mexico . As in any place I visit I try to stay on the beaten path especially if by myself. Totally agree they sensationalize it when something happens in other countries . I’m actually heading to Vegas next week . Have a great weekend 😎😎😎
Yo Anthony! How long are you in Vegas for? And yes, if you stick to the main areas, practice moderate awareness, keep to yourself, and don't do anything stupid you will be 💯 fine!
Hi Coolist since you are in the area are you going to stay in some of the hotels of Playa Mujeres we are going in the fall to Planet Hollywood I would like to hear your comment about that hotel
The only thing I didn't like about landing in cancun is that the airport is crazy busy Playa del Carmen was nice, we stayed at the reef coco beach and they really push time share properties. That's Mexico 🇲🇽 I guess. Puerto Vallarta was less aggressive on time share BS and I found overall the Pacific side of Mexico was a better choice.
LOL you said the "servers" are in cancun and that's why the internet is slow... bro do you know how the internet works? When you hook up to the internet you don't directly connect to a server. You connect to network devices (such as a network router or network switch) that forward you to be connected with your endpoint destination which has the possibility to be a server but that server wouldn't be running in cancun, mexico. It would be running on a web server in a datacenter, likely in the country of whatever website you're accessing (likely USA datacenter). So yeah you aren't connecting to a server in cancun. That is the funniest thing i've heard all week.
I've been to Mexico a dozen times and have never ever felt unsafe. Locals are amazingly kind. In the last couple years we have noticed dollars are less preferred but still accepted almost everywhere. We try to use pesos as often as possible as it is the most courteous.
Lucky you!
Same. I’ve been twice this year and will be going back in December. Absolutely AMAZING and felt safe.
Where is it best to exchange to pesos? the bank before you leave?
@@susanrogwest6013 I personally didn’t. I just used my debit card and the machine had it converted into USD. However I usually exchange my currency at the airport
Except the workers themselves say they prefer USD.
I read the title "Do not book".
My response: sorry I already booked and came back home and had a great time! And I was GLAD I booked.🙂
Where did You stay
I stayed at an Airbnb for a few days before arriving to the big upscale resort At The Grand moon Palace. I always like to book a cheap AirBnB and do excursions, waterparks, cenotes, Isla Mujeres etc.. and THEN enjoy my time at a nice upscale resort.@@Emerald-u4m
You are spot on with safety in Mexico . I went to Puerto Vallarta recently and it was incredibly safe and friendly and fun. But the amount of warnings I got from everyone at home in Canada was ridiculous. Thanks
I have traveled to Cancun / Playa Del Carmen with my wife and kids almost every year for the last 15 years. Tourist zones are very friendly and safe and the locals are very family oriented. We have done almost every excursion offered and have also been to Cozumel and Isla Mujeres .
The people that seem to get into trouble while on vacation here are normally off of the resort late at night drinking to much and looking for drugs.
Tourist that seem to have a bad time here, have not done their home work on the vibe and what each resorts offers for services ,location or time of year.
Also the staff at any resort here are very hard working and are like one big family, if you insult or are very rude to any of the staff at your resort its like getting an x on your back ,good luck getting any kind of good service afterwards. Always be polite and tip when good service is given..
Do they prefer pesos..or dollars for tip?
The workers prefer pesos, they have to pay a hotel or bank exchange rate on US dollars that is not in their favor to convert it to pesos. We normally take 20 pesos (1.16 US) and 50 pesos (2.91 US) with us for tipping.
@506ROCKSTAR thanx!😎
James, spot on with your last point about safety in Mexico. I have been several times and never once felt in danger. Keep up the great work. Really enjoying the channel. On your way to 100k!
He def nailed it.
@@ninaking7222 he definitely didn't nail it. I spent the last 3 years traveling all over Mexico including the barrios and I speak Spanish. Police in Playa del Crimen,as locals call it, have robbed me 5 times. Met plenty of other long term and short term foreigners who have been harassed and extorted by local police. I was almost robbed at knife point on the beach one early morning by a punk. Locals in places like Oaxaca de Juárez and Guadalajara told me to hide my money and phone as assault and theft are very high in many areas including tourist areas.
You people hanging out in tourist zones are usually safe but local police will find a way to extort you if they can. I can't recall how many times they harassed me at night walking on la Quinta avenida....i stopped going out after dark.
Im glad youve gotten lucky going to mexico, but to claim its “safe” or “not dangerous” is incredibly naive. Sure its dangerous everywhere, but playa del carmen is not a safe place to be point blank period. You may not like to hear the truth, but thats just the reality
I greatly miss the Playa del carmen from 7 to 8 years ago, I thought it was the perfect size then, even wanted to move there once. Today I'd question about even staying a short while.
Good video.
A few pro Playa notes to add. Internet speeds vary greatly from hotel to hotel. I’ve stayed in hotels in Playa del Carmen that have faster internet than what I have available in the US. I think the internet speed may have something to do with the age of the hotel and the type of infrastructure at the location. With respect to the beaches, overall the Cancun area is best, but the best beaches are not in Cancun. The neighborhood of Playacar in Playa del Carmen has the nicest beach. The other positive is that all beaches in Playa are public and are more accessible. Getting around in Cancun requires a vehicle whereas Playa is very walkable and can be a lot less expensive than Cancun if you eat at the more local restaurants.
Sounds like you don't agree on beaches and expense. It confused me on what to believe.
The tourist areas are heavily guarded as this is a massive source of revenue for the country. The last time i was in Playa, the military and federal police were everywhere. And as a tourist, you are generally safe, but don't get it twisted, Cancun's per capita homicide rate is 3 times that of Chicago and the city still ranks much higher for homicides and violent crime than the vast majority of American cities. But again, foreigners are not usually the targets of these crimes. Tourists are the targets of petty crimes though, such as theft.
I was there 3 weeks ago. No issues with English speaking people, and all vendors took dollars and even my debit card. They loved dollars. I never got pesos. The beaches were very nice by the way. We did see troops in full body armor but there were no issues....they're there just to overlook and protect. You'll be safe if you aren't stupid, looking for bad things. I felt very safe walking the streets.
I'm from the UK and stayed in playa del carmen in a RUI hotel and it was great 1st time in mexico, so I enjoyed it alot and people were really friendly food out side hotel was great and beaches were like the photos from a magazine looking to go again
For me i love Playacar phase2 in PDC, i stay at the same hotel five years straight and still in love with Playacar phase 2 , i did stay in Cancun for first two years after that no where but Playacar phase2😀
Thank you for this video it is very spot on. I have visited Cancun and playa del Carmen many times over the past 5 years and I like them both but I like different things about Cancun more so than Playa del Carmen and vice versa. And I've never had an issue with safety I felt safe in both areas, never had a problem as a solo traveler.
Beaches are just as beautiful as Cancun in the Playacar section of Playa Del Carmen, perhaps even nicer as there's more foliage. When the sargassum arrives it can be just as bad in Cancun. You should also always use Pesos in Mexico, it's their currency and the locals will respect you far more and give you better service in my experience, you'll typically also pay less as business owners must exchange your US dollars at a premium which costs them and hurts their bottom line. As Canadians we typically use Pesos everywhere in Mexico. I also recently stayed at the Riu Palace Mexico and the adjacent beaches were about as good as it gets.
For the beach part...you have to double check "Sargazo" season, all Riviera Maya have that problem in recent years, and Cancun is no exception,
When is it?
@@blackbellanow google says is worst in spring and summer
Started a awhile ago and is ongoing right now I’m here ATM
@@stephencleary9168 if you can make a trip to Holbox north of Cancun, there is no sargazo
It’s all year now. I just came back a few days ago.
I just came back from vacationing in Playa and Cancun lat month. This list is spot on!
I realllly felt the need to reply regarding the safety in Mexico!! You were 100% correct!! I visit Mexico quite often…even ventured over to Mexico City not knowing how to speak a tad of Spanish, but never ONCE did I feel like my safety was in jeopardy. I ALWAYS feel safe visiting there and I have gone alone!
Thank you for saying this…they don’t say nothing about the crimes here in the states but let something happen there…most times if something does happen, the person probably was doing something they shouldn’t have been doing!
We have more crime in USA than in any countries in the world at large
Thanks so much for sharing especially on the safety point! I'm going to Playa Del Carmen this week but my moms been sending me the travel advisory warnings for months. so real for pointing out the violence in the US by comparison haha 🧐
I am here in riu palace riviera maya...the best place to book .... I reccomend.
Thank you. I booked that Hotel and hoping it's good! 😁
Im here right now. And haven't had a problem playa del carmen is lovely locals friendly
Where did you stay exactly?
@@theflypilotHM PLAYA DEL CARMEN
Hey you ok? I just wonder because you’ve lost a bunch of weight and I was curious if it was intentional or not. Hope ur bein safe out there. Great video 🙏🏿
Second time going to mexico- the first time was san Miguel de Allende. People there are so nice- much nicer than anywhere else in the world.
I've been to playa del carmen twice and loved it, they speak English, it's clean, lovely beaches and safe through the day. I've been to cancun once I didn't like it, I didn't really feel safe, everything was too spread out, it didn't seem as clean as playa del carmen, all of the trips took 2 hours and only around and hour, if that in playa del carmen. I would never go back to cancun. Coco bongos was much better in playa del carmen too😊
We fell in love with the Akumal area. Maybe a ninety minute ride to Secrets Akumal. Love it. We get picked up about three fifteen in the morning!!! Less time to get back to the airport.We leave on the 24th for yet another stay and we can't wait.
Nice video, definitely Cancun beach are better, but the problem there is to access to the beach or parking lot, now Playa any street you have access to the beach easy,also you have more activities to do ,like cenotes, Mayan Ruins etc, the main thing is , what do you want? Enjoy beach, ..Cancun, more adventure Playa del Carmen, well Thanks for you nice video and hi!!! from California.
Hi thanks for the vlog it's been really helpful I'm just wondering what currency do you recommend and how much to tip the staff at the hotel as we go on the 30th April x
100 percent agree with you on safety! we live outside of Chicago and spend allot of time downtown, i love it there, but dont feel any less safe in mexico!
Awesome video, You got that right, Playa gets way more affected than Cancún when it comes to sargassum, here in Cancún are some beaches that do not get sargassum at all.
Great comparison James. I have friends trying to convince me to go to Mazatlan with them in December. I speak Spanish fluently so that wouldn't bother me at all. Keep the great content coming. We are gonna be in Vegas next week, super stoked to get out of the rain and cold here in Washington and enjoy the sun.
Who cares if you speak Mexican
This video is helpful now that I'm planning to visit Playa del Carmen.
Thanks!!
Interesting final point on safety, I guess the media has influenced my feeling on that because I definitely am more concerned about visiting Mexico than I am Las Vegas. Thanks for the info!
What website you use to book your vacations? Hotel and fight separate or better to do all inclusive? Thanks
I live in Playa Del Carmen with my 6 years old daughter for over 3 years and never feel unsafe here.
In Canada while pregnant there was a shooting during the day right in the front of the house, I didn't know behind what wall to hide with my big pregnant belly. LOL. Here in Playa Del Carmen I walk with my daughter everywhere and feel safe. Of course like everywhere you have to keep your eyes open however I don't feel unsafe. Mexican people are nice sweet friendly people, and I made more friends here in 3 years than I made in Canada in 20 years.
Right! 🙏 So good to hear this. I hope you and daughter have a good life down there. I'm also Canadian and can't stand it there! Lol. People are cold and selfish and like you said in 20 years how many new friends would we make in Canada?. One if were lucky! Hahaha 😉
I'm heading down to playa in a few days and I can't wait to check it out!
Can you buy a bracelet if someone is staying at a resort for the day?
Many of the hotels do offer day passes. If there is a specific hotel you may contact them and they will provide the price and any rules. The big hotels have contact emails for this.
Thanks so much! Helpful tips for when I go next month.
He’s right man- I’m so confused of Cancun- Playa DEL Carmen and Riviera Maya- etc when booking it’s not easy to know which one 😊
What is he talking about? Playa del Carmen beats Cancun on every level. I paid for a 5 star hotel in Cancun but found it overdeveloped and too American. It did not feel like Mexico at all. It’s like Las Vegas on the beach. I hated it so I remained in my hotel but I would take the bus every morning to Playa del Carmen and spend whole days there.
💯 Staying off the beaten path doesn’t always equal a better experience. I’ve found this to be true in many places I have travelled. Great observations!
been to playacar and playa del Carmen many many times never had an issue with anyone accepting USD.
Just got back. There wasn't any reason to leave the all inclusive resort so no danger. Loved it. Stay at the Hilton,its the best!
what is the best place you have stayed in regards to great beaches, friendly, reasonably priced and stuff to do , in the warm weather
where would you choose any where in the world
Thanks for the review James, have you ever reviewed TRS CORAL Just wondering as im flying out in November, the suites and food are amazing.
Just came back from Playa del Carmen. We stayed at the Hilton. Everything was beautiful including the beaches. Transportation to and airport wasn’t bad. Dollars were accepted however I will do currency exchange for going outside the resort when I go back in the future. Sorry you didn’t have a great time.
Thanks, Going to Playa del Carmen in december!
Thanks for making this video. Last time I was in Playa Del Carmen (1993) there were no large hotels yet. What is your favorite beach in Cancun without Sargassum?
Thank you for addressing the safety part, I get mad when i tell people I’m going to Mexico on vacation and everybody makes it seems like is the worst place on earth and even trying to convince me not to go. Those people obviously have never been to Mexico 🇲🇽. Honestly I get more scared walking downtown Seattle or Portland which are the closest cities of where I reside. Up course I’m not saying don’t be careful when you go on vacation, but that’s mostly any where you go on vacay not just Mexico, use your common sense. Sorry long script 😂
I'm not from there but the homeless people in Seattle are wild. I feel like I have to be ready to fight every time I go there😅
Washington they used to say mexico is the worst and unsafe country in the world and US is the first safe country in the world but the point here is they lies because millions of people watch videos in TH-cam the zombie 🧟♂️ city millions of people living on the streets homeless masacres everywhere shoring Schools every week ..what kind country you living you living in the skiy
I have booked a vacation to Mexico for next month and everyone is telling how dangerous it is…I’m getting really nerves as this will be my first time in Mexico. I keep changing my mind where to stay as well.
That’s what I said. Even the cartel when offering drugs were very polite.
@@leelee12123 what part of mexico you going?
Excellent video as always James.... When are you going to cap cana??? Can't wait for you to go there & make some videos
Just wait, seriously. It will be my craziest trips EVER on the channel. It wont be at least for six months but I've already began working on it 😎
I heard that's a hot spot.
Hey amigo thanks for the video but i have to tell you my experience after traveling through Mexico by myself the last 3 years. Spent most of my time in playa del Carmen, or as locals call it, playa del Crimen. It was quiet during the pandemic because everything was closed but i noticed a severe increase in crime up until i left last year. Local police robbed me 5 times on the beach ,on quinta avenida, driving a rental. I can't recall how many times i have been harassed by police at night walking around Quinta avenida, looking for drugs or anything they can to extort me. I had them accuse me of urinating on the beach, which was untrue they hadn't even witnessed me doing anything. They threatened me with jail but decided to take 2000 pesos from me instead and told me to go on home but be careful as there a lot of theft around there. ..no joke that's what those dirt bags told me.
I was robbed at knife point on the beach in the early morning around 6am but i scared the guy off luckily I'm a big guy.
I have been all over Mexico and many places i have felt safe but the local police are almost all crooks in tourist zones around Cancun Playa del Carmen and Tulum. ..Policía Turística and municipal. Stay far away from them.
In Guadalajara and Oaxaca city the locals kept telling me to hide my money and phone as the assault and theft were very bad. I even had a few asked me what i was doing there by myself as its very dangerous even the locals don't go there much.
In Puerto Vallarta i met a few gringos who have been robbed in bars, by transvestites and local police. Beaten and robbed. One guy had to go to immigration because they stole his passport.
So you see there are bad things happening and the more time you spend and the more people you meet them you will see. Learn some Spanish and talk to the locals. They'll tell you what it's really like. And not the ones who want your money because they'll always tell you it's fine.
they robbed you in tulum. at bathrooms you ass out security guys. owners. this group hangs selling drugs robbed u n beat u at coco bongo they give u tekila shots to roof u...then rob u. becareful at beachclubs by yourself
That's wild. Any other tips? First time going to Mexico this January, not sure which resort: I'm between xcaret, iberostar, ocean Maya Royale, barcelo, Bahia Principe... There's so many to choose from. For safety, I don't imagine we'll leave too many times, but I'd like to see some ruins that are a couple hours inland and some cenotes.
All tips and opinions welcome
What a smart guy…: “I didn’t know that Playa only was 30-35 minutes away. Had I known that before, I would’ve gone there earlier…!” 😅
Great tips and agree on that last point. We’re going to Excellence there in the fall.
Bro. Thank you for this video. I’m recently single after being married 20 years I need to go to Mexico to get my head straight. I think about moving there for 1 to 6 months. My finances are in order. If you were me, what would you do?
Where in Mexico are you moving to? I am retired, thinking of moving there soon.
Playa del Carmen is much more walkable, so the crowds are more centrally located.
Exactly...
What's your opinion on Akumal beaches? Do they come close to the beauty, expanse and crystal clear turquoise waters of Cancun, or are they closer to Playa del Carmen?
Great video thank you. Was very informative.
Hey James, do you prefer Cancun or Punta Cana? Trying to book a trip for me and my gf
Ah man, this makes me very sad. There is this place I stayed at twice, casa ejido. Absolutely lovely, tranquil, and budget friendly place run by the nicest family ever. They helped us so much, from booking mayan tours at a discount, to getting cabs, even gave us daily vouchers for a delicious breakfast at a fancy restaurant around the corner. I haven't gone since covid hit, but I hope they are still around
playa is basically an extension of cancun, it’s essentially the same. go to El Cueva del Chango, feed the resident Iguana. I felt totally safe while there. Aside from walking in the scorching hear, nice place, I liked it
Ill be in Playa del Carmen next month. Staying north of the "downtown" area and happy about that as i dont even plan on going to 5th Ave - I will be close to a beach and local mom and pop restos and for 3 days, thats all I need. Thanks for heads up re traffic. 😊
Great video again. When’s your next Vegas adventure
Summer I think
I feel safer in Mexico than I do in Chicago.
Chicago is turning into Mexico thanks to joe destroying America and our border and our language and our culture
This guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about!! I’ve traveled the world and will always put Playa Del Carmen at the top 3!!
Completely agree. This guy is a bit of a naive American when it comes to travel sounds like. But eh, it’s also the guy that complains about the price of steak on 5th avenue…
No you don’t know what you’re talking about. I agree with him. I’ve been in Cancun and playa de Carmen the distance from the airport is insane. No one wants to be in the cab for two hours.
@@markfennell1604
First world problems buddy!! Spoiled generation can’t handle a car ride!! Shows you’re not a true traveler. The best most remote spots in the world you have to travel either by boat or car even sometimes by foot.
Agree this guy is clueless, we rent a car and travel to playa del carmen, campeche, akumal, bacalar, this guy knows nothing
Been in Cancun twice and the ride time to and from the airport was barely noticeable. For me, I’m quite happy with Cancun and have no desire to change.
@Coolist are you going to have a video on paradisus in playa del Carmen?? I saw some clips in this video and am super curious on your take?? Thinking of going there in June!
We stayed at Excellence, and it was true to its name. Having kids now, its going to be a while before we go back, but luckily, they have a family-friendly sister resort in Cancun and Punta Cana.
Hi Coolist I hope you have time to take care of yourself!😃you are a verry interresting and I think you deserve the best !
Going to Playa early next year. Since the peso is more prevalent where should I get my exchange done? You showed the ATM converter .. but is that the best route? I heard the airport gives the best exchange rate. Thanks in advance for any info. Another fantastic and informative video!!! 👍💪
I always prefer the a local atm to an exchange place to attain local currency
@Coolist awesome .. thanks for the info!!
i been whatching your videos of different hotels in punta cana, but I wonder, which ones do you liked. I have been in riu costa mujeres and it was nice, and also in moonpalace
Great video! I want to visit Cancun soon:) I am going back to Vegas in July but soon, I'll need to visit a beach...to have a more relaxed vacation! Your videos are ALWAYS so informative:) Thank you so much for sharing!
Trust me being out late at night in Americas cities especially since the pandemic , you better think very carefully where you go. Now Mexico if you aren’t stupid , respectful and just a plan normal person it’s just rarely anything will happen.
I was in playa del carmen 4 weeks ago in XCARET!
You filmed this video while staying at Finest Punta Cana! 😊❤ loved it!
Very helpfull video.Those who wants to visit here must watch this video .all points are truth.
carnival fun cruise definitely worth it whole day on the sea and visiting remote pristine islands
Have you ever reviewed any of the Iberostar resorts in Mexico or Punta Cana? We just left Iberostar Paraiso Maya and felt very safe.
Do they get hit with hurricanes as Cancun?
Very helpful thanks 😊
Good video bro
Just came back from Playa a few days ago (to Chicago) and I agree with some of your assessment, but not all.
The last point 1000 percent correct
thanks good video....
Wonder why the beaches aren't as nice in Playa Del Carmen. Any reason why that is?
As a Canadian I feel very safe in Mexico. Obviously, it's important to not be stupid. As a single woman I would never go off resort at night by myself.
any beach front hotel in Playacar is great ... provided there is no seaweed the beach is great!
Great video James. I agree with you about the safety issue. Its way overblown- I've been down to Mexico City a couple of times. Paris of the Western Hemisphere.
Meh. Cancun you can’t even go get food without walking/bussing for miles. Playa I can go 3 blocks and be in a traditional Mexican street.
Don't wanna spend 100 a meal 😔
@@gabe8138Facts not Everybody got Donald trump money
What bus companies are available??
Great video
Shhhh! Don't tell all the scared Americans about our secret! Let them keep thinking "it's so dangerous" so they won't come down! I've been going to Cancun/Playa Del Cramen for over 25 years and it's probably one of the safest places I've been other than Japan! I live in LA by the way. Thanks so much for sharing!
Was two times in playa del carmen 2011/16 both times was realy great😊
what is the best resort to stay in at Cancun ?
Yeah, you absolutely nailed it on your final point. I always shrug my shoulders when people beg me to reconsider going to Mexico again because of the gang/cartel violence and I'm like, "You obviously have never been to Mexico, haven't you?". Portland Oregon where I reside currently is a war zone compared to anywhere I've been in Mexico thus far. And insight like this and moving outside one's comfort zone is one of the most beneficial aspects of travel to me.
I spent the last 3 years traveling through Mexico and spent most of the time in Playa del Carmen. The locals like to call it playa del Crimen. The local police robbed me 5 times and a young guy in the beach tried to rob me with a switchblade but luckily I scared him off.
I met many tourists who were accosted by police and extorted while driving, drinking on the beach, which is not illegal the locals do it.
I met tourists who had their shoes and clothes stolen on the beach. You don't really have much experience as a casual tourist and usually it's safer with the military around but local police are as corrupt as can be.
I also met tourist in Puerto Vallarta who had their backpack passport laptop stolen at a bar, local police also robbed a couple of 4k transvestite attacked a guy and beat him and took his money...
Locals in Guadalajara and Oaxaca city told me to hide my money and phone and don't show anyone anything as the theft and assaults are common.
Truth be told, you really haven't seen much of Mexico amigo.
Facts. People just bs or talk out of their ass lol. I've been to places in Mexico that most people wouldn't DARE venture to and people have always been really nice. The cartels DO NOT mess with people simply because they run the resorts and don't want their money messed up. Be respectful, stay around the resort, don't start shit and Mexico is a beautiful place to be. Going back next month to secrects moxchè
I lived in Mexico but never been robbed by locals..the only issue are the police,you may want to track or memo their lic and if they do injustice speak up.
I heard the same thing when I went to Colombia because of what people heard in the 1980s.
You’re incredibly naive if you seriously think Portland is worse than Playa Del Carmen.
Most US thing ever to expect to use their currency and be disappointed that they cant.
Thank you for your up front, frank reviews. I would probably just go to Cancun. After all, they know how to do it.
HELLO, WHERE IS THE OCEAN RIVERA PARADISE LOCATED? IS IT BY WHERE THEY HAVE THE STRIP LIKE AREA?
I’m at playa de Carmen right now
Affirming point #10. I live in the Chicagoland area and you're probably more likely to be beaten in your own front yard over your pocket change here than while traveling in Mexico.
Happy Friday Sir James . Excellent comparison between the two places . I prefer Cancun..but both are nice . As for safety I have never felt unsafe in Mexico . As in any place I visit I try to stay on the beaten path especially if by myself. Totally agree they sensationalize it when something happens in other countries . I’m actually heading to Vegas next week . Have a great weekend 😎😎😎
Yo Anthony! How long are you in Vegas for?
And yes, if you stick to the main areas, practice moderate awareness, keep to yourself, and don't do anything stupid you will be 💯 fine!
@@Coolist I’ll be there for six nights. Staying in the sky suites at Aria . So ready for a vacation.
We will just miss each other. Next time 🙌
@@Coolist Definitely 👍
@@Coolist Bro, you need to hit up Tulum Bikini Boot Camp
Hi Coolist since you are in the area are you going to stay in some of the hotels of Playa Mujeres we are going in the fall to Planet Hollywood I would like to hear your comment about that hotel
The only thing I didn't like about landing in cancun is that the airport is crazy busy
Playa del Carmen was nice, we stayed at the reef coco beach and they really push time share properties. That's Mexico 🇲🇽 I guess. Puerto Vallarta was less aggressive on time share BS and I found overall the Pacific side of Mexico was a better choice.
This guy is so wrong on many points, but the beaches are the same as Cancun! It’s not like the topography changes 30 miles down the coast.
LOL you said the "servers" are in cancun and that's why the internet is slow... bro do you know how the internet works? When you hook up to the internet you don't directly connect to a server. You connect to network devices (such as a network router or network switch) that forward you to be connected with your endpoint destination which has the possibility to be a server but that server wouldn't be running in cancun, mexico. It would be running on a web server in a datacenter, likely in the country of whatever website you're accessing (likely USA datacenter). So yeah you aren't connecting to a server in cancun. That is the funniest thing i've heard all week.
Seaweed still an issue?