Playa del Carmen: Offering an irresistible blend of Mexican spirit and European sophistication, the charming seaside town of Playa del Carmen offers an array of boutiques, numerous open-air restaurants, superb swimming and snorkeling, diving and a vibrant nightlife. The bustling center of activity is Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), Playa's main promenade open exclusively to pedestrians.
Beaches: The Riviera Maya offers miles of unspoiled, powder white sand beaches to explore and enjoy.
Xcaret: Ecological and archaeological park, dedicated to the Mayan and Mexican cultures and to preserving the environment and ecology of the area (5 miles from condo)www.xcaret.com
Laguna Chankanaab: Beautiful park and botanical gardens created around a natural coral lagoon on the island of Cozumel (15 minute walk to ferry, + 35 minute ferry ride)
Xel-Ha: Ecological and archaeological park with turtle and dolphin sanctuaries and a research center (40 minutes by car)www.xelha.com
Tulum: The archaeological zone at Tulum, a walled Mayan port city perched above scenic beaches, combines the mystery of the ancient civilization with the singular beauty of the Caribbean Sea. (1 hour by car from condo)
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve: Included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO, the third largest protected area in Mexico encompasses lagoons, reefs, lakes, mangroves and forests. Virtually uninhabited, it contains a dazzling array of animal and plant life. (45 miles)
Coba: Set inland, Coba was once the setting of one of the largest of the Mayan cities. Building ruins are spread over a huge area of dense forest and shallow lakes. (1.5 hours by car one way)
Chichen Itza: Considered the most awe-inspiring of all ancient Mayan cities, Chichen Itza's pyramids loom over huge plazas, intricately aligned with the sun and stars. (3 hours by car one way)