Girls Trip to México

Playa del Carmen & Túlum | Week 1: Girlstrip & Spanish Course

In Spring 2024, I finally checked Mexico off my bucket list! I traveled with a friend to Quintana Roo for two weeks, staying in Playa del Carmen while also exploring nearby cities. The first week was all about sharing the experience, while the second week was dedicated to solo adventures.

While my trip had its challenges—from travel nightmares to underestimating distances—Mexico still left a lasting impression. Here’s a recap of my journey, the highs and lows, and why I look forward to a do-over in the future.

A Chaotic Start: The Travel Nightmare

The trip didn’t start on the best note. Flying from Amsterdam to Mexico via the USA turned out to be a traveler’s nightmare. Our layover in Detroit turned into a disaster after long wait times at customs caused us to miss our connection. The airline had to reroute us through Atlanta, and while the rest of the journey went smoothly, I still get a headache thinking about it!

But the moment we landed in Mexico, all that stress melted away. I had dreamed of visiting for years, and now I was finally here!
For the first week, my friend and I stayed in a beautiful apartment complex with a rooftop pool near Playa del Carmen’s city center. The main reason for my trip was to take a Spanish language course, and we agreed to split our time—sticking together for the first week before going solo in the second.

A Lifelong Passion for Spanish & Latin Culture

Taking a Spanish course abroad had been a goal of mine for years. Growing up, I was always surrounded by Latin American friends, and I started learning Spanish at 11-12 years old through a close friend and neighbor. Later, my love for the language deepened through music, study, and cultural experiences.
My language classes at TANN Spanish School were a highlight of my trip. My teacher, Ilse, a true Mexican woman, made learning even more immersive and exciting. She arranges the one-on-one lessons on a different outside location everyday, such as a Starbucks terrace nearby the beach. Being able to communicate with locals in their native language made my experience so much more meaningful.

Challenges of the First Week

Despite my excitement, the first week was mentally heavy.

• Jet lag + early morning classes + late nights = low battery mode
• We underestimated travel distances, which limited the number of activities we could do
• The chaotic travel experience especially the flights and arrival in México still lingered in my mind

Still, I managed to experience some incredible things:
✓ Visiting Isla Mujeres

✓ A buggy tour & swimming in a cenote

✓ Taking part in an authentic Mayan ceremony in Tulum

✓ Relaxing on the beaches of Cancun & Playa del Carmen

✓ A taco & tequila tour in Puerto Morelos

✓ And creating an international travel memory with one of my close friends

The Good, The Bad & The Lessons Learned

While my trip to Mexico had its amazing moments, I won’t lie—it wasn’t as successful as I had hoped.

🖤 What I Loved:
🖤 Connecting with locals in Spanish
🖤Exploring different cities & cultural experiences
🖤 Mandarino Beach Club (a must-visit!)
🖤 The warmth & hospitality of the people
🖤 Meeting my Mexican friend & discovering hidden gems

✘ What Could Have Been Better:

✘ Underestimating travel distances limited what I could do
✘ The first week was mentally exhausting due to jetlag
✘ Didn’t have enough time for all the activities I planned

Safety & Tourist Scams

I personally felt safe in Playa del Carmen and the surrounding cities. There was a strong police presence, and with so many tourists around, I didn’t feel uncomfortable walking around, even at night. However, the biggest downside? The tourist scams.

• Many shop owners try to overcharge tourists, especially if you don’t speak Spanish
• Some restaurants add extra charges or press for tips
• Certain vendors can be aggressive when selling their products

If you’re traveling to Mexico, learn some basic Spanish—it’ll save you money and help you avoid being taken advantage of.

Final Thoughts: Will I Go Back?

Despite the ups and downs, I definitely want a do-over in Mexico. Now that I know what to expect, I can plan better, explore more, and make the most of my time there. If you’re considering a trip to Quintana Roo, I’d say go for it! But keep in mind:

✓ Plan for longer travel times between cities

✓ Don’t overpack your schedule—you’ll need rest!

✓ Learn basic Spanish to avoid tourist traps

✓ Slow down and enjoy the experience

Mexico, I’ll be back!

Have you been to Mexico? What was your experience like? Let’s chat in the comments!

Curious about my second week in Mexico? Read all about it here: Solo Travel page.

Quintana Roo, México though my eyes.