Spending time alone in México
Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo | Week 2 - Solo Adventures
In Spring 2023, 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.
Slowing Down & Enjoying the Little Things
While my first week in Mexico was all about my Spanish Language Course and a Girls Trip where I stayed with my friend in a beautiful apartment complex. You can read more about it here. The second week, I switched accommodations and moved into a Holiday Inn hotel in the center of Playa del Carmen. My new room was huge (three-person size, just for me!), and the rooftop pool with a city view was the perfect place to unwind. This trip also made me realize something about myself: I sleep better in hotels. Maybe it’s because I’ve worked in the hotel industry before and know what to expect, but the comfort, security, and structure just made me feel at ease.
Since my first week was non-stop, I made it my mission to slow down and truly enjoy Mexico in the second half of my trip. I spent my days at Mandarino Beach Club, an absolute heaven on earth. The service was flawless, the atmosphere was peaceful, and there were plenty of spots to relax on the beach. And, of course, I continued my tradition of seeking out the best local food—which led me to one of the most unexpected and amazing encounters.
A Fateful Meeting Over Churros
On one of my solo days, I stopped at a churro spot across from my hotel and ended up making a new Mexican friend. Turns out, she spoke Spanish and French (one of my native languages) and had lived in the Netherlands and France in 2022/2023 for her studies. What are the chances?! We instantly clicked, and she ended up showing me all the best hotspots in Playa del Carmen.
✔︎ Shisha lounges & nightclubs
✔︎ The best local restaurants
✔︎ An amazing clubbing experience (and one of the best salmon tagliatelle I’ve ever had!)
It’s moments like these that make travel so special—meeting people in the most unexpected ways and creating unforgettable memories.
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 he Good, The Bad & The Lessons Learned
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.
Safety & Tourist Scams he Good, The Bad & The Lessons Learned
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!
Curious about my first week in Mexico? Read all about it on the Girls Trip page!
Have you been to Mexico? What was your experience like? Let’s chat in the comments!
Quintana Roo, México through my eyes.
