Area informant Lisa LeeKing finishes off the week in Playa del Carmen with some select choices for unusual play.
The jungle between Playa del Carmen and Tulum is rich with natural wonders to swim and explore, so when you're not lying on the beach get out and discover. Most unique to this area is cenotes, surface connections to subterranean bodies of water that appear as sink holes or underground caves.
Absolutely stunning Dos Ojos is like visiting a foreign world. Meaning "two eyes," in Spanish, it's literally two adjoining caves of clear, cool, calm waters perfect for snorkeling and diving excursions. Stay for temezcal, an ancient "bath house" ritual performed inside a concrete igloo where you'll sweat out toxins-thanks for the very hot volcanic rocks-and leave relaxed yet rejuvenated.
Another body of water unlike any other is the lagoon that makes up the "open sea aquarium" of the inlet of Xel-Ha. Here you can snorkel or tube down the river, and try one's balance on the suspended rope crossing.
Bring home some of the flavors of the region by learning a few recipes. Fun and interactive, Ajua! Maya's 2-3 hour Ancient Maya and Mestizos cooking class is taught under the restaurant's breezy palapa by two native Yucatek Mayan chefs.
What's a vacation without shopping? Local vendors selling handmade goods are mixed in with fancier brand name stores along La Quinta or 5th Avenue. Notable foodie gifts like locally harvested coffee and dark chocolate bars can be picked up at Ah Cacao Chocolate Café.
