CLIMATE

The average annual temperature of the Riviera Maya is 25.5 degrees celsius (78 degrees fahrenheit), with fluctuations of 5 to 7 degrees. In july, August and September, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the sky, which can change from overcast to clear in minutes. From November to April, there are usually blue skies and a cool northern wind.

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Maranatha Hotel, Playa del Carmen Q. Roo México

CLOTHES

The climate changes are minimal in the Riviera Maya, so visitors should always pack clothes for swimming and warm weather; light cotton garments and airy sandals are perfect. Rubber soled shoes are recommended for tours to archaeological sites. Boots, long sleeve light cotton shirts and long trousers are best for those interested in juingle treks. A light jacket, shawl or sweater is advisable for the evenings of November, December and January.

TRANSPORTATION

There are two main highways that run through the Riviera Maya: one wich runs along the coast to Tulum and then turns inland, and another that goes from Tulum to Coba.

Along the coastal highway, there are roads that turn towards the beach or into the jungle; their condition varies considerably. They can be anything from a paved street to a dirt path and often lead to secluded beaches, beautiful cenotes or hidden restaurants.

There are a number of options for transportation from the airport to the Riviera Maya. Rental cars are available as well as taxis, airports transfer vehicles and private hotel transportation. A comfortable and economical option is the use of the local buses which departs from the terminal in Cancun.

Transportation between towns and beaches in the Riviera Maya is also easy; buses run regularly from Cancun to Tulum, stopping at points of interest on the way. There are bus terminals in Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Car rentals, taxis and tours buses are also plentiful.

For longer trips, small planes leave from Playa del Carmen and there are ferries with regular departures from Playa del Carmen and Calica to the Mexican Caribbean islands.

MONEY

The official currency of Mexico is the peso, but many places along the Riviera Maya accept dollars.

Credit cards are often not accepted in small establishments so it is wise to travel with cash or travelers checks. In Playa del Carmen there are banks, automatic tellers (where one can withdraw cash from some international credit cards) and many money Exchange offices. The other large towns also have many money exchange offices.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

The variety of dining possibilities along the Riviera Maya is astounding. Mexican, Italian, German, Japanese, Chinese, Vegetarian and Thai food can be found in the larger towns.

Exotic fruit juices, such as pineapple, mango and papaya, can be found in almost all restaurants. Coffee in the Riviera Maya, be it espresso or regular, is the best in Mexico and easy to find.

Bottled water is a safe option for everyone. Almost all stores stock various brands and it is usually provided in hotels.

COMMUNICATIONS

International telephone service is available in all the towns along the Riviera, be it through public card phones on the streets or telephone offices that ofter personal service. In the latter, one can also receive and send faxes.

The international area code for Mexico is (52) which should be followed by the regional área code for the Riviera Maya, (987).

Specialized rapid mail delivery services are also available in the larger towns.

RESERVATIONS

It is always wise to make all reservations in advance as the Riviera Maya is a rapidly growing tourist destination.