Walking About Playa … A Picture Tour of Playa del Carmen

On my last 5th Avenue walk, I had made it up to Constituyentes Avenue. Today, I pick up where I left off and head further north.

I lived here for months and walked by this area a million times before I ever noticed the Caribbean Paradise hotel above.

The entrance to Veronica’s Massage and Karma Bagels. The Karma Bagels restaurant is upstairs overlooking Constituyentes Avenue.

My friends Gabi & Sherry work here and the owners are really nice guys, so here’s a little plug for One Stop Real Estate.

A popular spot for picture taking.

The Big Apple right here in Playa del Carmen.

Internet & phone center. Check out that big telephone.

Lots of futbol (soccer) jerseys to choose from.

I remember when I first discovered Caribbean Puzzles years ago on some Caribbean island. I thought it was such a cute and unique store, and bought a bunch of puzzles for my niece and nephews. Imagine my surprise when I learned that they are a huge chain! But the kids liked them and they’re still proudly displayed in their rooms.

Modern shopping plaza.

More modernity on its way next door. Wonder what those arches will be?

Such a cute shop!

The Castillo del Mar Hotel was advertising rates of $50-60 USD a night right on 5th avenue and Calle 26.

Across the street is the Mexican sweet shop and deli, Mi Dulce Mexico (My Sweet Mexico).

Portraits of famous Lucha Libre wrestlers El Santo & Huracan Ramirez found at the Hora Feliz bar on 5th between Calle 26 & 28.

It’s always Dia de Gelato (Gelato Day) at Ciao Gelato.

Progress is being made at 5:28, the development at 5th & 28th.

Starbucks on the north end.

Maktub restaurant - Great Lebanese fare.

Something for the ladies (and anyone else so inclined) at Perla Negra. Tuesday is stripper night! 2 for 1 beers from 9-11pm.

The current band at Perla Negra is from the Dominican Republic and plays salsa, bachata & merengue.

Fiesta Banana Hotel

Banana Cafe

The Real Playa del Carmen, the most affordable of the Real Resorts in Playa, is offering a summer promotion — $65 a night all-inclusive.