Holland

How did you get there, how long did it take, and what did it cost?

This will be my 9th trip to Playa del Carmen, with a side adventure to Cozumel. From NYC, it’s a quick 3.5-hour flight to Cancun. After landing, I hop on a private bus to Playa del Carmen. Once there, I usually stick around for a bit before catching the ferry to Cozumel for some scuba diving. I absolutely love this area—it’s close, has perfect weather, incredible diving, and now, an exciting twist: bringing my friends from the WSL to play against the locals!

How much was lodging?

In Playa, I typically book a studio apartment on Airbnb for $65–$85 per night, depending on the location and season. For this trip to Cozumel with friends, we’ll be staying in a house with a pool, kitchen, and private bathrooms, which comes out to about $85 per night. Totally worth it for the amenities and vibe.

Most importantly, my roommate Ricky Seidner is a master coffee maker, so every morning I wake up to the fresh smell of delicious fresh and piping hot Caribbean coffee. It’s pretty much worth the entire trip down to Mexico.

Was it easy to find lodging?

Absolutely! Airbnb has plenty of options in both Playa del Carmen and Cozumel, so finding a place to stay is never an issue.

Did you feel safe in Cozumel?

I actually feel safer in Playa and Cozumel than walking from McCarren Park to the Gibson in NYC. The locals are friendly, and it’s a laid-back atmosphere.

How did you get around on Cozumel?

Getting around is super easy. You can take little tuk-tuks or regular taxis, which are everywhere on the island.

How much does it cost to get around?

Taxis are very affordable—about $5 to get anywhere on the island. If you’re splitting the ride with friends, it’s even cheaper than a NYC subway fare.

How far apart are things?

Cozumel is a small island, so everything is just 5 to 15 minutes apart. It’s incredibly convenient to get around.

Is it easy to get money?

Yes! There are plenty of ATMs, and in recent years, many places have started accepting Apple Pay. Now, you can use your phone or watch for payments, which is a nice perk.

How expensive is food and drink?

The prices are unbelievable. You can get a beer for $0.90 and a taco for $1 in some spots. Even the touristy places are a fraction of what you’d pay in NYC. It’s heaven for food and drink lovers on a budget.

Overall experience:

This marks my 9th trip in four years, and I can’t get enough of Playa and Cozumel. The beauty of the area, the warm and welcoming locals, and the chance to share this experience with friends make every trip special. I’m beyond excited for this one—it’s going to be amazing to play softball with the locals and introduce my friends to a place I love so much.