Welcome to Playa
Welcome Guide
Playa del Carmen caters to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. And of course, Playa’s swaths of white sand and brilliantly turquoise water impress even the most selective beach bums. Cancún is Mexico’s vacation of the past – today’s savvy beachgoers choose the cosmopolitan “Playa”.
I hope you’re seeking a serene beach getaway with authentic charm. Nestled right behind a beautiful beach and tranquil cenote, our apartment offers the perfect balance of natural beauty and local culture. Situated in a genuine Mexican neighborhood, you’ll find traditional eateries, charming parks, and unique shops at your doorstep—ideal for those looking to connect with the heart of the community rather than a curated tourist experience. While you’ll have easy access to popular attractions, our home offers a more meaningful stay for travelers who wish to support and learn from the local community.
About your host
In a Different Life, I found myself a salaryman. In this life, I have travelled, and immersed in 20 countries. 20 cultures. And yet the more I see, the more I realize that we are all the same in a universal truth. We are all beautiful.
I pride myself on providing tremendous value to your 5-star experience. Being an avid traveller, I personally understand and appreciate what one would and should want when arriving at a new destination. And specifically the Riviera Maya. I hope that I have provided everything you want for your 5-star tranquil stay.
Please watch the above welcome video as I will be your local personal tour guide and share some important tips about your neighbourhood and Playa! Let me know how you like it? 🙂
Please feel free to contact me if I have missed anything.
- Verified
- Speaks English and Spanish
- Superhost
Address & My Contact Info
5 avenida, Calle 106 Nte 526, Luis Donaldo Colosio, 77728 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., MX
Google Maps link here
Whatsapp +5219981209715 or CLICK HERE
hello@tranquilovacationrentals.com
You will be only a 10 minute walk from paradise!
You will be PERFECTLY LOCATED only 400 meters directly behind Punta Esmeralda Beach and Cenote which was just named the best beach in Mexico by the CIFPlayas and 3rd best urban beach in Latin America.
Do you need pesos?
As an international traveller, I advise that one thing you want to prepare for is access to local currencies. A free service I use and recommend is Wise. It is helpful to avoid high currency fees and bad exchange rates. Banks and local exchange services either give you good fees and poor rates or vice versa. To save money, you need to prepare in advance. Wise provides you with market rates and very nominal fees to exchange and move currencies, including Mexican pesos. You also get a FREE Wise Visa card that you can use in restaurants, shops, and trips that will not charge you fees for foreign currency while getting market rates. I have used my Wise card in over 20 countries saving me hundreds of dollars. You can get yours here.
Do you like a scooter?
Do you like a scooter to visit local cenotes and move around in Playa? *Subject to availability.
Directions
Drive From Cancun Airport
- Get on Cancun – Chetumal/Carr. Tulum – Cancún/México 307 from Carr. a Aeropuerto Cancún
- Follow Cancun – Chetumal/Carr. Tulum – Cancún/México 307 to Calle 106 Nte in Luis Donaldo Colosio, Playa del Carmen
- Turn left after OXXO Hábitat (on the right)
- Arrive Tranquilo Vacation Rentals.
Drive To Cancun Airport
Please ensure to allow at least 1.5 hour commute time back to the airport as traffic can be unpredictable at times due to construction.
ADO Bus
- Take ADO Bus from Terminal 2 to Playa Del Carmen. You will see ticket booth there (approx. $220MXN).
- Arrive at ADO PDC and take taxi from either outside station or off 10th Avenida to Tranquilo Vacation Rentals. (approx $100-$150MXN)
Check-In
You may check-in anytime after 3 pm. I will message you on Airbnb app or if booked directly, on Whatsapp, with your key code for the front and suite doors on your arrival day.
The is the front of the building.
We offer free street parking for our guests on 10th Avenue between Calle 104 & 106. We kindly ask that you follow local bylaws by not parking within 5 meters of an intersection or blocking any entrances. Our guests have always parked there without any issues, but we are not responsible for any tickets or violations related to the aforementioned bylaws.
Please ensure that you, who made the reservation, personally check in and in upholding security for all guests, no unregistered guests are allowed on premises. *Pictured here is main door keypad.
I hope you love and settle into your suite eager to explore Playa. You may Whatsapp message me if you have any questions. *Pictured here is night gate keypad. Please enter the code I provide you with “#” at the end. The “#” is the button on the bottom right.
* Please ensure that the door is locked at all times after you enter or leave.
Here is a video tutorial for the Night Gate below.
I have provided you special gourmet cafe from Chiapas, Mexico (some of best coffee in Mexico grown here) and also tea.
Baking Soda
I have put baking soda in your apartment on top of a cabinet to help with the humidity in this tropical climate. Please do not throw it away.
Stove
How to use the gas stove? Watch this
During Stay Contact
Meet Itzel, she is lovely and will be available during your stay should you need anything. She is in your building from Monday to Saturday 8 am to 4 pm and off on Sunday. Please WhatsApp her directly should you require assistance during your stay. +52 (1) 984 321 6475 She is fluent in Spanish so the use of Google Translate will be helpful.
Laundry 50 pesos + cost of laundry
Housekeeping 300 pesos (with new sheets and towels 400 pesos)
Bicycle rental 100 pesos / 24 hours
E-bike rental 200 pesos / 24 hours
Drinking water jug 80 pesos
*Please note that we equipped the apartment and you with toiletries, toilet paper, etc for a short-term stay (week or less). We encourage our long-term guests to pick up supplies as needed.
Check Out
Be sure to double-check that you have not forgotten anything. Please turn off the air-conditioner, wash all dishes and bring the trash down to the garbage by the reception area.
Please check out by 10 am and message me when you have left the suite so I may advise Itzel and also wish you a safe journey home!
House Rules
House rules are featured on our listing profile and guests must agree to them prior to making reservation requests.
No parties or events allowed.
No pets are allowed.
No unregistered guests are allowed.
Please rinse off sand with tap on right of main entrance prior to entering suite if at beach.
Please do not dive or do flops into the pool for your and all guests safety.
Please do not flush tissue paper down the toilet. Dispose of tissue in waste basket. Sewage system in Riviera Maya gets clogged with this.
Please do not use white towels for cosmetics. Use the coloured face towel provided.
Please do not wipe sunscreen on towels or sheets. Rinse sunscreen off with water first as the stains on the linens cannot be removed.
Please don’t eat or drink on the bed and linens.
Please respect the noise curfew. (9pm – 7am is quiet time)
Please turn off the AC when you go out.
Please respect check-in & check-out times.
Please take extra care of your keys, lock & bicycle if you use them. A replacement fee applies.
Please take extra care of your moto (scooter), helmets, keys and locks. Lost or damaged moto (scooter), helmets, keys and locks and gas not refilled incur a replacement or repair fee. You are also responsible for any traffic or parking tickets incurred during your time of use.
Please take care of the furnishings. You have to pay for damages that exceed the security deposit.
Please don’t rearrange furniture.
Please do your dishes.
Please take the trash out before you leave. (garbage at concierge)
No illegal substances allowed on the premises.
Smoking only in balcony with closed doors.
Housekeeping is provided prior and after your stay. Should you like to have housekeeping during your stay, just Whatsapp message me and I will arrange for your housekeeper, Itzel to clean your suite ($300MXN).
There is a laundromat or lavandería conveniently located beside you Calle 96 and Avenida 10. Washings are usually only $100MXN. Message me on Whatsapp should you like Itzel to pick up and deliver your laundry. $cost of washing + $50.
Electricity (Air Conditioning)
We want you to feel right at home and completely comfortable during your stay! To help ensure a smooth experience and maintain sustainability, we’ve put together a few helpful tips and recommendations for AC usage.
Electricity in Quintana Roo is limited due to the area’s rapid growth outpacing infrastructure development, leading to occasional rolling blackouts by CFE to manage demand. By being mindful of energy use, you’re helping us preserve this beautiful destination for everyone.
Here’s how it works:
We include 20 kWh/day, which is typically sufficient if the AC isn’t running all day. If you exceed this, there’s a small additional charge of 5 pesos/kWh (approximately $0.50 USD/kWh).
Tips for Efficient AC Use:
1. Turn off the AC when you’re out.
2. Set the AC to 24°C (or warmer). Lower temperatures aren’t achievable in the Caribbean climate and will only waste energy.
3. Use the AC’s sleep mode at night. We’ve marked the “sleep” button on the remote with an “S” to make it easy to find.
Wash Sand Off
Please wash off the beach sand with the tap on the right of the main entrance prior to entering the premises.
Insects
As you will see when you arrive, your apartment is professionally cleaned. While we like to think that we will not experience this, it is not uncommon that occasionally you see a roach or some ants due to living in a tropical climate and it is a normal aspect of living in this area. Your apartment is proactively fumigated once a month against these insects and we can only reduce but not eliminate them all. I advise guests not to leave food outside as it attracts them. Thank you!
Contacts
Emergency Contact
You may Whatsapp message me, but in the event, I am not able to reply in time, you may also contact our building manager, Manuel via Whatsapp at +52 (1) 984 246 9710
Pool & Terrace
Enjoy your rooftop pool and terrace on the 4th floor. We kindly ask all guests to rinse before entering the pool.
Be sure to watch the stars on your terrace at night. The skies are clear.
*Please do not dive or do flops into the pool for your and all guests safety.
Gym
Have a great exercise in your gym beside the terrace also on the 4th floor. We kindly ask you wipe down equipment and bench after use.
Co-working Room
Need to get some work done? Use your Co-working Room also located on the 4th floor.
Bicycles
Bicycles are provided on availability. They are the best way to explore Playa Del Carmen. There are bicycles available for rental on a first-come basis.
Bicycle rental 100 pesos / 24 hours
E-bike rental 200 pesos / 24 hours
Lock the bicycle at all times and be sure not to lose the lock or key. Please do not park bicycles on the rack in front of the building, please return bicycles inside the lobby.
Please do not manually adjust the bicycles (seat, handles, etc…)
Exclusive Discounts & Offers!
Martina Beach Club
Albatros, Zazil-ha, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Martina Beach Club Google Maps here
Enjoy exclusive access, lounge chairs and umbrellas at Martina Beach Club. Tripadvisor’s #3 of 105 things to do in Playa Del Carmen. *valued at $1000MXN with a $300 minimum food or drink purchase. Simply Whatsapp message me 24 hours prior so I may get your name on the access list.
Martina Beach Club is located on beautiful Playa Pelicanos.
Marena Beach Club
Carretera Federal 307 Cancun – Chetumal Km 294 + 700 Lote, Nicte-ha, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Marena Club Google Maps here
I have also negotiated exclusive access to a quiet and peaceful beach club catered to the private residences Mareazul Luxury Condos. Now Tranquilo guests will also enjoy the same benefits of privileges. The relaxed vibe and energy here remind me of Playa Mazunte on the Oaxaca coast. Depending on the season, a day pass is only 350 or 450 pesos (300 or 400 pesos goes towards your food and drinks). Day pass gets you pool access and lounge chairs with umbrellas. Let me know in advance if you like to use this beach club only a 15-minute walk from your apartment along Punta Esmeralda and I will get your name on the guest list.
Chef Playa Mariscos
Luis Donaldo Colosio, 77728 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Chef Playa Mariscos Google Maps here
Just a couple minutes walk from Tranquilo is perhaps the best kept secret amongst the locals in Playa.
Don’t judge a book by its cover. Although this may be a little hole in a wall (literally), Chef Playa serves arguably the freshest and authentic Mariscos (seafood dishes) that the locals love.
Ask for Chef Alfredo and let him know you are my guest at Tranquilo Vacation Rentals and you can get his special taster menu for only 350 MXN that includes many courses including cerviche, shrimps, salmon, lobster and much more!
Gran Cafe
5ta Avenida y calle 54 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Gran Cafe Google Maps here
Gran Cafe is a quaint and lovely cafe located on the quieter side of 5th Avenue. It is a fusion of a French bistro with some local delights.
The open and relaxed atmosphere is perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Everything on the menu is fresh and delicious.
As our guest at Tranquilo Vacation Rentals, you save 10% off your bill. Simply let your waiter know your discount code “TRANQUILO” to save 10%. Enjoy! 🙂
Work It CoWorking
Ave 10 /14 y 14 Bis Local 10, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Work It Google Maps here
If you are looking for an environment that will promote your productivity or need a conference room for a video call, then Work It is your place!
I like to come here whenever I need to focus and get deep work done efficiently. And a bonus is on Fridays, there is FREE Pizza for lunch!
Rates are
60 mxn / hour
255 mxn / day
850 mxn / week
1450 mxn / month
As our guest at Tranquilo Vacation Rentals, you save 10% off. Simply let your Magnolia know when you arrive that your discount code “TRANQUILO” to save 10%.
Things to Do Recommendations
The vibe and energy of Playa Del Carmen is unique and very different from almost any other beach town I have visited. While there are many activities I love to do here in Playa and this list is by no means exhaustive, I recommend at least catching a sunrise on Punta Esmeralda, visiting cenotes, and a day on Isla Cozumel!
I may help with tours and car rentals so let me know what your interests are and I may give you some recommendations.
You may read my Top 5 Things to do in Playa Del Carmen CLICK HERE.
Top 3 Tours to do in Riviera Maya CLICK HERE.
I have lived in the Riviera Maya for 2 years now. Visited close to 40 cenotes. These 3 tours will give you the best experience of the magic in the Riviera Maya. *Be sure to Whatsapp Alejandro for latest tour offers! Read about it here.
Top 5 Things to do on Isla Cozumel CLICK HERE.
Best Places to Eat Recommendations
My Top 10 places to eat in Playa Del Carmen have something for every palette. The influx of diverse vacationers is reflected in the incredible food options in Playa. You may read my Top 10 Places to Eat in Playa Del Carmen CLICK HERE.
Here are some of my favorite places to eat:
- CHEF PLAYA MARISCOS (Mexican Seafood)
- BIRRIA DE LA 30 (Mexican)
- SALENTO (Italian)
- EL PIRATA (Mexican Seafood)
- CHEESTER (Italian)
- CHILTEPIN MARISQUILLOS (Mexican)
- EL FOGON (Mexican)
- WOOD-FIRED CHICKEN & RIBS (Grilled Meats)
- LA 88 FAMILY RESTAURANT (Mexican)
- LOS MOLCAJETES GRILL (Mexican)
I recommend for healthy comfort food home delivery option with The Meal Company PDC.
Another food delivery option for an authentic Mexican menu is Whatsapp: +52 (1) 984 212 8424
Di Di Food app also delivers food.
Here is a sample menu which changes weekly.
Local Map
Here is a map of what is around you. There are loads of small fruit shops, bread and pastries and cafes around you.
May all guests who enter, leave as friends
Thank YOU for being such a great guest. I will leave you a 5-star review and if you enjoyed your stay it would be helpful and great if you left me a 5-star review as well! What did you enjoy most and what surprised you during your stay? If there is anything that could have made your stay better please send me a message.
Don’t forget to sign my guestbook! Be sure to let me know what you loved the most about your trip! One of my selfish pleasures is getting to meet nice people from all over the world.
Refer a Friend or Family…
There is something heart warming and authentic about a word-of-mouth referral. Like watching a great movie or enjoying a “Tranquilo” experience in Playa Del Carmen, we invite you to help us share your experience with us.
For every friend or family who books directly with us for a 3 night minimum stay (not airbnb or other booking site), we will gift you a FREE night in your future stay! *Free night redeemed on a minimum 3-night stay, excluding December, January, February, March and April.
My house is your house. Your family is my family. I will care for them as well as I cared for you. Thank you for sharing the love.
Thanks again for booking my place. Hope to see you next time you’re in town! – Rudolph