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The record-breaking holiday season is in full swing across Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean, with hotels and resorts nearly selling out across the sun-soaked region.
But in one hotspot south of Cancun, another type of accommodation is soaring in popularity this winter: boutique hotels and Airbnbs.
Fueled by a desire to experience authentic local experiences, travelers are booking smaller accommodations in Playa del Carmen.
Regarded as one of the top cultural locations in the Mexican Caribbean, this coastal destination boasts a stunning array of beautiful abodes, many of which offer gorgeous ocean views.
With that in mind, here’s a look at why travelers are booking boutique hotels and vacation rentals in Playa del Carmen this winter.
Boutique Hotels To Nearly Sell Out In Playa del Carmen This December Amid Record Demand
Playa del Carmen is one of the trendiest destinations in the Mexican Caribbean this year as seen by its skyrocketing occupancy rates.
Not only are traditional all-inclusive properties having one of the best years on record, but smaller, more humble boutique stays are also seeing a surge in demand.
@theflyygirlexperience This one is $75 a night, centrally located in the lovely 5th av and three people can have their own beds! I wasn’t paid for this review but if i were you I would RUN to book the in fashion hotel by KAAVIA in Playa del Carmen! #switchingupthealgorithm #budgetfriendlyhotels #lifeinmexico #flyygirlaproved ♬ Super Mario Bros Main Theme – Geek Music
According to the latest report on occupancy rates in the Riviera Maya hub, some 70% of boutique hotels were sold out in Playa del Carmen during the first few weeks of December.
And with Christmas just around the corner, that number will soon reach up to 95% according to experts.
According to Carlos Jiménez, the head of Playa del Carmen’s tourism promotion agency, properties across the sunny destination are selling out fast for the busy holidays.
That’s especially true for the dozens of smaller hotels and online rentals that dot the city’s Fifth Avenue and 10th Street, which offer unparalleled access to the city’s bustling nightlife.
@obedcanchea Replying to @Badgallbree ♬ original sound – Obed Canché A
With demand set to peak during the last week of December, travelers have a limited timeframe to book remaining properties, as nearly all of Playa del Carmens’s quaint boutique hotels are fully booked until after New Year.
Meanwhile, online rentals are expected to have a record-breaking winter season, as travelers opt in growing numbers for more authentic local experiences.
And with Playa del Carmen widely regarded as one of the most lively cities in the Mexican Caribbean, it’s no wonder that most Airbnbs in the sunny destination are sold out.
@_.uniique One of my favorite boutique hotels in playa del Carmen, the small touches are everything and more and it’s super affordable and kid friendly 🫶🏾🌎 #vacation #blackgirltiktok #traveling #travelingtheworld #experience #blackwomantravel #blackmomsoftiktok #followtrain #playa #playadelcarmen #boutiquehotel ♬ Originalton – darkvidez
The figures are in line with other estimates that point to the Riviera Maya as one of the most popular hotspots in the Mexican Caribbean this year.
Characterized by endless white-sand beaches and a stunning variety of luxurious 5-star all-inclusives, the sun-drenched area is home to over 55,000 hotel rooms.
With demand expected to soar further during the course of the Holiday period, the Riviera Maya may even exceed Cancun’s average occupancy rate, especially as the sunny region soars in popularity with luxury travel.
@xperiencehotels If you want to come to Mexico, we’re waiting to host you. #HappinessIsMeasuredInXperiences ☀️ #PlayadelCarmen #rivieramaya #travelbucketlist ♬ come into my arms cover – ya gurl kay ✨
Follow These Important Guidelines When Booking An Online Rental In Playa del Carmen
Online rentals are becoming one of the most popular types of accommodations for travelers across the Mexican Caribbean.
Offering travelers unique locations, larger rooms, and more flexibility, Airbnbs are a great way to travel more and save money.
Despite their growing popularity, online rentals come with some big risks. Travelers should make sure to book using safe and verified platforms like booking.com or Airbnb.
Avoid booking through social media websites and clicking on fake ads, which may seem tempting.
When it comes to safety, opt for properties situated in busy tourist areas, and avoid those furthest away from downtown Playa del Carmen.
@simply.jash WHERE I STAYED IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN #tiktokplayadelcarmen #vacationdestinations #mexicohotelroom #mvngatahotel #mvngatabeachclub #travelgirlmexico #girlsvacations #beachvacay2022 @mvngatahotel ♬ Sunny Day – Ted Fresco
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