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by JesusW
Mexico city, Mexico
February 5, 2005
Clerks at the ticket booths will try to help confused tourists, but is not guaranteed that they will speak English, so a bilingual dictionary comes in handy here. But even with hand signs you can make yourself understood, and they will put forth their best effort to send you to the right destination.
People in this area are very friendly and like that foreigners feel at home. Sometimes they go beyond their duties without seeking monetary compensation, but be aware that some people will try to squeeze out some coins from you, normally these people weren't born in the area.
You can do your research on the routes on the internet, and can even buy your tickets on-line, go to: Ticket Bus Mexico Buses
The time of old, dirty, and smoggy buses is gone for good in the Riviera Maya, as transportation companies (and the government) have finally begun to understand that tourism is vital for the economic development of the area. So most of the first-class buses you will take will be comfortable and air-conditioned and will have a TV showing movies and a functioning toilet onboard. Second-class buses are not too far behind, maybe lacking the toilet or having narrower seats, but taking the price into account, they are great deals.
Destinations
From Playa del Carmen you can easily reach the major archeological areas in the zone, like Chichen Itza (4 hours trip), Tulum (1 hour), and Coba (1.5 hours), but the buses will also take you to little towns efficiently and cheaply. Going to the water parks (Xel Ha and Xcaret) is also easier by bus, as you arrive on your own schedule and can decide when to leave.
From journal Playa del Carmen on a budget