Playa del Carmen, officially known as Solidaridad, is a city located along the Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is part of the Riviera Maya, a stretch of coastline known for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage.
The history of Playa del Carmen dates back to the ancient Maya Civilization. The area was known as Xaman-Há, which translates to "waters of the north," and served as a port for trading with communities across the Yucatan Peninsula. However, with the decline of the Maya, the region saw a decrease in population and activity.
In the 19th century, the area was largely uninhabited until the establishment of Cancun in the 1970s spurred development in the region. Playa del Carmen began to grow as a small fishing village, but it wasn't until the 1990s that it started to become a tourist destination due to:
Today, Playa del Carmen is a bustling destination known for:
The city has seen a significant increase in infrastructure to cater to tourists, including hotels, resorts, and residential developments. However, efforts are also made to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage through sustainable tourism practices.