One of the first annoyances many expats and retirees face when settling for their new life in Playa del Carmen is finding where to buy things. When relocating to these new places it is important to do some previous research on where all the necessities are located in reference to where you will be living. If you are making the Riviera Maya your forever home, you will surely be in need to find certain things along the line – more than just groceries. From grocery stores to malls to car dealerships, you will find it all in the region. Even more mundane things such as going to the cinema or knowing where to buy fruits and vegetables is important. Here is a list of where to buy things throughout Playa del Carmen.
Grocery Shopping
A routinely activity, grocery shopping is very easy in Playa del Carmen. There are many large supermarket chains throughout – both national and international – where you will find locally-sourced and imported goods. La Mega and Walmart are great for quick shopping. You can find anything from alcohol to groceries, clothing, souvenirs and electronics. Although you might be familiar with Walmart, this is focused on a Mexican market and not always carries the same products you are used to back home.
Here is a list of the largest and most popular grocery shops:
La Mega
Walmart
Chedraui
Soriana
Super Aki
Aurrera
Medical Centers and Hospitals
It’s important to know where to get medical attention, whether it’s for a quick check-up or an emergency. As expats and retirees, we highly recommend you always go to a private clinic or hospital for any medical needs. As to where to buy medications and other things, there are many pharmacies throughout the area, as well as inside large hospitals.
Hospitals and Clinics
Hospiten Hospital
CostaMed
Playa International Clinic
Hospital San Carlos
Consultorio Clinic
Cruz Roja (Red Cross)
Pharmacies
Similares
Farmacias del Ahorro
YZA
Car Dealerships
If you’re thinking of bringing your car down to Mexico, you should definitely check whether the brand you’re driving is available in Playa del Carmen, or at least Cancun. That way, if you need to put it in for a check-up or need to replace any parts, you will be able to visit the dealership. For those who want to purchase a car in Playa del Carmen, it is also best to know what dealerships are available and what cars they carry – it often varies from other countries.
Here are the most popular dealerships in Playa del Carmen:
Volkswagen
Nissan Playa del Carmen
Toyota Riviera Maya
Ford Riviera Maya
KIA Playacar
Shopping and Entertainment
Expats are often looking where to buy clothes, sports accessories, perfumes and lotions and other things. There are plenty of shopping centers with great local, national and international stores, as well as plenty of entertainment options. You will find movie theaters, cafés, shops, supermarkets, furniture stores and big stores like Sears.
Centro Maya
Quinta Alegria Shopping Mall
Paseo del Carmen
Plaza Playacar
Calle Corazon
Plaza Las Americas
US Consular Agency, Playa del Carmen
For any needs about visa requirements, passports or any other assistance you may require while living in Playa del Carmen you will need to visit or call the US Consular Agency located in Plaza Progreso on the Federal Highway 307, local 33.
Everything is different in Playa del Carmen than it would be back home. That is why knowing where to buy things or find the help you need is important. As you settle into your new life, you will slowly start finding quirky and odd stores throughout the many neighborhoods. You will find restaurants, cafés, shops, bars, and more that you will start to frequent.
If you’re just beginning to consider your retirement to paradise, make sure you check out the hundreds of listings we have for you. And if you’re ready to start seeing properties, give us a call. We’re here to help you!