It worked out for the best, especially because our flight got in even later than anticipated because Quintana Roo observed daylight savings effective Feb 1. They were now on Eastern time. Thankfully, collecting the rental car was smooth. I reserved a manual economy car for $3/day. The cheapest quote, yet. A couple years ago, laws changed and you can no longer waive all insurances (with a credit card that provides coverage) so you are responsible for insurance that covers others in case of an accident. We were charged an additional $20 per day for coverage. We were shocked when we learned our car was a new Chevy Aveo with automatic transmission and only 3000 km. We were riding in style.
The apartment was easy to find, and we made arrangements for our late arrival so we were settled in no time. Our first stop was Walmart for cash, beer and water. However, liquor sales end early on Sundays and we were denied our cerveza. Thankfully, our host left us Indio to enjoy. We were most grateful. The second stop? El Fogon. Apparently, all it takes to feel like we arrived is a margarita, al pastor tacos... and a few cervezas.
The apartment was tidy and comfortable. There is a living room with futon, small kitchen with fridge and hotplates, bedroom and bath. The A/C worked great and there was plenty of hot water. The only thing that would prevent us from a longer stay is the double bed. It was a bit snug for Frank and I. Parking was right out front of the unit. It was about a 10-15 minute walk to the beach. It was just what we needed.
In the morning, we grabbed breakfast at La Cueva del Chango. The restaurant is just as charming as it was ten years ago. The neighborhood sure has filled in, though! I couldn't resist the chilaquiles and Frank chose molletes, which is wheat toast topped with beans and cheese. They are known for their fresh squeezed juices so we also had papaya and orange juice. It was a great start to the day. They never disappoint.
After checking out of Al Cielo, we returned to Playa del Carmen we cruised around to see how much the city has grown. Construction is booming! I cannot believe how many new hotels and residences have been built. There is so much more currently under way. Then, we were completely distracted by a giant Chicago Beef sign. We had to try it.
The menu offered all of Chicago's favorites. We split an order of saganaki and a beef sandwich. Both had the right idea, but they failed to produce an authentic product.
Nearby was Mr. Pollo Kentucky. We didn't stop, but we probably should have.
We retired the car and set off for 5th street. Frank wanted to check out the Sportsbook at the Tequila Barrel. The bar was busy as always, but the book was pretty slow. I suspect it fills up when there are more sporting events.
From there, we wandered to the beach. We first stopped at El Pirata, they seated us promptly, provided menus, but never returned to take our order. We were near Playa Maya and we were curious how it has changed over the years, so we left to check it out. It was where we stayed our first trip in 2005. Back then, it was too crowded for our tastes and today, it is even busier. We sat near the bar, drank Dos Equis and watched people move about like ants. Service is still attentive. It looks like the hotel has expanded a bit and the bar is completely different. I'm glad to see them doing so well. I was surprised to see Alhambra next door completely gutted. I bet it will be a swanky resort next time we visit.
Afterwards, we relocated to Fusion. Their bar and restaurant is right on the beach. It's has a great vibe and it's well run. We camped out there until the sun began to set. They had a live band and at night I understand they have fire dancers.
We planned for an early dinner so we could fit in a late night snack at El Fogon. We heard about a place doing authentic Chicago Style deep dish pizza. We had to see for ourselves. When we arrived at Don Chendo, we took the last available table. It's a quaint space, but it turns over tables all night. The owner makes it a point to greet every table, I couldn't help but chat him up. He's originally from New York, but makes deep dish? How can that be? Well, he does a mighty fine job. The pizza was excellent. We had the Chendo: Italian sausage, peppers and onions. It might not look it, but it was better than majority of places in Chicago. No joke. I wish we didn't wait until our final night to try it. We'll definitely seek it out next visit.
Another El Fogon location is around the block, it was hard to resist, but we had full bellies and intended to get one last fix a bit later at the location near the apartment.
But we never did. We walked over, but the line was down the street. It was near midnight. We had to be up before the sun so we grabbed snacks at the neighborhood OXXO and called it a night. We'd have to wait until next trip for another dose of El Fogon goodness.
Just like that, our week in paradise was over. The weather was perfection. Humidity was so low, I never thought it was possible. It made it extremely hard to leave. All it did was encourage my desire to one day make it a permanent vacation.
