WHAT ABOUT MONEY?

In Akumal, the Mexican Peso is the preferred currency but US dollars are accepted most everywhere although you will get a poor exchange rate. You can use credit cards at some of the restaurants. You can change money or use a cash machine in Playa del Carmen although there is a money changing office in Akumal as well.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

The best thing to do is rent a car. All the major companies have offices at the Cancn Airport. I found the best prices and service to be with Budget and Avis although this seems to vary from week to week. It is best to reserve in he States via their central reservation line. The drive to Akumal is a little more than an hour due south on Highway 307. You can also take a cab from the airport to Akumal but having a car is so much more convenient especially if you plan on exploring the area.

WHAT CAN I DO IN AND AROUND AKUMAL?

Swim, snorkle, scuba, fish, lie on the beach, birdwatch, explore Mayan ruins, ride bikes, windsurf, kayak, beachcomb, laze in a hammock, get a massage. You get the idea.

WHERE CAN I EAT IN AKUMAL?

If you don't want to cook in, there are several restaurants within walking distance and, if you want more of a selection, you can always make the short drive to Playa del Carmen where there are restaurants of every type imaginable.

WHAT’S IN THE APARTMENT?

Both the 1 and 2 bedroom apartments have kitchens with a sink, stove, microwave, blender, coffemaker, toaster, and refrigerator. There is service for four to eight of drinking glasses, dishes, and utensils. Basic cookware is provided, along with utensils for food preparation and serving. The 2 bedroom has a small charcoal grill. There is a CD player so you might want to bring along your favorite music.

WHERE CAN I SHOP?

You can buy just about anything at the Costco, Sam’s Club, or Wal-Mart in Cancun. To get to any of them, drive north out of the airport, toward Cancun city. Turn left at the Pemex station. The Costco is on the right. Go right at the second light to get to Sam’s Club and the Wal-Mart. They’re in the same shopping center. If you plan to buy things that need to be kept cold while you’re driving, you might want to bring a cooler with you (check it through as luggage) or buy a disposable cooler in Cancun. If you’re in Playa del Carmen, you can shop at the Chedraui supermarket. This is located on the main road, Highway 307, on the left side just after you pass the main entrance to Playa. You should pass it and stay in the left lane and make a U-turn a few hundred yards later. You can buy almost anything you would need here. If you forget anything, there are 2 small markets right in Akumal at the entrance.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellant. In case you’re caught without your bug spray, you might want to have some itch cream with you. If there’s a condiment or food item you just can’t live without, you better bring it. If you have your own snorkling gear, I would also bring that but, if you don't you can rent it in Akumal. A good guidebook such as Lonely Planet's or Moon's. Bring a camera and film. The disposable underwater cameras take nice pictures, and eliminate the worry about getting a good camera wet while you’re on a boat or at the water, even if you’re not underwater. Flipflops or waterproof sandals. Books you've been wanting to read.

JUST HOW BAD ARE THE BUGS?

It depends on the weather, and the time of year. Usually bugs are not that big of a problem in Akumal but if you do a Jungle tour or are out at dusk you want to be prepared.

WHAT SHOULDN’T I BRING?

People tend to overpack. Most of the time you will be wearing shorts or a bathing suit. There are no formal places where you need to get dressed up in Akumal. Even the best restaurants are casual. There is a reasonably priced laundry with same day service.

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