Did Someone Say "Museums?"
When the heat is unbearable or the rain stops you from being on the beach, you may want to consider something to do inside with air-conditioning. We had heard about two museums, one just south of us at the entrance to the Tulum ruins. The other in Playa on 10th near 8th, not far from 5th Avenue. I hesitate to label either one of these as “museums,” but they are worth being aware of if you are looking for something to do to escape the heat or rain.
The first museum, Mystika Immersive (Mystika - An Immersive Mystikal Experience en Tulum (mystikaimmersive.com)) is more of an interactive art gallery, showcasing the incredible works of Pepe Soho. The various displays take you on his journey from the fashion world to photography. Pepe’s artistic talents began as a musician, then, staying true to his artistic abilities, he made a name for himself in fashion, creating the famous SOHO brand. On a trip to India to find peace he had a tragic accident. Through his recovery he focused his art on photography and has shared that Spiritual Experience and his creative art at Mystika.
Pepe has traveled extensively and shares the beauty he found through his art. This is not just any photo gallery; it truly is one that must be experienced. His ability to combine media and to place you in different environments transforms his art to a total, sensual experience. The only downside to visiting Mystika is trying to figure out which of his spectacular pieces you can afford, once it becomes painfully clear that you can’t buy them all.
Located at the entrance of the Tulum ruins, where all the souvenir shops are, there is plenty of parking and easy access. This should absolutely be added to our list of places to take guests from now on. Hours: Sunday to Tuesday 10:00 – 20:00; Wednesday to Saturday 10:00 – 21:00. Cost: Foreigners $450 pesos, Mexicans $350 pesos, Locals with ID $300, Seniors and children $270 pesos.
Days later, since we enjoyed Mystika so much, the four us, Jill, Jim, Mike and I headed up to Playa to visit the 3D Museum of Wonders (3D Museum of Wonders |Official Site| Best thing to do in Playa del Carmen). Again, I hesitate to label this a museum – I would call it more of a playground for taking selfies. With a price tag of $35 per person, children 4-11 $30 and locals half off, I was expecting something more. You begin by being ushered into a movie theater setting to watch a promotional piece that touts the place as the most amazing experience in ALL LATIN AMERICA! I don’t know about you, but with hype like that I tend to go in already disbelieving it will wow me. I was not wrong.
Be sure to bring your phone or camera because the only reason to visit this place is to capture photos of you and your friends immersed in some recreations of the worlds great art. I know some people who would absolutely love this experience. Not being comfortable posing for the camera, it was only mildly entertaining for me.
The highlight of this adventure, though, was lunch at the rooftop restaurant at the Thompson Hotel (www.thompsonhotels.com) on 5th Avenue. If you have not been, it is a must visit. Operated by Hyatt, this hotel is gorgeous, with the most incredible rooftop pool I have seen. With 3 restaurant options: Alessia Pop-Up Restaurant, for adults only, Five and Alessia Day Club there is virtually something for everyone. The views from this rooftop are incredible. You can see all over Playa, as well as the amazing Caribbean Sea, and, on a clear day, Cozumel.
The menu options are extensive and, considering the atmosphere and view, we felt they were very reasonably priced. You can have your choice of salads, starters, sandwiches, entrees, poke bowl, sushi, pizza and of course desserts. If you visit the Alessia Day Club on the weekends they offer endless mimosas and gin and tonics…you may want to secure a room for the night!
I would highly recommend any shopping day in Playa that you treat yourself to this incredible spot.