What is shopping like in Playa del Carmen, Tulum Mexico?

Question

I'm travelling from the UK and will be keeping my eye out for electrical goods - in particular Nintendo DS games. Are these sorts of thing widely available? ANd if so how do prices compare with the USA?

Answer 1

Electrical and electronic stuff is typically 10 to 25 % more expensive in Mexico than the USA.  They do have good options, but definitely not in the Tulum area.  You might have better luck in Playa del Carmen or in Cozumel (short ferry from Playa del Carmen.)  Cozumel is a Tax Free port and it does have good selection of itmes.

Nintendo DS games will be available, but I do not think the selection will be big.  In Mexico I have seen that they modify the game consoles to accept copies of games.  But Playa, Cozumel and Cancun have stores specializing in Games.

Beware the compatibility of any electrical/electronic items.  Things like voltage, plugs, TV signal mode, DVD region, etc. might give you a headache.

Good shopping option in the area are perfumes, watches, some jewerly and precious stones, but as alwasy you have to be very careful that the item is authentic.

Have fun.

Answer 2

I went shopping in Playa del Carmen in February this year. I can't comment on DS games but everything seemed to be the same or more expensive than the UK. Nobody in my party of 12 bought anything - there were no bargains to be had at all as far as we could see! And as US prices are cheaper than the UK my guess would be that you'd be better off buying the games from the US. Hope this helps?!

Answer 3

Because they cater to tourists, the majority of the goods for sale in Playa del Carmen and Tulum will be things that have sold to tourists in the past (oynx chess sets, hammocks, glassware, etc.).  If you have the time, go south from Tulum to Chetumal.  It is a large port town and many freight ships anchor in the bay.  There are many electronic stores in Chetumal because of this influx of goods.  Many people from Belize cross the border there to shop in these stores.