The touristy part of Playa is laden with shops selling 'artesanias'. These basically sell the same products - shirts, bracelets, and souvenirs, but for varying prices depending on the mood of the shopkeeper and your haggling/seduction skills. Haggling is accepted in the less formal shops in Playa, as is the rest of the Yucatan, though it is worth remembering that if you are able to afford an international vacation your income is many times higher than the storekeeper's most of whom struggle just to pay the very high rents. It is possible to buy both Mexican and Cuban cigars here, but Cuban cigar prices are not particularly cheap. Counterfeits are commonplace in Mexico, so due diligence in the selection of cigars is advisable. If you are young or have long hair, many shop keepers are likely to also offer you marijuana. Marijuana is illegal in Mexico, though its use is widespread amongst tourists.
There are three large supermarkets in Playa del Carmen: Wal-Mart 30 Ave and Calle 8, Comercial Mexicana MEGA 30 Ave. and Constituyentes, Chedraui Highway 307 between Playa del Carmen and Playacar. There is also a Sam's Club Highway 307 in front of Playacar.
There are two large shopping centers on the outskirts of town: Centro Maya on the right of Highway 307 heading towards Tulum - opposite Playacar and Plaza Las Americas entrance is on the right side of Highway 307 as you head to Cancún, by the large traffic circle with statue at the entrance of Playa del Carmen. Both shopping centers have multiscreen cinemas and large supermarkets Soriana and Chedraui, respectively.
