Cenote (pictured): A rare geological feature of the Yucatán, a cenote is a freshwater sinkhole formed when the limestone ground caves in and fills with water from underground rivers. Examples are Blue Cenote, Gran Cenote, and The Car Wash. Colectivo: A sort of taxi-bus combination, a colectivo is a van or similar vehicle used for local transportation. It has semi-fixed routes and is cheaper than a taxi.
Costa Maya: The coastline south of the Riviera Maya (which officially ends at Tulum).
La Federal: "La Federal" is what locals say when referring to Highway 307, a federal highway.
Ha: Mayan for "water." You'll see it used everywhere, in names of products and locations.
Mole: A chocolate-based sauce made with dozens of herbs and spices, used in traditional Mexican cooking. Try it at Yaxche Restaurant in downtown Playa del Carmen.
Muelle: Spanish for "dock," it's commonly used when referring to the ferry landing. Nopales: Sliced cactus from the nopal tree, it's used locally in breakfast juice and can be served grilled or sautéed with any meal of the day.
Palapa: Thatched palm used to make roofing in the Riviera Maya. The tight weave keeps out rain and has to be replaced every couple of years.
Pan dulce: Literally, "sweet bread," it's used to describe a variety of delicious locally made breakfast pastries. For a quick start to your day, order a café con pan dulce.
Parada: Spanish for "bus stop."
