Finally together, we made a quick dash to grab Eric a sandwich before heading to the gate (hand in hand, I wish) and boarding the plane. The universe immediately tested us: no sitting together. We had a whole aisle dividing us for the long journey.

Despite the distance, the flight actually went by faster than expected. The food situation was pretty bad, especial the vegan meals, but a surprise layover in Jamaica saved the mood. Getting off the plane to stretch our legs and pick up two bottles of duty-free rum was just the reset we needed. The final ninety minutes of flying definitely dragged, but before we knew it, we were on the ground in Mexico.

After what felt like an eternity at baggage claim, we went to pick up our rental car: a bright red Kia. We took detailed videos to document every scratch, only to get hit with an unexpected $1,500 USD deductible. Gotta love the fine print!

And then we were off to Playa del Carmen. We made a quick snack run along the way because we were both starving, and after a 30-minute drive, we pulled into the center of Playa. It was an amazing sight, a central square dressed up in festive Christmas lights, packed streets, and a very visible police presence.

After asking around for directions, we finally found our hotel and checked in. It became clear immediately that speaking Spanish was a major plus, so I was happy that Eric’s Portuguese allowed him to understand Spanish. As for the room? It was a perfect location and amazing vibe, and thankfully, a separate toilet, a minor detail we were a bit stressed about.

We quickly changed and went for a walk to find some food. We grabbed some street food, which was okay, mostly just oily. Walking through the lively streets filled with bars, shops, and music, one thing stood out immediately: men kept coming up to Eric trying to sell him... stuff. It felt straight out of Narcos, and it ended up being a running theme the whole trip.

We found a nice bar with live salsa music and ordered cocktails. The tourist prices were a pity, but we were having fun taking photos and videos en enjoying the music. Then all of a sudden, I felt super strange. Not tipsy or drunk, just giggly and extremely happy.

When the music finished, we started walking back, both convinced our drinks had been spiked. Eric even asked the waiter, though he denied it.

We stumbled back to the hotel laughing and holding hands, which was the giveaway, because Eric never holds hands. By the time we reached the car, he suddenly decided he wanted a full-on photoshoot next to our red Kia. So there we were, having a late-night photo session, courtesy of a guy who normally despises being in front of a camera.

We took a nice shower to wash off the travel day and finally collapsed into bed. The endless war over the blanket officially started that night, but at least we completely agreed on one thing: switching the airco off.