Welcome to Playa del Carmen—Now Try to Park

On a recent visit to Playa del Carmen, I found myself locked in a battle not with the sun, surf, or sargassum—but with a parking meter. What should have been a simple transaction—just 10 pesos (about 60 cents) for an hour of street parking—turned into a 30-minute odyssey of glitchy tech, confusing bureaucracy, and a tourism strategy that increasingly feels less about welcoming visitors and more about squeezing them.

The parking meters in downtown Playa, in theory, reflect a modern, urban upgrade. Each sleek silver machine boasts multilingual instructions and logos suggesting compatibility with credit cards and mobile apps. In practice, however, they are the bureaucratic equivalent of a mirage.

Despite the signage, none of the machines I encountered accepted credit cards. Mexican coins only. And who carries a fistful of coins in 2025, let alone in pesos? When I turned to the mobile app—standard in most global cities—I found myself locked out. The app refused to create an account, and even the “Help” section came with a catch: I’d need to sign up for a monthly subscription just to access assistance. That’s right—25 pesos a month (cancel anytime, if you remember), just for the privilege of being told how to pay for parking.

Hoping for a workaround, I ducked into Porfirio’s Restaurant, a well-known spot a few steps away from my car. The hostess, who spoke with a clear Argentinian accent, nodded knowingly when I explained my situation. “Sí, solo monedas,” she said—only coins. Then, with a sympathetic glance, she added, “Si no pagas, te ponen el candado.” If you don’t pay, they’ll clamp your tire with a metal device that immobilizes the car—similar to a Denver boot. I assumed that meant hours later, or maybe overnight. Surely there was a grace period while I tried to find change?

Apparently not.

As I returned to my rental car to continue the coin search, I saw a small team of uniformed city employees working their way down the street, locking wheels and slapping fluorescent stickers onto windshields. Tourists hovered nearby, confused and distressed. One officer kindly listened as I explained my failed attempts to pay, my screenshots, my effort. He handed me a laminated placard—the kind left on vehicles after they’ve been immobilized—and said I could “try calling the number” on the back. That’s the same number drivers must dial after paying a 580-peso fine (roughly $35 USD) at the municipal treasury or an Oxxo convenience store.

The message was clear: this isn’t about managing limited parking space. This is about trapping people—locals and tourists alike—in a system engineered for failure, then charging them for the privilege of trying.

Eventually, one of the enforcement staff took pity and pointed me to a paid lot at a nearby mall. Grateful, I parked and went about my night. But the saga wasn’t over. When it came time to leave, the payment machines inside the lot also refused credit cards and declined large bills. Dollar payments were accepted only by a human attendant—who was nowhere to be found. I wandered the lot and eventually found him chatting with security guards inside the mall. I speak Spanish. I found him by luck. But what about the average tourist?

A Parking System Designed for Confusion

The parking meter system in Playa del Carmen was introduced in December 2019 under a 15-year concession to a company called Promotora de Reordenamiento Urbano S.A. de C.V., operating under the brand name Playa Parq and using the Mueve Ciudad app. But as mentioned earlier, the app refused to create an account and even locked customer support behind a monthly 25-peso subscription—just to ask a question. Which begs the question: is this just a tourist Inconvenience, or was the system designed to fail by making it deliberately hard to pay for parking?

Since its implementation, the system has generated significant revenue. From 2021 to 2024, meters and fines have brought in more than 60 million pesos, and in 2025 alone, the projected revenue is 38 million pesos. That’s not counting what’s collected through towing and immobilization fees.

Despite this financial windfall, the user experience remains dire. The app is available only in Spanish. There’s no easy way for international visitors to understand the process, no signage explaining how long one can park before being clamped, and no personnel trained to support confused tourists. Just an assumption that you know how it all works—and consequences if you don’t.

Designing for Accessibility

Playa del Carmen is one of the jewels of the Riviera Maya—an international destination that prides itself on its hospitality. Boutique hotels, luxury condos, eco-parks, and a famously walkable downtown draw millions of visitors a year. But the city’s parking system is a Kafkaesque experience that seems intentionally opaque, with malfunctioning apps, contradictory instructions, and payment systems built for maximum inconvenience.

It doesn’t have to be this way. If Playa truly wants to welcome visitors, it must design a parking system that’s user-friendly, multilingual, and accessible. That means functional card readers, working apps, non-predatory fines, and customer service that doesn’t require a subscription. 

In the meantime if you’re planning a trip to Playa del Carmen, here’s a travel tip: pack pesos, patience, and perhaps a little luck when it comes to parking.

Otherwise, Playa del Carmen risks sending tourists the message that paradise is only accessible—if you can figure out how to park.

Charleston's Culinary Evolution: The Saga Behind Sorelle’s Arrival

Charleston, with its cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture, is a city deeply protective of its past. But it is also a city evolving, where history and modernity often find themselves in a delicate dance. Nowhere is this tension more evident than in the journey to establish Sorelle, the acclaimed Italian restaurant by Michael Mina, nestled in the heart of the Holy City. The road to its opening was as complex as the flavors it now serves, requiring bold vision, strategic maneuvering, and a deep understanding of Charleston’s intricate zoning and preservation landscape.

A Vision, and a Challenge

Sorelle is the brainchild of Beemok Hospitality Collection (BHC), led by Charleston-based businessman and philanthropist Ben Navarro. Bringing a Michael Mina restaurant to Charleston was no small feat. Navarro, recognizing the city’s rising status as a culinary destination, saw an opportunity to introduce a new level of fine Italian dining to the Lowcountry. But first, he had to secure a location that could accommodate his vision—a challenge in a city where historic preservation reigns supreme and commercial expansion is scrutinized with a discerning eye.

The chosen site was not a single structure but rather a collection of three historic townhomes, originally built for John Laurens sometime between 1793 and 1804. These buildings, which had housed a variety of small businesses and residences over the decades, had to be thoughtfully integrated into one cohesive space. Taking a cue from its 1800s-era origins (the building was the site of a Hebrew school run by two sisters), the restaurant was aptly named Sorelle, meaning “sisters” in Italian. The project was brought to life by renowned design firm Meyer Davis, which meticulously transformed the historic structures into a stunning multi-concept dining experience.

Zoning Hurdles and Historic Sensitivities

Charleston’s zoning process is famously rigorous. Any alteration to the city’s historic fabric must pass through layers of review, from the Board of Architectural Review (BAR) to city planners and neighborhood councils. Converting these existing structures into a fully functional restaurant meant securing new zoning approvals that allowed for commercial food service in a space previously designated for other uses.

Neighbors and preservationists, wary of large-scale commercial developments in historic corridors, voiced concerns about potential disruptions—noise, increased traffic, and the ever-looming threat of Charleston’s rapid commercialization. The team behind Sorelle had to demonstrate that their project would enhance, rather than detract from, the city’s historic integrity. They leaned into the architectural character of the buildings, preserving facades and original details, while making the case that Sorelle would be a cultural asset rather than an intrusion.

Why Charleston?

The decision to bring a Michael Mina restaurant to Charleston was not arbitrary. Over the last decade, Charleston has emerged as a national culinary powerhouse, drawing attention from chefs and restaurateurs eager to be part of its thriving food scene. The city’s reputation for hospitality, its affluent visitor base, and its deep-rooted food culture made it a prime location for a new culinary investment.

But beyond the business case, there was also a personal element. Navarro believed that Charleston’s dining scene was ready for a restaurant that could seamlessly blend high-end Italian cuisine with the city’s warm, Southern sensibilities. By selecting a historic property and honoring its past while adapting it for the future, he aimed to create a restaurant that would not only serve exquisite food but also tell a story—a story of Charleston’s ongoing evolution.

A Testament to Charleston’s Future

Sorelle officially opened its doors on February 15, 2023, bringing six distinct dining concepts under one roof. From a lively café and wine bar to an intimate chef’s counter and upscale dining space, the restaurant offers a multifaceted experience that reflects the layered history of the building itself.

Sorelle’s journey to completion was one of patience, negotiation, and adaptation—a microcosm of Charleston itself. The city’s deep respect for history ensures that any new venture must first prove itself worthy of the space it seeks to inhabit. But when done right, the result is a blend of past and future, a reminder that progress and preservation need not be at odds.

Now, as diners enjoy house-made pastas and impeccably sourced seafood under the glow of restored historic fixtures, Sorelle stands as more than just a restaurant. It is a testament to Charleston’s ability to evolve without erasing its identity, a reflection of a city that welcomes the new while honoring the old. And in that balance lies Charleston’s enduring charm.

Rebuilding Los Angeles After the Fires: A Call for Bold Action, Not Empty Promises

The devastating wildfires of 2025 have scarred Los Angeles, displacing tens of thousands, destroying countless homes, and reducing over 50,000 acres to ash. Since the fires began on January 7th, residents have faced unimaginable loss. But amid the smoldering ruins lies an opportunity for transformation—one that calls for leadership, not lip service.

This is not just about rebuilding; it’s about reimagining. Los Angeles must seize this moment to address systemic vulnerabilities, create fire-resilient communities, and ensure no Angeleno is left behind. Anything less would be a betrayal of those who have already lost so much.

The Danger Persists: Prioritize Safety First

While the fires are now contained, the crisis is far from over. Smoldering hotspots, gas leaks, and damaged infrastructure pose ongoing risks. Emergency crews—firefighters, engineers, and utility workers—are racing to stabilize affected areas, but patience is critical to avoid further tragedies. The County of Los Angeles, in collaboration with CAL FIRE, has developed preliminary maps detailing damage assessments from the Palisades and Eaton fires, with updates being made daily to reflect the evolving situation.

Governor Gavin Newsom and FEMA have pledged to cover 100% debris removal costs for the first 180 days, a step that ensures safer rebuilding conditions. But local leaders, including the Mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, must ensure that short-term safety measures transition into long-term planning for resilience.

Cutting Red Tape: A Double-Edged Sword

Streamlining permits for rebuilding homes, as promised by Mayor Bass and the Mayor of Malibu, Doug Stewart, may seem like an effective solution. However, fast-tracking approvals without robust oversight risks repeating past mistakes. We cannot afford to rebuild homes that will become tinderboxes in the next wildfire.

The focus must be on fire-resistant designs and updated building codes. Pre-approved templates using materials like metal roofing, tempered glass, and non-flammable siding can expedite construction while ensuring safety. Governor Newsom’s reforms to simplify the permitting process must balance urgency with accountability.

A Resilient Recovery: The 100-Day Plan

The first 100 days after a disaster are critical to shaping recovery. Here’s how Los Angeles can lead the way:

• Debris Removal and Recycling: Collaborate with CalRecycle and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to turn waste into resources. Salvaged metal can be reused, charred wood converted into mulch, and concrete crushed for infrastructure projects.

• Temporary Housing Solutions: Modular homes and RV parks on public lands can provide safe shelter for displaced families.

• Fire-Resilient Infrastructure: Repair roads, bury power lines in high-risk areas, and expand vegetation management zones. Early detection systems must be prioritized to prevent future disasters.

• Environmental Restoration: Restore natural landscapes by planting fire-resistant native vegetation that reduces the spread of wildfires, improves soil health, and supports local ecosystems, creating a natural barrier against future disasters.

• Support for Small Businesses: Grants and zero-interest loans can help businesses reopen, while local campaigns like “Shop Local LA” can stimulate the economy.

• Updated Building Codes: Financial assistance for low-income homeowners to rebuild with fire-resistant materials can ensure equitable recovery.

Leadership Under Scrutiny

Mayor Karen Bass has faced sharp criticism for what many Angelenos see as a slow and reactive response to the crisis, leaving vulnerable communities feeling abandoned during their time of greatest need. Her recent pledges to cut red tape and expedite recovery efforts ring hollow for those still waiting to be able to see what's left of their homes and clear communication of when rebuilding can start. The perception of delay has amplified frustration, raising questions about her administration's preparedness for managing large-scale emergencies.

Governor Newsom, while proactive in mobilizing state resources, has not escaped scrutiny from Trump. President Donald Trump’s sharp criticism of California’s wildfire management has done little to foster collaboration. Newsom’s invitation for Trump to tour the affected areas, offered a rare glimpse of political opposites navigating a crisis. Trump, known for his sharp critiques of California’s environmental policies, surprised many during his January 24, 2025 visit to Los Angeles by striking a conciliatory tone. Trump promised to waive federal permitting requirements and pledged full federal support for recovery efforts. The visit, which began with a symbolic tarmac handshake, evolved into a careful dance of mutual need. For Newsom, who had fiercely opposed Trump on numerous issues, this was an opportunity to secure resources for a state ravaged by disaster. For Trump, it was a stage to project statesmanship while subtly reinforcing his critiques of California’s policies.

But as Angelenos sift through the ashes of their communities, political rivalries and photo ops provide little comfort. What they need is coordinated action and swift, tangible support. The success of the recovery effort hinges on leaders prioritizing solutions over sound bites, setting aside ideological differences to deliver results where they are most urgently needed.

Community Resilience: Stories That Inspire

Amid the devastation, stories of resilience are emerging. In working-class neighborhoods often overshadowed by media focus on celebrity homes, families have lost everything—yet they’re leading grassroots recovery efforts. Volunteer groups are clearing debris, distributing supplies, and offering temporary shelter.

Organizations like the Red Cross, local nonprofits, and businesses have stepped up, providing discounted hotel stays and emergency assistance. Neighbors are opening their homes and hearts, embodying the spirit of unity that will drive LA’s recovery.

A Call to Action

The 2025 wildfires have exposed the fragility of Los Angeles’s infrastructure, policies, and leadership. But they’ve also revealed the strength of its people. Rebuilding is not just about replacing what was lost; it’s about addressing systemic issues and ensuring a tragedy like this never happens again.

The road ahead is steep. With over $800 billion in economic activity at risk countywide, bold, decisive action is not optional—it’s essential. Leaders must act with urgency, transparency, and accountability. And Angelenos must remain engaged, whether by volunteering, advocating for resilience policies, or simply supporting neighbors in need.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. This is a test of a collective will to rebuild stronger, smarter, and more equitably. Los Angeles has a chance to rise from the ashes—not just as a city that survived, but as one that leads the way in disaster resilience and recovery. Let’s not waste it.

Now is the time for action. Southern Californians deserve nothing less.