Do you know where is the best place to enjoy the World Cup? Nope, not South Africa. It’s Playa del Carmen! While it must be fun to attend the games live, you also have to deal with the 20+ hour flights, expensive ticket prices and football hooligans. Here in Playa, with its eclectic cosmopolitan locals and beautiful Caribbean weather, you will be able to enjoy every game of the World Cup practically in any restaurant/bar of your choice alongside football loving fans from Mexico, Italy, Spain, Argentina & England (just to name a few). So where will we be watching the games? Well, depending on the team that is playing, you’re liable to find us at any of the following locations.
E.Z. Bar – The most popular sports bar in Playa is right on 5th ave. Great drinks, plenty of big screens, and the place to be for all sports events.
Zenzi – Since most of the games will be early in the morning, being close to the beach has it’s advantages and Zenzi is one of the best. Try the grilled Tuna sandwich with a caipirinha as you cheer on Brazil. Since they always win, you can head out to the beach afterwards and samba the day away in celebration.
El 10 – If Argentina is your team, then this is probably where you will want to be. Named after the jersey number of football God (according to Argentinians) and current coach Diego Maradona. While you’re there try the empanadas. They are among the best in town.
Il Bareto – Located in the heart of Little Italy, here is a great place to gather for breakfast while you cheer on the reigning champs the Azzurri.
Tequila Barrel – Team USA fans will love this good ‘ol hoe-down, rooting tooting bar. Located on 5th Ave with plenty of big screens to watch USA vs England in Round 1. No matter who wins, expect a lot of beer and tequila to be flowing here. Oh and did we mention the girls dancing on the bar trying to score a free tequila shot?
So who is going to win? While all the so called experts think Spain or Brazil are the favorites to win the Cup, we are a little more daring. Our prediction: Mexico over the U.S.A in the final 2-1. YEAA!!!
By Rafael Bautista / www.MrPlaya.com
Anyone else feel a little slighted with a 1-1 tie after all that buildup?