This morning we got up early and went to the Reef Club to enjoy a private beach. It was very nice out, but very hot; it was close to 30 degress Celcius. We hung out on the beach for about an hour or so and soaked in some sun, then caught a cab to downtown Playa del Carmen. Luis told us the day before that the taxis would quit early around noon, so we figured we would have to walk back to the condo which is a few kilometers from downtown. He must have had the day off, because he gave us the wrong impression and the taxis were running all day. We wasted some time downtown and went back to La Parilla for lunch. It was just as good the second time as it was the first time!

We decided after lunch that we would head home for a short siesta and head back out around 6pm to go to church for Christmas Eve service. Since everyone was off for the holiday, we were unable to have security radio for a taxi, so we ended up walking. The Catholic church is off 15th Street and about 10 Norte (I can't remember exactly), so it wasn't too far; it was about a 30 minute walk. The service started at 8pm and the place was packed! It is the first time I have been in a church in a long time, and being an Athiest I was glad I didn't get stuck with a bolt of lightening! The service lasted a little over an hour and it was interesting to say the least. Growing up Catholic, I understand the typical process, but things were done slightly different here. Most notably and obvious was the service being done in Spanish. That was okay, but the most interesting part was communion. First of all, they don't go pew by pew, they all just get up and rush the priest, very amusing. It was fitting though, since it's just like they drive. Personally, I think it's a better way to go.

After the service, we went to get some dinner. Andy and I had to hold out, since Mom couldn't eat within an hour of communion since that's the "rules". We ate at a Italiano place on the corner of 10 Norte and 5th Street. It was VERY good. Afterwards, we wandered on 5th Street since the streets were filled with people. The interesting thing was the number of Mexicans on the streets on that particular evening. Usually 5th Street is heavily crowded with tourists, but tonight it was mostly Mexican. After a bit we decided to call it a night; a short cab ride and we were back at the condo.