There are some destinations that are hard to describe in simple words. For instance, when you discuss Boston you could talk about the history, the food, or the people. Paris, a city of romance, architecture, cafes, and cuisine. When it comes to Tulum a very certain traveler knows it’s their place, and THIS is for you.

Tulum has ancient Mayan ruins, Cenotes to get lost in for days, and the beaches of your dreams. It’s also a town for the holistic and spiritual with just about every resort offering sunrise yoga classes, sound healing sessions, and all manner of interesting soul-altering experience. Tulum has not even reached its 60th birthday as a town carved out of the jungles yet people are flocking to this magical place 75 minutes from the Cancun airport.

Personally, I adore the unpolished “hippie” vibes. It’s a recycler’s dream of reused materials turned into seating areas on the beach, hotels made from the landscape itself, and a true adoration of the land it was created from.

MUST-SEE: Cenotes: As I said there are endless Cenotes in Tulum but what exactly is a Cenote? They are magical, clear, and clean water-filled caves and ancient sinkholes. These Cenotes are very popular so make sure to visit in the early morning hours or later to miss the masses.
FOOD: I’m not sure how the food wasn’t my first Must See but bear with me. The food in Tulum is incredible, from traditional Mexican food to incredible GREEK! There really is something for everyone and nobody skimps on the flavor.

The Ruins: You really can’t visit without seeing the ruins, Tulum was a major port for trade between the 11th and 16th centuries, and overlooking the ocean while taking in these breathtaking ruins is not something to be missed. You can even swim at the private beach below the ruins (you cant do that at the Colosseum)

WHERE TO STAY:

AZULIK TULUM – I have a few favorites but my all-time favorite property maybe anywhere is Azulik Tulum. They say this on their website: “Each of our 48 villas is built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a romantic getaway.” While it’s not for everyone it truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

BE TULUM – Not interested in “roughing” it oceanfront? I also love Be Tulum. They have this to say: “The Be Tulum Hotel has been created with all the charm and the quiet of nature captured in exclusive suites between the tropical forest, white sand, and the sea. Made with natural materials that blend into the environment with spacious terraces and private pools giving you the freedom and privacy you need.” It truly is a dream.

So what do you think? Interested in a getaway that’s like no other?