
Tulum
The "About as much as I can remember" guide to Tulum. Enjoy!
Key Recommendations:
Join Whatsapp groups! (They are the key to life in Tulum)
Rent a scooter if you are able to + comfortable driving one.
Cenotes. Cenotes. Cenotes.
Covid Test: If you need a covid test - these guys will come to you for an affordable antigen + PCR test.
Whatsapp +52 963 125 7832.
The Neighborhoods
Tulum is roughly broken down into four areas (this is a major oversimplication, but will help give a basic understanding): the beach (yellow), Aldea Zama (red), Centro (blue), and La Veleta (purple). Enjoy the toddler scribble designations below hah!
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The Beach: this is where the majority of the hotels and trendy restaurants/nights out are located. Very few people live in this area. It's one road running the length of the beach from Sian Ka'an (the nature reserve) to the Tulum ruins. There is a public and private side of the beach. The public side (towards the ruins) is much less developed, quieter and more laid back. The private side is dominated by hotels from Papaya Playa all the way down to Nomade. Things to note: Traffic can be a real beast on the private side given that everyone is stuck to one road. Also, there is almost zero phone service at the beach so ask for WiFi and make sure to plan ahead with friends. Parking is available for cars in various lots (be prepared to pay around 400-600 pesos) and basically everywhere for scooters and bikes (free).
Aldea Zama: AZ is new build central. It's chic, swanky complexes of Americanized apartment living. Mostly gated or portered buildings. It's more picturesque, quieter and definitely the high end neighborhood of town. As I write this, the area is under development so it still feels jungle-esque but who knows how long that will stay. If you are looking for a turn-key experience, this will be your bet. You are the closest neighborhood to the beach, but still quite far from the main swings of things.
Centro: This is the "downtown" of Tulum. It's were most locals live, its walkable, and where you will find all of Tulum's quirky character. It's roughly grid style roads with space for bicycles, pedestrians, and scooters to safely navigate. You have a mix of restaurants, shops, local markets, street vendors, green grocers, nightlife and artisans all packed in one spot.
La Veleta: This is the primary residence of Tulum's digital nomad community. It's the "locals" area for expats.
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Getting around:
Rent a scooter, car, or bike. Watch out for all the scams + shady road side rentals. Make sure to wear your helmet on scooters, the cops are very quick with tickets and they can be rather hefty.
Cars: If you're going to rent a car, it's easier just doing it out of Cancun Airport, when you land. The rental
locations in Tulum are usually chaos, out of cars, and not worth the hassle.
Scooter: Rent from Alexander at Scooter Club Maya. He's got a bunch of good quality scooters, will deliver them
to you directly which is makes it so easy. He's quick on the phone, reliable, and unbelievably honest.
Whatsapp him on +52 999 559 9801 and tell him Liza sent you. Fair warning, he's Russian and his English or Spanish aren't very strong. Google Translator is a wonder in person and he's just fine over text.
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Taxis: Make sure you have cash for taxis. Some may claim to take card but it becomes a famous leverage point for
charging you a high surprise fee at the end of your ride. Be prepared for any ride to/from/around the beach to be at least 500 pesos (even for a 2 minute ride).
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Recommended drivers: (these guys are all honest, reliable, and fair priced - all can do trips to the airport. Pablo can help you coordinate a trip from the airport - tell them got their info from Liza). Expect to pay 1500-1700 pesos one way for an airport trip.
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Pablo: (runs a wonderful animal shelter too - @almaanimal.tulum) +52 999 238 6183
Alan: +52 984 138 0487
Daniel: (has a new comfortable SUV - good for groups or longer rides) +52 984 879 1678
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For women: there is a ride share whatsapp group if you are looking for a ride or to share a trip. Join here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/FloaBJTECON82bLUWCFBE8
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Experiences
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Sporting activities
Free Diving
Scuba Diving the Cenotes
Kite Surfing
Snorkeling in Sian Ka'an
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Music
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Mar de Leva @ Habitas
This is one iconic Tulum experience that is one of a kind. If you like experimental/transcendental music, Burning Man vibes, or just really unique experiences, Mar de Leva playing at Habitas is one not to miss. Lead by Eduardo Castillo, one of the founders of Habitas, this trio of musicians creates a musical experience almost worthy of a pagan festivus (picture otherworldly sounds inspiring ecstatically dancing bodies on the sands, under the stars) within their home turf. Chances are no announcements will be made so you'll have to keep an ear out for this one. To attend: you will need to book a dinner table at Habitas or get on a guest list, so as soon as you hear the whispers: call for that booking.
Rico Loop
Music @ Macando
Pascale
Tuesdays @ Palma Central
Each Tuesday night at Palma Central (in Centro) there is salsa night with live music. Palma Central is an open air food truck court featuring a wide variety of cuisines, food, and drinks. Family friendly.
Local Traditions
Tulum is a wonderful Willy Wonka land unto itself and it might not seem the most Mexican. But don't be fooled. Beyond the luxurious hotels, multi-dimensional gurus, and vegan eateries, there is an amazing local community with unbelievable healers, teachers, and experiences right at hand.
Temezcal:
If you're going to do it, do it properly. Octavio (Ocho) Yah was easily one of the highlights of my time in Tulum. A Mayan teacher, philosopher, guide, and all around magnetic personality, Ocho hosts proper Temezcals out as his beautiful property, about an hour outside of Tulum, nestled in the jungle. Whilst out there, you can explore some off the beaten path cenotes and local Mayan cuisine. Highly recommend at least having a meal with Ocho. He is fascinating and an avid student of the ancient sun cultures (the Mayans being one of them). His zest for the ancient mythologies + wisdoms plus his passion for awakening the world's wisdom make him a great guide for your time in Tulum.
Ocho Yah: +52 984 128 1703
Sobado Maya + Healing Treatments:
The Mayan culture is famous for its many different treatments for healing, awakening, and unlocking the body, mind, and spirit. A classic treatment is the Sobado Maya, which, in focusing on the abdomen, realigns the organs allowing the body to flow + cleanse itself.
Mayan/Mexican traditional healers are known as "abuelas" (grandmothers) or "abuelos" (grandfathers). Finding a proper one is the key to any treatment.
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Vero: +52 984 134 2465
Francisca: +1 (402) 957-3517 (Christina Maria handles bookings for her.)
Where to Eat
The Beach - Private Side
Sceney but Groovy Night Out: Treehouse Tulum
Note: You'll need to be on the list for this hotspot in town.
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Chilled/Romantic Deliciousness: Posada Margherita
Shoppers beware: there is a dangerously good boutique located on the way in to the restaurant with a fantastic selection of quality brands, from Zimmerman to Kalita. And the manager is fantastic with tempting offers that are almost too good to resist (I'm talking 65% off last season treasures). Come prepared for this honeytrap.
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Silly Fun Night Out: Rosa Negra Group - Especially Tantra + Taboo
This might be the most controversial thing I'm going to say here and I know a lot of local Tulum friends are going to give me a serious ribbing for this, but I stand by this 100%. This group of restaurants (Tantra, Taboo, Funky Geisha, Rosa Negra, Chambao, Tora, Parole) knows how to deliver a good time. If you want to dance (on your table is even encouraged) your heart out to a funky mix of jams and just have a great night letting loose with friends, this is your spot.
They are a great lively scene. Hands down the best customer service I experienced in Tulum - the staff is superb. The food is delicious, solid portions and reasonably priced (for the hotel zone) - there aren't as many vegan/veggie options, fair warning. Expect sparklers and the classic club pizzazz in well crafted open air settings. The electronic violinist is a real showstopper.
Thursday - Sunday, you'll have people dancing around their tables busting a move. During the week it's quieter, but still a good spot for a fun dinner with friends.
I had the pleasure of getting to know the General Manager of the entire company and have to say I respect the way they run their business, invest in their staff and create experiences for their customers. You can also find them in Mexico City, Cancun, and Polanco.
Other Great Beach Restaurants:
Habitas - good variety, beautiful setting
Arca - Small but good menu. Farm to table like
IT Tulum - similar to Rosa Negra but more enclosed and sexier. Ask for a table on the cenote.
Raw Love - sister to the restaurant in town.
Sanara - delicious, good wifi + views, but hella overpriced
Bowls de Guadalupe
Casa Violetta - easy to pass, but delicious, low key and so friendly
Where to Work
Los Amigos Tulum
Digital Jungle
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Where to Stay
The main recommendation for all of Tulum: negotiate! Longer stay? Negotiate. Last minute booking? Negotiate. No matter what, it's worth whatsapp'ing the hotel in which you are interested to see if you can get a better rate. Being friendly to hotel staff goes a looong way. I got on average 40-50% off listing prices just by being friendly and building a repoire with reception staff.
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The Plug + Play: Holistika Tulum
Holistika is the gateway for many travellers to Tulum. It is also one of the key hubs for the wellness warriors, spiritual seekers, and health conscious journeyers through Tulum. If you are new to Tulum and looking for a community to plug in to, Holistika is the place for you. A variety of accomodations are available for any budget: From the Beehive, Holistika's hostel, which offers both mixed gender and female only options for accommodations, to beautiful pool-view king bed rooms with private balconies, sunloungers, and spacious bathrooms.
Tierra, the in-house restaurant, serves up delicious, vegan friendly eats and is a decent spot for co-working al fresca. Be prepared for lots of random conversations with interesting characters, the bill to take forever to come, and some iffy customer service at times (might have to order twice). But it's a great home base.
If you are going to do a class here, try Itzel's Detox Flow (be prepared, she's tough) or Mariana's Krama Vinyasa. Also, make sure to experience any of the sound bath's in the Domo.
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Holistika is located in the La Veleta neighborhood of Tulum which is on the opposite endcap of town from the beach. It is near the hip new restaurants, like La Pizzine and Humo, as well as the local chic good grocer, Gypsea Market.
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Highly recommend starting your journey at Holistika. Sample the classes, work out of Tierra, meet some new folks, then venture out from there.
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The Jungle Hideaway @ Beach: Nomade
Holistika is the gateway for many travellers to Tulum. It is also one of the key hubs for the wellness warriors, spiritual seekers, and health conscious journeyers through Tulum. If you are new to Tulum and looking for a community to plug in to, Holistika is the place for you. A variety of accomodations are available for any budget: From the Beehive, Holistika's hostel, which offers both mixed ge
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The Showstopper: Azulik (Beach or in the Jungle)
Holistika is the gateway for many travellers to Tulum. It is also one of the key hubs for the wellness warriors, spiritual seekers, and health conscious journeyers through Tulum. If you are new to Tulum and looking for a community to plug in to, Holistika is the place for you. A variety of accomodations are available for any budget: From the Beehive, Holistika's hostel, which offers both mixed ge
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The Boutique Stunner: La Valise
Holistika is the gateway for many travellers to Tulum. It is also one of the key hubs for the wellness warriors, spiritual seekers, and health conscious journeyers through Tulum. If you are new to Tulum and looking for a community to plug in to, Holistika is the place for you. A variety of accomodations are available for any budget: From the Beehive, Holistika's hostel, which offers both mixed ge
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The Affordable, Accessible Chic: Hotel Tiki Tiki
Holistika is the gateway for many travellers to Tulum. It is also one of the key hubs for the wellness warriors, spiritual seekers, and health conscious journeyers through Tulum. If you are new to Tulum and looking for a community to plug in to, Holistika is the place for you. A variety of accomodations are available for any budget: From the Beehive, Holistika's hostel, which offers both mixed ge
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Classic Havana with the Hollywood Scene: Hotel Panamera + Lamat Hotel
Holistika is the gateway for many travellers to Tulum. It is also one of the key hubs for the wellness warriors, spiritual seekers, and health conscious journeyers through Tulum. If you are new to Tulum and looking for a community to plug in to, Holistika is the place for you. A variety of accomodations are available for any budget: From the Beehive, Holistika's hostel, which offers both mixed ge

