Returning for the second time this year, you could say I am somewhat of a fan of Tulum. OK, fine huge fan. I guess it’s something to do with bare feet in the sand, long slow days by the sea and all the guacamole and tequila I can consume.
Over the years, the secret has got out thanks to social media, and while tourism is its main economy, it still acts and functions like the small beach town it is. Which really, is part of the charm.
- NO DIRECT FLIGHTS
Unfortunately, you will have to fly into Cancun with the hoards of bachelor and bachelorette parties. Thankfully you don’t have to stay too long. As there aren’t any direct flights into Tulum. Paradise is another hour and a half drive. There are plenty of car services that can be booked as well as transfers offered by hotels.
- ALWAYS HAVE CASH
It is always cheaper to pay in pesos when possible. And while it’s not impossible to withdrawal pesos from the ATMs in Tulum, you have to hope they are actually working. Avoid any headache and either exchange before leaving or at the airport.
- EAT YOUR WEIGHT IN SEAFOOD
Ceviche, ceviche, ceviche! The seafood here is literally picked up that day and served to you that night. I had the best whole fish I have ever had in my life and it cost $7.
3b. AND DRINK MARGARITAS
Lots and lots of margaritas! (I did a lot of research and Zamas has the best).
- TULUM IS SMALL
There are three parts to Tulum; town, beach and ruins. It is significantly cheaper to stay and eat in town and takes about 15 minutes by taxi to get to the beach. There are a couple of beaches along the road to the Archeological Ruins. But most of the places to eat, stay and play are down by the main beach.
- DON’T FLUSH THE PAPER
Mexico is still a developing country despite a huge tourism industry in places like Cancun, Tulum and Cabo. But, like I said, Tulum still functions like the small town it is and when it comes to the bathroom facilities. And without getting too graphic, all flushes need to be paper free.
- DON’T TRUST YOU WEATHER APP
Peak season is between October and December. Having been in both March and November I can safely say no season is a bad season in Tulum. Checking the your weather app every 2.3 seconds to see if the thundercloud symbol has changed is a waste of your time. I had a little rain cloud symbol for two days straight on this recent trip and don’t think the sun was covered by a cloud for even a minute at any point.
- ENJOY THE EARLY NIGHT
Tulum has some great restaurants and bars on offer, but most close up shop by about 10pm. I guess it’s so they can get up early to do Yoga. If you are looking for big nights out, Tulum is not really the place for you.
- GET ON A BIKE
Who doesn’t want to ride their own beach cruiser bike down the jungle paths? Enough said.
- YOU WON’T WANT TO LEAVE
Falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing, guacamole, ceviche and margaritas by the beach and walking around barefoot most of the day, no one would blame you if you accidentally missed your flight.
Herstory is a weekly column on women and travel by Steph Ridhalgh. Steph is a Sydney born; New York based television producer and travel blogger. Not one for being quiet for too long she simply loves talking about travel and lifestyle.
Steph is the founder of STEP(h) ABROAD, a travel and lifestyle resource for those who love to be in the know and know how.
