I've been dreaming about this place for so long. Seeing pictures on Instagram, wanting to work for Papaya Playa, wanting to dive in the surrounding Cenotes. My dream finally comes true, although I’m in Tulum only for a few days, it’s better than nothing; let’s make the most out of it! Well that’s what I had planned when scheduling a week in Yucatan. Yet due to a mosquito rash getting infected my dreams were kind of put on hold: no swimming for me, limiting most of the activities I had in mind: turtle swimming, cenotes, swimming in the Caribbean sea, strolling along beaches! Despite being pissed at this situation I take the most out of it taking time to enjoy Mexico, some relaxing time by the beach, preparing my Cuban trip, taking care of my wound and making new friend!
I enjoyed my time around but have to say I was disappointed though by Tulum: the place is very touristic and being a town a few km away from the beach you always have to pay to reach it (bus, taxi, bikes) or hitchhike your way there. Once at the beach most of it has been appropriated by private resorts. Some beaches of course remain public but with less charm and less clean beaches than resorts. And once back in town, when travelling on a shoestring eating out in restaurant, not street food, can quickly become expensive. However when ready to spend a little more money, it's worth giving it a try at a beach lounges of one of the hotels; which I did at the fabulous Papaya Playa, whre I also enjoyed good food and drinks.
Tulum also has plenty of activities to offer: visiting the surrounding cenotes, swimming with turtles in Akumal, amusement parks and mostly its Mayan ruins lying over the ocean. One site not to be missed!
I enjoyed my time around but have to say I was disappointed though by Tulum: the place is very touristic and being a town a few km away from the beach you always have to pay to reach it (bus, taxi, bikes) or hitchhike your way there. Once at the beach most of it has been appropriated by private resorts. Some beaches of course remain public but with less charm and less clean beaches than resorts. And once back in town, when travelling on a shoestring eating out in restaurant, not street food, can quickly become expensive. However when ready to spend a little more money, it's worth giving it a try at a beach lounges of one of the hotels; which I did at the fabulous Papaya Playa, whre I also enjoyed good food and drinks.
Tulum also has plenty of activities to offer: visiting the surrounding cenotes, swimming with turtles in Akumal, amusement parks and mostly its Mayan ruins lying over the ocean. One site not to be missed!
Transportation: 1h30 cheap ride from Playa del carmen.
Accommodation: 140 MXN per night in a dorm (7€) I highly recomment the Daytripper hostel. Walking distance from the city centre, lovely staff, a convenient kitchen, and enjoyable roof terrace. It's missing a pool to counter the heat, yet I wasn't too much of an issue for me.
Entrance fees Tulum ruins: 70 MXN (about 5€)
Accommodation: 140 MXN per night in a dorm (7€) I highly recomment the Daytripper hostel. Walking distance from the city centre, lovely staff, a convenient kitchen, and enjoyable roof terrace. It's missing a pool to counter the heat, yet I wasn't too much of an issue for me.
Entrance fees Tulum ruins: 70 MXN (about 5€)