#Tulum (Zama) Mayan Ruins

[dlyarchitecture]

[tropic-havens]

Ruins of Tulum, state of Quintana Roo, Mexico

Tulum is the site of a pre-Columbian Mayan walled city which served as a major port for Coba, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The ruins are situated on 12-meter (39 ft) tall cliffs along the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula on the Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya; it was at its height between the 13th and 15th centuries and managed to survive about 70 years after the Spanish began occupying Mexico. Old World diseases brought by the Spanish settlers appear to have resulted in very high fatalities, disrupting the society and eventually causing the city to be abandoned. One of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites, Tulum is today a popular site for tourists.

The site might have been called Zama, meaning City of Dawn, because it faces the sunrise. Tulum stands on a bluff facing east toward the Caribbean Sea. Tulúm is also the Yucatán Mayan word for fence, wall or trench. The walls surrounding the site allowed the Tulum fort to be defended against invasions. Tulum had access to both land and sea trade routes, making it an important trade hub, especially for obsidian. From numerous depictions in murals and other works around the site, Tulum appears to have been an important site for the worship of the Diving or Descending god.

Tulum was first mentioned by Juan Díaz, a member of Juan de Grijalva's Spanish expedition of 1518, the first Europeans to spot Tulum. The first detailed description of the ruins was published by John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood in 1843 in the book Incidents of Travel in Yucatan. As they arrived from the sea, Stephens and Catherwood first saw a tall building that impressed them greatly, most likely the great Castillo of the site. They made accurate maps of the site's walls, and Catherwood made sketches of the Castillo and several other buildings. Stephens and Catherwood also reported an early classic stele at the site, with an inscribed date of AD 564 (now in the British Museum's collection). This has been interpreted as meaning that the stele was likely built elsewhere and brought to Tulum to be reused.

Work conducted at Tulum continued with that of Sylvanus Morley and George P. Howe, beginning in 1913. They worked to restore and open the public beaches. The work was continued by the Carnegie Institution from 1916 to 1922, Samuel Lothrop in 1924 who also mapped the site, Miguel Ángel Fernández in the late 1930s and early 1940s, William Sanders in 1956, and then later in the 1970s by Arthur G. Miller. Through these later investigations done by Sanders and Miller, it has been determined that Tulum was occupied during the late Postclassic period around AD 1200. The site continued to be occupied until contact with the Spanish was made in the early 16th century. By the end of the 16th century, the site was abandoned completely.

Tulum has architecture typical of Maya sites on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. This architecture is recognized by a step running around the base of the building which sits on a low substructure. Doorways of this type are usually narrow with columns used as support if the building is big enough. As the walls flare out there are usually two sets of molding near the top. The room usually contains one or two small windows with an altar at the back wall, roofed by either a beam-and-rubble ceiling or being vaulted. This type of architecture resembles what can be found in the nearby Chichen Itza, just on a much smaller scale.

Tulum was protected on one side by steep sea cliffs and on the landward side by a wall that averaged about 3–5 meters (9.8–16.4 ft) in height. The wall also was about 8 m (26 ft) thick and 400 m (1,300 ft) long on the side parallel to the sea. The part of the wall that ran the width of the site was slightly shorter and only about 170 meters (560 ft) on both sides. Constructing this massive wall would have taken an enormous amount of energy and time, which shows how important defense was to the Maya when they chose this site. On the southwest and northwest corners there are small structures that have been identified as watch towers, showing again how well defended the city was. There are five narrow gateways in the wall with two each on the north and south sides and one on the west. Near the northern side of the wall a small cenote provided the city with fresh water. It is this impressive wall that makes Tulum one of the most well-known fortified sites of the Maya.

There are three major structures of interest at the Tulum archaeological site. El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God.

Among the more spectacular buildings here is the Temple of the Frescoes that included a lower gallery and a smaller second story gallery. The Temple of the Frescoes was used as an observatory for tracking the movements of the sun. Niched figurines of the Maya “diving god” or Venus deity decorate the facade of the temple. This “diving god” is also depicted in the Temple of the Diving God in the central precinct of the site. Above the entrance in the western wall a stucco figure of the “diving god” is still preserved, giving the temple its name. A mural can still be seen on the eastern wall that resembles that of a style that originated in highland Mexico, called the Mixteca-Puebla style, though visitors are no longer permitted to enter.

The Temple of the Descending God consists of a single room with a door to the west and a narrow staircase that was built on top of another temple that served as its base.

In the niche located at the top of the door stands a sculpture that’s found throughout Tulum. He has wings, a headdress and holds an object in his hands.

Also in the central precinct is the Castillo, which is 7.5 m (25 ft) tall. The Castillo was built on a previous building that was colonnaded and had a beam and mortar roof. The lintels in the upper rooms have serpent motifs carved into them. The construction of the Castillo appears to have taken place in stages. A small shrine appears to have been used as a beacon for incoming canoes. This shrine marks a break in the barrier reef that is opposite the site. Here there is a cove and landing beach in a break in the sea cliffs that would have been perfect for trading canoes coming in. This characteristic of the site may be one of the reasons the Maya founded the city of Tulum exactly here, as Tulum later became a prominent trading port during the late Postclassic.

[roomchailimited]

Tulum’s Ancient Ruins and Pristine Beaches: Mexico’s Riviera Magic

Tulum, nestled along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, is a destination that seamlessly blends history, nature, and relaxation. From its iconic cliffside Mayan ruins overlooking turquoise waters to its white-sand beaches and eco-friendly vibe, Tulum is a slice of paradise that caters to adventurers and serenity-seekers alike.

The Majestic Tulum Ruins

One of Tulum’s greatest attractions is its ancient Mayan ruins, perched dramatically on a cliff above the Caribbean Sea. This archaeological site was once a bustling port city during the Mayan era and served as a hub for trade and religious ceremonies.

Start your journey early in the day to avoid the crowds and heat. As you wander through the ruins, marvel at the well-preserved structures such as El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God. Each offers a glimpse into the Mayan civilization’s architectural and astronomical prowess. The highlight? The view from El Castillo, where the ruins and the sea create a breathtaking tableau.

Beaches That Rival Dreams

Tulum’s beaches are some of the most pristine in the world. The soft, white sands and crystal-clear waters make them perfect for unwinding.

Playa Paraiso This aptly named “Paradise Beach” is a favorite for its calm waters and laid-back vibe. Rent a hammock or lounge chair and bask in the beauty of the Caribbean.

Las Palmas Beach Slightly less crowded, Las Palmas offers tranquility and a chance to connect with nature. Its serene environment is perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.

Zamas Beach Located near the Tulum hotel zone, this beach combines natural beauty with access to beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

Adventures in the Cenotes

No visit to Tulum is complete without exploring its cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with freshwater. These underground wonders were sacred to the Mayans and are now a haven for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Popular cenotes near Tulum include:

Gran Cenote: Perfect for snorkeling amidst crystal-clear waters and limestone formations.

Cenote Dos Ojos: A diver’s paradise with interconnected underwater caves.

Cenote Calavera: Known as the “Temple of Doom,” it’s a unique spot for thrill-seekers.

Tulum’s Eco-Chic Vibe

Tulum’s hotel zone is a hub of eco-chic accommodations and bohemian charm. Many boutique hotels are designed to blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Sustainable practices are embraced here, so expect eco-friendly lodgings and organic dining experiences.

Dine at beachfront restaurants that serve up local specialties such as ceviche, cochinita pibil, and fresh guacamole. Vegan and vegetarian options are also abundant, thanks to Tulum’s commitment to sustainability.

Beyond Tulum: Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Just a short drive from Tulum, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Home to diverse ecosystems, it offers opportunities for bird-watching, kayaking, and exploring mangroves. A guided tour of this reserve provides insight into the region’s ecological significance and breathtaking landscapes.

Practical Travel Tips

Getting There: Tulum is about a 90-minute drive from Cancun International Airport. Many travelers rent a car or book a shuttle for convenience.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season from November to April offers the most pleasant weather.

Packing Essentials: Lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes for the ruins, biodegradable sunscreen for the cenotes, and swimwear for the beaches.

Travel Planning Assistance

Planning a trip to Tulum can be simplified with the assistance of reliable travel agencies. Whether you’re seeking a tailored itinerary or help with accommodations and tours, agencies like Roomchai Limited offer expert guidance.

Conclusion

Tulum is a magical destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re standing atop ancient ruins with the Caribbean stretching endlessly before you or relaxing on a beach that feels like a dream, Tulum’s charm is undeniable. Add in cenote adventures and eco-luxe dining, and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable journey along Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

[shamandrummer]

The Maya Ruins of Tulum

I made my first pilgrimage to the ruins of Tulum in 1995. The archaeological site is located about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen on Mexico's Caribbean coast. Though modest and architecturally simple compared to Classic Maya sites, such as Uxmal and Chichén Itzá, Tulum has one of the most beautiful idyllic settings of any city built by the Maya. The tranquil and well-preserved ruins are perched on a rocky cliff above a secluded swimming beach along the Caribbean Sea. Tulum's spectacular photogenic coastline has powdered sugar sands, cobalt water and balmy breezes, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Tulum was one of the last great ritual centers built by the Post-Classic Period Maya (900–1500 AD). The site might have originally been called Zama, meaning City of Dawn, because it faces the sunrise. The city had access to both land and sea trade routes, making it an important trade hub for honey, jade, turquoise and cacao beans. Tulum is a Mayan word that means wall or fence. Tulum was protected on one side by steep sea cliffs and on the landward side by a broad stone wall that averaged 10 to 16 feet in height. It is this impressive wall that makes Tulum one of the most well known fortified sites of the Maya.

The ancient stone structures of Tulum are surrounded by palm trees, magenta-colored bougainvillea, steep rocky cliffs and a population of large iguanas. El Castillo (the Castle) is Tulum's main pyramid and was used as an ancient lighthouse for navigating the shallow, reef-laden waters off the bay. Among the more spectacular buildings here is the Temple of the Frescoes that included a lower gallery and a smaller second story gallery of wall paintings. The Temple of the Frescoes was used as an observatory for tracking the movements of the sun.

Pilgrims have been coming here for centuries. Recent research has indicated that Tulum was a pilgrimage site for Maya women on their way to the sanctuary of Ixchel on the island of Cozumel. Ixchel was the jaguar goddess of fertility, medicine and birth in ancient Maya culture, and her shrine at Cozumel was visited by large numbers of women from throughout the Maya territories. Ixchel figures prominently in the Tulum temple murals. Many of the coastal towns in the Tulum region have the feminine "Ix" prefix in their names.

Tulum is a tropical nirvana built, according to Maya myth, at the boundary between this world and the next where the created world ends and the infinite Otherworld ocean begins. Here the Maya soul found release into a realm of eternal light and danced forever on the surface of the infinite Otherworldly sea. It is one of my favorite places in the world. The energy is peaceful and transcendent. The world seems more vibrant and alive here. If there is an earthly paradise, it is here!

[accomtour]

Where To Stay In Tulum Mexico On Your Vacation

Where To Stay In Tulum Mexico On Your Vacation

Where To Stay In Tulum Mexico– Tulum may be a sensible place to urge up-to-date along with your inner Mayan. it had been a crucial walled town for the Mayans throughout pre-Columbia times. sadly, the Mayans at Tulum solely survived concerning seventy years once the Spanish conquest. These ancient Mayan ruins are a significant reason you ought to visit Tulum. the amazing beaches, with waves from…

[trasnfercancun]

Six places in the Riviera Maya that you should not miss

Although its 1,000-year-old ruins deserve a visit there are more than six places in the Riviera Maya, the Mayan influence is not the reason for the recent increase in tourism. The New Age atmosphere of Tulum, the restaurants surrounded by jungle and the white sand beaches have made it the warmest place on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

Yoga in Sanara: The yoga studio facing the sea in this ecological complex is characterized by sliding glass doors that open to allow the air to caress your skin during practice. The establishment is open from 8:30 a.m. at 10:15 a.m. or at 5:00 p.m.

Tacos in La Eufemia: In front of the sea, it allows to be relaxed all day; being pampered with a refreshing drink at the oriya of the beach. You can not miss the fish tacos or the freshly squeezed orange juice. Dining at Mezzanine: If you’re looking for an elegant night, most people agree; with the project that started a couple in Brooklyn many years ago. And although the food is of good quality, the wood chops are exquisite. The best fusion of Thai-Mexican food is found in Mezzanine, where the Thai curry pad and the massaman rival the view of the waves.

Drinks in Gypsy: The influence of New York in many places of Tulum does not happen by apperception. This bar of drinks surrounded by living nature deserves a visit. It must be taken into account that this is a mezcaleria, therefore, the choice of liquor is somewhat limited. On Friday nights you see Gypsy becoming a party.

Very Mexican breakfast in Zamas: Many consider it worthwhile to visit Zamas breakfasts. Many boast about huevos rancheros, but we went through a special chilaquiles (fried tortilla strips covered in salsa, cheese and fried eggs) that were worth ruining the benefits of yoga class that morning. It’s worth losing lunch and dinner.

Burritos in Burrito Amor: People get excited about the authentic Mexican sensation. The food is undoubtedly good, though cheap enough that you almost do not care. Opt for the newly opened Burrito Amor (shown below), which, although touristic, is one of the most outstanding meals for both breakfast and lunch.

Do you want to visit this six places of the Riviera Maya or other places of the Riviera Maya? Do not wait more! Book your transport with us and travel comfortably and safely, without worries and completely rested. Do it directly at https://ift.tt/2iwKAFk, call US phones. US: 1-210-757-0376 or MEX: 998-208-0538, or send us an email to reservation@transfercancun-airport.com. We are waiting!

from Transfer Cancun Airport https://ift.tt/2NGsUDh

[artconnaisseurdetectiveus-e]

The ruins of Tulum - trip to Mexico, Yucatan

Following my expedition to the east coast of Quintana Roo, also known as the Riviera Maya, I came across the fortified city of Tulum. This last one in one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the region and it is located on the Caribbean seaside  The Tulum site is based in the park with the same name, a protected natural area between the Cancun and Tulum, a paradise where nature and history have merged. With an extension of 664 hectares, Tulum National Park is distributed throughout the coastal area called Casa Zenote. A coveted place for both its excellent environmental conditions and its location, it is one of the few natural areas protected from tourist accommodation. Thus, the decree creating the Tulum National Park underlines the importance of maintaining this park for public use as it houses several freshwater cenotes like Yolkoba Yuc, linked to the legends of the Maya people.

The city used to have two names, one of them being Zama whose meaning was “dawn” and the other Tulum meaning "wall". The archaeological site of Tulum was an important center of worship for the so-called "descending god", as many wall paintings testify and other inscriptions found on the buildings of the city. Most of the buildings were built in the post-classical period of the Mayan civilization, between 1200 and 1450, although they found inscriptions dating from 564. The city was completely abandoned at the end of the 16th century, after the first years of the Spanish colony. In addition, Tulum was one of the most important Mayan cities of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, being an indispensable point of passage in the maritime and land routes on the coast of Quintana Roo. The discovery of objects from Central America indicates the enormous importance of this site for the Mexican trade.

In the same way as the pyramid of Chichen Iza, the city of Tulum was built on the principle of "four corners", with reference to the four cardinal points following the principles of cosmology. The quadrilateral symbolized a rational and orderly world worthy of housing the presence of the gods. Within this complex to the deities, the buildings are numerous as the Temple of Frescoes, the Temple of the Descending God, the Temple of the initial series, the castle, the temple of the god of the wind or the halach uinik house. One of the most impressive buildings is called the castle sitting on a cliff, presenting elements that refer to the Sun and Venus. One of the peculiarities of this monument is the lower part where there is a cave, clearly representing the universe where the lower part embodies the underground world of hell. Nevertheless the future of this paradise for the biosphere does not remain vague, the governor of Quintana Roo Carlos Joaquin Gonzalez affirms it showing the 17 protected areas of federal character covering an area of ​​nearly seven million hectares of marine ecosystems and lands. In addition, on November 7, the governor led the reopening of the Caapechen Center within the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, whose goal is to protect the nature of Quintana Roo. "We are proud of our sea, our beaches, our jungles, our cenotes and our underground rivers, we know that we live these wonders and we will do our best to protect them, so that they are sustainable" Carlos Joaquin had testified in front of the National Commissioner of Areas Naturales Protegidas - CONANP - news like this shows the awareness of keeping the archaeological centers in the Caribbean.

[libbythewriter]

Just Another Day In Paradise.  Really.  Tulum is it.

Just Another Day in Paradise.  Really.  Tulum is it.  

Wherever you are in Mexico, one finds that each region is somewhere on the continuum between completely authentic Mexican, or at the other end, there are regions in which the Mexican tradition is lost, unfortunately diluted by the expats from  the United States and Canada.

Never fear, there are a few havens of that happy middle ground in which there is a fine balance between these worlds.  One of my favorite of these places is Tulum.

On the eastern coast of the Yucatan peninsula, just a brief 45 minute taxi ride south of the Cancun International airport, the Mayan city of Tulum is easily accessible.  

Historically, it is important.  It has access to both land and sea routes.  This walled city, also known as Zama, City of Dawn, represented a vibrant port.  The city was inhabited from 564 AD at its earliest dates, until its height from 13th to the 15th centuries.  Despite this  long history, it took the Spaniards only around 70 years to destroy it with their New World diseases.  Never fear, the Mayan civilization only seems to have disappeared.  Great news for the world is that the Mayan culture is on a comeback!

Like I mentioned earlier, Tulum is easily assessable from the Cancun International Airport.  Now known for its natural beauty, white sandy beaches, turtle nests, and breathtaking views, Tulum exists in a precarious balance.  The balance that Tulum maintains is precarious in that it struggles to remain a Mayan society, while yet allowing the North American and European tourist dollars to enter their city.   This is a struggle that can only be appreciated in person.

Most commonly, tourists are drawn to the expansive, beautiful, and luxurious resorts that line the Riviera Maya coast.  Since one can only take but so much pampering and indulgence,  it is only natural that the tourists look outside the gates of the resort for an excursion.   There is no shortage of tours and distractions, but one you would miss a lot if you overlook the small town of Tulum.

The visitor that makes the short trip into Tulum Centro is welcomed by vibrant colors, a bit of dust in the streets, and shop owners eager to bargain with tourists for the perfect souvenir.

For the first-time visitor to Mexico, this is the perfect place to venture out into Mexico.  This tiny village is the perfect place for the traveler new to Mexico to experience the culture, while still remaining near enough to the resort zone, and the visitor’s comfort zone as well.  For a just a few pesos, (USD equivalent is around $0.30) tourists can ride a collective, along with locals, to Tulum Centro.  This is the heart of the village, easy walking distance to open market stalls, the public beach, and amazing cafes, restaurants, and street food.  The visitor can explore, enjoy, and sample the Mayan culture.

Not uncommon is the local that can speak a bit of English, too as a bonus.

As a first-timer to Mexico, do not be afraid to bargain with the shop owners in the market.  This is expected.  The locals are will to haggle and it is a great way chat with some locals, having an unforgettable experience.  You may be surprised, as the Mayans are incredibly friendly and welcome the visitors as this is a main staple in their economy.

In addition to the great food and shopping, don’t miss cultural and architectural gems.   Start with the ruins of Tulum.  These have easy access via bus or collectivo.  Be prepared to do a bit of walking, bring water, and lots of sun screen.  Very accurately, one Mexicano told me that Tulum is ‘rocks and lizards’ without a tour guide.  This is a great introduction to one of the most modern Mayan ruins.  More famous ruins that are a tour company’s favorite to sell is the day trip to Chichen Itza.  If you enjoyed Tulum, this may be your thing.  For me, I did not enjoy this tour as it is very crowded, and does not have an authentic feel to the experience.  However, it is very famous and is certainly an iconic Yucatan experience.

Finally, you can end your day in Tulum with a stroll through the market square to pick up your final purchases, fresh produce, and any local tequila that you desire.  Many booths are available for sampling or the local fair.  Do not think that ‘local’ is the same as ‘moonshine’ from the States.  Nothing could be further from the truth!  The Mexicans take great pride in their fine tequilas and have very strict purity laws.  One word of advise, however, do not mix your sugars.

Ama la vida!

[brienfoerster]

Exploring The Mayan Ruins Of Tulum On The Gulf Coast Of Mexico - In the Yucatec language, Tulum means “wall” and refers to the large barricade which surrounds this ancient settlement of the Maya people. Another name for this place was and is Zama, which means dawn; appropriate, in that the whole complex faces east, and thus the rising sun. - http://bit.ly/2sPVES8

[maizestove]

Travel Tips for Tulum, Mexico

I am back from Tulum in Mexico after one week of tropical paradise vacation! As promised on Instagram, I have compiled all my travel tips for Tulum, Mexico, here for you. I hope these will be helpful for anyone who is planning a trip to Tulum. Otherwise they might help you to decide to visit this beautiful place in Mexico. Tulum is packed with fantastic places to stay, eat, drink, enjoy. However I will only share here the places I actually visited, tested, and that I can recommend. So let me not prolong it too much. Here we roll!

Hotel: Prana Boutique Hotel: Tulum has many hotels of course. The majority is located on the beachfront, a few ones are in the pueblo itself. Now since I was staying in one hotel I can only recommend that one of course. I was staying at the Prana Boutique Hotel in Tulum village. I opted for this hotel because it sounded very tempting: Prana is an eco-friendly hotel with only seven rooms. Thus it is a quiet, relaxed, and intimate hotel run by two cool guys with friendly staff. The hotel features a lush garden and pool, a lovely small restaurant and pool bar, a boho lounge area including a little souvenir and crystals shop. The rooms are dispersed in various buildings made in the traditional style of the region. There are even two spacious tents for glamping if you prefer that.

The hotel offers free bikes if you want to drive down to the beach. Otherwise there is free parking for your rented car. Cool bars and restaurants as well as the main shopping street of Tulum are just around the corner. There is also a huge supermarket just 5 walking minutes away. I recommend you enjoy a good breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant ‘Nido’ (try the yummy granola with fruits and yoghurt), relax at the pool with a good book or swing in one of the hammocks in the garden. Also for dinner you can opt for the restaurant and try their freshly cooked meals such as an octopus burger or a delicious tropical scallop ceviche. Oh, don’t forget to sip a Bloody Maya cocktail at the pool bar. With good Mezcal of course!

Places to eat & drink:

In the village: Del Cielo Tropical Bar: One of my favorites in the pueblo! This tropical bar could be in LA, San Francisco, Paris, or London. It has a strong hipster vibe and serves us some delicious fresh treats. My go-to for breakfasts! Try the tropical porridge and their smoothies! Oh and the coffee is excellent. I even brought back a bag of local coffee beans. Another important fact: Free wifi! Yay!

Tulum Art Club: This fantastic gallery slash café in the village is another cool option for breakfast. Art is exposed everywhere, you can buy everything, and you can enjoy Tulum’s best Coconut Chia pudding with tropical fruits for breakfast! Do not miss the yummy coco coffee, too! Ok, ok, I am a bit coco-nuts!

Teetotum Hotel & Restaurant: This hotel & restaurant in Tulum village is another must-visit. It has a fun and colourful retro vibe. Expect tiles, 60s style cushions, vibrant colours. The courtyard is lined with potted plants and the restaurant serves a delicious breakfast. Get the huge green smoothie to kick off your day! Wowzers!

Estancia Jujena: This is actually an Argentinian asado in Tulum village but if you go for breakfast it is a charming little courtyard with a shabby-chic attire and hearty egg dishes, fresh fruits, and fine coffee.

On the beachfront/jungle side: Safari: This open-air restaurant is located on the ‘jungle side’ of the beach road and can easily be detected. The bar strikes a tropical wallpaper background and the restaurant features an open fireplace and the kitchen is in a parked trailer. Can it get any cooler? Yes, add light garlands across the palm trees and great food – voilà!

Hartwood: Now Hartwood is somewhat of an institution in Tulum. It is supposedly the hardest table to get in town and trust me: you better reserve a table! There are two options: You either queue at noon to catch a table for dinner or you book well in advance via email. I booked a table one month in advance and enjoyed amazing food: a Yucatán ceviche with tropical fruits as a starter, grilled octopus as a main dish, accompanied by a yellow lentil salad with pickled cactus. Excellent and friendly service is included!

Gitano: Yet another hot spot on the jungle side of the beach road! Gitano is particularly popular on Friday nights with live music and a fantastic boho-glam atmosphere. Excellent cocktails are served up while you wait to be seated (some say they have the best Mezcal cocktails in town). All trees are illuminated with light garlands, lanterns, and dozens of candles are burning everywhere. Magic! Their ceviche is a dream: Served in a young coconut half with fresh fish in lime juice with coconut, sprouts, cilantro, zucchini. Take me back, please! On weekends you must have a reservation!

Posada Margherita: This place is a real gem! I did not know that it was an Italian restaurant (and hotel) when I entered there. I was attracted to it by the armada of potted plants at the entrance and a dream-like pathway leading into a lush courtyard lined by coconut palms. I stepped in and found myself in a dreamy set worth a movie: Potted plants everywhere, little huts, benches, vintage pottery. A cute little candle boutique welcomes you before you enter the open air restaurant with magnificent views of the Caribbean. Homemade pasta, enormous smoothies, and a breeze will make you want to stay forever. After lunch I just went down to their private beach and spent the rest of the afternoon sunbathing and swimming in the Caribbean. There will be a full blog post about this place soon!

Mur Mur: Here another place where I had a good and delicious dinner under a canopy of swaying palm fronds and light garlands. I enjoyed delicious roasted beets with goat cheese and nuts, a tender grilled octopus, and a fried banana with sour cream and cocoa nibs. All accompanied by well chilled Mexican white wine. Thumbs up!

El Tabano! This restaurant is a perfect option for a great plate of Mexican food. It can get busy on weekends, but during the week it is actually fine and rather easy to get a table. I had excellent fish tacos there!

Canopia: This cute little restaurant serves great and healthy breakfast in the morning and Thai food for dinner. I went there for breakfast and had great coffee, an intense green smoothie and a chia bowl. Great to start the breakfast: a green coffee beans tea to activate your metabolism. Oh and an evergreen for breakfasts in Tulum: A plate with tropical fruits!

Beaches & Beach Clubs:

Playa Paraiso Beach Club: This was my favorite beach and beach club! Imagine huge beach beds with swaying linen curtains, a canopy of coconut palms, white powdery sand, and food and drinks served on your sunbed. Yes, this beach deserves the name! Additionally they have good sanitary facilities – not unimportant on a beach! The sunbeds are for rent but the prices are ok – the big sunbeds as descirbed before are 250 pesos (around 12 Euros) for two.

Zamas Beach Club: Here the beach is not perfect (lots of seaweed) but the bar is perfect and directly on the beach. You can watch pelicans dive bombing for fish while you are sipping on a cocktail!

Mivida Beach Club: A relaxed beach club located on a sandy bay with rocks on one side. You can unwind here while being served drinks and food on your sunbed. Plus if you are staying at the Prana hotel  you get a discount here.

Beach at the Tulum Ruins: When you visit the Mayan ruins of Tulum, don’t forget to pack your swimwear and a towel. Because you want to go down to this wonderful beach and swim! This beach is free of sunbeds, bars, restaurants. Just sand and the Caribbean. And a few other tourists haha. But it is worth it! Especially if it is a hot day and you got all sweaty while walking around the ruins.

Great icecream: Origami Ice Cream: I read somewhere that you should not eat ice cream in Mexico. You know germs and stuff. Well, whatever you want, but when I passed at Origami on the beachfront I could not resist! I had a fantastic scoop of luxurious chocolate ice cream. So good and no, I did not get sick afterwards! Go for it!

Artehelado: If you want good ice cream in the village itself, then go to Artehelado. It is off the main road but you will find it easily. The ice bar is located in a colourful cargo container, Acapulco chairs are dotted around it and most of the times there is a tiny little market next to it selling local goods and handcrafts. Nice after beach stop-over before heading to the hotel!

Things to do around Tulum: Tulum Mayan Ruins: This is a must! The Mayan ruins of Tulum are located 3 km away from the village and can be reached by car or bike. As with most sites in Mexico you will be welcomed by various sales people trying to sell you all kinds of daily tours and cruises. My tip is just to go for it by yourself. Before reaching the ruins you have to walk through a tacky touristy shopping are but then after a few hundred meters you will reach the ancient walls of Tulum. The fascinating fact is that the Tulum ruins are the only Maya ruins located directly at the coast. So the sight is pretty majestic. You get the classical snapshot of beach, Caribbean, and Maya ruins. Plus afterwards you get to swim on the beach (see above). Don’t forget to equip yourself with sunlotion, sunglasses, water, a towel and your swimwear.

Grand Cenote: The cenotes are a highlight of the Yucatán peninsula. These are natural sinkholes that expose groundwater. Imagine crystal clear water in submerged pools that are partly below the surface. The Grand Cenote is wonderful. It is very close to Tulum village and offers a great natural pool on two sides. Some say it is pricey compared to other cenotes (entrance fee is 180 pesos per person), but I think it is worth it. They have great sanitary facilities, showers to prepare yourself before going into the cenote (only biodegradable sunscreen is accepted or none at all), and they have lockers and snorkeling equipment to rent. Swimming in the Grand Cenote was a marvellous experience. The water is so clean and fresh. You swim next to little fish and turtles. I was lucky as it was really not busy when I arrived there (I went there around 11 am). Count 1.5 hours or max. 2 hours to stay there and enjoy it. Oh and if you have a smartphone that goes under water – take it with you!!! So much fun!

Chichen Itza: Mexico’s most popular archaelogical site is Chichen Itza. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is worth a visit despite all the shortcomings of mass tourism sites. Don’t be surprised when you arrive to a packed parking lot, lots of tourists everywhere, queuing for entrance tickets, and a multitude of souvenir sellers scattered all around the site. It is the usual shenanigans. Plus bear in mind that – unlike in previous years – you can not climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza anymore. Still it is a fantastic site with breathtaking buildings and pretty unknown culture to us Europeans.

Valladolid: If you visit Chichen Itza, plan a stop-over at the close by town of Valladolid. This quiet little Yucatécan city has not the touristy glitz and glam of coastal resorts but exposes an authentic Mexican lifestyle. Colourful houses line the streets, colonial churches and palaces dot the town, and the people live their normal daily life here. Stroll around the city center around the main church to get a notion of a Mexian provincial town.

For lunch, head to the Hotel El Mesón del Marqués. This colonial building features a green courtyard with a spring and tables all around it. Sit down and have a great lunch. Order the homemade guacamole – it will be prepared right before your eyes by a waiter! As a main try one of the local dishes from Valladolid. I had a Pollo Pibil – it is spiced chicken cooked in a banana leaf with black beans and rice. Delicious!

Other practical tips: A rented car comes in handy in Mexico! It is really safe to drive around Yucatán and you are so much more flexible with your own car. Tulum village is about 3.5 km from the beach so if you are based in the village (like I was) you either have to take a cab or a bike (available at the hotel) to go to the beach. It is nice to do it but in the evenings I would not recommend to take the bike to the fancy clubs and restaurants at the beachfront. The street is poorly illuminated and partly completely dark. Plus with a car you can get around the peninsula easily and visit various cenotes, Mayan temples and other cities.

Make sure you have enough cash with you! Most restaurants and bars in Tulum are cash only. Just a few of those that I visited accepted credit cards. You can withdraw money in Tulum village at the main square (there is a HSBC bank), but there are also many ATMs along the beachfront (however some of them are only for US dollars).

Get some good sunscreen with you (even for a little walk in the pueblo – I got a burnt neck on my first stroll!) and bring a mosquito spray. Most restaurants and bars are outdoors and they burn special woods to keep mosquitoes away. Still bring some – also for a relaxed sleep.

Shopping! Tulum’s main street is packed with little shops selling Mexican souvenirs, handcrafts, all kind of tchotchkes. I saved the last day to do some shopping and bought two Mexican blankets (Saltillo), a little Tree of Life (Arbol de la Vida), Mexican pottery, and a full array of spicy sauces. Oh and local coffee from Del Cielo (see above). For more upscale shopping (including fashion) head to the beachfront – but you’ll spend also more there!

Finally I have no more to say apart from: Tulum is fabulous! I loved every day there, I enjoyed it to the max. It is still very authentic (especially the pueblo) and the beachfront has a special boho-glam vibe. It is far away from noisy mass tourism and drunk youngsters. Go and see it for yourself as long as it is as beautiful! I hope my travel tips for Tulum will help you. Happy (virtual) travels!

Photography/iPhone photography by Igor Josifovic

The post Travel Tips for Tulum, Mexico appeared first on Happy Interior Blog.

from Happy Interior Blog https://happyinteriorblog.com/travel-tips-tulum-mexico/

[gezikolubaskani]

Tulum, Mexico (with kids) in January - Travel Notes

Tulum is a great place for a low key vacation. Eat, read, swim, do yoga, get a massage. No crazy nightlife. We stayed in Aldea Zama, a new residential neighbourhood right in the jungle. It was beautiful and quiet.

Weather was a bit windy. We even got tropical rain on some days. It was ok, at least it wasn’t too hot. We figured out that the part of the beach that was closer to the ruins was less windy and easier to swim. The downside is all the good beach restaurants like La Zebra were in the windy part.

We had TWO 2 year olds with us so we couldn’t get into some hotels like Mi Amor and Be Tulum but there’s lots of other options. 

Here are a few great restaurants in Aldea Zama:

1. La Colifata ** This Argentinian restaurant is a little hidden gem. Amazing steaks and service. The owner is very friendly; He came to our table for a chat and sent us some nice bubbly. They are fairly new, opened in August 2016.

2. Chacabar They make great wood fired pizza. Their pizza oven is an old VW Beetle, very cute. Kids can run freely under the jungle trees and big pavements with no cars passing.

Tulum Town (Pueblo):

1. Del Cielo ** Amazing place for a healthy good breakfast. Always packed. Fresh juices, eggs, smoothies. We went there almost everyday.

2. El Camello ** Full of local people and tourists. Great for people watching. Amazing food. Ceviche, whole fried fish was delicious. Don’t expect luxury though it’s a plastic chair place with large portions and great prices. Always crowded.

3. Flor de Michoacan Great place to enjoy a coffee, homemade popsicles, ice cream and fresh juices. Cute garden with a fountain.

(El Camello)

(Flor de Michoacan)

Restaurants on the Beach (Playa):

1. La Zebra Beach Restaurant ** Great food and atmosphere. We went there for lunch every other day. Easy to rent a cabana and spend the day. Very child friendly. Has a mini playground and a diaper change station. Try the tacos, guacamole, beach salad with jicamas and papaya.

They were building the two Michelin star Noma pop-up in the parking lot. Noma residency will run for seven weeks starting April 2017.

2. ARCA Restaurant ** One of our best meals in Tulum. A trendy jungle setting for fine dining at night. Wood fire roasted fish was amazing. They make their own breads served warm with salted butter mmm

You are right in the jungle here so bring your mosquito repellents and make sure you spray them just before sunset. That’s when those little vampires mostly attack.

It was impossible to get a table at Hartwood so this worked out even better without the stress : ))

3.  El Pez Same chain as La Zebra, Mezzanine, Mi Amor. We went for dinner here. They are a fairly new boutique hotel so it was nice and calm. Great service and atmosphere.

4.  Posada Margherita Nicely designed Italian restaurant. They make their own fresh pasta. Very child friendly and relaxed. Food wasn’t very special if you’re coming from Europe. Has a nice boutique.

Don’t forget to bring cash (US or Mexican) they don’t accept credit cards. They have an ATM in the restaurant and on the street but it only dispenses US Dollars and it charges an $8 ATM fee, and doesn’t always work!!

5. Mezzanine Lovely boutique hotel with a Thai Restaurant. We used the Las Palmas Public Beach and came here for lunch.

(Las Palmas Public Beach)

Beaches to go

Playa Paraiso Public Beach ** Beautiful public beach a must go!!!

Las Palmas Public Beach ** Close to Mezzanine Restaurant. Great public beach

Maya Tulum Retreat and Resort ** Great healthy breakfast and beautiful views. Easy to hang out with kids very quiet since it’s a yoga resort. It was uncomfortably windy so we enjoyed the beautiful view without swimming. They also have a good spa and retreat center with lots of different options

Chamico's (At Soliman Bay) Follow the dirt road to this hidden gem. Beautiful secluded beach. Great place to hang out with or without kids. Has a beautiful playground. Simple restaurant with plastic tables and chairs

El Paraiso beach club Food and service is terrible but the beach is gorgeous. Has hammocks and lots of shade under the palm trees

(Chimico's)

(Chimico's)

(Maya Tulum Resort)

(Maya Tulum Resort)

Out of Tulum:

Acumal: Turtle Bay Bakery & Cafe Delicious food

Playa Del Carmen Hated this place with its tacky 5th Avenue... Gucci, Levi’s, Prada, Nike, Forever 21 chain stores everywhere.

few more notes:

Must visit the Mayan Ruins

There’s a big supermarket in Tulum called Chedraui where you can find everything. Not my favorite place it’s like a Walmart. There’s also a smaller supermarket called  San Francisco de Asis which I enjoyed a bit better

**You don’t see lots of mosquitos flying around but Zika is a problem here. Bring your mosquito repellents and make sure you spray them just before sunset everyday. That’s when those little vampires mostly attack. Specially if you are in the jungle area.

[brienfoerster]

Exploring The Mayan Ruins Of Tulum On The Gulf Coast Of Mexico

In the Yucatec language, Tulum means “wall” and refers to the large barricade which surrounds this ancient settlement of the Maya people. Another name for this place was and is Zama, which means dawn; appropriate, in that the whole complex faces east, and thus the rising sun. The explorers Stephens and Catherwood appear to have... The post Exploring The Mayan Ruins Of Tulum On The Gulf Coast Of Mexico appeared first on Hidden Inca Tours. http://dlvr.it/NHXWfr