Traveling to Tulum
My experience in Tulum
Where I stayed
During our time in Tulum, Mexico we stayed at Copal Hotel Tulum. The staff were wonderful and very helpful. Shoutout to Kevin who helped us with EVERYTHING we needed. The aesthetic and vibes of Copal were amazing. We had an issue with our pool and the staff was very understanding. We were able to upgrade to an even bigger room. Room tours are included in both vlogs.
Copal does have their own cenote however it wasn’t open during the time of visit. The hotel does sit all the way in the back and the roads do get pretty dark at night. Be aware when going out late to walk in groups and have an understanding of where you are going. If you are looking to be closer to all the main attractions Copal is not walking distance. You will need to rent a bike or drive.
Things to know
What to bring
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Hand sanitizer
Light jacket
Multiple masks
Portable charger
Water proof phone case (excursions)
Currency
The Mexican Peso is the currency however, you can still use the US dollar as well there. Please take into consideration and be aware of the exchange rate and that it is different at almost every location. The exchange rate can also change at any moment throughout your trip.
Temperature
I visited during the cooler month of December so the heat wasn’t too harsh. I would advise packing a light jacket for the evenings. Keep in mind the temperature can get very high, bring sunscreen with you while being out.
Transportation
Tulum itself does not have a airport. You will have to fly into Cancun’s airport which is a about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Tulum. We booked our private transportation through Expedia as a package with our hotel and flight. I highly recommend doing everything as a package to save money. There are many transportation options once you arrive at the airport if needed.
During our stay in Tulum the front desk staff called taxis for us. After our second day we did have a driver that we really liked, got his contact information and used him the entire trip. If you find a driver that you like and feel safe with ask for their info and use them for your transportation.
Our hotel did have bikes that you pay by the hours. There are also bike rental places that are inexpensive. I recommend riding the bikes for places that are more closer. It does get dark very dark with minimum lighting so please keep in mind.
Communication
The service in Tulum isn’t the best. Almost all the restaurants have wifi (ask for the password) you will need it.
I highly recommend downloading WhatsApp for your trip, you will need it. We used WhatsApp for taxis, for restaurant reservations and excursion communication
Spanish is the commonly used language in Tulum. Although many people speak English there, I advise downloading a translation app.
Google maps
Tulum is fairly new so google maps may take you in the wrong direction. Pay attention to your surroundings and ask questions.
Things to do
Catamaran Boat
On our 1st official full day we did a catamaran boat trip in from Cancun to Isla Mujeres. This boat ride you will have to travel back to Cancun from Tulum. You are able to do snorkeling. Vlog part 1 you will get to see the full experience. Overall it was a nice experience I wish the boat itself was bigger and the food was better. The staff were very friendly.
(Booked through Expedia Local Expert)
Use code NICHELLE when booking with Cancun sailing to receive $$$ off any shared tours: Plus, Full, Premium and Privilege Experience. Code can be applied when booking online or mention it to a sales representative to validate
Aventuras Mayas
This day we did a package of excursions, food and transportation was included in the overall package. Our package included zip-lining, ATVS, a cenonte, and lunch. The ATV excursion wasn’t the best compared to other experiences I’ve had in the past. The lunch that was included could have been much better.
I went zip lining for the first time, which was huge because I am terrified of heights however it was an experience that I’m happy I did besides all the stairs you have to climb.
My favorite part of the excursions was the cenote. A cenote is a natural pit, or sinkhole, resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater. I personally don’t know how to swim but was able to hold on to a life preserver and stay next to the tour guide the entire time. I felt very safe and my experience was excellent. The cenote was beautiful and worth it. Highly recommend visiting a cenote during your stay in Tulum.
(Booked through Expedia Local Expert)
Explore
I would recommend having a day or more to just exploring Tulum. Rent a bike or walk around to see all the beauty.
Where to eat
We ate at multiple places. I include details to all the restaurants we ate at in both vlog part 1 and 2. I will list my favorites below. The restaurant prices were reasonable. Keep in mind the exchange rate may be different everywhere you go!
Taboo Tulum
10/10 If you go to Tulum you must go to Taboo. The prices are on the higher end compared to everything else however it’s worth it. The servers were great! The food and drinks were great and the portions weren’t small. The music was on point!
Los de pescaso
10/10 The best shrimp tacos I had during my trip. This place is in Cancun closer to the airport. Prices were good too! So good we asked our driver to stop on the way back to the airport going home.
Loco tulum
Shots 10/10 if you’re looking for somewhere to drink go to Loco Tulum. They have $1 shots. The staff was very nice and made sure we enjoyed ourselves. The guacamole and chips were good.
