So I’ve dedicated a lot of blog space to my Tulum vacation. I’ve talked about sleeping in cabanas near the ocean, eating delicious local lunches, and having a culinary awakening along the beach. I think it’s apparent that I fell in love with the ocean view, and would be distraught if you picked to vacation anywhere other than Tulum, Mexico.
So – because I know you are planning to go now – I’ve created a list of do’s and don’ts. These are things that I was either uneasy or unsure of, or maybe something I just didn’t think about before the trip.
But first, more pictures.
Because Nick has my “kid” snorkel-set on.
Deserted beach off hidden road. I’m in.
23-year-old with boogie-boarding stamina.
Obsession with iguanas…they were friendly.
Amazing.
Do –
Rent a car.
Explore the grocery store.
Dine where no one speaks English.
Buy an iguana magnet to commemorate your journey.
Order a banana daiquiri whenever you want.
Swim in a cenote.
Research restaurants.
Pay with your Credit Card – it’s widely accepted on beach road, not so much in the pueblo.
Drive the speed limit.
Search online for a preview of road signs – Loco Gringo is a great resource.
Have a Corona at 11 a.m. because it’s 5 o’clock somewhere.
Read three books, and mail one back to the cabana owner who graciously let you borrow it out of his collection, because sometimes it’s hard to part with a book once it’s sucked you in.
Don’t -
Book the cheap flight – a direct flight is worth much more than the money you save laying over in Mexico City. [Plan vacation WAY in advanced, that way flights are still reasonable.]
Take a guided tour of the ruins – We drove ourselves, walked around with the throngs of tourists, took photos, and left when we wanted to. We even read the “historical markers.” In under an hour and a half.
Worry about getting in your cardio – playing in the waves is much more of a workout anyway.
Be skeptical of locals, but also don’t be naive. Heavy watchful eyes are only really needed when filling up with gas. We were never shortchanged, but I have heard stories.
Exchange dollars until Mexico – The best rates without fees were actually in the Mexico City Airport.
What we didn’t have time for, but should have done -
Explored the Sian Kaan.
Took a guided snorkeling tour.
Yoga class.
Traded in our return flight for an extra week stay.
Have questions? I’d be happy to answer! Email me at kjwheelertx@gmail.com.
Thanks for the do’s and don’ts! I’m seriously considering this vacation…
I wonder if my mother would fund it as a graduation gift?!
hey there!! I’m new to your blog, but love that you seem like you’re someone who takes advantage of all the new scenery and opportunities around you, even while on vacation. That is totally one of my goals, to live life without regrets and to always new things! Your vacation sounds like so much fun.
This looks like a fabulous vacation destination. I can’t wait to show it to P to see what he thinks!