A Luxury Travel Guide to Tulum: A Mayan Marvel and Bohemian Heaven Historically a sleepy fishing village, Tulum has now transformed into one of the hottest party destinations in Mexico — but is it all that the hype makes it out to be?Tulum is a seaside town located in the southeastern Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It is situated along the Yucatan Peninsula, with the beautiful Caribbean sea to the east. Approximately 90 minutes away from Cancun, Tulum has become more accessible over the last few years and now is a relatively short flight (of a couple of hours) from trendy cities like New York and Miami. Tulum is truly an exquisite place to visit. It’s definitely worth seeing, as it offers some of the most breathtaking destinations filled with Mayan history and culture. We’ll explore the must-see attractions that have made Tulum a seemingly endless luxury destination for travellers from across the globe. This extensive guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip. Jaw-dropping natural beauty Little explanation is needed to explain Tulum’s main attraction. With astounding structures from ancient Mayan civilisations, you can’t help but be in awe of the architecture. From Mayan ruins to stunning temples, Tulum is a treasure trove of natural beauty. The best way to appreciate Tulum’s nature is by paying a visit to its national park, the ‘Parque Nacional Tulum’. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP This park — boasting lush views, exotic wildlife, and a gorgeous beach to unwind in — is situated to the south of Playa del Carmen and faces the Caribbean sea to the west. Within the park, you’ll also find the extraordinary Mayan Ruins which are located within the Tulum Archeological Zone. What once served as an intimidating beacon for traders and travellers into the ‘Walled City’, these relics now pay homage to the sheer power that Tulum (translating to ‘wall’ in Mayan) once had as an imposing city-state during the 13th and 14th centuries. Their world-famous white beaches, with powdery sand that is as fine and crisp as snow, are an obvious must-see. It’s no wonder trendy travellers flock from all around the globe to stand and marvel at it. If you’re looking for a thrill, a tropical paradise is just a walking distance away from the lively but tourist-friendly coastline. Pocketed in between dense jungle and towering palm trees, you’ll find gaping cenotes that you’re welcome to snorkel in. Cenotes are naturally-occurring caverns that form when underground caves collapse and expose the turquoise water underneath. This often leaves beautiful sinkholes that were historically used for Mayan rituals, but now make for a refreshingly cool swim as you bask in a glorious jungle view from below. Even to this day, you may find sacrificial objects like gold and pottery at the bottom of these cenotes. For a prime cenote-hopping experience, we would recommend Gran Cenote, Dos Ojos, and Laguna Kaan Luum. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP Unrivalled spiritual scene Tulum’s notable climb in popularity is largely due to being a prominent hub for well-being and spirituality. This Mexican hotspot is dotted with wellness centres and spiritual sanctuaries that offer unique experiences beyond yoga classes — although, if you are interested, yoga is generously available from most beachfront hotels. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP Tulum is one of the few places in the world where you can take part in sacred cacao ceremonies. Inspired by ancient Mayan rituals for fertility, cacao is utilised due to its stimulating properties which encourage spiritual awakening, open-mindedness and self-transformation. In addition, you may have the opportunity to get involved in temazcal. This ancestral cleansing ritual is partially a sweat lodge and is reported to improve the physical and spiritual health of participants. Steadfast in Tulum’s modern culture, it is now available as a spa treatment at many of the local luxury resorts and hotels. Other exclusive treatments you will find at Tulum include Mayan clay baths, holistic treatments and indulgent hydrotherapy pools. If you’re looking to achieve serenity, then make sure to add a visit to Tulum to your bucket list. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP Unique gastronomic experiences You get the best of both worlds when dining in Tulum — authentic regional cuisine and a lush tropical view, whether it be the coast on one side or the jungle on the other. There aren’t too many places in the world where you can enjoy regional Mexican gourmet, cooked up by award-winning chefs that utilise ancient cooking methods — all while suspended in an extravagant treetop venue above to enjoy a lush jungle view below. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP At Azulik, this is a fantasy made real. You will be astounded by the artfully crafted menus within their glamorous treehouse restaurants that stand above an awe-inspiring wilderness landscape. Kin Toh, one of Azulik’s luxurious restaurants, even promises an immersive gastronomic journey that will tap into all five senses. Of course, there are other upscale restaurants as well as Azulik that can make for an impressive dining experience. Gitano, located along the plush Tulum beach, is a tropical restaurant and mezcal bar. Here, you can dine on Mediterranean mezze and mezcal cocktails while dining under a canopy of overgrown palm trees and vines. Meanwhile, led by Executive Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza, Arca pays homage to Mexican cuisine while drawing cultural influences from a broad range of cutting-edge gastronomical innovations. When it comes to deciding where to dine for the best regional cuisine at Tulum, The Only International has the best recommendations. Our luxury travel and lifestyle concierge is confident in our knowledge of the area, so will always have the best insight and advice on hand for whenever you book your luxury retreat. In addition, we can arrange your restaurant reservations for you, saving you the time and hassle of deciding. To learn more, get in touch with us today. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP Luxury lodging on the coastline Little explanation is needed to explain Tulum’s main attraction. With astounding structures from ancient Mayan civilisations, you can’t help but be in awe of the architecture. From Mayan ruins to stunning temples, Tulum is a treasure trove of natural beauty. The best way to appreciate Tulum’s nature is by paying a visit to its national park, the ‘Parque Nacional Tulum’. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP Some of the finest villas and boutique hotels compete for space along this part of the Caribbean coastline. As Tulum has recently transitioned into a coveted area for affluent travellers, its swanky accommodation choices are more expensive than other holiday areas on the Yucatan Peninsula. However, if you’re looking for an unforgettable beach experience, it can’t be beaten. For those looking for an elevated experience, make sure to rent a luxury villa. These incredible holiday homes offer everything from stunning views or lush jungle scenery right from your room’s balcony. At The Only International, our exclusive rental villas consist of meticulously designed rooms and a curation of luxury commodities to ensure a luxe affair. As our guest, we will be happy to assist you with services such as 24-hour security, concierge, housekeeping, private chef and catering, and laundry service. Our spectacular villas are guaranteed to give you an exceptional experience in your own private part of Sian Kaan tropical paradise, all while being just a drive away from Tulum’s beach and nightlife. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP Partying in style Tulum has an unbeatable party scene that remains spirited and lively at all hours. No matter what time it is, you’re guaranteed to find an upbeat party, day and night. In addition, Tulum parties work around the lunar period and are especially notorious for their Full Moon parties. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP Every month, on the Saturday closest to the full moon, the hottest beach clubs in Tulum (like Papaya Playa Project) host their most infamous and hedonistic parties that are known around the world. Celebrity DJs and musicians travel to this party hotspot just to entertain prolific guests and socialites until sunrise. It’s an experience that you wouldn’t want to miss!Of course, a good night is guaranteed wherever you go in Tulum and for whatever occasion. As well as Full Moon parties, the elusive venues in Tulum are experts in hosting the best parties for New Year and Christmas. When it comes to the best party venues and beach clubs in Tulum, the best places are located in the upscale Beach Zone and we would recommend Bagatelle, Tantra, Taboo, Gitano and, of course, Papaya Playa Project. Tulum is a unique slice of paradise in the Caribbean. The area has a rich history, with a strong connection to the ancient Mayan civilization. It’s also known as one of the most luxurious spots on the entire coastline. It offers the most comfortable accommodation in the region, so it’s perfect for those who want to achieve true bliss while exploring one of the most unique places in the world. Tulum is truly an ancient, Mayan marvel — and a modern bohemian paradise. With its breathtaking beaches and natural beauty, it is the perfect place to escape to and unwind in style. If you’re looking for a premium experience, there’s no better place than here. To find out how you can arrange a luxury getaway to Tulum, get in touch with our travel and lifestyle concierge today. You can contact us by email or via Whatsapp text. BOOK YOUR TULUM TRIP
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