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I'm sorry to say this, I live here in this beautiful place. Tulum is located in the middle of the jungle. Please don't expect to have Netflix, A/C, fiber optic internet, and pay with card. Tulum has been devastaded for a lot of "investors" and construction - destruction. So then, people come to finish saying "I was in the middle of the jungle, so excited to disconnect", when it's not a real jungle experience and they are just waiting to post the next Instagram Story.
I think she explained the situation in Tulsa in an informative way with a positive attitude. The information is not false or you would have pointed out the false information. This video provides what people can expect in Tulum so they are not so surprised and people can make up their own decision. I found this video very informative.
I absolutely love Tulum and been there twice only so want to check it out again. However, recently went to Puerto Vallarta and fell deeply in love. Two different vibes though.
All of the beaches in Mexico are public. The hotels cant stop you from walking through them to access the beach. You can literally put your blanket on the sand right next to anybody's fancy $100 minimum spend chair. So dont be shy! I walked through Ahua daily to use the beach.
there is a difference in the beach being public and the property ON THE WAY to the beach. I ran into this problem in vietnam and the manager said well you can swim around or walk through the jungle. Thanks mate.
Thanks for being HONEST! Some people are mad, but as an experienced traveler I appreciate all that you described in the video. Locals won’t like criticism but it just helps us as a traveler to know if you want to go to that place DEsPITE those things and to have a heads up. I appreciate you. New sub!
SOMEONE UNDERSTANDS ME (I hope you read that as yelling with a lot of jazz hands in the air). THANK YOU for taking the time to write this. Helps me get through all the suuuuper exhausting mean comments from people that don't understand the intent.
I went to Tulum and honestly was very disappointed. I really didn’t care about the modern world amenities, my problem was the following: 1. The massive seaweed problem! This is known as sargassum season. The seaweed completely ruins the beaches in Tulum. If you want a stunning beach in MX during this season, I’d opt for Cozumel or Isla de Mujeres. 2. “Tulum-inatis” the people say they need no worldly possessions and it’s about peace and love but then will do some green juice meditation blah blah for $1000. 3. How expensive everything is compared to almost everywhere else in Mexico. This is a tourist trap, there’s no reason for you to spend more than 35 MXP (~$1.15 USD) per taco, even that’s getting up there. This because they can get it out of people. 4. Scooter/bike rentals asking for a passport as a “safety deposit”. I’m sorry, but absolutely not. 5. Taxis from the northern part of the beach to get into town will charge you 4 times more because they know the way out is to walk through the national park (about 3 miles). Also they will cap the number of people in taxis so if you’re in a large group, you are forced to take more taxis. 6. Cenote guided tours are a rip off. The only thing that might be worth it is if you’re diving (not snorkeling) because those guides are cave dive certified and equipment rentals are overpriced in Tulum. 7. Every single dive shop I went to requires that if you do an equipment rental then you must have a guided tour. If you are a diver, I highly recommend bringing your own equipment so you’re not having to pay hundreds of dollars on a guide.
Whoa Zara. This is legit helpful. I appreciate you taking the time to write this (A LOT!), I've pinned your comment to the top so it may help other as well. I think it's important that jusssst like reading amazon and yelp reviews... people gather many opinions and others' experiences to help them formulate their own. Your experiences are helpful! Thanks again! (I'm using your tips for my own return trip to Tulum next week) 😯
This is so true. As a mexican i can say that almost everything in Cancún is expensive and they don't care about if you are from another country, Also if you want a wonderful beach i think is better to go on october-november.
Tulum was the most magical place 25 yes ago. Quiet, tree lined street with a few restaurants, villas and hotels on the ocean side. Turquoise water, white sugar sand. Then came social media and it exploded, got expensive and is overwhelming. Moral of the story… when you find a little slice of heaven, keep quiet about it.😊
As a choosen priest of Ixchel, I once trained on the beach of Tulum and lived in a simple thatched sand hut not far from the mystic Mayan citadel ruins! In that bygone era of the eighties, I bought my daily meal from home ward bound fishermen and cooked it by the sea! The pendulum of the spirit of change swings from extreme to extreme! Ixchel has taught me nothing remains the same in this world of impermanence, except the eternal growth of understanding wisdom!
Only up to @2:20 but I've already came up with one of the classics, where folks that do travel blogs often mention the problem but not the key solution. Yes, taxis will try to overcharge you. She did a great job pointing that out, so yes you have to "negotiate" the rate, but she forgot the KEY part, you have to negotiate the rate BEFORE you get on and agree to the ride. The right way to use a taxi in Mexico without a taxi meter (I think most states do require them but not in Quintana Roo), is to pull over the taxi driver, and ask them BEFORE you get in "how much to so and so place". They will give you a price, if you agree you agree, if you don't you call out your price, if he agrees, he agrees. What you DON"T want to do, is get in the taxi, tell them to take you to so and so place, once there expect to negotiate a rate because that is how you were told it works. @3:12 She just finished talking about cenotes. What she said is sortha true for the moment, but because of Covid. I know way more cenotes than most, and visit them much more frequent than pretty much anyone else. The only cenote that I know of that has rates that go up and down between visits is Chaak Tun on Playa del Carmen. I literally stopped taking clients there because each visit was like I new set of rates and rules. That said, she visited in Nov 2020. Everything was shutdown completely earlier in the year because of covid. Most spots have reopened under state guidelines (at the moment running at 60% capacity) but when they reopened most raised their rates drastically. I don't visit calavera too much, but I know El Grand Cenote went from 180 pesos to 300, but claim they now include the lifejacket rental (was 20 pesos). Now tourism overall has dropped drastically because of covid, so I don't see anything wrong with them charging more since there are so many less tourists in the area.
Thank you so much for your input!! This is such valuable info for those of us planning a move to Mexico! It's frustrating when people want Mexico to be like someplace else. Rona has changed things all over the globe. I can't wait to finally chose a location to move to (so many choices!!) and get there!! Maybe I can look you up when I get there!!
a lot of the ''problems'' that you describe arent problems at all. they're just part of living in a place that's less developed than what we're accustomed to as americans. some of the other inconveniences you detailed aren't endemic. a lot of those things are a result of the gringoization of the area.
exactly! they aren't problems! which is why i LOOOOVE tulum and made so many videos about this amazing place. these are helpful travel tips for people who think tulum is cancun. and its NOT! thanks for watching!!
I agree it sounds like she's whining the whole time!!! 😏😕 Anyone that wants the high rise beach areas knows where they are!!! Go there AND stop your complaining!!!!
Lol Americans complaining of Mexico not having enough McDonald’s for them 🤣🤣🤣 How about the fact that many of the American and European hotels are destroying the jungles and manglares in the region why? … capitalism Who cares about the nature as long as Americans have their bicycle ride That’s also what happened in Greece after Santorini became worldly famous the locals complained about excessive amount of tourists destroying their environment
I wish I had watched this before I moved to Tulum haha! Basically everything you shared was helpful. You forgot to mention the trash everywhere, the amount of strays that break your heart or terrify you and the fact that you can't flush toilet paper. Also it's dusty and dirty. True that getting to the beach is a hassle so I spend more time in town. But I love it anyway. People are so friendly. The food is delicious! At Caonova in La Valeta you can get a pizza and two beers for $10. I'm never going back to Illinois! Thank you for sharing. If I see you in town I'm gonna say hello!
She's not lying though. I'm in the Riviera Maya as I type this comment. Originally I wanted to stay in Tulum, based on all the pics, but it didn't happen. I'm staying in a place about half-way between Tulum and PDC and I'm loving it-the best beaches and local vibes- and feel thankful I didn't end up staying in Tulum. Yes, Taqueria Honorio is worth trekking into town for (their tortillas are difference makers), and the beach is beautiful, but based on what I was looking for in a beach vacation Tulum wasn't it. Tulum is just not an easy-going/easy-living beach town. Having to negotiate it, even when I just visit for the day for tacos, leaves me exhausted. Heck, just trying to get into the Super Aki (grocery store) to buy beer can be a major challenge. Still, you should definitely visit the Riviera Maya! The locals are kind and helpful, the level of service everywhere I go is impressive, it's safe, and of course it's stunningly beautiful:)
Tulum was magical 30 years ago when you wandered down the (then unpaved) beach road, paid $5 for a cabana on the beach with only hammock hooks and a shared bathroom. Now, the same thing is called “eco sheik” for $250 and powered by diesel generators with one little windmill to light a single bulb just so they can make us feel warm and fuzzy about being environmentally conscious.
@@ChristineLozada My husband was in Tulum in the 80's and there was nothing there slept in a hammock on the beach. I drove through it in 1979 not much there
I stayed at Dune Botique hotel there last month. It was an amazing experience. I didn't leave the hotel other than for dinner. I didn't need to. I was on one of the most beautiful beaches with great beach side service. And my room was so nice. The ac worked the entire time. It is expensive there but it is definitely worth visiting.
You are notably an urban girl and you want the comforts that a 5-star hotel offers you in a 100% natural tourist site that Europeans appreciate by the way, I recommend that you stay in a mega resort with all the comforts.
thanks for watching my video quique! i’m laughing because i did! it’s on my channel. i stayed in a resort in playa. and i’m also laughing because i’m writing this from a tent in ethiopia. i’m camping and biking here in the mountains. i definitely do t need 5 star all the time 😂 my adventures of ethiopia will be on instagram if you want to see me roughing it. hard.
Just came back from Tulum with friends and we had a fantastic time. While some of the things you mentioned were things we experienced as well, for us the Pros outweighed the Cons. Especially the techno parties on the beach!!!
@Rosy Chanel I didn't do much nightlife, I did day time stuff at the beach clubs (like coco) or hungout on the main street with all the restaurants (same street that la brasa is on) for drinks and general bar hopping
I'd love to know where you went exactly. Been trying to find line ups on Insta etc, but can't seem to find much. It's only AFTER the parties that I see Black Coffee played here and there lol
thank you for watching and thank you for telling me in the comments that you felt the same, benulus! i think you're one of the few that agrees with me.. a lot of people DO NOT 😂 i still love tulum. i'm working on my return trip in case you have a fave restaurant or place to stay or thing to do!
So true. We’ve been to other areas of Mexico and experienced many of the same things. Everyone just said TIM (this is Mexico). Enjoy experiencing a different culture.
Was just there Oct 22 - Oct 25. Had a fabulous time! No mosquitos ever bit me, and I ate in lotsa awesome dining places and took several great tours to the pyramids, cenotes, and several Mayan communities. In other words, I was outdoors a lot! No problem with toilets flushing or the air conditioner either. stayed at Central Lagunas Tulum. Go there! You won't want to return home!💗
I really love the honest review. Every other travel vloggers only highlight the nice stuff and make you feel like it’s the perfect paradise. Keep it real folks.
this comment means A LOT! thanks for watching and taking the time to share. I’ll be honest.. not a lot people understand i’m trying to share my experience in hopes that it HELPS! phew!
@@ChristineLozada I agree! I’m thinking of traveling there and stumbled upon your video and I’m slightly annoyed over the comments. You’re trying to help tourists manager their “1st world” traveling expectations that people from elsewhere want to demonize. It’s totally not the case. No need for some of the sensitivity. Was literally discussing this with my husband who was born and lived his childhood in Mexico. He gets their sentiments but he also understands as an American traveler now what our “expectations” are now. Sorry if they come across a certain way, it is what it is! I really appreciate the video!
Great realistic expectations video!! I feel like Tulum is one of those places that is glorified and travelers have to remember that if you want to do it on a realistic budget you have to make some sacrifices!! Thanks for the tips! I will be heading there in April
We just came back from Tulum and encountered ALOT of what you mentioned and it was a lack luster experience... don’t think we will ever return unfortunately.. did have a beautiful beach we went on which made the trip a lil bit better!! Thank you and really wish I would have seen this video before we went too
i wanna go back for my second round!! there was a moment i almost cancelled africa in january to go back to mexico. it's SO FUN THERE. but alas, the animals are calling me. so i gotta go to africa ;)
I have been going to Tulum, for past 3 years on wellness retreat. We go in January, mosquitoes we're not bad , never got eaten alive, don't use mosquitoe, repellent, usually get one or two bites. I think it is definitely worth it to stay on the beach. Also never have problems with wifi.
My friends and I went to Tulum recently and while I loved the town jungle vibe and the cenotes/nature activities I wouldn’t recommend going there, at least not in 2021. I suspect Mexico suffered without tourism in 2020, as a result every single vendor was trying to rob us of money. The check never matched menu prices, which were outstandingly over priced to begin with. (Shots up to 35$ each, appetizers up to 20$ each). Many places did take card, and while I watched servers charge the card, mysterious over charges showed up later when I got home. It was stressful for us to barter, and argue the check and tip (which they add themselves up to 30-50%). We came looking for nightlife which was lacking. If you’re a backpacker looking for a cheap stay and fun daytime activities with a group, I would recommend (with small amounts of CASH in hand) . For parties, food, upscale lodging, I would say go to Cancun instead.
THIS. this is why I make these videos. This is so insanely helpful, thank you for sharing your experience. I think it's so important for everyone (just like reading yelp and amazon reviews) to share their piece and what it was like so we can all evaluate and make smarter decisions for ourselves. THANKS for taking the time to share this. YES!!!
Just got back from the Riviera Maya and spent a night in Tulum. Yes, biking around downtown can be dicey, but use common sense. Definitely go visit the Cenotes, we visited IL Kil and Dos Ojos. I believe there is a smaller fee for locals and a higher fee for tourists...which is fair IMO. If you're a vegan/vegetarian, you will love Tulum...plenty of options. I prefer Isla Mujeres over Tulum.
Best part of Tulum for me was having the freedom of a rental car. I think we went to 10 cenotes, the lagoon, and Coba ruins (the best cenotes were in Coba)
Super accurate video! I visited Tulum in November, and the most surprising/disappointing thing to me was the difficulty of getting to the beach going down that one road!😖 We stayed in town at a beautiful condo, but if the beach is high on your priority list then I’d recommend paying the extra for a beach club or resort stay.
thanks so much for watching brianna! ahhh that beach road. although i'm hearing from friends that are there that they have been working on it! it definitely needs improvement and your tip about where to stay... 💯 agree!
we spent our vacation there in 2013 and 2014 when it was still quite idyllic. we loved it so so much that I absolutely wanted to celebrate my 50th birthday there. that was 2020. and boy, were we disappointed! no more romatic beaches, instead of 15 minutes, a taxi from tulum town to the beach took over an hour. back in 2014 we always took a taxi from our cabana at the beach to the store to get ice and beer and whatnot and then back, that was usually a half hour trip, shopping included. furthermore, much to our annoyance, there were insta posters friggin EVERYWHERE. our mexican friends that live there then informed us, that basically all bars, hotels and restaurants were taken over by the cartel. the prices: exorbitant to put it mildly. and we live in zurich, switzerland, so you would think we're used to it, but even we felt it was a rip off. the seaweed thing, well, not pretty of course, but that's no one's fault, really. I heard Bacalar was 'the next Tulum', pretty sure it's gonna be the same situation in a couple of years. what a pity.
In case your going to go to Mexico again puerto Morelos is the place to go it’s beautiful not expensive but not cheap like in the middle the cenotes are also beautiful like Tulum also the town beach and restaurants are AMAZING 🤩
GREAT tip! This is one of the spots Katie (the one I collab'd with about Tulum hostels)l loves. Definitely on my radar! Thanks for adding this tip here!!!
Tulum is 1000 degrees during the day. I haven’t been there in years but took a trip to the pyramid (from a cruise ship) and in the shade, it was 112 degrees Fahrenheit in April. Reach into your inner self and gird your soul cause you will see your life flash in front of your eyes.
I agree with mostly everything you said hahaha. We spent a week in Tulum just 10 days ago, but, unlike you - we didn’t have trouble with mosquitos, a/c or flushing toilets (stayed in the city). On the other hand - money/atm problems EVERY TIME, Mexican sim card and internet 👎, online prices for denotes not matching real ones, horrible roads (we rented a car), seaweed only when it was windy but most of the beach places try to clean the beach in front of their property... Anyhow we loved Tulum! 😊
THANK YOU for watching and taking the time to leave this comment. honesty is hard, but at the same time.. i tried to make the video i wish i got to see before going there. safe travels to you steve!
I know there are some people saying that these are things you shouldn’t complain about but….. it’s ok to complain. From the advertisements I’ve seen about tulum no has ever told the truth like she did. All you see are these over priced hotels and experiences but no one tells you what to truly expect. So I’m grateful for you and this video
Oh dang. I can't tell you how exhausted I get reading and responding to hate comments. Many of which (if they are not HELPFUL in someway and are simply racist, mean, or sexist) I delete, but its still draining to read them and continue to create these videos. PHEW. Thanks, Jhoanna, I'm gonna go pour myself another glass of red wine and hold up saying "YASSSSSS" SHE GETS ME in your honor!
Tulum is fantastic and of course subjective. You can full relax in Tulum and have bed time in Playa del Carmen as well. People that wants to live and rent there they understand the up and down but mostly the connection with nature is absolutely unique in my point if view. Tulum is growing and you will find out many pre construction and road been build. There is a second road been open just a few weeks ago that goes to the beach as well. For sure Tulum is for relaxing and not be on internet 😎 ennjoy you all Mexico is beautiful country.
im not going to lie... i thought this was one of them videos. videos...just to make videos but u actually gave your experience and thats really helpful for someone thats been thinking about going to a country they have never been. which can be scary sometimes..
I rented an apartment in Tulum for 3 months, and everything you say here is true. I do love that town, but I settled down better in Playa, being from the city.
Tulum turned too-commercial in the past ten years. I lived there before that and it was delightful. My friend lived there in the 1970s when there was a whole village of people living just back from the beach. He says the road along the beach was dark like a tunnel because the jungle closed in over it.
I just got back from Tulum this January. Tulum town to beach was $30-$50 via taxi and the traffic was insane. Btw the going rate for airport to Tulum was $150, 1.5-2 hr drive. Kinda regretted spending most of my days there but we ended up renting a car. Most places allowed us to pay using a card but the ATMs charged $20 for withdrawals 😬
I just found your video at 240am. I was hesitant to give you 13mins cause im tired. But by the 2nd minute I was hooked. I really enjoyed your review . Thank you hun
DUUUUDE. you just made my night (at 948pm. drunk. and editing a video about my fave cenotes in Tulum). THIRTEEN MINUTE IS SO LONG. this is a virtual medal 🏅 thank you. HAHA
I suggest Akumal instead. And keep in mind that in Mexico all beaches are public, even though they’ll try to convince you the contrary but you have to stay firm. The thing is that this place is so hype, it used to be a nice little beach town and that was the charm, but now gentrification, again, try Akumal.
ooo estrella thank you SO much for sharing this! my friend said the same thing about beaches being public and i was like waaaait a minute! they dont make it seem that way!!! re: akumal i REALLY wanted to dive there. do you have a rec of where to stay? i'm planning my return trip!!
@@ChristineLozada I’ve tried Airbnb with beach front with friends and it’s affordable (WiFi included my friends made a couple hours of home office), I think it’s Hacienda La Tortuga, there was even a little restaurant downstairs, anyways, that zone has a few other Airbnb nice spaces though and consider that is not as glamorous as Tulum but it’s a really nice little beach town
⛱GREAT VIDEO AMIGA!! Thank you for sharing! I lived in Tulum back in 1996 for 4 years (I worked between Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancun) Tulum was comprised of a handful of huts on the main street downtown XOXO -mini super and fruit stand (lol). None of the elaborate boutique hotels existed at that point - only "Don Armandos" hippie retreat/ campground. RETRO BABY! 🏖They offered huts (for $20 bucks a night/US dollars) & hammocks ($3 clams a night) WOW - things were super CHILL! There were NO restaurants on the beach only fisherman that would offer their services. We use to buy a large huachinango (fish) with fresh GUAC (his wife use to make at our mini beach table) along with a round of ICE COLD CHELLAs (brewskis) ALL for about $30 bucks (it served about 6 adults!!!) They had local bands come in and play (unplugged!) AHHH, those were the days! 🏝I currently work in the states but my hubby and I go back to Tulum each year for our anniversary (since thats where we met) It is PARADISO! QUE RICO! There are pros n cons everywhere - I agree. We also have issues with plumbing etc at our home in Mexico City! (lol) My advice - GO!! Explore!! Create your own experience and your own opinion, ENJOY!! Cheer amigos and VIVA MEXICO!⛱ I look forward to watching more of your videos- YOU ARE A GREAT SPEAKER AMIGA!
This was a great video, thank you for the info. Question, when did you go? Like what date because I’m seeing a lot of conflicting info about when its better to visit
i’ve been many times throughout the year and regularly talk w friends that live there. I’m hoping someone else in the comments might have an experience to share?
This is super informative! Packed with real-life, useful firsthand knowledge every travel would want to know! This is a great service to all travelers! Thank you for this. I appreciate you! This is beautifully done, nothing derogatory about the place. After watching this, it won’t make you not want to go to Tulum but just make you more prepared when you do go. This is GOLD! You’ve got a new subscriber here! More power!
Thanks so much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment! It means a lot!! and i’m planning on going back this month. i love tulum 💕
Tulum is beautiful 🤩 this place still trying to stay away from becoming what this lady wants! That’s the place we’re you absolutely want to put your phone down and take the beautiful view
@@aracelinunez100 who said i wanted it another way? i love tulum! exactly the way it is. a lot of people dont know what to expect: hence the video. hiiieee from zanzibar!
If you’re worried about this kind of stuff then Cabo San Lucas is probably more your style. Tulum is still growing into itself, infrastructure hasn’t caught up. I’m moving in August to property manage some places and absolutely expect years to go by before the infrastructure is anywhere near Cabo or the more developed areas. It’s part of the charm, it’s not for everyone and that’s ok.
Really enjoyed watching you. Besides being such a joyful upbeat person, you provided us with a detailed , thorough and useful review. Many thanks for the effort you put into making this video 🙏🏼🥰
My advice: 1. Don't stay in Tulum it isn't all that interesting and is just a trendy place to be. 2. Do rent a car and don't worry about taxis and getting guided tours to places of interest. 3. Stay in a resort outside Playa Del Carmen either to the south or north. You will have no problems with Wi-Fi, amazing AC, free gym, beach cleaned from sargussum by staff every day. You will also have all the amenities that the place has to offer. 4. Do go into Playa Del Carmen for meals as there is so many more interesting food options there then in Tulum and cheaper as well. In other words don't stay in Tulum but go ahead and drive down there if you want and wonder why people stay here.
my take: you could do chicago, l.a., NY, london, all of them and find lousy areas that have trash. tulum has good and bad as all do. i go there all the time it is a great place. beats chicago every day of the year!
ohhh Rico I so so agree! my "best of tulum" and ahhh the videos that just RAVE about this place are coming. but i felt i was so so important to start with this one because the number one thing I hear is people saying "wow. that did not meet my expectations" because all they did was look at beautiful instagram photos (and wooooowwwza this place sure is instagram worthy). and stopppp i looooove chicago. i used to spend st pattys day there every year for years. i loved watching the river turn green and it's PHENOMENAL how people can drink so much before 10am. its. impressive. and scary.
@@ChristineLozada yea well be moving somewhat close to Tulum! Our final destination is Merida Mexico . We see you’re channel is mostly on Tulum so we’ll subscribe to learn from you. We just started a channel to document our move to Mexico check us out let us know what you think :)
thanks so much for sharing! Love the idea of just finding a place by going there in person, I haven't done this before but it sounds like a great way to find a secret gem!
Thanks for the clip. this was very helpful. I was in Cancun in 1986 for Spring break and loved it. I rented a Jeep and drove to Chichen Itza for the Spring Equinox. I drove to the coast of Tulum through some very unreliable paths and thick jungle and ended up at the beach, and it looked like the land that time had forgotten. I understand now it has all been built out and is very touristy now. Maybe I will go to Cozumel instead and maybe spend one or two nights in Tulum just to see it. Have yo been to Cozumel ?
Excellent and honest review, thank you! Folks please take heed to what she said about bike riding. 🚴 While I was in Tulum, I fell off my bike trying to avoid crashing into overcrowded traffic of walkers, joggers, and bikers all zooming to and from the beach (on the same narrow path)😳and please do not choose the road - you are bound to get hit by a car that is flying around the corner of a tree-lined street. 🙃 Simply put, enjoy this beautiful town but please be careful and wear a helmet! 😁⛑ ~Shalom
I know I’m a little late to comment to on this video, but I had a friend just visit to see the Sferic exhibition, and decided to research. This was very interesting and informative. Have you ever been to Panama? I have a project in Torio Panama (it’s in progress but I don’t live there yet), on the Pacific Coast and im always bummed to only find videos about Bocas Del Toro on the Caribbean. I’d love to know if you have a video in Panama and if not, I’d love to see a comparison of the different places to visit there. Anyways love your videos, just subscribing and about to binge a whole lot more! 😊🦋
Went there in June for our honeymoon this year. We spent 10 days there. Although we had some pitfalls like any newplace can, It was hands down the best time and experience that I have had for a vacation. I would definitely recommend and most certainly going back asap!
Tulum is amazing and absolutely beautiful! I unfortunately went during seaweed season however (I obviously didn’t do enough research 😭). I was there late July-early August and the beaches were so stinky and completely unusable. I would love to go back, but definitely during a different time of year. That is honestly my only complaint though!
@@somewhereinthemiddle5184 you might experience a lot of seaweed 😬 I was just there and it had already started building up in some areas. Thankfully where I stayed there was none but just the next beach over it started building up and the next one after that looked pretty bad. I looked up at map before we went that kind of gave you an idea of the beaches with the least amount of seaweed
Sadly the seaweed is in all the Caribbean coasts ncluding 1500 miles of Florida. It’s a result of global warming and governments are trying to fight it best they can
I'm here now. It's amazing. Internet works, Netflix, and Prime works, food is amazing. Brought cash with me, everything is fine and smooth. Mosquitos at like 5 to 6pm are crazy. Ate my ankles but put some spray on an never had a problem after.
Thanks for sharing, Christine. All the reasons I moved to PDC over Tulum--the further South on RM, then more 'natural' the experience--like traveling to the past. Top reason Tulum put me off was the access to the beach is limited so you'll need to let a flat on the beach if you want to see it everyday. PDC much more accessible but ISP speeds are still less than 150mbps. I am there on Christmas week (Gregorian) .
Hi im visiting at the end of this month!! Its a 4 day trip and wanted to go paddle boarding, and snorkeling. I cant wait and im so thankful for your channel and your experience!!
I had a similar experience last week. Very truthful content you have. I just hated how they charge anything they want at the beach. Everything is much cheaper downtown and the infrastructure is better. The traffic is insane at the beach. The beach is amazing the parties are world class. It's a love and hate for me 🥴🥴
Because IT’S NOT A CITY! How come from all the analyses of the video you couldn’t say… yeah there’s traffic coz it’s not a city, coz we humans aren’t supposed to be there, coz the terrain is so not uniform that logistically it would be hard to create more infrastructure to make it like a city (which hasn’t stop real state and hotel mafia working with narcos to keep chopping down endemic vegetation and scaring species to go away and build concrete over it) but it’s jungle we should just not even touch it … I know nobody teaches us respect, we live in an extremely individualist perspective of life but someone has to stop us … or do we have to wait for it to become like Miami … ewww … without real nature but just house after house building after building. You, me, we are all destroying just by coming, posting, and showing “oh the beauties” of it, inviting more people to come instead of inviting people to think of the consequences of coming. Cheers
I just came back last night from Tulum. I just want to add that Nightclubs can run you from $100 dollars not pesos to $270 dollars per person at the moment. There's one thing you didn't know haha.
I would recommend staying around Coba Ave. I stayed in Xalet Luxury Condos that has it s own cenote !!! ❤️ Place is a blast 💥 Lightning internet, water pressure is very strong, 12 amazing pools, great gym, amazing rooftop. I did payed around $800 for 5 days but it was 2 bedroom apartment. One of the best places to stay in Tulum.
So I am traveling to Tulum next month and I was curious how much you think you spend overall in a week. How much cash should I bring?? I plan to bring a travel safe since I hear that the crime is still pretty high in the area. As far as Google maps "being accurate " was it just due to the service or where they completely off?? I plan to plan day by day at the resort where we are staying that way we have the location saved outside of wifi. What are you recommendations?? Thanks for the video super helpful.
What kept Tulum and many other location / vacation jewels, beautiful, was the anonymity that existed before influencers, pseudo travel advisors, and Instagram posers, invaded the town. Social media has opened the World to the masses, who ultimately influence and drive investment and construction by greedy developers, and rental entrepreneurs. I am all for the positive impacts of the internet, but it resulted in an uncontrolled explosion of development, that has contributed to the mess we have in Tulum right now.
I had heard similar complaints from some reviewers as well as locals. It seems that the tourist demand is grossly outpacing its infrastructure. I like your reconnaissance strategy for finding hotels. Perhaps you can list some. I read an article with quotes from a local complaining about people trying to turn it into a new Thailand. That’s what I thought of when you mentioned the south end of the beach.
you hit it SPOT ON! the tourism demand is outpacing the ability for tulum to keep up. they are building like crazy. i keep it 💯 with prices, names, info and EVERYWHERE i considered in this video! ua-cam.com/video/Zk-AVeY03_8/v-deo.html
i was planning on going to Tulum, but I'll still go to Brazil's beaches. much better infrastructure, and much less scams. You should put in your list Trancoso, Caraiva, Arraial D'Ajuda (the three are close), Paraty, Fernando de Noronha, Arraial do Cabo, Pipa, Jericoacora. These are just some much better than tulum, so far.
I am super glad I watched this because O hate mosquitos and they love me😒 I also wouldn't want to spend my honeymoon here so thanks for your honest review
I was there a week ago.. it’s a NO for me to ever return. Everything you say is correct! As a tourist who wanted to relax , well I couldn’t relax … was better off in my all inclusive resort .
thanks for watching! tulum IS an amazing place. i absolutely love it. but i also feel like a LOT of people are not talking about "the entire story". it's important to know what you're getting into
Super helpful video. i start my backpacking trip through latin america in a month or 2. Tulum is stop number 1 for 30 days. i feel mor prepared now! thanks!
I just wanted to say you make such beautiful thumbnails and your personality is vibrant. I’m sure you’ll grow to have a much bigger audience, and I’m glad I found your channel when I did.
Hop in the taxi- “I’m only paying what’s the meter… can I get a ride ir not?” Because if they say yes then they won’t charge you extra… if they say no then wait for a fair taxi… some also are independent and charge what they want and some are company run so they charge what’s on the meter.
Whoa!! that’s amazing you experienced a meter! i never had that option. my friend i met up with in cancun the other week came from tulum and he didn’t have a meter option either. Love that!
ohhh that's so fascinating jennifer! i feel like the police tried to pull me over at least 3 times while on a bike for no reason. it was.. odd. there are definitely weird things going on there..
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I'm sorry to say this, I live here in this beautiful place. Tulum is located in the middle of the jungle. Please don't expect to have Netflix, A/C, fiber optic internet, and pay with card. Tulum has been devastaded for a lot of "investors" and construction - destruction. So then, people come to finish saying "I was in the middle of the jungle, so excited to disconnect", when it's not a real jungle experience and they are just waiting to post the next Instagram Story.
TOTALLY agree with you Alejandra....( que oso de esta mujer de todo negativo)
I think she explained the situation in Tulsa in an informative way with a positive attitude. The information is not false or you would have pointed out the false information. This video provides what people can expect in Tulum so they are not so surprised and people can make up their own decision. I found this video very informative.
I absolutely love Tulum and been there twice only so want to check it out again. However, recently went to Puerto Vallarta and fell deeply in love. Two different vibes though.
GRACIAS
Alejandra.You're absolutely right..This lady is nothing but negative.
All of the beaches in Mexico are public. The hotels cant stop you from walking through them to access the beach. You can literally put your blanket on the sand right next to anybody's fancy $100 minimum spend chair. So dont be shy! I walked through Ahua daily to use the beach.
that's what my friend that lives there said too! i'm like.. maaaan! they don't act like it! thank you for sharing this comment Brittney!
It's AHAU
there is a difference in the beach being public and the property ON THE WAY to the beach. I ran into this problem in vietnam and the manager said well you can swim around or walk through the jungle. Thanks mate.
Thanks for being HONEST! Some people are mad, but as an experienced traveler I appreciate all that you described in the video. Locals won’t like criticism but it just helps us as a traveler to know if you want to go to that place DEsPITE those things and to have a heads up. I appreciate you. New sub!
SOMEONE UNDERSTANDS ME (I hope you read that as yelling with a lot of jazz hands in the air). THANK YOU for taking the time to write this. Helps me get through all the suuuuper exhausting mean comments from people that don't understand the intent.
Trust me, the locals know what a disaster it’s become. Unfortunately, it’s not their fault
I went to Tulum and honestly was very disappointed. I really didn’t care about the modern world amenities, my problem was the following:
1. The massive seaweed problem! This is known as sargassum season. The seaweed completely ruins the beaches in Tulum. If you want a stunning beach in MX during this season, I’d opt for Cozumel or Isla de Mujeres.
2. “Tulum-inatis” the people say they need no worldly possessions and it’s about peace and love but then will do some green juice meditation blah blah for $1000.
3. How expensive everything is compared to almost everywhere else in Mexico. This is a tourist trap, there’s no reason for you to spend more than 35 MXP (~$1.15 USD) per taco, even that’s getting up there. This because they can get it out of people.
4. Scooter/bike rentals asking for a passport as a “safety deposit”. I’m sorry, but absolutely not.
5. Taxis from the northern part of the beach to get into town will charge you 4 times more because they know the way out is to walk through the national park (about 3 miles). Also they will cap the number of people in taxis so if you’re in a large group, you are forced to take more taxis.
6. Cenote guided tours are a rip off. The only thing that might be worth it is if you’re diving (not snorkeling) because those guides are cave dive certified and equipment rentals are overpriced in Tulum.
7. Every single dive shop I went to requires that if you do an equipment rental then you must have a guided tour. If you are a diver, I highly recommend bringing your own equipment so you’re not having to pay hundreds of dollars on a guide.
Whoa Zara. This is legit helpful. I appreciate you taking the time to write this (A LOT!), I've pinned your comment to the top so it may help other as well. I think it's important that jusssst like reading amazon and yelp reviews... people gather many opinions and others' experiences to help them formulate their own. Your experiences are helpful! Thanks again! (I'm using your tips for my own return trip to Tulum next week) 😯
This is so true. As a mexican i can say that almost everything in Cancún is expensive and they don't care about if you are from another country, Also if you want a wonderful beach i think is better to go on october-november.
Preach it Zara! Very honest and helpful.
Wow this Video is soooo super helpful!!! Thanks for all the tips! We are planning to travel to Mexico in November
In other words don’t go on vacation broke where you can’t go to the best and have the best accommodated like a you’re a multi millionaire.
Tulum was the most magical place 25 yes ago. Quiet, tree lined street with a few restaurants, villas and hotels on the ocean side. Turquoise water, white sugar sand. Then came social media and it exploded, got expensive and is overwhelming. Moral of the story… when you find a little slice of heaven, keep quiet about it.😊
glad you knew it in its early days!
You are so lucky to have been there at that time. I don’t want to go now.
As a choosen priest of Ixchel, I once trained on the beach of Tulum and lived in a simple thatched sand hut not far from the mystic Mayan citadel ruins!
In that bygone era of the eighties, I bought my daily meal from home ward bound fishermen and cooked it by the sea!
The pendulum of the spirit of change swings from extreme to extreme!
Ixchel has taught me nothing remains the same in this world of impermanence, except the eternal growth of understanding wisdom!
cool!
Only up to @2:20 but I've already came up with one of the classics, where folks that do travel blogs often mention the problem but not the key solution. Yes, taxis will try to overcharge you. She did a great job pointing that out, so yes you have to "negotiate" the rate, but she forgot the KEY part, you have to negotiate the rate BEFORE you get on and agree to the ride.
The right way to use a taxi in Mexico without a taxi meter (I think most states do require them but not in Quintana Roo), is to pull over the taxi driver, and ask them BEFORE you get in "how much to so and so place". They will give you a price, if you agree you agree, if you don't you call out your price, if he agrees, he agrees. What you DON"T want to do, is get in the taxi, tell them to take you to so and so place, once there expect to negotiate a rate because that is how you were told it works.
@3:12 She just finished talking about cenotes. What she said is sortha true for the moment, but because of Covid. I know way more cenotes than most, and visit them much more frequent than pretty much anyone else. The only cenote that I know of that has rates that go up and down between visits is Chaak Tun on Playa del Carmen. I literally stopped taking clients there because each visit was like I new set of rates and rules.
That said, she visited in Nov 2020. Everything was shutdown completely earlier in the year because of covid. Most spots have reopened under state guidelines (at the moment running at 60% capacity) but when they reopened most raised their rates drastically. I don't visit calavera too much, but I know El Grand Cenote went from 180 pesos to 300, but claim they now include the lifejacket rental (was 20 pesos). Now tourism overall has dropped drastically because of covid, so I don't see anything wrong with them charging more since there are so many less tourists in the area.
thanks for taking the time to share all of this manny and thanks for watching my video
Thank you so much for your input!! This is such valuable info for those of us planning a move to Mexico! It's frustrating when people want Mexico to be like someplace else. Rona has changed things all over the globe. I can't wait to finally chose a location to move to (so many choices!!) and get there!! Maybe I can look you up when I get there!!
a lot of the ''problems'' that you describe arent problems at all. they're just part of living in a place that's less developed than what we're accustomed to as americans. some of the other inconveniences you detailed aren't endemic. a lot of those things are a result of the gringoization of the area.
exactly! they aren't problems! which is why i LOOOOVE tulum and made so many videos about this amazing place. these are helpful travel tips for people who think tulum is cancun. and its NOT! thanks for watching!!
gringoization - New word added to my vocabulary!
I agree it sounds like she's whining the whole time!!! 😏😕 Anyone that wants the high rise beach areas knows where they are!!! Go there AND stop your complaining!!!!
Lol Americans complaining of Mexico not having enough McDonald’s for them 🤣🤣🤣
How about the fact that many of the American and European hotels are destroying the jungles and manglares in the region why? … capitalism
Who cares about the nature as long as Americans have their bicycle ride
That’s also what happened in Greece after Santorini became worldly famous the locals complained about excessive amount of tourists destroying their environment
Love gringoization lol 😂
I wish I had watched this before I moved to Tulum haha! Basically everything you shared was helpful. You forgot to mention the trash everywhere, the amount of strays that break your heart or terrify you and the fact that you can't flush toilet paper. Also it's dusty and dirty. True that getting to the beach is a hassle so I spend more time in town. But I love it anyway. People are so friendly. The food is delicious! At Caonova in La Valeta you can get a pizza and two beers for $10. I'm never going back to Illinois! Thank you for sharing. If I see you in town I'm gonna say hello!
OHHHHHH these are INSANELY good additions. i'm putting out more videos and.. woo! noted on these great additions. THANK YOU!
La Veleta*
I too am trying to leave Illinois!
I left IL myself! Where are you guys from I was small city Plano. I live in Playa del carmen now
She's not lying though. I'm in the Riviera Maya as I type this comment. Originally I wanted to stay in Tulum, based on all the pics, but it didn't happen. I'm staying in a place about half-way between Tulum and PDC and I'm loving it-the best beaches and local vibes- and feel thankful I didn't end up staying in Tulum. Yes, Taqueria Honorio is worth trekking into town for (their tortillas are difference makers), and the beach is beautiful, but based on what I was looking for in a beach vacation Tulum wasn't it. Tulum is just not an easy-going/easy-living beach town. Having to negotiate it, even when I just visit for the day for tacos, leaves me exhausted. Heck, just trying to get into the Super Aki (grocery store) to buy beer can be a major challenge. Still, you should definitely visit the Riviera Maya! The locals are kind and helpful, the level of service everywhere I go is impressive, it's safe, and of course it's stunningly beautiful:)
Wowza! Thanks for taking the time to share this helpful insight!
Tulum was magical 30 years ago when you wandered down the (then unpaved) beach road, paid $5 for a cabana on the beach with only hammock hooks and a shared bathroom. Now, the same thing is called “eco sheik” for $250 and powered by diesel generators with one little windmill to light a single bulb just so they can make us feel warm and fuzzy about being environmentally conscious.
i can't even imagine how different it must have been!
@@ChristineLozada My husband was in Tulum in the 80's and there was nothing there slept in a hammock on the beach. I drove through it in 1979 not much there
I stayed at Dune Botique hotel there last month. It was an amazing experience. I didn't leave the hotel other than for dinner. I didn't need to. I was on one of the most beautiful beaches with great beach side service. And my room was so nice. The ac worked the entire time. It is expensive there but it is definitely worth visiting.
ohhhh wowza! thanks for sharing this i hadn't heard of this hotel!
Your beautiful😘
You are notably an urban girl and you want the comforts that a 5-star hotel offers you in a 100% natural tourist site that Europeans appreciate by the way, I recommend that you stay in a mega resort with all the comforts.
thanks for watching my video quique! i’m laughing because i did! it’s on my channel. i stayed in a resort in playa. and i’m also laughing because i’m writing this from a tent in ethiopia. i’m camping and biking here in the mountains. i definitely do t need 5 star all the time 😂 my adventures of ethiopia will be on instagram if you want to see me roughing it. hard.
@@ChristineLozada YASSSS!!! 👏🏽 a whole QUEEN Response 😩😭
@@raulcalma-deal8792 wink ;) that's how we DO 😂
@@ChristineLozada they always have to try. 😏
We loved your video.
I’m in Tulum now for a 1-week trip. Your video is pretty accurate so far. I didn’t expect this place to be as expensive as it is.
I hope you had a great trip and thanks for adding your experience here! 🤘🏽
Just came back from Tulum with friends and we had a fantastic time. While some of the things you mentioned were things we experienced as well, for us the Pros outweighed the Cons. Especially the techno parties on the beach!!!
i agree! the pros outweighed the cons for sure. its why i'm planning my return trip. woowoo! i'm so glad you had a good time!
@Rosy Chanel I didn't do much nightlife, I did day time stuff at the beach clubs (like coco) or hungout on the main street with all the restaurants (same street that la brasa is on) for drinks and general bar hopping
I'd love to know where you went exactly. Been trying to find line ups on Insta etc, but can't seem to find much. It's only AFTER the parties that I see Black Coffee played here and there lol
I can 100% agree on this. I went to Tulum in November & was overwhelmed of this exact things! Thank you for the video!
thank you for watching and thank you for telling me in the comments that you felt the same, benulus! i think you're one of the few that agrees with me.. a lot of people DO NOT 😂 i still love tulum. i'm working on my return trip in case you have a fave restaurant or place to stay or thing to do!
The most beautiful place I’ve ever been. Definitely recommend longer stays because there is so much to see and you’ll never want to leave
Oooo I agree!
No one else encountered prostitutes and pimps
Welcome to Mexico! You will encounter a lot of things like the ones you mention all over Mexico. Not just in Tulum. I love my country, Mexico 🤍
yes! i've traveled a lot of mexico. i love it all! especially the west coast near sayulita!
So true. We’ve been to other areas of Mexico and experienced many of the same things. Everyone just said TIM (this is Mexico). Enjoy experiencing a different culture.
You should be proud. Mexico is a special place and the local people are wonderful.
Was just there Oct 22 - Oct 25. Had a fabulous time! No mosquitos ever bit me, and I ate in lotsa awesome dining places and took several great tours to the pyramids, cenotes, and several Mayan communities. In other words, I was outdoors a lot! No problem with toilets flushing or the air conditioner either. stayed at Central Lagunas Tulum. Go there! You won't want to return home!💗
STOKED to hear you had an awesome stay! It's why I can't stop going back. Will be back later this year to make my... 30th.. tulum video 😆
I really love the honest review. Every other travel vloggers only highlight the nice stuff and make you feel like it’s the perfect paradise. Keep it real folks.
this comment means A LOT! thanks for watching and taking the time to share. I’ll be honest.. not a lot people understand i’m trying to share my experience in hopes that it HELPS! phew!
@@ChristineLozada I agree! I’m thinking of traveling there and stumbled upon your video and I’m slightly annoyed over the comments. You’re trying to help tourists manager their “1st world” traveling expectations that people from elsewhere want to demonize. It’s totally not the case. No need for some of the sensitivity. Was literally discussing this with my husband who was born and lived his childhood in Mexico. He gets their sentiments but he also understands as an American traveler now what our “expectations” are now. Sorry if they come across a certain way, it is what it is! I really appreciate the video!
Great realistic expectations video!! I feel like Tulum is one of those places that is glorified and travelers have to remember that if you want to do it on a realistic budget you have to make some sacrifices!! Thanks for the tips! I will be heading there in April
wooo april! thank you so much for watching brielle! it means a lot!
We just came back from Tulum and encountered ALOT of what you mentioned and it was a lack luster experience... don’t think we will ever return unfortunately.. did have a beautiful beach we went on which made the trip a lil bit better!! Thank you and really wish I would have seen this video before we went too
Whooooa THANK YOU for sharing this experience Natali! And i'm at least glad you had the beautiful beach!!!
Just came back from Tulum and you’re video is pretty spot on. But love Tulum and I can’t wait to visit again.
welcome back from tulum tiffany! if you have any faves please let me know! i'm already planning my return trip!!
I going for 3 days what do I need to do
Great video. I have been twice but as a dad and a married guy. Very informative! Leaving the weekend after the 4th.
thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!!!!
You are spot on about the bugs, roads, and all of it. But I’ve been there twice and love it! Something about that place. Love Playa del Carmen too.
i wanna go back for my second round!! there was a moment i almost cancelled africa in january to go back to mexico. it's SO FUN THERE. but alas, the animals are calling me. so i gotta go to africa ;)
@@ChristineLozada definitely Africa!
I have been going to Tulum, for past 3 years on wellness retreat. We go in January, mosquitoes we're not bad , never got eaten alive, don't use mosquitoe, repellent, usually get one or two bites. I think it is definitely worth it to stay on the beach. Also never have problems with wifi.
thanks for sharing your experience!
My friends and I went to Tulum recently and while I loved the town jungle vibe and the cenotes/nature activities I wouldn’t recommend going there, at least not in 2021. I suspect Mexico suffered without tourism in 2020, as a result every single vendor was trying to rob us of money. The check never matched menu prices, which were outstandingly over priced to begin with. (Shots up to 35$ each, appetizers up to 20$ each). Many places did take card, and while I watched servers charge the card, mysterious over charges showed up later when I got home. It was stressful for us to barter, and argue the check and tip (which they add themselves up to 30-50%). We came looking for nightlife which was lacking. If you’re a backpacker looking for a cheap stay and fun daytime activities with a group, I would recommend (with small amounts of CASH in hand) . For parties, food, upscale lodging, I would say go to Cancun instead.
THIS. this is why I make these videos. This is so insanely helpful, thank you for sharing your experience. I think it's so important for everyone (just like reading yelp and amazon reviews) to share their piece and what it was like so we can all evaluate and make smarter decisions for ourselves. THANKS for taking the time to share this. YES!!!
Just got back from the Riviera Maya and spent a night in Tulum. Yes, biking around downtown can be dicey, but use common sense. Definitely go visit the Cenotes, we visited IL Kil and Dos Ojos. I believe there is a smaller fee for locals and a higher fee for tourists...which is fair IMO. If you're a vegan/vegetarian, you will love Tulum...plenty of options. I prefer Isla Mujeres over Tulum.
ooohhh thanks for taking the time to share this george! i really wanted to make it to isla mujeres.. it looks really beautiful!
Best part of Tulum for me was having the freedom of a rental car. I think we went to 10 cenotes, the lagoon, and Coba ruins (the best cenotes were in Coba)
that is just.. SO MANY CENOTES. my mind is blown. which was your fave??
@@ChristineLozada one in Coba. You had to walk down a spiral staircase into it, and there was a platform to jump off that was probably 40 feet tall
@@JoshRomaine ohhh dang that sounds cool. adding it to my list for my next trip!!
Where would be the best affordable place for a rental car ?
I go in a few days I rented a car I’m
Glad I found this comment.
The roads have been paved and smoother on the south side now! A couple weeks ago it was horrible! Love Tulum too!
whoaoaooaoaoaa!!! that's NEW then! i literally just left and this is HUGE and GOOD news!!!!! thank you for sharing vivian!
Super accurate video! I visited Tulum in November, and the most surprising/disappointing thing to me was the difficulty of getting to the beach going down that one road!😖 We stayed in town at a beautiful condo, but if the beach is high on your priority list then I’d recommend paying the extra for a beach club or resort stay.
thanks so much for watching brianna! ahhh that beach road. although i'm hearing from friends that are there that they have been working on it! it definitely needs improvement and your tip about where to stay... 💯 agree!
we spent our vacation there in 2013 and 2014 when it was still quite idyllic. we loved it so so much that I absolutely wanted to celebrate my 50th birthday there. that was 2020. and boy, were we disappointed! no more romatic beaches, instead of 15 minutes, a taxi from tulum town to the beach took over an hour. back in 2014 we always took a taxi from our cabana at the beach to the store to get ice and beer and whatnot and then back, that was usually a half hour trip, shopping included. furthermore, much to our annoyance, there were insta posters friggin EVERYWHERE. our mexican friends that live there then informed us, that basically all bars, hotels and restaurants were taken over by the cartel. the prices: exorbitant to put it mildly. and we live in zurich, switzerland, so you would think we're used to it, but even we felt it was a rip off. the seaweed thing, well, not pretty of course, but that's no one's fault, really. I heard Bacalar was 'the next Tulum', pretty sure it's gonna be the same situation in a couple of years. what a pity.
thank you for taking the time to share this experience!!
In case your going to go to Mexico again puerto Morelos is the place to go it’s beautiful not expensive but not cheap like in the middle the cenotes are also beautiful like Tulum also the town beach and restaurants are AMAZING 🤩
GREAT tip! This is one of the spots Katie (the one I collab'd with about Tulum hostels)l loves. Definitely on my radar! Thanks for adding this tip here!!!
Tulum is 1000 degrees during the day. I haven’t been there in years but took a trip to the pyramid (from a cruise ship) and in the shade, it was 112 degrees Fahrenheit in April. Reach into your inner self and gird your soul cause you will see your life flash in front of your eyes.
i just laughed out loud. HAHA! 😂
I agree with mostly everything you said hahaha. We spent a week in Tulum just 10 days ago, but, unlike you - we didn’t have trouble with mosquitos, a/c or flushing toilets (stayed in the city). On the other hand - money/atm problems EVERY TIME, Mexican sim card and internet 👎, online prices for denotes not matching real ones, horrible roads (we rented a car), seaweed only when it was windy but most of the beach places try to clean the beach in front of their property... Anyhow we loved Tulum! 😊
wooo i love tulum and i’m so glad you didn’t experience the entire list!!!!! 🤙🏽
Thanks so much for this video. I LOVE how honest you are about it.. Really helps travelers make decisions, avoid problems :)
THANK YOU for watching and taking the time to leave this comment. honesty is hard, but at the same time.. i tried to make the video i wish i got to see before going there. safe travels to you steve!
Great info! Going to Tulum in a few days for a week. Very excited! Thank you so much for posting this video 🙏🏽
Thanks so much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment! It means a lot!!
How did it go in Tulum
We are planning to go?
Did you see a lot of kids?
I know there are some people saying that these are things you shouldn’t complain about but….. it’s ok to complain. From the advertisements I’ve seen about tulum no has ever told the truth like she did. All you see are these over priced hotels and experiences but no one tells you what to truly expect. So I’m grateful for you and this video
Oh dang. I can't tell you how exhausted I get reading and responding to hate comments. Many of which (if they are not HELPFUL in someway and are simply racist, mean, or sexist) I delete, but its still draining to read them and continue to create these videos. PHEW. Thanks, Jhoanna, I'm gonna go pour myself another glass of red wine and hold up saying "YASSSSSS" SHE GETS ME in your honor!
Tulum is fantastic and of course subjective. You can full relax in Tulum and have bed time in Playa del Carmen as well. People that wants to live and rent there they understand the up and down but mostly the connection with nature is absolutely unique in my point if view. Tulum is growing and you will find out many pre construction and road been build. There is a second road been open just a few weeks ago that goes to the beach as well. For sure Tulum is for relaxing and not be on internet 😎 ennjoy you all Mexico is beautiful country.
Great perspective. Thanks for sharing it!
im not going to lie... i thought this was one of them videos. videos...just to make videos but u actually gave your experience and thats really helpful for someone thats been thinking about going to a country they have never been. which can be scary sometimes..
Thanks so much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment! It means a lot!!
I rented an apartment in Tulum for 3 months, and everything you say here is true. I do love that town, but I settled down better in Playa, being from the city.
3 months is a great amount of time! Tulum and Playa are so so different from each other and offer such different (and unique and great) things!
Tulum turned too-commercial in the past ten years. I lived there before that and it was delightful. My friend lived there in the 1970s when there was a whole village of people living just back from the beach. He says the road along the beach was dark like a tunnel because the jungle closed in over it.
love hearing what it used to be like!
I just got back from Tulum this January. Tulum town to beach was $30-$50 via taxi and the traffic was insane. Btw the going rate for airport to Tulum was $150, 1.5-2 hr drive. Kinda regretted spending most of my days there but we ended up renting a car. Most places allowed us to pay using a card but the ATMs charged $20 for withdrawals 😬
ooooh this is massively helpful thanks for sharing it!
the prices you’re referring is dollar or pesos?
@@keepingitmellow pesos
This video had save me SO much time as a solo traveller it was super useful. THANK YOU! :)
stoked to hear it! thanks for taking the time to leave a comment! 🤘🏽
I just found your video at 240am. I was hesitant to give you 13mins cause im tired. But by the 2nd minute I was hooked. I really enjoyed your review . Thank you hun
DUUUUDE. you just made my night (at 948pm. drunk. and editing a video about my fave cenotes in Tulum). THIRTEEN MINUTE IS SO LONG. this is a virtual medal 🏅 thank you. HAHA
I suggest Akumal instead. And keep in mind that in Mexico all beaches are public, even though they’ll try to convince you the contrary but you have to stay firm. The thing is that this place is so hype, it used to be a nice little beach town and that was the charm, but now gentrification, again, try Akumal.
ooo estrella thank you SO much for sharing this! my friend said the same thing about beaches being public and i was like waaaait a minute! they dont make it seem that way!!! re: akumal i REALLY wanted to dive there. do you have a rec of where to stay? i'm planning my return trip!!
@@ChristineLozada I’ve tried Airbnb with beach front with friends and it’s affordable (WiFi included my friends made a couple hours of home office), I think it’s Hacienda La Tortuga, there was even a little restaurant downstairs, anyways, that zone has a few other Airbnb nice spaces though and consider that is not as glamorous as Tulum but it’s a really nice little beach town
@@estrellitu Thanks so much for sharing this info Estrella!!
You made a perfect summary of your experiences! Thanks a lot for mentioning the "problems" when staying in Tulum. Love how authentic you are
oooh this makes my day!!!! 🙏
Ditto!
Yes!
⛱GREAT VIDEO AMIGA!! Thank you for sharing!
I lived in Tulum back in 1996 for 4 years (I worked between Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancun) Tulum was comprised of a handful of huts on the main street downtown XOXO -mini super and fruit stand (lol). None of the elaborate boutique hotels existed at that point - only "Don Armandos" hippie retreat/ campground. RETRO BABY!
🏖They offered huts (for $20 bucks a night/US dollars) & hammocks ($3 clams a night) WOW - things were super CHILL! There were NO restaurants on the beach only fisherman that would offer their services. We use to buy a large huachinango (fish) with fresh GUAC (his wife use to make at our mini beach table) along with a round of ICE COLD CHELLAs (brewskis) ALL for about $30 bucks (it served about 6 adults!!!) They had local bands come in and play (unplugged!) AHHH, those were the days!
🏝I currently work in the states but my hubby and I go back to Tulum each year for our anniversary (since thats where we met) It is PARADISO! QUE RICO! There are pros n cons everywhere - I agree. We also have issues with plumbing etc at our home in Mexico City! (lol) My advice - GO!! Explore!! Create your own experience and your own opinion, ENJOY!! Cheer amigos and VIVA MEXICO!⛱ I look forward to watching more of your videos- YOU ARE A GREAT SPEAKER AMIGA!
super helpful! i appreciate you taking the time to add this info!!
Appreciate this video and I learned a lot. I'm planning my trip for the second week in January. Will you be there?☺️
safe travels to you VK! i'll be in africa.. but i'll be dreaming of tulum!
This was a great video, thank you for the info. Question, when did you go? Like what date because I’m seeing a lot of conflicting info about when its better to visit
i’ve been many times throughout the year and regularly talk w friends that live there. I’m hoping someone else in the comments might have an experience to share?
This is super informative! Packed with real-life, useful firsthand knowledge every travel would want to know! This is a great service to all travelers! Thank you for this. I appreciate you!
This is beautifully done, nothing derogatory about the place. After watching this, it won’t make you not want to go to Tulum but just make you more prepared when you do go.
This is GOLD!
You’ve got a new subscriber here! More power!
Thanks so much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment! It means a lot!! and i’m planning on going back this month. i love tulum 💕
Going there next month for my bday... so I'm glad I came across ur videos about Tulum
Tulum is beautiful 🤩 this place still trying to stay away from becoming what this lady wants! That’s the place we’re you absolutely want to put your phone down and take the beautiful view
wowooo happy birthday soon! YAH!
@@aracelinunez100 who said i wanted it another way? i love tulum! exactly the way it is. a lot of people dont know what to expect: hence the video. hiiieee from zanzibar!
Thanks so much for this sista. I'm going in Feb, and I'm into all natural stuff too (also on a budget/ish). This is so helpful... stay shining x
OOOOH this makes my day. Thank you! YAY FOR FEB!!!!
If you’re worried about this kind of stuff then Cabo San Lucas is probably more your style. Tulum is still growing into itself, infrastructure hasn’t caught up. I’m moving in August to property manage some places and absolutely expect years to go by before the infrastructure is anywhere near Cabo or the more developed areas. It’s part of the charm, it’s not for everyone and that’s ok.
helpful tip! the updated video on tulum from a few months ago is on my channel 🤘🏽
Really enjoyed watching you. Besides being such a joyful upbeat person, you provided us with a detailed , thorough and useful review. Many thanks for the effort you put into making this video 🙏🏼🥰
Awww! warm fuzzies! Thanks so much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment! It means a lot!!
It's not like she has anything better to do, anyone who finds this content helpful needs to get a life
My advice:
1. Don't stay in Tulum it isn't all that interesting and is just a trendy place to be.
2. Do rent a car and don't worry about taxis and getting guided tours to places of interest.
3. Stay in a resort outside Playa Del Carmen either to the south or north. You will have no problems with Wi-Fi, amazing AC, free gym, beach cleaned from sargussum by staff every day. You will also have all the amenities that the place has to offer.
4. Do go into Playa Del Carmen for meals as there is so many more interesting food options there then in Tulum and cheaper as well.
In other words don't stay in Tulum but go ahead and drive down there if you want and wonder why people stay here.
these are super helpful tips! thanks for taking the time to add them. i'm headed back to tulum in a month! 🤘🏽
I've been giving this info little by little but you've optimized it so thank you !
awesome! thanks so much for watching!
Thank you for this information on Tulum!! I will be traveling next month and can’t wait
You're welcome! Safe travels to you next month!
my take: you could do chicago, l.a., NY, london, all of them and find lousy areas that have trash. tulum has good and bad as all do. i go there all the time it is a great place. beats chicago every day of the year!
ohhh Rico I so so agree! my "best of tulum" and ahhh the videos that just RAVE about this place are coming. but i felt i was so so important to start with this one because the number one thing I hear is people saying "wow. that did not meet my expectations" because all they did was look at beautiful instagram photos (and wooooowwwza this place sure is instagram worthy). and stopppp i looooove chicago. i used to spend st pattys day there every year for years. i loved watching the river turn green and it's PHENOMENAL how people can drink so much before 10am. its. impressive. and scary.
We agree with you @rico Tulum beats Chicago everyday of the year that’s why we’re leaving Chicago and moving to Mexico Sunday! Lol
@@EatBailaTravel moving! amazing! safe travels (and moving!)
@@ChristineLozada yea well be moving somewhat close to Tulum! Our final destination is Merida Mexico . We see you’re channel is mostly on Tulum so we’ll subscribe to learn from you. We just started a channel to document our move to Mexico check us out let us know what you think :)
@@EatBailaTravel thats an awesome destination! woowooo thank you for your comments i appreciate it!
Thank you so much for sharing!!! I m enjoying all your tulum videos!! 👏🏼🙌🏼🇲🇽
love hear! i spent march there! more videos coming soon!
This was extremely informative!!!!! Thank you! I’m heading there next month and my expectations are realistically set.
thank you so much for watching! and thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment!
Wow, this was very informative and very well edited. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏼. You just earned a sub 🙌🏼
Ooo! Thanks so much for watching my video and taking the time to leave a comment! It means a lot!!
I'm from The Netherlands and this i literally the only place ive been hit by a bicyle😂
AHHHHHHHH!!!!!
Lol I got hit with a bike twice in Amsterdam! Let’s see what I’m up against in Tulum next.
@@jdl8610 In tulum its only around that bike path to the beach. Amsterdam is hectic too I agree 😁
Welcome to life, welcome to Mexico, welcome to reality outside the box
Lol
Some deep honest takes that I have not seen anywhere else - thank you for the transparency!
appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment! 🤘🏽
thanks so much for sharing! Love the idea of just finding a place by going there in person, I haven't done this before but it sounds like a great way to find a secret gem!
sometimes flexibility in traveling can lead to some unexpected surprises! and i'll also admit if you're coming up dry... it can be super stressful...
Thanks for the clip. this was very helpful. I was in Cancun in 1986 for Spring break and loved it. I rented a Jeep and drove to Chichen Itza for the Spring Equinox. I drove to the coast of Tulum through some very unreliable paths and thick jungle and ended up at the beach, and it looked like the land that time had forgotten. I understand now it has all been built out and is very touristy now. Maybe I will go to Cozumel instead and maybe spend one or two nights in Tulum just to see it. Have yo been to Cozumel ?
whoooooa! that's an amazing story! cozumel is amazing. i head back to this area (holbox, playa, cozumel, tulum next month. can't wait!)
Excellent and honest review, thank you!
Folks please take heed to what she said about bike riding. 🚴
While I was in Tulum, I fell off my bike trying to avoid crashing into overcrowded traffic of walkers, joggers, and bikers all zooming to and from the beach (on the same narrow path)😳and please do not choose the road - you are bound to get hit by a car that is flying around the corner of a tree-lined street. 🙃
Simply put, enjoy this beautiful town but please be careful and wear a helmet! 😁⛑
~Shalom
Oh wowza! Thank you so much for watching and taking the time to leave a helpful comment!!
this is the best video I've seen on visiting Tulum! really informative and funny..you have a gift! thank you from Vancouver
This comment makes my day! THANK YOU! 🙏
Great video for those who aren’t “aware” and want to get away during this Covid time. Especially first timers to help you be prepared. 👍
now they will be prepared for the mooooosquitos!!
I know I’m a little late to comment to on this video, but I had a friend just visit to see the Sferic exhibition, and decided to research.
This was very interesting and informative. Have you ever been to Panama? I have a project in Torio Panama (it’s in progress but I don’t live there yet), on the Pacific Coast and im always bummed to only find videos about Bocas Del Toro on the Caribbean.
I’d love to know if you have a video in Panama and if not, I’d love to see a comparison of the different places to visit there.
Anyways love your videos, just subscribing and about to binge a whole lot more! 😊🦋
love it! panama on my list.. but not yet!
Went there in June for our honeymoon this year. We spent 10 days there. Although we had some pitfalls like any newplace can, It was hands down the best time and experience that I have had for a vacation. I would definitely recommend and most certainly going back asap!
oooo I'm so glad you went! i'm going for my third time in a few months. i'm curious where ya stayed! i'm always looking for new recs.
How is the weather in Tulum in June? We are planning to go this weekend 🙌
Thank you Christine, I loved your video and will be going in late January. Thanks for all the tips. Gracias.
january?! a GREAT time to go! safe travels to ya
Tulum is amazing and absolutely beautiful! I unfortunately went during seaweed season however (I obviously didn’t do enough research 😭). I was there late July-early August and the beaches were so stinky and completely unusable. I would love to go back, but definitely during a different time of year. That is honestly my only complaint though!
Well I am planning to go to Mexico 🇲🇽 this year and according to the vlogs April,May is best to go...
@@somewhereinthemiddle5184 you might experience a lot of seaweed 😬 I was just there and it had already started building up in some areas. Thankfully where I stayed there was none but just the next beach over it started building up and the next one after that looked pretty bad. I looked up at map before we went that kind of gave you an idea of the beaches with the least amount of seaweed
thanks for sharing this experience!
Sadly the seaweed is in all the Caribbean coasts ncluding 1500 miles of Florida. It’s a result of global warming and governments are trying to fight it best they can
I'm here now. It's amazing. Internet works, Netflix, and Prime works, food is amazing. Brought cash with me, everything is fine and smooth. Mosquitos at like 5 to 6pm are crazy. Ate my ankles but put some spray on an never had a problem after.
wowzzaaa!!! thanks for sharing this experience! 🤘🏽
Where did you stay?
Thanks for sharing, Christine. All the reasons I moved to PDC over Tulum--the further South on RM, then more 'natural' the experience--like traveling to the past. Top reason Tulum put me off was the access to the beach is limited so you'll need to let a flat on the beach if you want to see it everyday. PDC much more accessible but ISP speeds are still less than 150mbps. I am there on Christmas week (Gregorian) .
thank you for sharing this! i appreciate it!!
whats PDC?
@@sunlit777 playa del carmen
@@sunlit777 Playa del Carmen
Hi im visiting at the end of this month!! Its a 4 day trip and wanted to go paddle boarding, and snorkeling. I cant wait and im so thankful for your channel and your experience!!
WOOOOO! safe travels to ya!!!
I had a similar experience last week. Very truthful content you have. I just hated how they charge anything they want at the beach. Everything is much cheaper downtown and the infrastructure is better. The traffic is insane at the beach. The beach is amazing the parties are world class. It's a love and hate for me 🥴🥴
thank you so much for watching david! and thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment!
Because IT’S NOT A CITY!
How come from all the analyses of the video you couldn’t say… yeah there’s traffic coz it’s not a city, coz we humans aren’t supposed to be there, coz the terrain is so not uniform that logistically it would be hard to create more infrastructure to make it like a city (which hasn’t stop real state and hotel mafia working with narcos to keep chopping down endemic vegetation and scaring species to go away and build concrete over it) but it’s jungle we should just not even touch it … I know nobody teaches us respect, we live in an extremely individualist perspective of life but someone has to stop us … or do we have to wait for it to become like Miami … ewww … without real nature but just house after house building after building.
You, me, we are all destroying just by coming, posting, and showing “oh the beauties” of it, inviting more people to come instead of inviting people to think of the consequences of coming.
Cheers
I just came back last night from Tulum. I just want to add that Nightclubs can run you from $100 dollars not pesos to $270 dollars per person at the moment. There's one thing you didn't know haha.
ooooh HELPFUL!!!
I love this video, I been to Tulum so many times and I have experienced a lot of things that you mentioned.
thanks so much for taking the time to watch and share a comment valeria!!
What beach front hotels do you recommend? I'll be going in September
The traffic!!!! Lol
I would recommend staying around Coba Ave. I stayed in Xalet Luxury Condos that has it s own cenote !!! ❤️ Place is a blast 💥 Lightning internet, water pressure is very strong, 12 amazing pools, great gym, amazing rooftop. I did payed around $800 for 5 days but it was 2 bedroom apartment. One of the best places to stay in Tulum.
super helpful thx for adding this!
Great video to help with planning my upcoming trip!
thanks for watching jeremy!!!
Thanks for sharing! Very helpful! I’m going Labor Day weekend for my bachelorette bash 💕💕💕
stoked to hear this!
Tulum’s spectacular coastline - with all its confectioner-sugar sands, cobalt water and balmy breezes - makes it one of the top beaches in Mexico.
agreed!
The price fluctuation was crazy while we were there. Traffic was crazy trying to get to the beach from downtown.
Sooo helpful! I'll be in Tulum next week and this is a great guide on what to expect!!
AHHH I'm so excited for you!!
So I am traveling to Tulum next month and I was curious how much you think you spend overall in a week. How much cash should I bring?? I plan to bring a travel safe since I hear that the crime is still pretty high in the area. As far as Google maps "being accurate " was it just due to the service or where they completely off?? I plan to plan day by day at the resort where we are staying that way we have the location saved outside of wifi. What are you recommendations?? Thanks for the video super helpful.
oooh i might be too late in this response! i hope you had a great trip!!!
Was just there for a couple weeks, wanted to stay longer as well.
What kept Tulum and many other location / vacation jewels, beautiful, was the anonymity that existed before influencers, pseudo travel advisors, and Instagram posers, invaded the town. Social media has opened the World to the masses, who ultimately influence and drive investment and construction by greedy developers, and rental entrepreneurs. I am all for the positive impacts of the internet, but it resulted in an uncontrolled explosion of development, that has contributed to the mess we have in Tulum right now.
thanks for taking the time to share this opinion
I had heard similar complaints from some reviewers as well as locals. It seems that the tourist demand is grossly outpacing its infrastructure. I like your reconnaissance strategy for finding hotels. Perhaps you can list some. I read an article with quotes from a local complaining about people trying to turn it into a new Thailand. That’s what I thought of when you mentioned the south end of the beach.
you hit it SPOT ON! the tourism demand is outpacing the ability for tulum to keep up. they are building like crazy. i keep it 💯 with prices, names, info and EVERYWHERE i considered in this video! ua-cam.com/video/Zk-AVeY03_8/v-deo.html
Tulum is to be avoided now IMO.Too many hipsters,too many tourists,too much building development,seaweed problem infreasing
i was planning on going to Tulum, but I'll still go to Brazil's beaches. much better infrastructure, and much less scams. You should put in your list Trancoso, Caraiva, Arraial D'Ajuda (the three are close), Paraty, Fernando de Noronha, Arraial do Cabo, Pipa, Jericoacora. These are just some much better than tulum, so far.
ooh thanks for these tips!
I am super glad I watched this because O hate mosquitos and they love me😒 I also wouldn't want to spend my honeymoon here so thanks for your honest review
I appreciate you watching! Tulum is AMAZING! I'm planning my return trip, but it's most definitely not a resort-town like Playa or Cancun!
I was there a week ago.. it’s a NO for me to ever return. Everything you say is correct! As a tourist who wanted to relax , well I couldn’t relax … was better off in my all inclusive resort .
oooh thanks for adding your experience! i’m headed back next month and i might… i jusssst might stay in an all inclusive IN tulum proper 😉
Good video. I had a very romantic view of Tulum and this was quite eye opening.
thanks for watching! tulum IS an amazing place. i absolutely love it. but i also feel like a LOT of people are not talking about "the entire story". it's important to know what you're getting into
Super helpful video. i start my backpacking trip through latin america in a month or 2. Tulum is stop number 1 for 30 days. i feel mor prepared now! thanks!
glad to hear this ... safe travels to you!!! 🤘🏽
I just wanted to say you make such beautiful thumbnails and your personality is vibrant. I’m sure you’ll grow to have a much bigger audience, and I’m glad I found your channel when I did.
❤️❤️
Great video! I’m actually here in Tulum now and the toilet is definitely on its own schedule hahaa. Thanks for the tips!🙌🏾
HAHAHHA!!! i literally just lol’d
Traveling in April! 🙏🏼😊 thank you for the info!
thank you so much for watching!! safe travels to you!
How was is?
Hop in the taxi- “I’m only paying what’s the meter… can I get a ride ir not?” Because if they say yes then they won’t charge you extra… if they say no then wait for a fair taxi… some also are independent and charge what they want and some are company run so they charge what’s on the meter.
Whoa!! that’s amazing you experienced a meter! i never had that option. my friend i met up with in cancun the other week came from tulum and he didn’t have a meter option either. Love that!
All of this is true. Spent two months this year and won’t be going back ever, mostly due to the lying and corruption. Great video ☺️.
ohhh that's so fascinating jennifer! i feel like the police tried to pull me over at least 3 times while on a bike for no reason. it was.. odd. there are definitely weird things going on there..
Cancelled