Tulúm is a charming and growing resort town on the southern end of Mexico’s famed Riviera Maya. With a palpable Bohemian vibe and a plentiful scattering of yoga practitioners and therapeutic massage businesses, this growing community retains its backpacker roots. Some say they can feel the presence of the ancient Maya culture which dominated this region over 1,000 years ago. The adjacent and spectacular archeological site of the same name is a prominent and impressive testament to this once dominant civilization. At its peak between the 13th and 15th century, this ruin was a bustling trade and cultural center, and is now a frequent stop for tourists.
The town of Tulúm, bisected by the coastal highway, is a stone’s throw from the sparkling sand and warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. About 80 miles and two hours south of Cancún, the town is no longer the hidden gem it once was, but is now well into the development phase with construction of homes and condos on the rise to keep up with those wishing to claim their slice of paradise.
Living in the central town area will not require you to own a car, and walking and bicycling are both quite popular. In fact, it seems there are often as many bikes on the road as there are motorized vehicles. Motor scooters are also quite popular for those who would rather not pedal around town.
Tulúm’s reputation as a spectacular vacation destination and a growing expat community is well-deserved. With a tropical climate—temperatures averaging in the 80s F—Tulúm offers a Caribbean lifestyle without the need to travel to and from an island. Residents enjoy warm, turquoise Caribbean waters, a sparkling, perfect beach, and an offshore reef which provides plentiful opportunities for fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
With the introduction of new, modern homes and condos, the population is thought to be well over 20,000, and continues to rise as more people seek an affordable Caribbean lifestyle a bit off the beaten path.
The Mazatlan Post
