SunBeach Travel

Explore the Exquisite Mayan Ruins

By Valerie Conners

Overview

Sunbathers and swimmers indulging in a visit to Tulum Beach’s white, limestone sands and crystal blue waters need only look up in wonder at the ancient Mayan ruins – some from as early as A.D. 250 – dotting the cliffs above them to grasp the aura of ancient mystery that surrounds the beach.

Part of the gorgeous and increasingly popular Riviera Maya, Tulum sits 80 miles southeast of Cancun. The beach at the Tulum ruins and the beach just to the south, called Boca Paila, have luckily managed to escape the resort development permeating many of the other Riviera Maya beaches. The unspoiled beauty is marred only by the occasional drink stand or cabana, and is so private that clothing is optional.

The name “Tulum,” derived from the Mayan word for “wall,” and the ruins hovering over the beach, most notably the giant pyramid-shaped Castillo, have gained notoriety as one of the Mayan civilization’s only walled cities. In its heyday, Tulum served as a port of call for mariners and traders, and its walls defined the ancient town’s defense against invaders from sea and land.

Today, visitors from across the globe who vacation at Tulum experience one of Mexico’s finest beaches with an added bonus: the chance to admire the architecture of the ruins and feel the awe of this ancient and notoriously advanced civilization.

Getting There
The nearest international airport is in Cancun; shuttle service transports to Tulum can be arranged.

Airport Transportation
From Cancun International Airport the drive to Tulum takes two hours; the most convenient means of transportation from the airport to Tulum is via air-conditioned shuttle (www.travelyucatan.com), which costs approximately $35 per person one way or $70 per person round trip.

Timing
December through April is considered high season in the Yucatan, and crowds and prices peak during Christmas and spring break. Tulum’s tropical climate means more than 240 days of sunshine annually and average high temperatures in the mid-80s F with lows in the upper-60s F. Though rain is infrequent, September and October are the wettest months because of hurricane season; March and April are the driest.

Lodging
The Tulum ruins are some of the most frequently visited archaeological sites in Mexico, and a number of new hotels have sprung up in recent years to cater to the increase in tourism. Most hotels are located along a strip of beach coined the “Hotel Zone.” Visitors can choose among typical hotel accommodations and smaller, cabana-style hotels or campsites.

One of Tulum’s most unique and impressive lodgings is Azulik Villas (www.azulik.com), 15 private villas constructed of rich, local hardwoods and featuring carved tree-trunk bathtubs, in-room massages, aromatherapy and waterfront views.

Cuisine
With so many tourists from the United States and abroad, it’s little surprise that restaurant choices in Tulum Beach and Tulum Pueblo are gentrified, with an unusually large number of Italian establishments. Of course, it’s possible to find typical Mexican cuisine like seafood and tacos at restaurants or loncherias, such as the popular Ana y Jose or the vegetarian spot Maya Tulum.

Travel Tips
Mexico’s currency is the peso and exchange offices are easy to find, but U.S. dollars are accepted at many businesses. The closest banks are in Playa del Carmen. Visas are not required, nor are shots or vaccinations. Some tap water is safe, but to be sure, drink bottled water. For the most part Tulum is quite safe (aside from the occasional pickpocketing), but use common sense when out alone or at night. The tourist office is located next to the baseball fields on Avenida Tulum in Tulum Pueblo.

While You’re There
A trip to Tulum’s beach isn’t complete without visiting the ancient Mayan ruins that dot the cliffs above the water. Visitors can explore this ancient walled city and must visit the Castillo, or castle, the largest of the surviving structures. Other interesting structures include the Temple of the Descending God and the Temple of the Frescoes, with its walls of murals. The ruins are open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in summer and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. in winter.

Visitors should also check out the cenotes, or freshwater pools, south of Tulum Pueblo. The pools are actually part of an underground network of rivers and caverns that once provided fresh water to the Mayans. It is possible explore the cenotes with a number of dive operators in town who offer snorkeling or scuba trips.

Mexico’s Most Exclusive Beach
By Valerie Conners

Quite possibly the most exquisite secret in Mexico, Maroma Beach is a resort hideaway intent on preserving the ecology of its 500-plus acres of beach and rain forest, all the while bringing individual service and luxury to unprecedented heights. Maroma is nestled into the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and lies a mere 30 miles south of Cancun, but thankfully, remains worlds away from this spring break hot spot’s pace and lifestyle. Maroma’s guests are immersed in a quiet world of warm azure waters, pure white sands and rich tropical foliage. This miniature Eden of stucco huts and thatched roofs, beachside serenades and sunset cruises, will rejuvenate both body and spirit.

“Handmade Hospitality” is the philosophy the resort operates under, referring both to the passion to meet guests’ every need and the machine-free method of construction used in creating the resort. Eco-travelers will delight in learning that every building on the property was made by hand, without any machinery or electricity, and only one-tenth of Maroma’s property will be developed in order to preserve the ecological balance.

Entering the world of Maroma is like wandering into the warmth and pleasure of your best friend’s “casa.” Whether indulging in a private four-hand massage by the ocean, or dinner by torchlight on the beach, this extraordinary retreat will make dreams you never knew existed come true.

Getting There
Nearest major international airport: Cancun International Airport is about 20 miles north of Maroma – about a half-hour drive from Maroma.

Airport transportation
Transfers to and from the airport are included in room rates.

Transportation while you are there
Maroma Hotel will arrange rental cars and chauffeured vehicles for guests.

Timing
The climate in this region of Mexico is tropical. Average high temperatures are in the mid-80s Fahrenheit with lows in the upper-60s F. Summer months are a bit warmer, with highs around 90 F and lows in the mid 70s F. March and April are the driest months, while September and October are the rainiest because of hurricane season.

Lodging
Maroma Hotel’s 36 luxury rooms and suites feature king-size beds, sunken tubs, ceiling fans and unique furniture made in Maroma’s own workshops. Each also has a furnished outdoor terrace complete with hammock, hand-painted Mexican tiles and hand-woven fabrics. Private villas offer three air-conditioned bedrooms, four bathrooms, a living room, dining room, private pool and open-air terrace surrounded by tropical gardens. All rooms, suites and villas are no more than 50 meters from the beach. Rates vary and include full breakfast daily, airport transfers and one snorkeling trip per guest.

Cuisine
Chef Stephanie Rowe ensures guests’ palates are satiated with every dish he prepares. His menu incorporates a selection of fresh seafood from the reef, and generally includes lobster in the main courses and appetizers. Fresh produce often comes from Maroma’s own property – coconuts are plucked from the jungle palms, and breakfast jams are made from the fruits of the sea grapevines. Be sure to save room for the Flaming Mexican Coffee, prepared right at your table. Even the mealtime philosophy at Maroma keeps with the “Handmade Hospitality” motto – whether eating on your own terrace, under a thatched roof or by torchlight on the beach, or among the crystal and linens of the dining room – your every wish will be met.

Travel Tips
Maroma rests along the stretch of Mexico coined the “Mayan Riviera,” and an on-site travel office ensures that visitors can take advantage of the many wonderful opportunities available to them at both the resort and in the surrounding area. Charter a vehicle and visit nearby Mayan ruins, pay homage to Chichen Itza and Tikal, explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve or sharpen your ornithological skills at the Contoy Island bird sanctuary. The world’s second-largest barrier reef lies right offshore and is perfect for a snorkeling excursion. Water lovers will also enjoy the opportunities for cave diving, jungle river trips and even kayaking.

Should the countless options to explore or the gorgeous trek through the rain forest prove tiresome, guests can lazily wander the resort’s library and game room, boutique and art gallery, and multimedia theater.

Upon arrival, take advantage of the property tour, which introduces visitors to the lovely meditation room (where a private dinner can be scheduled) and the lookout point. Maroma truly does accommodate your every need, except, perhaps, that of children – no one under the age of 16 is permitted.

While you are there
Do not miss out on Maroma’s spa services. Choose from facials, massages, reflexology, mud, Ajurveda, yoga, meditation, rebirthing or crystal therapy. Take your relaxation one incredible step further with Temazcal, the ancient purifying and healing ritual of the Mayan steam bath.

Embrace Mexico’s fascinating Mayan culture with a chartered trip to visit the ancient trading port and looming tower, El Castillo, at Tulum.

And swim with dolphins. Guests are first shown an informative video, and then brought to swim with these beautiful animals.

Where Relaxing and Partying Seamlessly Meet
by Linda Armstrong

Overview

Miles of beaches, endless luxury accommodations and a nonstop party atmosphere have transformed this once sleepy village on the Yucatan coast into one of Mexico’s most popular tourist attractions.

Cancun could be split roughly into two parts: The downtown area, el centro, is home to many smaller hotels, quaint restaurants, and shops. The famed Hotel Zone, zona hotelera, is on a 14-mile peninsula jutting out into the Caribbean Sea.

Getting There
Nearest major international airport: Cancun. The airport has direct connections to Europe as well as many North American cities.

Airport transportation
Airport/hotel shuttles can be arranged upon arrival at the main terminal. Prices average $12 per person. Preregistration is available through Mexico Web.

Ground transportation
Bus: Cancun’s public bus system is an economical and convenient way to travel both in and outside of the city. Within the city, blue signs highlight the numerous stops; 3 pesos (40 cents) will get you anywhere in the city between 6 a.m. and midnight. Buses marked zona hoteleres will take you – surprise – to the Hotel Zone. Give the driver a quick wave and he will drop you right at your doorstep.

Out of town routes, such as trips to Tulum, Chichen Itza, and Playa del Carmen, originate at the downtown terminal near the intersection of Tulum and Uxmal Avenues.

Taxi: Easy to come by. As with any destination offering unmetered cabs, negotiating a price before departure is an absolute must. Hotels often post typical rates to use when haggling for a fair price.

Timing
With an average temperature of 80 F (27 C), average water temperature of 86 F (33 C), and 240 days of sunshine, nearly any time is a good time for a siesta. If you are looking for a high-volume party atmosphere, the best months are February and March – the peak of the American university’s spring break season. If a thrifty getaway is what you seek, late summer and early winter are most affordable. September and October should generally be avoided due to windy weather and the occasional tropical storm.

Lodging
Cancun is equipped with everything from luxury all-inclusive resorts to small, quaint inns. Reservations are always suggested, but they are essential from December through April; rooms during the last week in December and the first week in January are sold out months in advance.

Many sites on the Web allow you to check out the various accommodations. We suggest you start with these:

* Cancun Hotel Guide
* Mexico Web
* Cancun Online

When selecting a hotel, start with the location. Generally speaking, the Hotel Zone has mostly high-rise hotels, but this is where it’s at when it comes to partying. With the Caribbean Sea to the east, Mujeres Bay to the north, and Nichupte Lagoon in the center, almost all options in the hotel zone have some type of beachfront property. The downtown area has less expensive and more intimate hotels, but you’ll need to take a bus or taxi to get to the beach.

To narrow down your ideal hotel location further, read on for specific beaches and party spots:

Specific beaches – North side:
Beaches along the northern side of the 14-mile semicircle kiss the waters of Mujeres Bay. Some of the north side’s most popular beaches include:

* Playa Caracol & Punta Cancun – The shallow water and the flat bottoms make these excellent choices for children. Parents aren’t neglected though: Restaurants, bars and water activities are also available.
* Playa Langosta, Playa Las Perlas & Playa Tortugas – With shuttles to Isla Mujeres, high-wave action, sand volleyball, and numerous bars and restaurants, these three beaches have it all.
* Playa Linda – Playa Linda’s dock is the departure point for submarine and dive tours as well as the main shuttle to Isla Mujeres.

Specific beaches – East Side:
Bordering the Caribbean Sea, east-side beaches offer breezier conditions and higher waves than their northern counterparts.

* Chac Mool, Gaviota Azul & Playa Marlin – The higher wind speeds of these three beauties are perfect for sailboarding and parasailing.
* Playa Ballenas – Offers tube rides, sand volleyball, parasailing and, as with all these beaches, people watching.
* Punta Nizuc & Playa Delfines – In addition to incredible sand and surf, these two beaches offer an awe-inspiring view.
* San Miguelito – With its small Mayan ruin, this beach mixes activity with history.

Cuisine
While Mexican fare such as enchiladas, burritos and margaritas abound, “typical” Cancun cuisine caters to the city’s array of international visitors. You will be able to find everything from Italian and French to vegetarian and Chinese. Plus, buffets and all-you-can-eat specials have become an economical trend.

Travel Tips
While the Hotel Zone is home to endless hot spots offering sun, sand and sure-fire evening entertainment, many of Cancun’s most awe-inspiring attractions are just beyond the city limits. Mayan ruins, nature preserves and dense jungles are just a sampling of offerings that are well worth your time.

When it comes to Cancun’s little annoyances, time-share presentations and overpriced cab fares top the list. During your stay, you will doubtless be approached by a time-share recruiter offering free tours or services in exchange for your attendance at a presentation. While the deal isn’t actually a scam, discuss all the details up front before signing up for a “free” tour.

Specific party places
Partying and nightlife are to Cancun what casinos are to Las Vegas. A few of the evening “must sees” include:

* Batacha & Azucar – Located at the Camino and Hyatt hotels respectively, these two clubs heat up the night with live salsa music.
* Cat’s – Cancun meets the Caribbean with live reggae bands and no cover charge.
* Christine – Offers a more sophisticated dress code and a fabulous light show.
* Daddy’O and Daddy Rock – A hip-hop, hard rock combo offering late night dancing and plenty of fun.
* La Boom – Late-night partying and dancing culminate in one of the area’s largest bikini contests.
* Senor Frogs – An internationally known restaurant and bar with a unique mix of casual dining and a wall-to-wall party atmosphere.

While you are there
A trip to the Yucatan isn’t complete without a visit to one of its mysterious and ancient Mayan ruins. Chichen Itza, located just a few hours outside the city, is the area’s largest and most noted ruin. While Tulum is a bit smaller and less accessible for exploring, it offers a fabulous seaside vantage point just 80 miles south of Cancun. A trip to Tulum can be topped off with a visit to Xel-Ha, a nature preserve offering snorkeling or a quick, refreshing dip. In addition to independent excursions by bus or car, tours can be arranged once in Cancun or through Mexico Web.

If diving is your pleasure, the waters off the coast of Playa del Carmen and Cozumel make for an irresistible 1- or 2-day side trip. Take the daily bus to Playa del Carmen, and catch the hourly ferry to Cozumel for the perfect dip. Check the left column on the Yucatan Web Transportation page for Ferry schedules.

Offering everything from tours to diving to fishing to water toys, Aqua World is a water enthusiast’s number one choice. A more natural getaway is the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This 1.5-million-acre coastal reserve includes rainforest, wetlands, savannas and marine environments, and more than 300 bird species and everything from pumas to howler monkeys.