Traveling During COVID-19: Tulum Edition

In the midst of the pandemic, faith was put over fear.. and trip to Mexico was planned. The traveling experience out of Baltimore to Mexico was honestly seamless. There were lots of sanitation stations around BWI, and the sanitation was honestly increased the moment we arrived to Mexico. Prior to entry into the country, a mandatory 10-question questionnaire regarding your exposure to COVID-19 was given to every passenger via QR-code scanning on your phone. The questionnaire was scanned and checked on the US side, and again once we got to Mexico. I flew into Cancun Int'l and there we’re airport staff whom walked around with Hazmat suits, thermometers, and hand sanitizer. There were body temperature scanners all throughout the airport which was able to detect high temperatures. Social distancing was completely enforced throughout the customs process, baggage retrieval, and departure from the airport. We had a private shuttle from Cancun to Tulum. The driver sanitized our bags before getting into the car, offered hand sanitizer, and ensured we wore our masks. The ride from Cancun to Tulum was approximately 1.5 hours.

Given the most recent events in Tulum, we’ve opted out of an Airbnb for a resort. We stayed in the preferred club at Dreams Tulum, with a swim up suite. The resort only had a 30% capacity and the staff were implementing frequent deep cleanings of the rooms, bars, pools, and common areas. There were no buffet services. All meals were Ala Carte, however, you could order what you want, and as much as you liked. The food was “OK” and the best restaurant was Bordeaux (French cuisine).

The highlight of the trip was definitely visiting different Cenotes. Cenotes are formed by the collapsing of limestone rock which exposes these beautiful underground swimming holes. The Cenotes were used as a natural source of excess water and for sacrificial ceremonies performed by the Mayans. The water was super refreshing and cold. Most of the Cenotes we swam were through caves, and the others were naturally exposed. Life jackets and goggles are provided for all guests. Each Cenote is around $5-9 USD to visit.

The infamous Casa Malca, also known as Pablo Escobar’s mansion turned Hotel and beach club was definitely on the itinerary. To really see how this man lived is mind blowing! The property hosts two restaurants, endless bars, and the best aesthetics for your social media handles. Given the nature of whom this mansion belonged, visiting here could be pricey. If you’re not staying as a guests and only visiting for the day, entry could be as low as $45 USD to $100 USD per person. Half of the price is provided as a credit for you to spend throughout the resort (i.e. food and drinks). The beach cabanas are first come, first served, and there are wait staff around providing fresh towels, and taking food and drink orders. Drinks run for $10-$15 USD, and food starts at $10 USD. The vibe was definitely a great one, however, for what it was worth, I believe the overall experience was overrated. 

Let’s get into the food! One word, BOMB! I completely love eating as a local, as you get the best eats for cheap! Taquiero Honorio was THE BEST taco spot. Only open from 6am until 1pm, so yes, you have to indulge for breakfast. Tacos are $.75 cents each, and each meal is served with fresh guacamole and pico. For my non-pork eaters, this may not be the best place for you (they only have two chicken dish options, and two vegetarian options). Freshly squeezed fruit juice is available and the prices were super affordable! A complete meal came up to $8 USD. We enjoyed live music while we ate.

Yes, believe all the hype.. ROSA NEGRA WAS EVERYTHING! One of the hottest restaurants turned night club was such a vibe! I ordered the lamb chops with sweet potato purée and I can’t stop thinking about it! The serving size was generous and the meat was completely tender and juicy! Drinks were strong and the music was great. Sparklers and a cake was provided for my birthday and the waiters were kind. Rosa Negra is on the slight expensive side, with meals ranging from $25-$40 USD. 

Tulum town is super picturesque, no matter where you walk on the strip, there’s always a picture worthy spot! The vibe is super simple, and everyone is laid back and easy going. Tulum is a whole vibe.. PERIOD! 

Recommendations:

• Mosquitoes are RUTHLESS! If you are allergic to bites like me, please pack DEET and hydrocortisone cream. The mosquitoes will have a field day on your body! 

• Leave all your designer at home! Tulum is cute, but it isn’t a “flex” location. Be mindful while packing. Robbery is a real thing. Keep your valuables locked away.

• It is extremely humid, less clothes are more in this case. Pack lightweight, linen clothing. 

• I personally wouldn’t recommend heels, as the town is filled with cobblestone and extremely difficult to navigate. 

• Tipping is standard. Bring smaller bills to tip everyone that provides you service.