Tulum 

Where to Stay

Tulum is incredible because it has a little bit of everything, depending on what you’re in the mood for. It is the smell of palo santo and exhaust. It’s light and dark. It’s peaceful and wild. Knowing where to stay is really important because of this. I generally like to stay on the main road, in the hotel zone (Zona Hotelera) because I want to wake up with the ocean and because its very convenient to restaurants and wellness activities. However (and this is a BIG however), you’ll want to avoid certain areas because of the noise and crowds. My favorite hotels are below, in order of preference:

• Sanara

• Nômade Tulum - A human-centered hotel

• Treehouse

** I like to stay in the area between Sanara and Be Tulum / Nomade because of how convenient yet calm it is. The northern end of the strip is not my favorite because of how loud it is.

Wellness Activities

Tulum just feels spiritual and magical because of its energy and the history. Mayan culture is integrated in all the wellness elements that Tulum has to offer and it is so beautiful. I have no doubt you will feel more connected to yourself here.

• Yoga at Sanara, overlooking the ocean in their beachfront shala

• Kundalini yoga with the most incredible instructor and healer, Lola Holmes. She usually teaches at Nomade on Thursdays and Sundays.

• Soundbath with Alessandra Montana. She’s usually at Sanara on Fridays. You do not have to stay at the hotel to attend.

• Live DJ set yoga with Audeo Official. They’re usually at Nomade.

• Yaan Healing Sanctuary is heaven on earth. You can get a massage there or experience a Temezcal ceremony.

  • Temezcal ceremony with Victor Medina as your guide is a must!

Where to Eat

Tulum has one of the best culinary scenes I’ve ever experienced (yes, in my opinion it rivals New York and Paris…it’s bold but true for me). It’s uncomplicated yet unique and flavorful. Here are my must try spots. Please make reservations well ahead of time as some of these places are impossible to get into.

• The Real Coconut — I could live here and eat this food day in and day out. This is a paleo restaurant at the Sanara resort founded by Danielle Hunter and is a must visit for breakfast or lunch. Her food philsophy is right up my alley and the recipes are UNREAL. Some favorites include the pancakes, shrimp quesadilla, and chicken tacos. I also love the baked goods, especially the fruit cake and brownie

• Matcha Mama — great matcha, acai bowls, and juices.

• Arca — crab tacos are my favorite.

• Hartwood — book early as this is a hot spot that is impossible to get into.

• Casa Jaguar — the venison appetizer is amazing.

• Meze — the best octopus in town. Also, great wine selection (which is a rare find in Mexico).

• Treehouse — this place is pure magic. Order the rack of lamb, seabass, and sweet potatoes.

• Posada Margherita — cash only and no reservations so choose wisely when you go! But worth it.

If you want to party

The party scene is wild in Tulum. You can stay out until 5am if that’s your vibe. If you do want to dance a little, here are my recommendations:

• Habitas and Papaya Playa Project always throw great full moon parties

• Drinks at Treehouse on Tuesday or Friday nights

• Bagatelle brunch