Cesiak

There are a lot of great tours in Tulum.  This past weekend I got to take my first tour with Cesiak in the amazing Sian Ka’an Bio reserve.  We took the boat canal tour.  It was truly amazing.  The reserve in itself is so amazing but this rare look at it truly breathtaking. 

The tour with Cesiak started at 8:45 with a hotel pick up.  We drove down into the reserve and began the journey to the Cesiak center.  It was beautiful.  There are also cabanas for rental which I think would be amazing.  We waited on for about 15 minutes and got a chance to take a look at the Laguna and the sea from the top floor of the building.  The view point shows the long stretch of perfect beaches and then vast laguna.

I learned some very interesting things about the variety of birds and wildlife that the Sian Ka’an has and continues to discover.  This beautiful and protected area is home to over 340 known species of birds (of which we got to see many of)  as well as many species of reptiles (a number of crocodiles were also seen on the tour) and countless plants and trees.  After taking in the beautiful landscape and getting a good amount of background about the area and the goals of Cesiak it was off to the boats.

We got on the boat with our guide and boat captain.  A few moments wait and we were speeding through the beautiful laguna.  The amazing colors of this laguna were stunning.  The laguna itself is only 3 meters deep at its deepest.  Most of the laguna is less then ½ a meter deep.   After buzzing through the laguna for a bit it was into the river that led to the other laguna at Muyil.   This was the actual trading route the ancient Maya took to trade with other cities.  In this case it was mostly the cities by the sea trading fish and salt with cities inland for red and white meats and fruits and vegetables.  It really is amazing to see the landscape and feel the energy of civilizations past that followed this same route. 

The canal part of this tour was amazing because you really got to learn more about the landscape of the area and just how rare a part of the world it is geographically.  We past very near by a resting crocodile that was over 2 meters long and we saw countless examples of the amazing birds that call this area home.  The canal part of the tour was curvy and so much fun.  We did not this trip but next time our kids would have loved this trip.

After entering the next laguna we saw some of the natural wells that are in the water of the laguna and open to the cenotes underneath.  It was so beautiful and crazy to see how the various levels of the Earth connect- or are stacked really.   On our way back through the canal we stopped off at a ruin and got to explore a little bit. This site was often visited by the Mayan for safe passage from the crocodiles as they passed back with their traded goods.  They would stop and prey and offer a contribution to the crocodile god.  This worked for the Mayan and there were no reported attacks on the passage way.  While a happy crocodile god is obviously the reason we now know that the high priests from Muyil would come to the temple and throw the offerings to the laguna at sunset.  The current of the river carried the food downstream to the crocodiles, whom after eating, would not attack the Mayan traders as they traveled the canals at night time.

At this point we got to do what was my favorite part of the tour. We got into the canal with life jackets and just floated down the stream.  It was so relaxing and such a rare view of the landscape.  You learn on your way up the canal in the boat just how the water changes from brackish (mix salt and fresh) to the fresh water and why the crocodiles do not come this far upstream.  After about 20 minutes it is back in the boat and a snack of fresh fruit and water as we make our way back through the river and into the other laguna, passing some of our new crocodile friends.  Then it was buzzing down south to Boca Paila. This is well known spot in Tulum and this view from a speeding little boat was so much fun. 

Once we explored all over the lagunas and had dried off in the cool breeze, it was off to lunch at Cesiak.  The lunch was great.  It consisted of grilled chicken breast, rice, salad, tortillas and a great salsa. It was the perfect meal to regain some energy.  We got about 10 more minutes to have another look around and then it was off for a quick dip in the cenote by the arch.   This is a very nice cenote just at the entrance to the Sian Ka’an bioreserve.  After a nice little swim it was off to head back to reality.

This was an amazing tour that really taught me a lot about just how special this part of the world is and why we should all be working hard to protect it.  You can learn a lot more about Cesiak from their website.

If you would like to book a tour, please let us know and we would be happy to help.   

Salsa at Le Zebra ***

When asking around about nightlife in Tulum – depending on the night there are a few spots that you will hear over and over. If it is Sunday night you are sure to hear about La Zebra. La Zebra is already well known for having a great hotel and a great restaurant. But on Sunday’s!!!! Every Sunday the crowds come out for some live music and salsa dancing on La Zebra’s beach front dance floor.

We have been dancing at La Zebra a number of times. We love to salsa dance. When we lived in San Francisco we used to o dancing every Thursday. We loved it. And salsa dancing on the beaches of Tulum ain’t bad either. La Zebra also gives a free class – I think at 6. The class is nice because it gives you a refresh on some of the basics and then teaches you a few fun turns or tricks to use while you are out there.

The food is also very good at La Zebra. It is a little on the expensive side but it is a well known spot and it is right on a beautiful stretch of Tulum beach. For the ambiance and what you get though I think that the prices are good. This last time we ordered a mixed plate that had various favorites like sopes and what not on it and we got some tortilla soup. Both were awesome but the tortilla soup was the highlight for me.
Armed with a few margaritas I was ready for the dance floor. I always say that Salsa dancing and speaking a foreign language that you know only moderately well are both done a little better after a few margaritas.

The band is always great here. Up on the stage which is just above the dance floor and backed by the beautiful jungle setting, music on Sunday nights can be heard up and down the beach. Around the edge of the raised dance floor are several tables and some large beach beds. It is a very easy spot to gather and rest your feet between songs.

This last time that we went we even took the kids. It was not a very late night and they had a blast. There were many kids that were running around and my son grabbed himself a cutie and set out for the dance floor. At only 5 he is quite the ladies man. This is a spot where everyone can have a good time.

So if you are in Tulum – and it is Sunday- you do not even need to ask- the party is La Zebra for Salsa on the Beach!

Getting ready for Eco Glamour and the Green Expo Tulum!!!

These 2 events in Tulum are going to be amazing.  Eco Glamour is an event that celebrates the amazing talents

The first day, Thursday April 8 is all about Fashion. Blue Tulum is hosting a fashion shop and an after party. I believe that the doors open at 6:00 and the show starts at 7:00 and then there is a party afterwards. There will be some wonderful jewelry and clothing from through the Yucatan. Dutzi Designs and Casa Chiapas will both be there as will many others.




The 2nd day is all about Art! And what a great way to show off the wonderful artists then in several beach hotels. There is the ARTulum Route. You can get specific details at http://www.ecoglamourtulum.com/en/ a nice easy drive up and down the beach road. Great hotels with very nice lounges are the perfect place to grab a drink and a bite to eat and enjoy all of the beautiful artwork.



AHHAHAHA Day 3, this is going to be in full swing I imagine. This is the MUSIC day. Ana y Jose Beach Club will host this event. There is a Fresco ball exhibition at 12:00. I really am not sure what that is but I will be there! Then the rest of the day is filled with amazing music for wonderful Latin artists. This is going to be great.


At the same time there will be the Green Expo down at the Casa de Cultura. This is about 5 blocks towards to the beach directly behind the main plaza on the main Avenue. This expo will highlight many of the wonderful products and services here in the area that work to protect our beautiful Tulum.

dutzi design - Empowering Women Event.

I am so excited to be organizing an event for dutzi design inc. This wonderful group of Mayan women make the most beautiful bags all by hand and from beautifully recycled burlap and white raffia. They are so beautiful and the proceeds go to keeping this workshop up and running and keeping food on the tables of those in the community.

We are having an event at In Spirit Store. A beautiful store on the south side of the beach road across from Casa Violeta. The event begins at 9:00 am with a roof top yoga class followed by fresh fruit breakfast. Here is the whole schedule:


9:00- yoga class on the roof overlooking the jungle canopy.
10:00-Fresh fruit breakfast and organic coffee
11:00- Special dutzi Presentation- special discounts at in Sprit for those that attend that presentation.
12:00-4:00- Special services from women in the community. Mayan food for sale, card reading, spa treatments and masks, massages, back flowers and a kids area.
4:00- Special dutzi Presentation- special discounts at in Sprit for those that attend that presentation.
5:00- Horderves and Happy Hour
6:30- Aztec Drumming performance
7:00- Fire Show.


This is going to be an amazing event to bring focus to the amazing work of Ariane Dutzi and her work with the women in her community. These women are learning about finanaces and are able to contribute to their communities. The bags that they make are being sold in boutiques in Paris and New York as well as other locations throughout the United States, Mexico and Europe.


In addition to learning about the dutzi design project, visitors can also help the women of the area by using the services that we will be providing during the event.

Please come by and show your support for this wonderful cause.

Dutzi Design Inc.***

Okay… this is a long one but it is worth every line

It is not very often that you hear about something that someone is doing and it just makes you smile from the inside. Well, the project of Dutzi Designs Inc. is one such story. !!!


The project is that of Ariane Dutzi. Ariane lives here in the Yucatan and has started a line, Dutzi Designs Inc., to help the communities of the Yucatan. As a former fashion editor from New York and Paris, she moved to Mexico where she is making an impact in the beautiful community that she is now a part of.


When the Swine Flu scare erupted in Mexico last April it created a mass exodus of tourists in the Yucatan and the communities of the area really suffered. As the “infodemic” spun out of control, a whole bunch of totally healthy people sat in the deserted towns of the Yucatan and then found themselves without people to sell their handiwork to. Ariane has since developed the Dutzi Design Rescue Bag. Complete with a label befitting of the project, a small outlined face of a pig, these bags are as eco-friendly green as they are well made and beautiful.


The whole project really is something special. As a way of helping the Mayan community that lives in the areas around Valladolid, about 70 women as well as some men make each and every bag. The project is not only a means for so many women to help provide for their families, but also helps preserve the beautiful culture of the indigenous Maya. With all of the proceeds from the sales of the bag going directly into the project, this community of women continues to be able to help sustain themselves especially in a time where so many of us here in the Yucatan are feeling the devastating consequences of the hype of the swine flu.


Here is a bit of history about how such a special project came to be. Ariane is an amazingly beautiful woman who after being born in Germany moved to Paris to study at the Sorbonne. After graduation Ariane got a job as a foreign correspondent for a German publication. Due to her location in Paris, fashion was the tallest order. During the reign of top supermodels and skyrocketing talent in the design world, Ariane had the privilege of interviewing and working with some of the most talented designers in the world. Having had studied history Ariane had an interest in fashion’s history and the artisans that made such wonderful pieces.


She told me a beautiful story about one example of stories that she loved to do. It was of the artisans who made the soles for Chanel shoes and Gucci shoes. It was only these very specific artisans that did the soles in a traditional way. The use of chemicals, if any at all, where minimal and the result was sole for a shoe fit for Hera herself. As I am sure anyone who owns a pair of Chanel shoes will attest to. She told me how the stories of these artisans, their craft and the devotion they give such a craft really intoxicated her. It intoxicated me just listening to it. After her move to Mexico, she found a similar passion for the artisans in her new home country. But more on that in a minute, I jump ahead of myself.



Ariane then came to Mexico for a vacation in the beautiful town of Cuernavaca just outside of Mexico City. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its year long perfect weather, it was over… the love obsession had begun.


Ariane took this time in her life to figure out the passions that she wanted to follow. Not quiet sure which way she was going to take herself, she headed to Tulum. Working in the hotel industry, Ariane got to stretch her creativity and interest in design in to decorating and furniture design. She helped design, promote and staff not just one Coqui Coqui hotel… but 3, Tulum, Coba and Valladolid. After investing much energy and love into these projects Ariane once again went to New York for inspiration for her next path.


This next path turned out to be working with an old friend from the fashion industry to open a vintage discovery showroom. Not a store, but more an inspirational space for designers and artists to come and get inspired. Working with wonderful textures and colors and looking at things from the past in a new light is what sparked the fuse that lead the way for Ariane’s next direction. It was hear that she began to learn the skill of noticing 1 small detail or 1 texture and create a whole concept out of it.


Now back in Mexico, she began to make beautiful bags from vintage materials. Being very drawn to burlap, the bags began to take shape organically as she rediscovered the Mexico that she had left. The straps are all hand made by the indigenous Maya who have crafted such belts for generations. More and more Ariane needed help to craft the bags that had become so popular. At one point, Ariane had to make a choice. Was she going to commit 100% and dive fully into her project and trust in the Universe to take care of her or go back? Luckily for us all she chose to invest fully into the project.


As she needed more and more help she befriended and employed more and more Mayan women from her community. What blossomed out of this first year was a workshop in which women in the community began to learn about their finances and how to have some control over them.


The most important thing about the workshop as it developed was that these women were able to remain the women that were before with the duties that they had before. To celebrate all of the things that makes us all such remarkable women. We have the special gift of taking care of our families needs, being there for our families and wanting to be able to enjoy our families and Ariane did not want these women to give any of that up just so they could work as well.



I have not even started to tell you about the amazing bags themselves… these bags, made of vintage burlap or 100% recycled white raffia. They are absolutely beautiful and are not only made by hand with love and care but, probably because of that fact, are incredibly well made.


In addition to the “Rescue Bag” Ariane’s whole line of couture bags are being sold in stores and boutiques all over New York as well as in Paris, Santa Fe, Malibu, CA, Mexico and over the internet. One of the best ways to get your own Rescue Bag is to drive over and see the project for yourself. Valladolid is a beautiful town about an hour from Tulum and wonderfully worth a visit. What a fantastic souvenir of a trip to the Yucatan. Luckily you can also buy one online and have it sent to you. Check out the website with information about how to purchase your very own bag.


These bags are perfect for both men and women. I especially love the bike messenger bag for men. These bags reflect both a consciousness for the earth and an effort to protect and cherish it, but also for the wonderful communities of Mayan women in the Yucatan.


I am so excited to see that the very first couture Dutzi dress has just been made. I cannot wait to see as more and more clothing comes from these guys. The furniture designed by Dutzi Designs is stunning as well. I will be getting more info about the clothing and furniture and will post again. Stay tuned.

So…. Do you want to help… can you help… If yes… here are a few ways that you can…
• If you, or anyone you know, own a shop or a boutique and would like to carry Dutzi Designs in your store, you can get in touch with Ariane (or me if you want)
• You can order a bag online directly from the source.
• If you are vacationing in Mexico, you can arrange to see the project and the beautiful town of Valladolid and pick up the absolutely BEST souvenir in Mexico.
• You can simply donate to the project via their website
• If you are getting married and are looking for the perfect bridesmaid gifts, these stunning bags and clutches are the perfect reminder of a perfect Mexican wedding (and the Karma points!!!)
• If you are looking for the perfect auction item… imagine a beautiful Dutzi Design couture bag filled with stunning crafts, clothing and tokens of the beautiful Mayan culture. I would be happy to help you put something together (I am sure Ariane could help as well.) What a perfect way to help 2 causes at once.
• Tell everyone you know about the project because it is a really special one.

Tulum Ruins

The Mayan ruins of Tulum have been bringing tourists to this small piece of paradise for years. As a result of the world’s growing intrigue and interest in the Mayan civilization and culture the Tulum ruins and thus Tulum Town have enjoyed a large increase in popularity. Tulum, meaning wall in Mayan, was named such after the ruins were discovered and explored in the 1800’s. The wall that led to Tulum’s name is 5 meters (about 16 feet) thick to as many as 8 meter (about 26 feet) thick in some areas and surrounds the entire site. This fortified Mayan city had its height in Post classic period around 1200-1450 CE. The site remained occupied until the late 16th century when it was finally abandoned after the arrival of the Spanish.

Originally thought to be called Zama, Mayan for dawn, this ancient walled city was, in its time, a thriving civilization. As a major crossroads for trade, Tulum saw import and export from both land and sea and from all over the Yucatan and as far away as Honduras.

Tulum is one of the best preserved costal sites in all of Mexico as is the 3rd most visited archeological site in Mexico. As one of the only fortified Mayan cities, the wall that surrounds Tulum provided the perfect protection for the Mayan people that lived here.


The most common depiction that can be found in the ruins of Tulum is that of the diving god or descending god. Depicted as an upside down figure, it is seen above many doorways through out the Tulum ruins. The waters around Tulum, mostly cenotes, were believed by the ancient Mayan to be the entrance to the underworld. And the long standing relationship that existed between the people of Tulum and the water world that flowed beneath them continues to this day.

Probably the most recognized building within the ruins is El Castillo. This breathtaking structure sits atop a 12 meter (about 39 foot) cliff and is one of the most photographed sites in the Rivera Maya. Templo del Dios Descendente, or Temple of the Descending God, is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful temples in Tulum. Having with stood the test of time, this structure is in remarkable condition and is named such from a sculpture that depicts a god of human form descending from the heavens. The best preserved structure within the ruins is the Templo de los Frescoes or Temple of the Frescoes. This 2 story building was named such for the brightly colored murals that adorned the interior walls. Although significantly faded, the brightly colored murals that decorated the exterior walls can still be seen by visitors today.


Getting in and around the Tulum ruins is quick and easy. To get to the site by car simply drive North (from Tulum town) on the main road of 307 or South if coming from Playa del Carmen or Cancun. The entrance is just a few km North of Tulum pueblo and is on the east side. Once making the turn off the main road simply follow the signs and park your car. If you do not want to worry about a car the ruins are easily reachable by both the collectives (shared vans that run the length of 307 between Playa and Tulum that can be waived down at any point on the road) as well as by taxi.

The main courtyard area has restaurants and shops as well as talented performers ready to dazzle you and pose for photos. These performers, like so many others in the Tulum area survive on tips so please… if you are dazzled… show them your appreciation. This is also where you can purchase tickets for the shuttle that will take the 400 meters to the entrance of the ruins. The ticket for the shuttle is 20 pesos and is round trip. Once at the entrance of the ruins themselves, the entrance price is around 50 pesos per person and is free for Mexican citizens on Sundays. There is also a 40 peso video recorder fee if you want use your video recorder.


There are a few things that you will want to keep in mind when visiting the ruins. The first is that you will want to make sure to wear sunscreen. The entire site is exposed to the sun and there is very little shade. You will also want to make sure to bring plenty of water. If you have your swimsuit you will be able to take advantage of the beautiful stretch of beach that sits at the base of the ruins and is available only for the guests of the ruins and provides an incredible view of El Castillo. A trip to the Tulum ruins can be a bit strenuous on a child and might not be as well enjoyed by younger visitors. If you are looking for babysitting service, we here at Tulum Living know of many quality babysitters that speak both English as well as Spanish.

Yaaj- Ximbal Jungle Tour

I had the wonderful experience of taking a Yaaj-Ximbal tour. This was a truly amazing experience and opened up a whole side of Tulum that I have not seen before. I am so thankful for this unreal opportunity and would strongly recommend that people take the tour.

The day started with my friend picking me up and taking me to the store where all the cooks buy the food fresh for that days meal. I rode out with the crew to one of the locations so that they could work on preparing the food. While we were getting the food out to the location, the rest of the guests were getting picked up at their hotels.

As we all met up and were introduced to the tour guides and each other I could tell that I was in for a treat. We were riding in very comfortable Land Rovers and I knew that these vehicles could handle any road in Mexico.

Thanks god because as we set off into the jungle it became very clear just how off road we were going to get. The road was very bumpy and all over the place but in a very fun and safe way.


For anyone who has ever been on the Indiana Jones ride in Disneyland can totally relate to the journey. This is just real and much more fun. There was a younger child in our group but I am not sure how much fun it was for him.

I would say that for both the parents and the kids to have the best of the experience probably kids 10 and older would be good. (If you need a babysitter you can contact mindyintulum@yahoo.com for babysitters in the area.)

As we forged ahead on the trail we were pointed out various trees and important foliage and given a lot of history and mythical tradition along the way. There were many beautiful sites to see along the trail.


There were stunning cenotes filled with lilies and beautiful foliage all around. At one point we came to a watchtower that was built of Zapote trees. This wood is amazingly strong and durable not to mention stunningly beautiful. The views from this tower were so beautiful.

Just beneath the tower is a cenote that also has a repel from the middle of the tower. I can imagine that would be very cool to do. We explored a cave and the Aluxes that lived there. These are mythical spirits, resembling trolls, that are believed to live all over the Yucatan. They are associated with nature such as jungles and caves which are numerous in the Tulum area. These mischievous little spirits are known to move things around a lot and cause quite a ruckus. Taking the form of stone during the day, they awaken at night to cause their mischief. You can see the old man in stone in this picture.

After continuing on our journey we made our way over to the location of the cenote, dry cave and zip line. This was very cool. With the help of our tour guides we got into our harnesses.

There was a group of 12 of us. All 4 daughters ranging with high school age all went on as did almost everyone else in the group. Including the 7 year old boy although he went tandem with one of the guides.



The zip line was very easy, fun and was over quick. Definitely not too bad for all who go on the tour. The "Mayan brakes" were large pieces of wood that would help to slow you down. One of the guides was also down at the bottom with the secondary and emergency breaks. I felt very safe and we all had a really good time.

This is probably a good time to mention one of my favorite parts of the tour... There is professional photographer following you around through out the whole thing taking great pictures. This is particularly handy at the moment when you are flying down the zip line. But you also get to pose at the bottom just in case your face is doing some crazy face.

After the zip line you continue the tour into a dry cave. For people who do not want to do the zip line there is an easy way to join the group at the bottom. The dry cave was beautiful. You could clearly see the stalagmites and stalactites. They are so beautiful and the guides are really full of knowledge and are a lot of fun.

We headed off to get in our swim suits for the cenote part of the day. Almost all of my favorite days involve a cenote and this day was no exception. We walked down a long steep stair case and came into a beautiful cave. The water was as clear and perfect as you could imagine.

There was a very nice area to swim right then we were taken around a little area, through a tunnel area that showed some really beautiful roots, stalagmites and stalactites.

There was one point were once the roots of the trees above ground reach the water they eventually build a base. These bases are floating. It is a very cool site. I wish I had a waterproof camera with me at the time. It was very beautiful and such a unique look at the under side of Yucatan. I am not a cave diver as of yet but the guides did take me and show me some of the entrances to the caves. Once I try my hands at diving I really want to go back and explore.

After we all climbed up and dried off it was time to eat. I have been on tours before that included lunch and it was usually some bagged lunch or something. This meal was amazing. There was a very large grill on which a very traditional meal was being prepared.

There was pot of black beans, fluffy rice, a fantastic salsa and warm tortillas. There were 2 different meats on the grill. One was a marinated chicken and the other a flat steak. There was also a large amount of cut fruit and salad. Lunch was truly amazing and the perfect conclusion to the day.



The group loaded up into the van to get taken back to their hotels. It was a wonderful tour and one that really shows a side of the jungle that not many people get to see. Tulum and the whole Rivera Maya have so much to offer and this tour really puts some of the best parts into one trip.

Some important things to note when you go... 1) Take bug spray but please make sure that it is eco-friendly and or biodegradable. You will be in contact with a very delicate eco system. The waters of the cenotes feed the lively hood of the entire Yucatan peninsula. It is important to respect them and care for them. and 2)I would start your day off with a good meal. Lunch is the last part of the day and you do not want to be hungry. This tour is a full day thing.


This tour is amazing. Again, probably best for kids 10 and over although they will accommodate children, it will probably be more fun for parents and kids if there is a babysitter. Again... if you are looking for a babysitter you can email mindyintulum@yahoo.com to find a babysitter in the Tulum area.

Ocho Tulum- OCHO IS CURRENTLY CLOSED

Ocho Tulum is one of the most popular hotels on Tulum beach and it is not hard to see why. You know the saying "the devil is in the details"? Well that is a perfect explanation as to why Ocho Tulum really stands out as an exceptional Tulum beach hotel.


Freshly cut fruit in the morning and steamed milk with really good coffee and beach bags for guests use were just a few of the things that Ocho Tulum did to really impress me.

Ocho Tulum sits towards the far south end of the beach road towards Sian Ka'an. The beach down in this area is as good as it gets in Tulum. The reception area was large and welcoming and beautifully decorated. The large sign behind the reception desk told of all the activities for the week including Yoga classes, wine tasting events and card reading sessions.

We were shown to our room which was beautiful. The view from our room was beautiful and was furnished with a comfortable seating area and a nice hammock. It was the perfect place to sit and enjoy the wonderful sounds of the Caribbean Sea.

There is a very minimalist and very organic feeling throughout the whole hotel. There was a very nice little sitting area and an area to put our cloths. On this piece of furniture were some extra blankets, towels and a large beach bag with 2 beach towels. This was a very nice touch as it made it much easier to bring our things down to the beach.

The bathroom was simple and very clean. The water pressure was great and the access to hot water was fantastic. The towels, hand towels and sheets were of excellent quality and the mattress made for a fantastic nights sleep.

There was one moment in the evening that i woke up feeling very warm and realized that I did not have my windows open and all the warms air could not get pushed out of my room. Within moments of opening the large and beautiful wooden slats the cool Caribbean breeze blew effortlessly through the room. We remained comfortable for the rest of the night. The ceiling fan also helped the room stay perfectly comfortable.

The spa palapa is beautiful and cozy and just the right place to get a relaxing spa treatment. The menu was very impressive. From tradition massage and specialty Ocho massage to Mayan Clay and facials. The Ocho Scrub (Cucumber, Cantaloupe and Mint)looked fantastic!!! Something for me to look forward to.

The yoga palapa at this Tulum beach hotel was a large and inviting space. It was shoji screens almost all the way around and let in a beautiful light. The screens pulled back to review the breathtaking garden with the sounds of the Caribbean in the background.

The yoga retreats at Ocho Tulum look simply amazing. From the spa treatments yoga classes to the tours and available vegan and vegetarian menus, they really seem to think of everything.

The whole hotel has a strong sense of harmony with its location and surroundings. and the raw organic feeling of the hotel blends beautifully with the elegant and luxurious details.


The beach at this hotel is one of the very best parts of the beach in Tulum. The beach is clear and open and the sand is as soft as you could imagine. The water is warm and refreshing. There were some nice beach beds and some cushioned beach chairs with umbrellas. The bar and menu service on the beach was wonderful. People were attentive and kind and the drinks were well made.

There were some kayaks available to play in the sea but the water was a little to rough when we were there. The winds did make it the perfect day for kite boarding though. There is a kite boarding school right there in front of the hotel and it makes for wonderful watching.

When it came to the restaurant this place really shinned. I had seen their wine list before, as had my husband who is a sommelier, and we were both very eager to try some of the wines.

The kitchen was very helpful and accommodating when they plated a selection of fine cheeses that we had received as a gift. The chef made a beautiful presentation and brought some bread as well.

During this time the kitchen sent out its appetizer plate. This is most traditionally simply chips and salsa but once again Ocho Tulum really surprised me. The large tray had 6 small containers ranging from pico, guacamole and some prepared cactus which was wonderful. There was also some lightly seasoned crisp veggies. I do not recall the name of one but the other was cucumber. It was really wonderful. There was also a dark chili salsa that was really wonderful and smoky tasting served with seasoned nuts.


I must say that guacamole is one of the things that I really use to evaluate a place. I mean, the ingredients are very simple and it is a dish that when well and with care then it is a real treat. The guacamole was amazing. Sweet and citrus with large bits of avocado. None of that creamed stuff, just fresh and simply perfect guacamole.

For the kids we ordered the cheeseburger which was wonderful. The meat was large and well seasoned and cooked the way that we asked. It was served with Monterrey jack cheese and a fajita type mixture of onions and bell pepper that really made the burger come alive. The french fries were crisp and very tasty.

We ordered a chicken quesadilla which was exactly what it should be, simply chicken and cheese with some guacamole and jalapenos. It was perfect for the kids but for almost the same cost you can get so many other wonderful and adventurous dishes.

The servers were kind and worked really hard to make sure that we had everything that we wanted or needed.

The view from this restaurant on Tulum beach is breathtaking. There are a few palm trees swaying peacefully in front of you and then nothing but the perfect Caribbean Sea. And the large round palapa roof really creates an intimate and refreshing ambiance.

The next morning when we had breakfast I was again blown away by the attention to luxurious details.

The included continental breakfast is warm bread and croissants with spreads of nutella, jam and butter. The coffee is freshly made and served with steamed milk. The fruit bowl was full of freshly cut melons, mango and pineapple and was a substantial size.


For the kids we ordered an omelet with everything which included ham, cheese, spinach, mushrooms and tomato and some pancakes served with jam and some fruit. Both dishes were wonderful.

I have also eaten the huevos rancheros at this Tulum beach restaurant and it is wonderful. It was not as spicy as I would have liked. I do tend to like my food a little on the super spicy side. Next time I will order a side of salsa to go with this dish. After tasting the wonderful salsa it would have spiced it to my liking perfectly.

Our visit to this hotel on Tulum beach reminded me that the attention to details is where places really set themselves apart and Ocho Tulum has done that very well.

Ocho Tulum is a beautiful hotel on Tulum beach and one that I would definatly recommend to friends that visit.