Cenote Escondido

Cenote Escondido is just south of Tulum town maybe 5 km or so. This large open cenote is simply beautiful. As you first walk down the long pathway from the main road to the cenote you cannot help but be in awe of the beautiful jungle around you.

Like something out of a fairytale, the long tree lined path calls you forward to something truly special. Suddenly a little wooden sign points you in the direction of the cenote! As you walk through the now- walking only path you come to a clearing that reveals the large open cenote that is simply too inviting.

On the close side is a set of stairs that take you to the water’s edge- but be careful because these are often very slippery. At this same end is a great jumping point into the cool clear waters beneath. Always check the water under the jump however because the cenotes are living and flowing- the water level and character changes. A jump that might have been fine a few months ago may not be now.

1 of my favorite spots at thi

s cenote is at the far end. There is a perfect little doc just ideal for sitting and putting your feet in and enjoying the warm Mexican sun. This is also where you can see that the cenote continues back into the jungle. This is a great spot for snorkeling and diving as there are many caves that are visible and just call you forth to come and explore.

The cool water of this cenote can be enjoyed for the same entrance price when you enter Cenote Cristal on the other side of the street.

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.   

Punta Laguna- Monkey Reserve***

This past Sunday my family loaded up the car and headed due East for Punta Laguna. I had heard that Punta Laguna was a wonderful thing to do while visiting Tulum. What I had heard was right. It was a wonderful place and the whole family. Punta Laguna did not disappoint as a great thing to do in Tulum.  **We know of some great taxi drivers that do this tour Coba ruins and the monkey reserve at a great price-- contact us for more info***

We started our adventure by having our favorite tacos from Tulum town and then we were off due West on the Coba road. After we got to Coba we decided to look around at some cenotes in the area. There were many cenotes to explore but most of them were cave cenotes. I do love cave cenotes but for this particular day we were looking for a wide open cenote that we could enjoy the warm day at. So we doubled back towards Tulum to go to Punta Laguna.

To get to Punta Laguna you take the Coba road from Tulum. After about 35 -40 minutes you will come to a round-a-bout. 1 direction leads you towards Cancun, 1 towards Chichen Itza and the last towards Coba. (The one you are on takes you back to Tulum- obviously!) You want to take the one that goes towards Cancun. You will drive for about 20-30 minutes on this road before you will see the sign for Punta Laguna. There were a number of other cenotes and spots of interest that I cannot wait to get out and see more of- but this trip was about Punta Laguna. So we continued past these places until we reached Punta Laguna.

When we reached the Laguna we went and paid our entrance fee which was very reasonable, something like 30 pesos. They advised us that we would have to walk a ways into the jungle to see the monkeys. Punta Laguna is a monkey reserve so you can easily spot these amazing creatures all around you if you pay attention. And hear them you most defiantly will. – Wow that sounded a bit like yoda- sorry. But you will. They are all around and you can hear the screeches and howls.

When we first started towards the Laguna- we noticed that there was a little corner store. It was the perfect place to buy a few more snacks and some ice. We had brought our cooler with us so we had stuff for sandwiches, juice and some beers- after and ice refill and some sweets for the kids we walked down towards the Laguna. The road is dirt and uneven and in her excitement to get to the water our daughter took a nose dive on the path. As a brand new 7 year old she is starting to get used to the scrapped knees and scuffed hands- but – a little hurt she picked herself back up. While she did so the wonderful family that lives there hurried to her rescue.

This is one of my favorite things about living in Mexico and the Mexican people in general—they love children and they love to help. In the states we have a very hands off approach to getting into each other’s lives. Here in Tulum- that is not the case- people are always there to help you and care for you at every turn. ESPECILLAY children. It is such a wonderful place to visit with kids. You never feel like your kids are imposing or that other people are annoyed with your kids. As a mother- and one who wants to enjoy herself too- I love this. But anyway… side note

As my daughter arose from her newly acquired injury- we were greeted by the warm smiles of a local Mayan woman and her husband who had rushed to her aid, followed closely by her 2 adorable kids. It was so sweet. They came out with tissue, smiles and a balm of some kind that they asked if they could put on her wounds. Knowing full well the magic of anything that Mayan women put on their kids I was willing and even a little eager. The balm they put on her immediately soothed her. I am sure that much of it was also the kindness of these people. After she was clearly okay, the family went one step further by the dad getting his tricycolo, often referred to as the Mayan Limousine, and giving Lena a ride down to the Laguna. It was so sweet.

After about 100 meters we were greeted with one of most beautiful images that I have seen. A large stunning Laguna- completely clear and empty. It was amazing. By the time that we had arrived it was about 1:00 in the afternoon. The sun was already casting shadows off the far end of the Laguna and the colors that rose off the water were incredible. We sat our cooler down and it took all of 4 seconds for the kids to go jumping off the dock into the amazing fresh water of the Laguna. We stayed there for about 2 hours- swimming- playing- talking and laying in the sun.

During our playing we had a few groups that were on walks in the reserve either coming or going stop for a moment to take some pictures. The Laguna does offer walking tours into the reserve and points out monkeys along the way and also give you information about the various plants and animals that you will find there. You can totally do the walk on your won- but you will get so much more out of it if you get the tour. They can tell you so many stories and facts that you would not otherwise hear or know.

We took the kids for a long walk in the jungle and it was so much fun. We walked and walked and took random turns and kept walking. It was great. You could hear the monkeys all around you. We saw many on our walk and such a fun time. Monkeys to kids are such magic. Well to anyone really and this place is full of them. It was a truly magical day and one that I think everyone who visits Tulum should experience.

Sorry for the disappearance! But we are back!

Well, as you can tell, it has been a long time since my last post. Things have been so amazingly crazy. Wonderful but insane. Posadas, house guests, camping, small Mayan villages, babies being born (in a hammock!!!) more on that later! and so many wonderful nights out in Tulum listening to the great music and talents of Tulum's best!

We have had a wonderful holiday enjoying friends and family, trips to the Sian Ka'an, visiting friends throughout the Yucatan, and living all that Tulum has to offer. We are sorry for not posting all of our adventures. We promise- so many great updates are coming. Enjoy!

This new year kicks off the 2011 music season! I love it. There are amazing performances, Djs bands and happy hours ALL OVER TULUM. Our resolution for 2011 is to bring you the most up to date and wide spread calendar of events in Tulum, Mexico, updated weekly!!!!!!

With so many wonderful shows going on- you will never again sit in your apartment or hotel room and wonder..."I wonder what is going on tonight?" simply go to http://www.tulumliving.com/ and see all of the classes, workshops, performances, Live music and DJ parties that Tulum has to offer.

If you want your events on the Tulum Living Events Calendar email us at TulumLiving@yahoo.com.

Stay tuned as we post more and more about all of the wonderful places in Tulum. A new decade has brought new energy!

See you in Tulum!

Halloween in Tulum

Halloween in Tulum is defiantly celebrated. Mexico in general celebrates the holiday of Dia de los Muertos. The Day of the Dead. I will write that post in a little bit. But whether it is because of the large number of ex pats that live in the area or a trend through out Mexico- Halloween was in full force.

The festivities started as early as Friday. We chose to head north to Puerto Morelos where some friends live. It was a fun day in the main square- kids and adults all dressed up and artisans selling all of the traditional artisan favorites. One of my favorite bands was playing and that was great. The name of the band in Bandicaro. I need to check the spelling and get a cd of their music. They are great. After a great night in Puerto Morelos we headed back to Tulum.

Saturday was the big party day for Halloween in Tulum. There were parties heard all over the main avenue and the beach. We chose to head to Pepenero's first. We all got dressed up and headed out to town. Pepenero's was filled with many of our favorite people. And we all had a great time- dancing and laughing. There were many other parties this night as well. It was our plan to go to more then just 1 but we had such a good time we stayed in Pepenero's.

On Sunday all of the adults and kids in Tulum geared up for a big night! We chose to blow off some sugar induced craziness with a jont to the beach. You have to love a few hours at the beach. It just re centers you.

We had a large group of people meet up at our house to send the kids out for trick or treating. The band of kids that we had were like an army marching up the streets taking no prisoners. New kids seeing that they were clearly out numbered joined our brood. It was a great site.

As the evening went on it was time to rinse off the crazy make up and get the kiddies into bed and let the grown ups go out to play. Great costumes could be found all over the place. Great music and laughter could be heard from bars and restaurants all over the avenue and Bar 307 was no exception. That is where we chose to go. There was a cover which is not the norm in Tulum but on a night like this it is to be expected.

A good time was heard by all and we danced until the early morning hours. I did not hear any reports of craziness or any unsafe behavior. It seems that all Tuluminarians celebrated without any major problems and you have to love that.

Next up is the Day of the Dead- and that is 1 more excellent tradition. Stay tuned.

Tortuga Festival-And the lights came on! Just in time for the dancing

This past weekend Tulum and the Rivera Maya have celebrated the annual Festival de las Tortugas and it has been great. With 4 days of great events I have not been able to make it to all of them and I know that I really missed out. All of the events for this great festival are focused on conservation and protection of these amazing creatures.

A large group of young adults from Global Vision Initiative organized and executed events beautifully. This is from the main website for GVI. I think it gives the perfect description as to who they are. “Global Vision International (GVI) runs responsible volunteering programs in over 40 countries around the world. We offer volunteers the chance for a hands-on experience by personally contributing to important conservation initiatives and community projects. Volunteer programs run from one week to 2 years.”

They have many great trips and opportunities on their website. Check it out HERE http://www.gviusa.com/ for more information. This particular excursion was for people who were interested in Scuba diving and marine conservation. So our Tortuga Festival was perfect for them. They have participated for over 8 years and the whole event was amazing. Check out the Mexico website for more info http://www.gviusa.com/programs/central-america/mexico/marine-conservation-expedition-mexico/home

It was interesting this particular day because whether by accident or by design, the city was working on our street light. The 1 street light we have in town and it is out all day- well so is the rest of the power to the whole town. Tulum went dark for over 9 hours. The entire city of Tulum had no power. This went on mostly as normal but as the day went on and there was still no power things started to get interesting.
That evening was the big event at the casa de la culture. Not thinking much of it we got ready for the dance performance and headed down. It was great. The moment you walk in you see the energetic group from GVI with face painting, the egg dropping game, puzzles, pin the head on the Tortuga and dozens of other games and tables spread throughout and dozens of kids crowded around them learning about Tortugas, this special area and how to protect both of them.

Also throughout the cultural center were displays of amazing art, craft, jewelry, and food. It was an amazing array of color, smells, and kids in brightly colored clothing and face paint. But as we were about to start the dance performance- there still was no electricity- for the whole town!!! After a few hours and trying to find out what the plan was- the sun had set and it was getting dark fast-. Although it was sort of cool to see so many candles lit along the streets of Tulum- in little taco bars and windows. And then- wouldn’t you know it!!!!- BAM! The lights came on. Everyone was so thrilled and the show began.

The performances were amazing. Proud parents, friend’s family, the community of Tulum and the great group from GVI watched the talented individuals and cheered and praised. It was an amazing night. And we were in store for more. The sand castle beach day was in the morning so we headed home to get a good night sleep.

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!

Yoga Kids at Inspirit Tulum

today turned out to be a great day. I heard about a kids class down on the beach at my friends shop Inspirit. This was going to a Yoga KIDS class. Immediately I jumped at the chance to take the kids down to the beach. We had already finally gotten all of our laundry done so we ready to head off.

The water was as clear and calm as I could have imagined. It was amazing. I floated atop the waves for over an hour with no disturbance. It was beautiful. There is such a peace that comes to you here in Tulum. Especially when you are in the water. You could see clearly down to the soft sand and the water was almost like looking through bullet proof glass.

The kids went into their Yoga Kids class knowing that it was going to be amazing. InSpirit is a very special spot on Tulum Beach and one of my favorite places for classes. The facility is beautiful but the approach to health and wellness is even more amazing. The love and care for everyone - especially children warms my heart.

I got to watch the class a bit from a distance and I was so thrilled about how the kids responded and how happy and into it they were. There is a very nice energy from this spot and I look forward to taking my kids to more classes.

In Spirit - The Soul of Art

Let me first say that I totally love everything about this place. It offeres the very best of everything for wellness and self love. I am going to write a much longer post about the specifics of all that this place has to offer but this post is to put out the class schedule. This wonderful location has a beautiful screened palapa to enjoy these amazing classes utilizing the magical talents of Tulum's talented artists and healers.

Monday/ Lunes
8:00 - - Yoga
10:00 -- Yoga
4:00 -- Capoeira
5:00 -- AcroYoga

Tuesday/Martes

8:00 - - Yoga
10:00 -- Kundalini
4:00 -- Yoga
5:00 -- Prenatal

Wednesday/Miercoles

8:00 - - Yoga
10:00 -- Yoga
4:00 -- Kundalini
5:00 -- YogaKids

Thursday/Jueves
8:00 - - Yoga
10:00 -- Kundalini
4:00 -- Yoga
5:00 -- Prenatal

Friday/Viernes
8:00 - - Yoga
10:00 -- Yoga
4:00 -- Capoeira
5:00 -- YogaKids

Saturday/Sabado

10:00 -- YogaKids

Sunday/Domingo

10:00 -- YogaKids

** Private and special timing available with advanced notice.

Casa de la Cultura Tulum

Here is a list of the current classes at the casa de la cultura. The casa de la Cultura is wonderful because there are so many great classes and the techers keep the money that they earn. Part if the inscription goes to the actual Casa de la Cultura to help keep it running and is good for 1 year.



To join a class you can simply go to the Casa de la Cultura and speak to the teacher.
Yes it is in Spanish but you can figure it out. :)


ARTES PLASTICAS
CURSO DE VERANO:l "RECICLANDO"
Mtra. Laura Patricia Bernal Jardón
Niños y niñas de 6 a 13 años
Lunes a viernes de 4:00-6:00 p.m.
reutiliza, recicla y forma todo lo que la imaginación
proyecte para la creatividad.
Fecha: de 1 al 16 de julio
INCRIPCIONES ABIERTAS
Inscripción: $ 55.ºº
Mensualidad: $ 55.ºº

BORDADO
Mtra. Georgina Blanco Chi
Mayores de 9 años
Lunes a Viernes 5:00-7:00 p.m
Inscripción: $ 55.ºº
Mensualidad: $ 55.ºº

DANZA FOLKLÓRICA
Mtra. Maritza Maricruz Ramírez Kinil
Lunes a Viernes
6-12 años de 4:30-6:00 p.m.
13 años en delante de 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Inscripción: $ 55.ºº
Mensualidad: $ 55.ºº

MÚSICA (Guitarra)
Mtro. Natan Ignacio Vital Cortez.
Lunes a Viernes
A partir de 9 años de 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Jóvenes y Adultos de 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Inscripción: $ 55.ºº
Mensualidad: $ 55.ºº

TAE KWON DO
Mtro. Isaias Chávez
Lunes, miércoles y viernes
niños y niñas
de 4 a 6 años de 5:00-6:00 p.m.
de 6 a 11 años de 6:00-7:00 p.m.
mayores 12 años de 7:00-8:00 p.m.
Mensualidad: $ 300
Inscripción: $ 100

BALLET CLASICO INFANTIL
Mtra. Caty Dominguez
Niñas de 4 a 12 años
Martes y jueves de 4:00 a 6:00 pm
Mensualidad $300.
Inscripción $100 pesos.

DANZA CONTEMPORÁNEA
Mtra. Caty Domínguez
Martes y jueves de 6 a 8 pm
Mensualidad $300.
Inscripción $100 pesos

DANZA FLAMENCO
Mtra. María Díaz
Infantil
Martes y jueves de 5:00 a 6:00 pm
Jóvenes y adultos
Principiantes
Martes 10:30 y sábados 12:00
Intermedios
Lunes y viernes 11:00 a 12:30
Avanzado
Miércoles y sábado
10:00 am a 12 md
Mensualidad $400 pesos

DANZA FOLKLORICA
"SEMBLANZAS DE MEXICO"
Mtra. Maricarmen Gallegos
Sábados 2:00 a 3:00 pm (Infantil)
5:00 a 7:00 pm (Adultos)
Inscripción $50 pesos
Mensualidad $50 pesos

INICIACIÓN MUSICAL Y ENSAMBLE
Mtro. Mauricio Mota
Sábados de 10:00 a 13:00
y de 13:00 a 16:00 pm
Costo $50 pesos por clase

INICIACION AL PIANO
Mtro. Bernardo Ramírez Azcoitia
Lunes, miercoles y viernes
3:00 4:00 pm y 7:00 a 8:00 pm
Costo $800 pesos mensuales
o $100 pesos por clase
Material: Cuaderno pautado, lapiz,
sacapuntas y goma.

CORO DE TULUM
Mtro. Antonio Reyes
Martes y jueves
de 6:00 a 8:00 pm
Inscripción $100 pesos
Mensualidad $300 pesos.

YOGA
Instructor: Fabián Salazar
Lunes, miércoles y viernes
8:30 a 10:00 am
Costo por clase $50 pesos

HATA YOGA
Instructora: Lucrecia Rivera
Martes y jueves de 8:00 a 9:30 pm
Costo por clase $50 pesos
INICIAMOS 14 DE JUNIO

AEROGIMNASIA
Combinación de gimnasia reductiva
y ejercicios aerobicos
Mtra. Evangelina Villamil de la Garza
Lunes, miércoles y viernes de 8 a 9 pm
Mensualidad $300 pesos

CORTE Y CONFECCIÓN
Mtra. Honoria Balam Gómez
Martes y jueves
de 6:00 a 8:00 pm
Mensualidad $300 pesos
INICIAMOS 20 DE JULIO

INGLES INFANTIL
Niños y niñas de 9 a 12 años
Mtra. Judith Castillo Chan
Lunes, miércoles y viernes
de 6:00 a 7:00 pm
Inscripción gratuita los primeros 10
Inscripción $100 pesos
Mensualidad $300 pesos

INGLÉS PARA ADULTOS
Mrta. María Pía
Lunes, miércoles y viernes de 8 a 10 am
Lunes, miercoles y viernes de 3 a 5 pm
Sábados de 8 a 11 am
Duración 6 meses
Costo por semana $250 pesos
Inscripciones abiertas hasta el 15 de marzo.

ITALIANO PARA ADULTOS
Mrta. María Pía
Martes y viernes de 8 a 10 am
Costo por semana $250 pesos

TALLER DE LENGUA MAYA
Para principiantes
Lecto-escritura
Mtro. Aniceto Velázquez Chi
Martes de 3 a 4 pm
Martes de 4 a 5 pm
Jueves de 10 am a 12:00 hrs
Costo de recuperación:
$50 pesos mensuales

LUDOTECA TULUM
Curso de Verano "Te quiero saludable"
del 19 de julio al 6 de agosto 2010
Lunes a viernes
9:00 a 12:00 hrs (niños y niñas de 6 a 12 años)
1:00 a 4:00 pm (niños y niñas de 4 a 5 años)
Rquisitos
Copia del acta de necimiento
Comprobante de domicilio
No. de telefono celular
Inscripciones abiertas
TOTALMENTE GRATUITO

Charlie's Restaurant -Bar and Gallery ***

Charlies restaurant, bar and gallery sit in the middle of Tulum pueblo on the main avenue of Tulum. This is a very lively spot that has as much activity bustling inside of it as there are color that surround it.

With the front part of the restaurant right on the main Avenue it is a great spot for people watching. But if you are looking for a more secluded time, step further back into the restaurant to the open courtyard and art gallery in the back.

This part of the restaurant is where all of the action can be seen for the wonderful performances that come through. Flamenco performances are common here in the busier season and are a real treat to see. During the slow season there is a little bit less action unfortunately but Charlie's is always a good time.

One of my favorite things about Charlie's is that it is so easy to wait for people who are coming to town on the ADO bus. The ADO bus station is right next door to Charlie's. With the buses never having an exact timing- I always tell people to meet me at Charlie's. That way I can sit there and enjoy a drink and a snack and wait for them in comfort instead of just sitting in the bus station. And on the flip side, if my friend gets in early then they can sit and relax while they wait for me to show up.

The food at Charlie's covers the spectrum of Mexican cuisine. Not a huge amount of surprises. The food is usually pretty good. There are a number of things that I wish had a lot more spice but I think that is a side effect of living in the Yucatan and getting used to putting hot sauce on EVERYTHING. The guacamole is not my favorite. It is more cream than I like. I am once again a little picky on this. I like my guacamole very chunky and with very few ingredients. But I also only need to make enough for my family so that probably makes a difference.

The ambiance at Charlie's is one of the best in town. With a remarkable collection of artwork all over the walls, you cannot step into Charlie's and feel sad. The colors and the life of the place simply will not allow for it.

I love getting a margarita (served in the appropriate short and thick glass- rather then the atrocious and garish huge fish bowl.) These margaritas are well made, and strong. This is one of me favorite places to grab a margarita.

Also the sopa de Lima is great. My kids love it and it has a ton of flavor. the fish dishes here are great and I cannot wait to try some more of the food. If you like your food hotter I would ask them to bring you some hot salsa. The salsa at the table is great as well.


Right in the center of Tulum town right next to the ADO. a fantastic spot for life music, amazing art work, killer margaritas, and really great people. A trip to Tulum is always improved by a trip to Charlies.

Quality babysitter in Tulum

Every time that I have gone on vacation since having children it has been a very different vacation from the ones when it was just my husband and I. There are so many wonderful activities that we get to experience as a family but then there are others that do not get to happen.


Living in Tulum I have seen so many famlies come to the area and have to miss out on certain activities because of the group that they are traveling with. The ruins are amazing but they can be difficult with a young child, for example. And I know how wonderful a dinner on the beach, sitting under the moon as the Caribbean Sea crashes just meters away from you. There are wonderful bars and clubs that really get your heart pumping on a hot tropical night. I want everyone to have the chance to experience some of those magical memories. For those who are looking to experience kite boarding on the winds of Tulum or exploring the underwater caves of the Yucatan, we can provide child care so that you are free to wonder in all of the beauty that is Tulum

Contact us for high quality babysitters. Our babysitters speak English and most have children of their own. You can feel assured that your children are being well looked after and are enjoying Mexican hospitality in the safety that we mothers expect.

Kids can enjoy outside activities in the park and in the kids pool as well as games and books. Healthy snacks of things such as tropical fruits and yogurt keep kids energy up and bellies full.

Now you can enjoy all aspects of your vacation. Contact us at TulumLiving@yahoo.com or via phone: Mexico: (984)119-7397 USA: (415)738-0739

Dona Tina's Concina Economica ***

This is the oldest restaurant in Tulum. Open since 1960 - this place still bring locals back again and again. The woman who runs it - Dona Tina has been running this place for years. I heard that she was one of the very first politicians in the area but I am getting more information. Something about staging a boycott of sex until their husbands did something. I am going to get more info.


This place is great. It sits on the main avenue all the way towards the edge of town. The old part of the restaurant is a large palapa. You can tell from the construction that it has been there for a long time. It is fantastic. Such a cool place.

I am sorry there was a light in the way when I took the picture of the sign.

The restaurant has been expanded and there is a new concrete section as well. The bathrooms are in this area too.

The food was great. Very great prices and a large amount of food. I cannot imagine any where else in Tulum giving as much food for that price. I got steak a la Mexicana. Your basic skillet of onion, pepper etc with beans and rice with tortillas and Ruben got a breaded steak.

The kids got horchatas and they were very good. Ruben likes the really fake processed kind so he did not like it but I did.

Trecelunas Restaurant ***

After finishing my yoga class I had to wait for a little over an hour for a meeting that I was having on the beach. I decided to go and get a small bite to each since I was starving. I rode my bike down the to the first busy area.

On Tulum's beach road there are areas where the hotels and very far apart and feel far apart and there are parts of the road that have a more shop, restaurant, hotel feel. This area has a few things that are all right there.

As I was riding by, this restaurant's sign out front caught my eye.Fresh bread, herbal tee, iced coffee to go?!?! This looked promising.

I sat down and ordered a simple bowl of fruit and yogurt with granola. I was really happy with the amount of granola in the bowl. I always like a good amount of crunch.

The iced coffee was great and the Amanda was really wonderful. She is a Canadian who has lived in the area for many years. She is a wealth of info and a great fun person to talk to you.

The restaurant also has 4 little rooms for rent but I have not seen them yet or know anything about them. When i find out I will adjust this post.

In the restaurant are some great pieces of art work for sale as well as some beautiful items like journals and candles. I also really like that there were so many books that people could use. That is always nice.


While looking at the menu I noticed there were a bunch of sandwiches that looked really yummy. Amanda said that they are happy to prepare some sandwiches to go which would be perfect to take on a road trip to Coba or to a cenote or to the beach across the road.

There had out their dinner grill menu and it looked great. I cannot wait to come back and check out what else they are going to add to their menu as they are currently making a new menu with a new chef as well. Something more to look forward too!

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.