H O L A mi amigos! Recapping on a quick getaway out of the cold and into the sun that left me feeling inspired, refreshed, and excited to share…I cannot tell you how full my heart is after visiting the beautiful Akumal and Tulum, Mexico. If you have been to Cancun or the busy mega-resorts that Mexico is renowned for then stop it and book yourself a night’s stay at these beaches instead.
How I did not know about this little mecca prior is a mystery to me, my husband and his father have been visiting for years and I finally had to go and check it out for myself…Finding quaint and untainted locations like Tulum so close by feels like a diamond in the rough…Once in Tulum, you will not pass a golden arch, gas station, Starbucks, billboard, or anything that a normal city skyline would offer. It is a refreshing change to see so much authenticity and culture still marching on.
We had a group of six traveling together and made our casa a rental property Casa Aurora, in Akumal, situated on a beautiful lagoon with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It was charming, equipped with a pool, ocean view, lagoon for snorkeling, bikes, on hand staff, security, and the best guacamole I have had in a long time. The most adorable family owned Italian restaurant, Que Onda which means “what’s up” (everything ordered was a hit), was off the beaten path in Akumal and a stone’s throw away from our casita, made for a quick walk to a good glass of wine and the owners and staff were top notch (thanks for the Centenario Frank)! Also not to be overlooked was the Lol-Ha, which offers knock you off your feet drinks during the day and we put that to the test, (great cheese pizza), and a more formal dinner setting in the evenings (try the scallops). Also La Buena Vida had awesome tree hut style seating options outfitted with little rope dolly’s to bring your drinks straight up tree house style (try the veggie burrito)!
We drove to Tulum twice (short 20 minutes by car) and visited the beaches, the brightly colored hotel bars that dotted the walk along the coast like Zamas and this adorable all pink and swing bar Retirio Maya (great margaritas), took in the sunshine, danced in the waves and had wonderful food (best fish tacos ever) at Mateos along with tasty beverages, espresso and a view of the jungle at sunset that couldn’t be beat. I could have spent an entire day just dedicated to shopping the unique outdoor boutiques lining Tulum’s streets. I would say overall a trip I will repeat and cannot wait to explore more in the future! Enjoy!
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Images | Josh Spiegel Photography
. XO Tamara Brooke