Go. To. Tulum. I swear, there is some freakish gravitational force in Tulum that makes you want to stay because it’s so awesome. Nature blends into everything.  You find charm mixed with the little bit of zen everywhere you go. Tulum will make even the most pretentious of New York fashion editors let down their hair (or bob) and sing “Kumbaya.” And it is a total foodie town. This holiday definitely falls within my top three best travel experiences.

HOME BASE

Papaya Playa Project

PPP is an eco resort where living is simple, communal and takes place outdoors. It’s gorgeous private beach and Mexican-rustic-hippie-chic vibe make it the perfect relaxing home base. I suggest avoiding the jungle cabanas and opt for an ocean view cabana or casita. If you’re looking for super fast WiFi, a doting concierge and fussy haute cuisine, this is not the place for you. In fact, just don’t come to Tulum, period.

ACTIVITIES

Rent a Bike!

Yoga

This little town summons yogis. Pretty much every lodging establishment has a yoga class.

Rent a Kayak/Kiteboard…or Not

David decided on the “not” option. I don’t blame him.

Casa Cenote

Cenotes are surface connections to subterranean water bodies. Some are in caves, some not. Casa Cenote is a small off the beaten path hole where we were able to enjoy the stunning water and avoid the crowds. There are a ton of different cenote options.

Mayan Ruins-Coba

Visit Tienda De Miel Dzidzilche

On the way back from Coba we spotted this local honey-everything store and stocked up on honey, lotions and candy. I hope they do international shipping because I am obsessed.

EAT

Breakfast at PPP

Waking up, padding over barefoot to the restaurant and sipping on a mug of Mexican coffee while overlooking the pristine ocean was heaven on earth.

Hartwood

Don’t hesitate. Just go. As they take no reservations you have to wait in line and tell them what time you would like to dine. Arrive around 5:30 pm to do so.

Posada Margarita

Sorry, no picture to be had. The Italian restaurant exposed the best of Mexican ingredients on a distinctly Mediterranean plate. The handmade pasta was stunning.

Casa Jaguar

The slightly asian inspired food, the ambiance-really everything-provoked your senses. Casa Jaguar was my second favorite Tulum dining experience.

Del Cielo

Our pick-me-up spot. We came twice for juice, smoothies and homemade kombucha.

Tacolum

A cute, simple taco truck.

Zamas

This bright, colorful establishment is what you think of when you imagine the Yucatán peninsula. Classic, straightforward Mexican.

NOW GO.