Falling in love with tulum: My solo adventures in paradise

Written By Heather Jurenka

This summer, I found myself returning to Tulum, Mexico not once, not twice, but three times. Each trip deepened my love for this stunning destination, and I knew I had to share my experiences. From its beautiful beaches to the vibrant local culture, Tulum became my home away from home, and it’s no surprise why so many travelers, like me, are drawn to its magic.

Where I Stayed
During each of my trips, I stayed in the heart of Aldea Zama, a lively and central location that offered the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. My condo was just a 10-15 minute scooter ride from both the City and the beach, making it easy to explore all that Tulum has to offer. Speaking of scooters, I rented mine from MexIGO Moped Rentals, and it was there that I met Ashley and the incredible staff who made my experience unforgettable. Ashley, himself from England, visited during COVID and never left. It was nice having someone who spoke English. Not only did they ensure I had the best wheels in town, but they also became my unofficial tour guides during my stays.

Getting Around
I flew into the newly opened Tulum International Airport, just a 2.5-hour flight from Houston, which made getting there quick and easy. Each time I landed, Pedro from World Class Travelers was waiting for me right out of the gate with my name on a sign, with a black SUV. The service was impeccable—cold towels, WiFi access, AC, and a chilled cerveza (or water) set the tone for my adventures to come. It was always smooth, safe, and luxurious.

Plan on paying around $300-$350 for round trip with them. In my experience it’s worth paying a competitive price for quality service that you know is reliable and speaks English. They can accommodate large or small groups, can assist with other tours and operate in Cancun and Playa Del Carmen.

Beach Clubs and Hotels: My Recommendations

Tulum’s beach scene is unbeatable. Whether you’re lounging with a cocktail or dancing by the ocean, there’s something for everyone. Here are my favorite beach clubs that I highly recommend:

For those looking to stay in top-notch accommodations, while I didn’t stay at these hotels, I visited and can confidently recommend:

Foodie Finds: Where to Eat in Tulum

The food in Tulum is another reason I kept coming back. From hidden gems to world-class dining, here are my absolute favorite spots to eat:

  • Vintage Café Tulum (Aldea Zama) – My go-to! Their breakfast burrito is hands down the best, and believe me, bacon is hard to come by here, but they always have it.

  • Alegria Café – Great for breakfast.

  • Akuma Tiger – Best sushi I’ve ever had, and it’s budget-friendly. It’s a hidden gem even locals didn’t know about!

  • CINCO – A spot where I’m remembered every time. Perfect for ending the night with a drink and great company.

  • Los Morros

  • ARCA – A bit pricier, but the chef’s creations are mouth-watering and unforgettable.

  • Canova Cantina

  • Taco Honorio

  • Gitano Tulum – Amazing breakfast and gelato!

  • WILD

  • Mateo’s - Sports Bar that shows NFL, NCAA, NBA, NFL and more!

Must-See Spots and Tips for Solo Travelers

I visited Tulum solo each time, and not once did I feel unsafe. Here are a few tips if you’re thinking about doing the same:

  1. Groceries: Head to Chedraui for all your essentials. It’s comparable to a Walmart in the U.S.

  2. Water: Always have plenty of bottled water at your accommodation and hydrate often.

  3. Connect with Locals: One of my best tips is to change your location on dating apps to Tulum about a month before your trip and specify in your profile that you’re looking to meet locals for a true, authentic experience. This strategy saved me money and led me to incredible local spots.

  4. Local Shops: If you love festival costumes and accessories, NOVA ERA is a must. AFRODITA, near my condo, was my favorite for versatile outfits that transition seamlessly from the beach to a night out.

Picture-Perfect Moments

Tulum offers endless photo opportunities, and here are my top recommendations for getting the perfect shot:

Let’s Connect!

Tulum has quickly become my favorite getaway, and I can’t wait to share more of my adventures with you. You can follow my journey on Instagram at @just_a_jurenka, where I’ll be posting more photos and tips from my trips.

If you’re a brand or company interested in partnering with me to showcase incredible travel experiences, feel free to reach out through Instagram. I’d love to collaborate and share even more amazing destinations with fellow travelers!

Heather Jurenka
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