Mama on the Move – Postcard from Dreams Tulum, Mexico

Other posts by MountainMama

When I left my home in Colorado on Wednesday it was 10 degrees Fahrenheit, with light snow falling. Right now in Tulum, Mexico, it’s about 80 degrees, sunny and humid. My skin is drinking in the moisture!

tulumroom.jpgThanks to new friends at the Rivera Maya Tourism Board, I’m on a research trip to learn more about this region of the country, which stretches along the coast south of Cancun to Tulum. I’m staying at the all-inclusive, ultra-lovely Dreams Tulum, which is extremely popular for destination weddings. There are 300 wedding ceremonies held on the beach or in the 40-seat chapel every year, mainly for American and Canadian couples. Three events are scheduled for this weekend, and I’m hoping to catch a glimpse of the ceremony. (The romantic in me loves weddings — anybody’s weddings!)

tulumbed1.jpgMy “Dreams Junior Suite” at the resort is elegantly comfortable, with a contemporary Mexican decor. The buttercream walls, dark wood accents, and soft gold, pumpkin, and taupe bedding and draperies lend a sophisticated feel to the tropical setting. I haven’t had time yet to soak in the huge Jacuzzi tub in the marble bathroom, but it’s on the agenda. Above is the view from my third-floor balcony; I look down to a courtyard with life-size chess and checkers, and that’s the ocean in the distance.

tulumruins.jpgYesterday our group of journalists (and about 800 other tourists) visited the ruins of Tulum. These are well preserved walls, temples, foundations and other structures the Mayans built out of rock from about 1200 to 1500 A.D. The ruins are set on a cliff right next to the beach, and you can cool off into the beautiful turquoise Caribbean Sea after touring the ruins in the hot sun.

We also had fun snorkeling at Xel-Ha, a vast “ecological water theme park” where you can also swim with the dolphins, ride innertubes down a freshwater river, sample snuba, ride bikes, paddle kayaks or simply kick back in one of the many hammocks strung between palm trees (see below). Admission is pricey, $75 for adults (with some activities like the dolphin swim costing extra). tulumxelha.jpgBut guests staying in Cancun or anywhere on the Riviera Maya can buy a package from any number of outfitters that combines a guided tour of Tulum with a half day at Xel-Ha, including transportation from your hotel, drinks, snacks and lunch. Or, if you do choose to spend the entire day at the eco-park, get there early and just plan to get your money’s worth!

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March 7, 2008 | Filed Under Eco Travel, Girlfriend Getaways, Luxury Travel, Romantic Getaways 

Comments

4 Responses to “Mama on the Move – Postcard from Dreams Tulum, Mexico”

  1. Amy @ The Q Family says:
    March 7, 2008 at

    Sounds like such a great trip. The pictures look great as well. I’m jealous! :)

  2. CajunMama says:
    March 7, 2008 at

    MountainMama – I sooo want to be there with you. Have a drink for me!

  3. Mama on the Move - Postcard from Playa del Secreto, Mexico « Traveling Mamas says:
    March 8, 2008 at

    [...] Contest Giveaway – Win a USATourist.com Travel Toiletry ToteAirborne Loses Class-Action LawsuitMama on the Move – Postcard from Dreams Tulum, MexicoAboutHow To Have a Budget Vacation in High End Santa Barbara « Mama on the Move – [...]

  4. Family-Friendly Mazatlan, Mexico « Traveling Mamas says:
    May 15, 2008 at

    [...] Spanish-language school and staying in a downtown condominium. The other week we’ll be at a beachfront resort (think foofy drinks by the pool). We can’t wait! So, if any readers have any tips on what we [...]

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