First trip report for first Tulum trip

[firecop680]

Well here it goes. My first trip report for my first ever trip to Tulum. I have to say that of all my trips to Mexico this was the most relaxing and the most enjoyable. I am not much of a writer, but I wish I was. I don't think I can come up with the words to properly describe Tulum and the beaches. Tulum makes all of your troubles at home go away. Lucidity happens without even trying!! Thank you for all of your suggestions and help!! Everything that I asked and read about came into play at sometime.

Day 1:
We arrived at approx 1130a. We carried on our stuff, so getting through customs was a breeze. We went right out to the transfers area and found our Cancun Valet ready and waiting. Adrian was a great escort. We took off from the airport and right to the first Pemex we could find. 6 XX's and down 307 we went. They are really coming along with the highway very nicely. The center median is starting to grow grass ans the trees are growing up. I don't understand there thinking though. I would think that they would have started at the airport and worked south. It looks to me like they started around Playa Del Carmen and went both ways. As we came into Puerto Aventuras we had to stop at our face little stand. Taco Paco's. I had 2 shrimp tacos and Donna (wife) had a fish taco. I even bought Adrian a couple. This little cart is hard to see if you are not looking. It is right at the entrance to Puerto Aventuras. These tacos are outstanding and once again I got too hot of a sauce and they made my bald head sweat. Back in the van and off to Tulum. As I have never been this far south in Mexico, this was all new to me. As we came up on Tulum Pueblo, Adrian helped point out some points of interest. We turned down the road to the beach and the anticipation was building as we were close to our destination. As we passed by the Fire Station I gave the guys on duty that day a big USA howdy!!! We got to the beach road and it was lilke I had been there before with the picture that AdGuy put up of the street signs.
As we pulled into Azulik I realized that we were in the jungle. The drive was some kind of stone and lined with palms and foliage. The reception area was open air and very beautiful. We were met with a big smile from Edgar and I knew we were at the gates of "Tulum Heaven".
We got some of the paperwork stuff done and we were on our way to the room. Once we got to the room I knew this was the place. We stayed in the romance villa (#1). This villa was amazing!!!!! The deck led right to a soaking tub that sat on a cliff that overlooked the most beautiful Azul Carribean. I knew then I was in "Tulum Heaven". Edgar had the bar at Copal bring us couple of Coronas to start our trip at Azulik. Those 2 did not last long, and well, you know the rest of the story. We were tired from our day starting at 0300a so we ate at the Copal restaurant for dinner. It was close. (5 min. walk) I had the mixed seafood Ceviche first, then the Tun-Tun Shrimp and Donna had Tortilla soup and salad. All was very good I would recommend it. Sorry AdGuy, forgot the camera (mucho cerveza's). After dinner we were off to our beautiful villa filled with candles. The night sky brought heavy rain and wind, but it didn't bother us a bit, never got wet and who cares were in Mexico!!! Good Night!

[PhyllisB]

Woohhoo! Can't wait to read the rest! I love reading trip reports, especially from first timers. There is a magic there that is undescribe-able and I am glad to re-live that through your eyes!

Phyllis

[firecop680]

With a great nights rest, we awoke to the sea, crashing the waves on the beach.:) I love that sound!!! As always on my vacations I am up at sun up. What a beautiful sight!!! There are no words to explain it but, WOW. This is the place to be. As never being there before we started our day with breakfast at the Copal restaurant. It was close and we knew the dinner had been good. For breakfast I had the American Breakfast, 2 fried eggs, 2 pancakes, potatoes and Donna had the Omlet with mushrooms, onions, cheese and tomatoes. This was a nice pick again, very good. After breakfast it is off to look around the area a little and get my bearings. That is a neat little area. They have a little store with beer, coke, water, tanning lotion, etc. Posada Del sol, Luna Maya, Zahra and Zamas were closer than I had pictured in my mind. We grabbed a taxi and went in town after our walk. We gave 40 pesos to go in town, a few short minutes away. Tulum Pueblo is not like I had pictured either. The town is a working town. The residents were getting there products onto the sidewalks for sale. We really enjoyed town, but it was a quick trip, as we were wanting to get back to our deck. the day was spent just lounging around and enjoying each others company. Lunch was quick with room service bringing us some Guacamole and chips. (more cervezas) As afternoon came upon us we took a walk down the beach to the Tun-Tun beach bar at the neighboring Copal. Little salsa and chips, more cervezas and met some great people. Carlos took care of us like we were the president so a big tip had to come his way!!! For dinner, we tried Zamas with our new found friends. Another great suggestion from my new forum friends. I had the enchiladas and Donna had the Margharita pizza. Both were excellent. The pizza would become my very favorite thing to eat on this trip. After a couple after dinner drinks and listening to the band (very good) we headed to the room for some sleep.

Day 2:

Day 2 started with a long walk. We awoke to another beautiful sun rise and thanked God for it. Our walk took us on a hunt for the infamous Nacho's (AdGuy suggestion). As we walked north on the beach road (and walked , and walked) we found a place that was supposed to be Nacho's.
The sign said Mayan Grill. We kept walking, for fear we had not gone far enough. We walked past Mezzanine and cut onto the beach. Thinking the sign might have been on the beach. It's funny we never did find a sign on the beach. We ended up at El Mirador and cut back up on the road to head back south fearing we missed the sign because we ere on the beach. Funny thing, we never did find the sign, so we stopped at the Mezzanine and had wonderful Juevoes rencheros and banana pancakes. the coffee at the Mezz was the best I have ever had. That coffee makes we want to smack the owner of Starbuck's for putting out such a bad poduct. After breakfast we started our trek back to the Azulik, when low and behold we found Nacho's. Facing south it says Nacho's. Facing north it says Mayan Grill. I guess I need to work on my powers of observation. After arriving back at Azulik the rest of the day was spent as the day before. Lounging in the soaking tub and having some drinks. I hate to say it but dinner brought us back to Zamas. I had to have that pizza again. (problem is I only got a bite of Donna'a the night before) I had a pizza with shrimp and grouper on it and Donna had Chicken Enchiladas. The pizza was to die for!!!!!! (enchiladas were also) Off to bed!!

[minniemex]

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Really brings me back there - keep it up - need http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/23/23_13_19.gif

[firecop680]

Day 4:

This day brings a new adventure... Were heading to town for breakfast at Don Cafeto's.. You the man AdGuy!!! http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_9_1.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxmk788LXUS) This meal brought me 2 fried eggs, beans rice and 2 pancakes, this time Donna followed suit. Outstanding!!!! You can't beat sitting there watching the locals start there day in hopes of big profits and watching the kids in their uniforms going to expand their minds. Life is good!!! We finished off the breakfast and took off on a walk to work it off. Before leaving town today we got some cervezas in town. (much cheaper) Into a taxi for our fast trip to our deck. AdGuy when I figure out this picture trick, I have a picture I took just for you. The cooler was a huge success. (Donna says, you da' man)http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s143/firecop680/DSC00321.jpg
Lunch today did come by way of room service. Ceviche and guacamole. Once again outstanding!!!! After an afternoon of lounging around the soaking tub we headed to happy hour at the Tun Tun beach bar next door for some great salsa and a bucket of beer. The walk back is always further than the walk there.http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/4/4_12_12.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxmk788LXUS) Getting ready for dinner, we got crazy and went back in town to El Mariachi. We opened with some fundido (melted cheese w/torillas). I did learn a valuable lesson while in Tulum. If something is served in a small white cup. It is HOT!!!!
http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/23/23_34_2.gif After the fundido I had Chicken Fajitas and I cannot remember what Donna had. It was all good and cheap!! We had had a long day of sun and cervezas so we had to call it an early night. We didn't get a chance to watch the town wind down for the day. Grabbed a taxi and off to the Azulik. The sky was really clear that night and I did not know there were that many stars. Absolutely breathtaking. Bedtime. Good night!

Day 5:

Day 5 started with another incredible sunrise. The breakfast of choice this morning was Zamas. Something about beach and breakfast seemed to catch my eye. I opted for the Juevos Mexicanos and Donna had the famous Banana pancakes. We were not let down. OUTSTANDING!! http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s143/firecop680/DSC00268.jpg

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After breakfast we headed south. We walked along the beach and around the maya tulum point. When we turned the corner we were taken back.http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s143/firecop680/DSC00274.jpg The view from there was well worth the walk. The beach disappears into the horizon. It is amazing!! We walked to around Ana y Jose's and had to turn around. The sun was beating down on us and we didn't have much sun block on. Didn't want to get burnt. We walked back on the beach road to the room for another tough day of lounging. http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s143/firecop680/DSC00304.jpgWith the afternoon closing in we wandered over to the Tun Tun bar for happy hour. We headed in for dinner after a few Montejo's. Dinner brought Zamas again because we heard they were having a good band that night. Donna had the fish and I had Margharita pizza (love it). We were not disappointed again. Listened to the band then a leisurely walk to the villa. Through the candle lit pathways into the candle lit room. What a beautiful sight!!! Good Night!!



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[firecop680]

Day 6:

Day 6 opens with some sadness... http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_38.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxmk788LXUS) 2 more days... With the sadness comes happiness... The sunrise is here!!!!!!
http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_1_1.gif This day brings with it great anticipation as we head to La Nave for breakfast. I am really in love with Tulum now.. The locals are once again filled with the hope that today is that day for them. I think to myself how blessed I am. I think this morning, is the morning that Tulum changed Donna and I. It puts everything in perspective. We are fortunate to have the opportunities that we have, in a place of endless opportunities. I take a little time everyday to think back to that day and say Thanks. Enough of that... Donna ordered a scramble of some sort and I had Juevos Mexicanos, with the fresh toast that came with it and the juice for 120 pesos. It was fantastic!!! http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s143/firecop680/DSC00252.jpg

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After breakfast came a walk for excercise and to get warmed up for the day. We headed to the supermarket for some cervesas and back to Azulik. We had a real nice day just talking and enjoying one anothers company. Room service for lunch brought cheeseburgers and fries. http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s143/firecop680/DSC00301.jpgI think the burger was better than an american burger just because of the view and location. We didn't make it to happy hour today... Had to take a nap. After the nap, dinner was calling my name. By special request, you'll never guess where Donna wanted to go... Zamas. I was really happy with that. Donna had Chaya Crepes and you guessed it I had pizza. this one had ham, pineapple, olives on it. Once again... FABULOUS!!! A few after dinner cocktails and off we went to the art across the street. Donna got some little things and we took a nice walk back to the room for some candle light talking and sleep.

Day 7:

This day awakens with sadness, as tomorrow we have to travel. I was ready to make the best of it so in a taxi we go and off to La Nave breakfast. I had to soak in the last little bit of optimism that you see in the faces of the locals. As we sip our coffee and reminisce of the days past, we just smile. For the days in Tulum will soon be gone, but never the memories. Donna opted for the pancakes and eggs this morning and I had to have that scramble she had the day before. After the breakfast we made the big loop walkaround, as not to miss anything before going back.
Grab a few more cervezas and to the Azulik we go. This day was filled with all the sun that was offered. We didn't go in until it was almost dark, so for that reason we headed to the Copal restaurant for a close dinner. I had the Shrimp again with mixed vegetables and Donna had the Garlic Fish. To top it off we had a piece of chocolate cake, and I believe it was the top because I couldn't hold anymore. We turned in for the night laughing about the trip that we just experienced. Blow out the candles for the last time and drift off to sleep, serenaded by the sea.








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[firecop680]

Day 8:

Day 8 starts with the best sunrise we had seen yet. What a great way to end the trip. We slowly packed, as we watched out the door. Getting ready to travel back home always brings you back to the reality that is LIFE. We said our final goodbyes to the Azul Carribean and off to Copal for breakfast. Had another American Breakfast and Donna just had toast. Off to check out with Edgar. Checkout was just as pleasant as check-in. The airport was a zoo as always, but we got through pretty quick. As we wait I sit back and think of what we had just done. I have never had a better trip. I truly believe this trip brought Donna and I closer together. I didn't think I could love her anymore, but I was wrong. I wouldn't have thought to be possible. I really believe that. We had such a great time just enjoying each other. I think alot of that was because of the paradise that is Tulum. We didn't experience any of the touristy things or did we go far from the resort, but we absolutely, without a doubt loved it. Tulum changes people and I believe it did me. Thanks to all for their input. Can't get back fast enough, but I guess the wait is half the fun.

[Gale in KY]

BRAVO..your trip report is excellente!
Tulum is good for the soul, no? You can be a beachbum or a tourist..or just a guy with a great girl..or vice versa..but whatever you are, you are always at your best in Tulum! I really enjoyed your report, thanks for sharing your time with Donna, with all of us!

[firecop680]

I wish I could have had better words for you, but that place is truly undescrib-able!!!

[pepper]

Can't wait to read more...when's the next installment??
Sounds like you were really enchanted.

[beachreader]

Sounds like you had a lovely trip. Are you going to post some pictures for us? We're starving for pics!

Is #1 at Azulik one of the ones that sort of looks over onto the Conchita beach, up on that cliff? Or is it fully front-facing over the cliffs? Those were really some cool-looking units, I'd love to check them out sometime, but I just keep wanting my toes in the sand all the time, so I'll just live vicariously through you. :D

[minniemex]

Day 8:
As we wait I sit back and think of what we had just done. I have never had a better trip. I truly believe this trip brought Donna and I closer together. I didn't think I could love her anymore, but I was wrong. I wouldn't have thought to be possible. I really believe that. We had such a great time just enjoying each other. I think alot of that was because of the paradise that is Tulum. We didn't experience any of the touristy things or did we go far from the resort, but we absolutely, without a doubt loved it. Tulum changes people and I believe it did me. Thanks to all for their input. Can't get back fast enough, but I guess the wait is half the fun.

http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_4_9.gif I hope your wife reads this - it made me cry happy tears!!http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_58.gif

GREAT REPORT!!
Now all we need are your pictureshttp://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_13_13.gif

[firecop680]

Is #1 at Azulik one of the ones that sort of looks over onto the Conchita beach, up on that cliff? Or is it fully front-facing over the cliffs? Those were really some cool-looking units, I'd love to check them out sometime, but I just keep wanting my toes in the sand all the time, so I'll just live vicariously through you. :D
__________________

Azulik #1 sits back from the beach and it has a deck that leads to the soaking tub overlooking the beach.

[austxdan]

Great Trip Report,

You made me reminisce quite a bit, as we did quite a few of the same things. Last year was 10 days for us just to relax, which sounds like what your goal was. We didn't go touristy either, just enjoyed each other. I can't remember whether I liked Zamas better for dinner or breakfast, they both rock. Oh those banana pancakes! :D And we also hit La Nave for breakfast - very tasty breads.

So, I'll ask the question: When is your next trip? :confused: After we got all our relaxing in last year, and also fell in love with Tulum, we now have it on our annual list. This year we will rent a car and "do things". There is more to see in Tulum.:cool:

Again, fantastic report. I'd say you're hooked.


Dan

PS - Where are your pictures ???

[firecop680]

Got my pictures loaded onto photobucket... Going to try this posting thing. Wish me luck!!!

[minniemex]

http://www.smiliegenerator.de/s32/smilies-19889.png

[firecop680]

I think that I figured out the picture thing and there are some updates in the report. I know now that I look at the pictures... I need to carry my camera more!!!

[Lynnette]

You ARE a writer.........your narrative along with your photos is wonderful!!! I love your pics of your meals.....I think we're all foodies when we travel. We'll be back in May and I can't wait to see the gorgeous azul water and sunrises again!! Thanks for the wonderful report!!!!!! :)

[AdGuy]

Great job FC! I was glad the recommendations worked out but ESPECIALLY happy you had one of those life-changing moments! In my opinion, that's why people should travel...not to see stuff, take photos, or buy trinkets but to be transformed!

And I'm thrilled to see you now have a return trip planned!!! :)

[firecop680]

I don't know how I can stay away now. I would be back sooner, but I have 2 weddeings to travel to this year and I don't think the funds will be there.

[lianne]

Tulum has a very special gift to give us all, if we choose to accept it. I don't believe you can visit without having at least one life changing moment. Magic is alive and well there, Nature is in her teen years there, full of life, love, beauty, and this contagious sense of living in the moment, till my dying day, I will always be grateful for my gift, a total lunar eclipse over the ocean! I have never recieved a gift quite like it, and can't wait to see what next trip will bring.......:)

[AdGuy]

I don't know how I can stay away now. I would be back sooner, but I have 2 weddeings to travel to this year and I don't think the funds will be there.


Ah yes...the pesky peso (or lack of it) always seems to get in the way! :D

[jvhaas]

what a lovely time you had!!!

[firecop680]

I would have to say perfect!!!