Tulum, Mexico

[Callalily]

I'm thinking about spending a couple weeks in Tulum, Mexico next winter. I have visited the ruins but have never went into the "city" of Tulum. I've been reading a lot about the area, and it seems easy to get around, although I may rent a car on several occasions.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

[lark]

1. It's so gorgeous there.

Just be really careful if you go swimming in the caves, even ones you pay to get in. We went in late and there was no group or guide but we went in anyway thinking it was well marked. We'd been swimming in there earlier in the day but there were other people there then and plenty of light. WEll, I guess we took a wrong turn and it wasn't well marked and there were no lights and soon we were in total darkness. At least I couldn't see a thing but I have bad night blindness. My husband has good vision and saw a light and we were able to follow it out to the beach. I have to say I had a moment of total panic when we got separated and I could see or hear nothing at all except the distant sound of surf.

Xel-Ha is also an awesome place to go. I think that's the name of the natural aquarium in that area. It's been at least a dozen years since we spent the week there, but we totally loved it, beautiful scenery, friendly people, good food.

[Callalily]

2. Thank you so much or your input.

It is a beautiful area. I did scuba dive in several of the cenotes, which was an awesome experience. We dove in one that was more like cave diving. Did it once, but that was enough for me. I kept thinking if something happened to the dive master, I'd be toast, although there were lines to follow!

I'll take your recommendation about swimming in caves!

[mitch96]

3. I remember going there years ago, good time

Tulum and Xel-Ha were neat.. We did a snorkeling trip and dove under a natural bridge. Inside was a natural pedestal that the Mayans use for ritual sacrifice.. Eerie but neat at the same time. The little bay area had fresh water meeting sea water and made an interesting swirling of the two. Like if you mix oil and water but with out the bubbles. The whole area was only about 10 feet deep. Lots of fish and grasses. If you buy anything don't forget to haggle!
Have a great time!!
m

[Callalily]

4. Thank you for your response.

I know what you man about fresh and sea water meeting. I saw that too while diving. It's call a halocline. Our guide told us about it so we knew what to expect, but I still found myself wiping my face mask thinking something was on it.