M A Y A N
M A G I C
A N D
W E L L N E S S
BY GREG PLUMMER
TUCKED AWAY ALONG THE CARIBBEAN SEA AND SURROUNDED BY THE LUSH JUNGLES OF
THE YUCATÁN PENINSULA, TULUM AWAITS. JUST SHY OF A TWO-HOUR DRIVE FROM CANCÚN
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, THIS ONCE SLEEPY TOWN IS NOW THE BEACH DESTINATION
FOR ALL THINGS WELLNESS. TULUM IS AN ECO-FRIENDLY PARADISE, CULTURALLY RICH,
AND INTENTIONALLY MUCH MORE LAID BACK THAN ALTERNATIVE BEACH DESTINATIONS.
BOHEMIAN BEACH VIBES ARE IN ABUNDANCE.
do
stay
When in Tulum, it is highly recommended to get off the beaten path
and soak up some of the magical history of the region. It is sure to
leave you in awe. Authentic Tours Tulum incorporates the local culture
and traditions of the Mayan community into its many tour offerings.
It accomplishes this by supporting the Mayan community to work in a
sustainable way within their own surroundings instead of being bused
to large resort properties in Cancún or Playa Del Carmen.
Journey back in time to the ancient city of Muyil. Built by the native
Mayans more than 1,000 years ago, it is one of the only Mayan cites
set in the tropical forest. It has its own waterway that goes from the
tropical forest all the way to the Caribbean Sea through a lagoon system
in the northern part of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. For one of the
most relaxing experiences in Tulum, sit back and flow with the peaceful
current of the Sian Ka’an waterway as it gently carries you downstream.
Accompanied by the tropical birdsongs and the tranquility of the area,
you’re guaranteed to feel at peace in all the natural beauty.
No trip to Tulum is complete without a spa day. Yäan Wellness was
born from the magic of Tulum. It is a center of wellness and healing,
where you will find your inner and outer beauty in the integration of
mind, body, and soul. From the moment you pass the burning flame,
you will be immersed in the elements of fire, air, water, and earth, and
feel at peace with Yäan’s elegant and organic design.
FLYWASHINGTON.COM 50 AUTUMN 2019
Tulum has lodging accommodations galore. Travelers looking to
enjoy their time with traveling companions in the privacy of their own
spacious beach hideout should look no further than the Zorba Beach
Homes — an all-suite property whose fully furnished villas range from
a breathtaking two-bedroom penthouse to an expansive five-bedroom
villa with a private seaside swimming pool.
Health and wellness is a priority at the resort, and visitors will find
plenty of opportunities onsite for reflection and relaxation. In addition
to seasoned yoga instructors, Zorba Beach Homes offers an onsite chef
who is happy to craft vegetarian and allergy-friendly menus.
Guest looking to have a day at the beach with friendly care takers
at your beck and call should check out Casa Malca just a short stroll
from the Zorba Beach Homes and the largest house on Tulum beach.
Once the fabled beach house of Pablo Escobar, the property has been
transformed into a sanctuary of good vibes, with a decor that consists
of contemporary works of art and a backdrop of white sands and
turquoise Caribbean waters. The roof terrace, complete with a bar and
360-degree views, is the best spot in Tulum to take in the sunset.