Mexico certainly has no shortage of seaside resorts but Tulum, located on the Yucatan Peninsula, is renowned internationally as one of the finest sites for investigating Mayan ruins. Historically, Tulum likely served as a central defense post for the Mayans and the city today boast remnants of an ancient protective wall that once surrounded it. It is believed that the city was originally called Zama but renamed in recent times after the Mayan word for “wall.” As it sat at the intersection of major land and sea trade routes, Tulum was once a thriving civilization that today stands as one of the best remaining examples of fortified Mayan cities and is home to a host of ruins and artifacts. With various temples, fortresses, and buildings to explore it is no wonder that Tulum attracts tourists from around the world.
In addition to the historical significance of the region, Tulum benefits from its location on the Mayan Riviera. Just 80 miles south of Cancun, tour buses have been regularly delivering visitors for day trips to the ruins for years. Yet recently, the city is beginning to build a name for itself in its own right. Development in Tulum was initially spurred by the popularity of the archaeological site but the town and hotel district are expanding such that the city is highly respected beyond its link to Mayan cultures. The warm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean meet long stretches of silky white sand and the kinds of ocean adventures associated with Mexican resort towns are on hand. From snorkeling, diving, and parasailing to swimming and kayaking, the welcoming Caribbean Sea awaits you in Tulum. Beyond the coastal attractions throughout the area, you’ll also have the jungles to explore. Fresh water cenotes which connect to underground water ways can be toured for a one-of-a-kind diving experience. Combining these splendid historical artifacts and buildings with the natural beauty that travelers identify with the Mexican Caribbean, Tulum has quickly become a favorite destination for visitors to Mexico.
Finally, as the tourism industry in Tulum has continued to expand, business and infrastructure developments have followed. The city center offers a range of culinary delights, unique markets and shops, and hotels while maintaining a charming small-town feel that is highlighted by its friendly and welcoming citizens. It seems almost shocking that a town which is home to some of the best and most visited Mayan ruins in Mexico as well as a thriving tourist industry has managed to stay so quaint. Nevertheless, in Tulum you’ll find the amenities and activities offered by big name resort towns like Cancun or Puerto Vallarta as well as a vibrant and thriving Mexican culture that holds strongly to its roots.
In recent years, Tulum has become the target of much real estate investment. Hotels, condos, and other housing developments have made their mark and yet Tulum continues along much as it has always been. Because it is a much smaller city which only recently gained attention as a beautiful tourist destination, home buyers can still find some great deals in the area. Retirees and expatriates or even those shopping for a vacation home will certainly be attracted to Tulum’s stunning landscapes and marvelous ruins but also to the relatively inexpensive properties that can be found. Tulum might even be described as one of the best places in Mexico to get a bargain vacation home without sacrificing the beaches, activities, and amenities that have become synonymous with Caribbean coastal resort destinations. Plus, as the region continues to gain more recognition world wide as one of Mexico’s premier tourist spots, home owners can expect to see a very quick return on investment. Regardless of whether you’re looking for a vacation home or a place to retire in peace, Tulum certainly warrants your attention.
