FAQs

Question

Exchanging Money

Answer

- Exchange rate is better at a bank vs. airport - though it is nice to have some Pesos right away for tips, if needed. - It's easy to get Pesos directly from an ATM - An exchange hack for the ATM: There's a prompt to accept or decline the exchange rate, you'll want to select decline and that will give you a better exchange rate. It seems like each bank has its own rate, but is still required to offer the "national" rate. - ATM'S in Tulum have higher fees on the beach road vs a bank downtown

Question

Taxi's

Answer

-Taxi's are plentiful and affordable! Don't be tempted to drive if it's questionable and late ... nobody wants to deal with Policia ;) They're around, and don't enjoy drunk-ass tourista's. - Pesos only - Official Tulum taxi's are white and red. DO NOT GET INTO ANY TAXI THAT ISN'T. -NYC style, just flag one down. Or, if you're at a resort, they'll be waiting and come find you. - Always ask how much it will be before you get in!

Question

Getting around Tulum

Answer

-Tulum is divided into 4 different areas. Keep in mind when choosing places to go and places to eat that you will need tranportation! - Downtown / La Valeta. This is the most authentic part of Tulum. You can get very inexpensive accomodations in town, however, it is very busy and noisy. Lots of great restaurants! - Beach road hotel zone. Lots of cool hotels and restaurants. I don't recommend staying over here because it's super expensive and congested. - Beach road archaeological zone. This is the area Diamantè K is located. This area has a public beach and the road leads to the Tulum Ruins. - Aldea Zama ( half way between town and the beach ) This area is newer. It is the closest area to the beach without staying on the beach. Its about a 5 min drive to the beach and 5 min to town.

Question

Groceries & Alcohol

Answer

Go to the Chedraui! It's a huge grocery store that pretty much has anything you need and more!

Question

Car Rental

Answer

If you rent a car, you'll need to get gas eventually. - The gas stations in Tulum are easier than in Cancun. - Never use a credit card to get gas in MX!! Always use Pesos!

Question

Misc

Answer

Tulum is a part of a national wildlife sanctuary. One thing to be warned about is that it's not allowed to flush toilet paper or hygiene products. There'll be a little waste basket next to the toilet for paper. Coffee drinkers: - The coffee situation is not like the US. Check to see if your room has a coffee maker, some don't. And, if there is one, you'll likely need to buy some. Chedraui is the only place to buy any decent coffee. Lindsey doesn't think so, but I think the Cancun airport is freezing cold. If you run cold, be aware :) Cheeseburger in Paradise at the Cancun airport is legit. Recommended for on the way out.