Tulum

About

Tulum was founded around the 13th century by the Mayans as a fortified port, and was one of the last cities the empire built before its collapse. Tulum itself managed to survive about 70 years into the Spanish occupation, eventually being abandoned after being ravaged by Old World diseases. Today, a laid back beach town lies just inland, while the sea-front is lined with idyllic beach bungalows. With powdery white sands and cobalt blue waters, the beaches here are some of the best in Mexico and don’t (yet) see the crowds that flood Cancun. And there’s nowhere else in the world that you can go from exploring a Mayan ruin to swimming with turtles in a matter of minutes. Once you’re done with your fun in the sun, you can unwind at one of the many bars and restaurants, sipping a fruity cocktail, and gorging yourself on some of the tastiest, fresh-focused food Mexico has to offer.