Guest writer Lydia Lane and her husband Michael share their mini-moon in Tulum:
Mini moon [/ˈminē –ˈmo͞on]: a short honeymoon or weekend love fest.
From Instagram to travel blogs, I felt inundated with stunning photos of Tulum, Mexico. Like a siren’s song, I too needed to experience the beauty and laid back vibe Tulum seemed to exude online. In preparation of my first wedding anniversary, I suggested it to my husband, Michael. After a bit of preparation, plans were solidified. We flew into Cancun, immediately said adios and began our drive due south down the Yucatan peninsula toward Tulum.
We stayed at the lovely hotel, Casa Violetta. Our quaint open-air room, called Iris, was filled with Mexican fabrics and organic elements. Located right on the ocean, mornings were greeted with the sound of crashing waves serenading the arrival of my favorite new breakfast, chilequiles. We used our room key to order food and drink at the restaurant and bar, and also had designated Iris beach chairs so no matter what time of day we headed to the beach we always had a prime spot on the sand.
Tip: Even if you don’t stay at Casa Violetta, you MUST try the food.
Traveling to a beach town I knew make-up would be the last of my worries. Tinted moisturizer and a smattering of cream blush would be all that I needed, but sunscreen and after beach care was a major priority. Island Girl Co. makes the most amazing body butters and scrubs which are essential after a day on the sand. The coffee scrub is delicate on sun kissed skin and the body butter provides incredible moisture and glow to your skin without being greasy.
I wanted to see everything Tulum had to offer, but I also didn’t want to over schedule myself to the point of exhaustion. This was meant to be a relaxing weekend! I did a little research and tried to choose a variety of activities I thought Michael and I would both enjoy:
Both foodies, I signed us up for an authentic Mexican cooking class at Rivera’s Kitchen. Lily opens her home, shares family recipes and educates you on local ingredients and flavors. A must!
Overlooking the ocean, this ancient Mayan seaport dates back to 1200 – 1521 A.D. Make sure to get to the ruins early to beat the crowd or view the ruins by sea.
If you want to get up close and personal with nature, Cenotes has large underwater sinkholes filed with fresh water. It’s a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving.
A great couples activity that goes perfectly with the sultry climate is learning to tango on the beach at La Zebra. Classes are offered every Friday.
Or just lounge – I’m talking about a margarita in hand, enjoying the sun and sand ALL day. Bliss.
Tulum Play List:
James Taylor – Mexico https://youtu.be/FsglRLoUdtc
Fleetwood Mac – Everywhere https://youtu.be/FsglRLoUdtc
Ingrid Michaelson – Far Away https://youtu.be/hitU2jGC41o
Plain White Ts- Rhythm of Love https://youtu.be/JWiwuiT58Yc
Matisyahu – Sunshine https://youtu.be/E_Vt4MlbM0c
Jack Johnson – Got you https://youtu.be/dBWFUVq85gs
Coldplay – Paradise https://youtu.be/1G4isv_Fylg
Dave Matthews – You and me https://youtu.be/7f4TItnxVOw
Vance Joy – Riptide https://youtu.be/uJ_1HMAGb4k
Bob Marley – Jamming https://youtu.be/oFRbZJXjWIA
Sublime – Santeria https://youtu.be/LTCyZvb2Uzw
311 – Amber https://youtu.be/SUFSB2plwzM
Ziggy Marley – Beach in Hawaii https://youtu.be/LVdRxP0AJRc
Pursuit of Happiness – Lissie (cover) https://youtu.be/fqIFZFwMClE
Guest writer Lydia Lane on Instagram @LydiaLane