Eventful. That's the word. Moving to Tulum, Quintana Roo has been a series of unfortunate events ~ but here are my honest first impressions.
01The Weather
Tropical climate. Familiar territory from previous residency ~ but that doesn't make it easier. Temperature averages around 31°C with 93% humidity. Uncomfortable is an understatement.
High heat and humidity are not kind to skin. That alone is a dealbreaker worth mentioning.
02The Beaches
The Caribbean is undeniably beautiful. But relative to the Philippines? Ordinary. The region's cenotes and Mayan ruins are far more compelling than the coastline.
Public beach access exists ~ but the good spots run $30–50+ USD to enter. That adds up fast.
03The Prices
First-world costs on developing-world infrastructure. Accommodation aligns with what you'd pay in a major European city ~ but water needs purification, AC usage spikes electricity bills, and conveniences like dishwashers simply don't exist here.
The savings you expect don't materialise.
04Transportation
A personal vehicle is essentially required. Colectivo vans cover limited routes, and taxis charge approximately $30 USD for short rides. I rented a car initially at $600 MXN/day ~ then switched to a scooter at $5,000 MXN/month. Negotiation is non-optional here.
05The People
Digital nomads, expats, and content creators concentrate in La Veleta and Aldea Zama. Tourists fill the beach zones. Local residents are generally friendly, kind, and humble.
However ~ I experienced police extortion. An unwarranted drug search. Cash taken. AirPods confiscated. No charges filed because there was nothing to charge.
Warning
Police extortion is a documented reality in Tulum. It happened to me. Know your rights, keep cash minimal, and travel in groups where possible.
Tulum and I are incompatible.
It's appealing ~ the cenotes, the Mayan ruins, the nomad community. But the heat, the costs, and the police encounter confirmed it. Some places are beautiful to visit. Not every beautiful place is for everyone.
On to the next.
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