TULUM, MEXICO — The Yucatan is filled with Americans and Europeans who have come for the Dec. 21 end of the Mayan Long Count calendar and/or the end of 2012 next week, and those looking to spend time in paradise before the end have come to Tulum.
Boca Paila Road runs along about 10 miles of pristine Carribean beaches, lined with lodging ranging from camping and small affordable cabañas (our thatched roof spot at Pico Beach, booked through Airbnb, is amazing) to expensive luxury hotels, all nestled into verdant tropical foliage.
On south end is the biosphere and biggest cenotes (little lagoons with underwater caves), and on the north is the main Mayan temple and archaeological site in the area, a well-preserved coastal fortress crawling with visitors.
Bay Area residents are well-represented on the beaches of Tulum, and most that we’ve talked to a headed to the Synthesis 2012 Festival in Chichen Itza today or tomorrow. I’m still not sure what to expect from the scene there, but I’m excited to find out to report back tomorrow when the festival begins.