Tulum, Mexico

• Tulum is split into two very different areas: the downtown Pueblo where locals live and the beach zone (Zona Hotelera) that's basically a 10-kilometer strip of boutique hotels and beach clubs. The price difference is dramatic - you'll pay $5 for tacos in Pueblo and $20 at the beach. Most visitors bike or taxi between the two constantly since they're 2.5 miles apart.
• The beach zone has the cenotes, Mayan ruins, yoga studios, and overpriced beach clubs you've seen online. Everything costs at least double what it does in town, and most places charge in US dollars with bad exchange rates. Pueblo has the bus station, supermarkets, bike rentals, and normal Mexican life. Aldea Zama and La Veleta are newer residential areas in between - more expensive than Pueblo but not as extreme as the beach.
• English works fine in the beach zone and tourist spots. In Pueblo you'll need at least basic Spanish for markets and local restaurants. The crowd skews young and wellness-focused, though that mostly means expensive juice bars and yoga classes. Tourist Police patrol the main areas and speak some English - their number is 984-808-0642.
• You'll get around by bike ($8-10/day) or colectivo vans (shared minivans that cost 20-100 pesos). Taxis don't use meters and will overcharge tourists, so agree on the fare before getting in. Pay in pesos when possible. The beach road gets dark between establishments at night, though the clubs themselves have security. Pueblo quiets down earlier than the beach zone.

Spanish is the main language. English works fine in the beach zone beach clubs, upscale restaurants, and tourist businesses. In Pueblo, English is less common - basic Spanish helps. Tourist Police (984-808-0642) have some English-speaking officers. Green Angels roadside assistance (078) is bilingual.

• Dress is casual - shorts, sundresses, and beach clothes work everywhere except churches. Swimwear needs a cover-up when you're walking through town or eating. Beach clubs get fancier at night (think nice linen clothes), but it's not formal.
• Cover your shoulders and knees at churches and Mayan ruins. Basic respect thing.
• Bring cash. Most small places and street vendors only take pesos. Get at least 4,000 pesos ($200 USD) before you arrive - ATMs in tourist areas run out during busy times. Cards work at bigger restaurants and hotels but expect fees.
• Tip 10-15% at restaurants. Use pesos if you have them. Check your bill first - some places add automatic service charges.
• The sun is strong and there's no shade on beaches. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen is banned at some cenotes). Mosquitos swarm around cenotes and at dusk, so pack repellent and cover up in evenings.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency Services: 911. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Most people bike. Rentals cost $8-10 per day and the ride between Pueblo and beach takes 15-20 minutes on flat roads with bike lanes. Some accommodations include bikes. It's hot during the day, so bring water.
• Colectivos (white minivans) run along Avenida Tulum and cost 20-100 pesos depending on where you're going. Flag them down on the street. They're cheap but get crowded and drivers don't always speak English.
• Taxis don't have meters. Standard fares are 60 pesos around Pueblo, 100 pesos to the ruins, 150-250 pesos between town and beach. Negotiate the price before getting in. Cash only, pesos preferred. Drivers often quote higher prices to tourists.
• Uber doesn't work here - the taxi union blocks it. Book taxis through your hotel or use the registered taxi stands.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Tulum with local guides and curated experiences.