TWO DREAMY DAYS IN TULUM2022 SELECT COLLECTION ISSUE

Ancient ruins, hidden caves, world-class cuisine and much more await along Quintana Roo’s dazzling coast. Here’s how to spend two fun-filled days in and around Tulum, Mexico.

DAY ONE

8:45 AM: Your day begins at Hotel Esencia with a relaxed breakfast of pastries, coffee and a stunning view of the Caribbean. After, grab a snorkel and dive in to search for sea turtles.

11:00 AM: Once you’ve rinsed off the salt from your swim, you’re ready to check in for the Cacao Ritual at Esencia Spa. This full-body massage utilizes a special paste ground from the sacred cacao seed, and offers complete and total relaxation.

12:30 PM: It’s time for ceviche, watermelon salad and apple ‘tacos’ for lunch at Mistura, Hotel Esencia’s authentic Mexican restaurant with a Mediterranean twist.

2:45 PM: By private driver, you’re headed south to Tulum to visit the extraordinary SFER IK; this art museum is a piece of contemporary art unto itself, with sculptural corridors of concrete and wood housing a fascinating array of exhibits. Once you’re done, enjoy a stroll along Tulum Beach.

6:30 PM: Dinner reservations are at ARCA, a space that also favors an organic style of architecture. Built around the jungle rather than replacing it, this restaurant features open-fire cooking with an emphasis on traditionallyinspired small dishes for sharing.

DAY TWO

7:00 AM: Learn the true meaning of sun salutations with a sunrise yoga class at Hotel Esencia, then savor a light breakfast from the hotel’s Coffee Bar.

9:30 AM: You’re headed out on a private tour of the Tulum Archeological Site; dating back to 1200 AD, these are the only ancient Mayan ruins set directly on the ocean. Don’t forget to throw bathing suits into your bag before leaving.

12:30 PM: Fortunately, the lunch line moves quickly at Taqueria Honorio, because these tacos are worth waiting for. Enjoy authentic Yucatán flavors like relleno negro de pavo (marinated turkey) and cochinita pibil (roasted marinated pork) before a quick change into your swimming gear.

2:30 PM: You’re ready to explore Cenote Caracol, one of many sacred Mayan sinkholes scattered throughout the Yucatán Peninsula. Although Caracol requires a 4x4 trek through the jungle to reach, it means you’re more likely to have this otherworldly freshwater cave all to yourselves.

5:15 PM: It’s back to the hotel for a shower and some downtime before dinner.

7:30 PM: Experience Japanese cuisine with Mexican influences at Taiyo, Hotel Esencia’s latest culinary addition. From your seats at the Omakasé bar, watch as a chef impressively crafts your 15-course dinner based on seasonal ingredients selected that day.