Travelers: Katie James in Tulum
Donned in pared-back flat sandals, we stepped out with Tulum resident Katie James, creative director of byJAMES to explore the beautiful town and beaches of the Mexican gem. Soak up the beautiful nature of Tulum with this pocket guide on where to eat, swim, drink & shop.
Tulum. 8 am, where to wake up?
Delek Tulum, Nest Tulum, Casa Pueblo Beach or Town, Sanara Hotel. These are all beautifully curated spaces that offer great service, quality food and overall experience with the addition of stunning views.
How do you build a routine in a place mainly known as a holiday destination?
This is tricky. Not only is it a destination by itself, but there is a constant rotation of friends who visit (rightfully so) and are there FOR vacation so you have to partake in the activities. However, for the most part, I am usually home working until I pick up my kids from school and then I have a strict routine with them on school days. Night time and weekends, I let flow freely.
Where is brunch?
Typically our close group of friends will rendez-vous at a friends hotel on the beach and lounge, order food from the hotel. Our favorite spots are: KA’AN (in sian kaan), Casa Pueblo beach, Casa Violeta, NEST, beTULUM, Delek.
Time for an early swim. Any hidden beaches only locals know about?
Sian Ka’an is a natural biosphere that you enter through the archway when you get to the end of the beach road heading south. Just look for any opening that isn’t private property and park the car and you have your own private beach.
Best spot for shopping? Which stores?
Wanderlust, Posada Margarita , Boutique at Sanara Hotel…There is a nice collection of boutiques to walk around and shop at just next to NEST Hotel.
Your all time favorite restaurant for lunch?
KA’AN in Sian Kaan
Needing inspiration. Any art galleries, museums or inspirational place to go?
Azulik has an Art Gallery and also is a piece of art in and of itself!
We want to dance, but far away from tourists. Where to?
Rumba is a quaint, sexy new bar opening Dec. 7th that will cater to the locals by providing a nice shift of music including Scratch Jazz, Latin, Hip Hip and salsa! It offers a nice vibe to go have some craft cocktails before dinner or carrying on the night! ‘Rumba’ means dance so this is exactly what it’s meant for, dancing with the locals!
Where do we go for dinner with friends?
Hartwood, Loyal Order, Arca, Kin Toh in the treetops at Azulik
and for a date?
Same. Loyal Order is more spacious and directly on the beach which is super romantic and the food is very legit.
The thing you miss most when you’re away?
Living in nature and waking up to the trees and the birds
Tulum’s best kept secret?