THE SCENE

I found the fantasy in Tulum, Mexico.

Tulum has survived the hype and settled so nicely into itself. At this point, it's a reliable destination that always delivers. After considering countless Caribbean islands, Miami, and the Florida Keys, discovering Tulum made me feel just dumb. Why hadn't I already been there ten times? The place is magical and not overdone or overbuilt. Tulum is on the Mayan Riviera but has nothing in common with the junky all-inclusive Cancun scene or its jazzy cousin, Playa del Carmen. Drive on by those Vegas-esque resorts and head south. It's easy to rent a car at the airport, and it's worth every kilometer of the one-and-a-half-hour drive. 

Tulum delivers on unassuming, charming, cultural, natural wonders; affordable, fresh, unadulterated cuisine; white sand beaches that are bohemian with worldly comforts; loads of activities; a lot of yoga; and as much romance as you do or don't want. Go with a date, go with friends, take your kids. No need to feel weird if you are single. You get it: It's easy to feel at home in Tulum.

Next: Where to Stay