I moved to Tulum for a six month stay last year. I lasted two months before returning to San Francisco. This video is spot on. The last thing Tulum needs is another foreigner like me impacting the environment. Thank you for posting this.
My brother and sister n law just bought a condo in Selva Norte Tulum. November 18 as they were excited to decorate it, there condo exploded due to a gas leak. My brother died a week later and my sister n law died 11 days later 😢 💔 many residents there had complained about gas smells and nothing was done. My whole family is so heartbroken and seeking justice for them 💔
Girl, this gave me chills I was supposed to move there in July because I thought I made friends but I think they were sex traffickers I think everything is just really corrupt there. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I’m so heartbroken for you and your family that is absolutely devastating. I’m so sorry for your loss😢 I really think that it’s like the wild wild West so it’s a lot of rich Americans that are into scams and stuff and I think it’s pretty obvious because how can you live like royalty in a place and constantly see the wealth division. I’m just so heartbroken for your family. I’m so sorry to hear that that’s absolutely devastating and there’s no words I would not recommend for anyone to move to tulum Ever. Also, in Mexico, the real estate agent Seema little Siri so I would never buy property there now or rent unless it was through my actual close family friends that I’ve known since I was like six years old they have Associates there. I literally thought it was like a dream come true and like the most magical city I’m so glad that a sex trafficker laughed in my face when I told him it was the most magical place. I’m so glad. I wish I could give you a hug, and I hope you’re getting through this insane loss I can’t even begin to fathom.
I live in nearby Akumal. All of our beaches are easily accessible and we still have a quiet and quaint vibe. No overdevelopment has happened yet. I've been here 9 years from the USA and love it. I'd never think of going anywhere else. I get annoyed when people over emphasize the cartel or drug trade. Have you seen the US news lately? I feel much safer here than I ever did in the USA. We don't have to worry about school shootings or Super Bowl Parade shootings. If you stay away from drugs, you will be fine. The cross-fire shootings are few and far between. There is so much beauty in Mexico. Don't judge it more harshly than your own country.
Thank you for the honest and authentic video about Tulum. Basically its the equivalent of Bali, Indonesia where I lived for 3 years. Almost identical problems and issues, land ownership, overpriced, sewage, etc., etc.
Appreciate the video. I want to share a few thoughts. 1. You are right, a lot of people see profit over people, and that's why I see it as essential to step in where we can and help out where there is inequality. 2. For the beach access, there are unfortunately only 2 or 3 public beach spots left.. some hotels will let you through without needing to stay at their beach clubs or paying anything. 3. I would at all costs avoid taxis in tulum if you need to take one, ask locals what the ride should cost, insist on the price, and never take a cab that is stationary.. always look for someone who is already on the move as the, are somehow less likely to overcharge. Also, if you want to go to the beach, there is a collectivo (minivan) going every few minutes (they have red letters on the front), and they just cost 20-30 pesos. I don't know what to say about 4. & 5. .... Tulum needs some serious systems for waste! 6. Yep, that's the mafia... 7. Luckily, there are systems now to build houses out of seaweed :) There is a project going on. You can find info on vice 8. At least it's armed guards and not the mafia rolling around 24/7, lol 9. If you know where and how it can be affordable... you honestly need to know which places to avoid :) Overall, Tulum is the most expensive town in Mexico!! 10. I hate them Instagrammers 😂
Just returned from Tulum. I chose not to watch your video before I traveled and everything you said is absolutely true. It was such a disappointing trip. It was not a vacation it was absolutely stressful.
I have been going to Tulum since 2002 - I would go at various times of the year - No Seaweed!! I remember walking along the beach for hours and occasionally seeing another person/couple - At one point I walked by a giant sea turtle laying eggs on the beach - sooo Magical!!! The “biosphere” national park gave me the impression that the area was protected from over development. Most of the cabanas were “owned” by Europeans - there were a few restaurants on the beach and tons of access - Several years later I began to see trash on the beach, increased development but still pretty suite. I loved going there to get out of the city and decompress, and connect with the locals - there is so much to do and see in the natural world there. Then in around 2012 the seaweed started to appear at certain times of the year - I didn’t go back until last year 2022 - I always stayed at my favorite quirky cabana’s La Luna - I was shocked to see exactly what you are talking about!!! I had to wear ear plugs at night due too (2) clubs next to the cabana’s pumping music until 4am - instagramer’s EVERYWHERE!!! Trash, seaweed - total insanity - I left there more stressed then when I arrived. I literally had a good cry on the beach as I had to let go and say good by to Tulum - It’s so sad to see what we as humans are doing to this planet. How can we not see that we need to live in harmony with the environment, with eachother - with other culture’s. This video is very accurate - so sad!!!!
You really hit the nail on the head with this video. My wife and I did a day trip from Puerto Adventures to Tulum Feb/2024 and felt the same way. We had rented a car and literally drove and or was stuck in traffic for hours to get to the beach and never did see it. We finally gave up and went back to PA. We were so excited to check it out and was extremely disappointed. With the amount of expansion going on it will only get worse. Great video!
@@ShouldWeLiveHere THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH for getting "the word out" about this horrible town. Your well-tempered commentary is 100% accurate. Since 2007, I've lived on The Yucatan Peninsula & I've traveled yearly to what's referred to as The Riveria Maya since 1984. The fact is...Tulum is a VERY DANGEROUS, VERY FILTHY, VERY EXPENSIVE SHITHOLE. It is quite the opposite of the seductive travel brochures, etc. The paradise that was once Tulum is long gone. The ecological disaster is well known. But the tourist-driven economy of this region of Mexico disregards this profoundly sad reality while murdering "The Golden Goose". I believe you'll find this documentary very interesting: ruclips.net/video/izKoyIfDI3w/видео.html The town of Tulum & all its' authorities are corrupt & controlled by a vicious cartel. It controls the area from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. Another cartel controls North of Playa del Carmen to Cancun. They're equally vicious & control government authorities as well. Only the diligence of The National Guard provides a "sense" of safety. Tourists & residents are not safe in Tulum. Every year, assaults & murders of tourists increase. Information related to this criminal activity is aggressively suppressed to preserve tourism; from which the entire economy is derived. The government of Mexico knows too well how the uncontrolled cartels destroyed tourism on The West Coast during the 1970s & '80s. That was the impetus causing The Caribbean Region of Mexico to be developed for tourism. Before the 1980s, The Yucatan Peninsula was regarded as a foreign country by officials in the capital city. Your points & keen observations about the senseless & irrational building projects are accurate & well-spoken. They are the result of money laundering by corrupt officials, the corrupt wealthy and the cartels. To keep my commentary from being agonizingly longer, I won't say anything about the issue of sargassum...except...it's now a year-round problem & will continue to inundate beaches of The Caribbean Region for the foreseeable future. I know my commentary is lengthy...but...your excellent video about Tulum kinda' lit a fire in me. For what it's worth, I have subscribed to your RUclips Channel. 🙂 Best regards from Yucatan, Ben
It was destroyed by greedy businesses, mexican citizens themselves (dumping trash) and the cartel who only cares about profit Most of the American and European tourists I saw DID NOT dump trash, and instead were picking up after the Mexicans who dump trash
10 minutes in Tulum, and I was turned off. The Seaweed was rancid, and the price gouging ridiculous. Asked a taxi for a ride for what amounted to about 3 blocks, and he wanted 500 pesos. No thanks, I'll walk. The same attitude was present multiple times. I have no interest in going back. Loving Bacalar, though.
As mexican i am, it's a shame, that this place its so incredibly over rated, and so its so unsafe, check what happened in February 5th in a beach club, an inocent tourist was a victim of the huge violence rate in that piece of sht town
Unfortunately this is the story for lots of coastal tourism cities in Mexico and Latin America, really sad to see the the two extremes of wealth living side by side. Also hard to see this cycle ever ending😢.
@@ShouldWeLiveHere People are 1000x more likely to complain about trash, than to pick it up I am different--- I complain a little bit, but then I pick up trash 1-2 hours per day every time I walk, bike or travel in general Mexican citizens need to take pride in their country and PICK UP TRASH..... but instead they trash their own towns
not all Latin America .... El Salvador is AMAZING .... we ave been all over latin America (Margarita Island, Venezuela .... San Andres, Colombia, both coasts in Mexico, Roatan, Honduras, Costa Rica .... etc etc) NOTHING TOUCHES EL SALVADOR RIGHT NOW ! truly PARADISE !
The problem is not the wealth the discrepancy of wealth (avoiding envy) but poverty. But what can't you expect when the state expropiates everybody at least half of their Work/wealth while coercively regulates our lives and entrepreneurship initiatives through thousands of laws and regulations
Yes I just saw where a couple where on a special trip came from Texas a wave broke the one guys next and the hospital wouldn't do anything until they paid 20,000 and when they got back to american he was in critical condition. Because the unsanitary conditions at the hospital he got meningitis and they also did the surgery wrong. Doctors in Texas saved his life.
Tulum is beautiful. The hotel industries do not care about the Ecosystem or the community. This is why I chose not to return. My goal is to support local economy and the people to help them prosper aswell.
Thank you for making your video so informative on a level of importance. And for not stating 'superficial' facts as to why you dont like a place, like so many other travel videos ive seen. These are important facts and they are well received.
Yep, we were there for a week and it's scammers central. They put way more emphasis on using visitors like ATMs than immersing people in a real cultural experience. It's disappointing for a place with so much history. I'm not going to discourage people not to go even tho it was the worst experience we've had, but if you're going to visit, make sure you do a lot of research and DO NOT take taxis - rent a car from a top rated rental company!
This is barely scratching the surface. What I felt when I was in Tulum this last weekend was the palpable grip of extremely powerful, greedy, and dangerous cartels. Short of the evil, most people were just entirely fake. The real Tulum, as I imagine it was was probably far more public or at least not so disjointed between dozens of beach clubs. It's not just that the prices are high, it's that you can't skip from party to party on the beach and just have a good time like you should be able to or like you can in places like Boracay, Thailand, etc. What you end up with is paying over $20 per drink and blind covers of over $50 in an elaborate and classless money washing station. Tulum is invariable proof that billionaire cartel leaders still don't have good taste and don't know how to create a great party. They're more about the flex, but clearly don't understand the first thing about authenticity and human space interaction. This is a particular shame when you consider the immense beauty that could be enjoyed if none of the clubs were there, or at least were far less intrusive. Tulum is a treasure, nightmare, and a tragedy all wrapped into one. Mexico is losing its charm, most prominently in Tulum.
I have lived in Tulum for months and greatly loved the place. Just be slightly open-minded and considerate and you will fall in love with Tulum. Most of the comments trashing tulum on the web come from Karens, uncultured, Americans. Don't be a Karen, if steppin' out of your comfort zone and into a different lifestyle just stay home. :)
Not true. If you love garbage, constant construction, dead animals m dirt roads, mud or dust bowls, over priced restaurants truck and car exhaust pollution, over priced restaurants and taxi, police presence in the beach and high amounts of sargassum along the beach. It's more expensive then anywhere I've been in Mexico, 375 peso for a burger, come in. 500 peos each to site in a chair, then Tulum is the place for you
@@ShouldWeLiveHere tu canal es demasiado negativo y solo se dedica a criticar, si quieres ver lugares perfectos deberías ir a Europa o a países desarrollados como USA o Canadá
You are a Karen, this is all lies, I am from Miami and been living here 2 yearS, violence here is nothing like what I see in USA, canada and Europe, I don't see the trash he is talking about, I know countless people here who work here and I know people who making more than most people from USA, this guy is what they call Karen in USA
I wish everyone considering Tulum as a destination would watch this video. I have stayed in Tulum for 2 months and experienced everything in your video. You did a good job putting this together. Please keep posting links to your video on the message boards so people have all information to make informed decisions.
@@ShouldWeLiveHere Its a cultural issue, where mexican citizens choose to dump trash, rather than pick up trash Most of the European and American tourtists I saw DID NOT DUMP TRASH Infact I didn't drop a single piece of trash in my 3 weeks in Mexico recently, but I picked up 12,500 pieces of trash (from what I counted).......and I am European
Thank you for this very honest, detailed & accurate review of Tulum! The whole place has turned into such a money-grabbing tourist trap so between that, the total lack of environmental consideration & planning, and unpredictability of drug violence, it is a no-go for investing for us. Anyone who visits, will see every one of the points you brought up completely confirmed. Ugggh, its very sad & my heart goes out to the locals, who deserve so much better.
you have to realize that looking to invest is the problem. The more demand we give, the more unscrupulous people will develop. So if we don’t want to contribute, foreigners have to stay away FROM ALL AREAS not just Tulum. I contributed to the problem because I am tired of having these morals and not having anything to my name. So yeah, I had to take my piece of the pie before I don’t have a place to fall dead in
Excellent information. Complete, well organized and respectfully presented. Thank YOu!! We hope the local government addresses these serious challenges so the life quality improves for all residents and tourists. 👌
the fact is if tourism ended in tulum 99% of the locals would be in far worse shape. i also became friends with a few locals that i speak with pretty regularly who moved from mexico city and they enjoy the slow paced life there. Also, go to Playa Mirador right on beach road and it's pretty much ONLY locals as it's free parking and access. It's clear you only spent a couple days in Tulum and act like you are an expert on local life.
If you look at resort towns in Latin America through the lens of a humanitarian, you are always going to witness many conditions of a third world country. It sounds like you are better suited to be a Peace Corp volunteer than an exploitive American tourist and that's ok.
Your video is very real and I appreciate you pointing out the problems that need to be resolved in Tulum. Creating awareness is important. Now I do have to point out a few things, for those looking for first world country feel, in Mexico tourist beach towns, and others such as Dominican Republic you will not find it there. These are THIRD world underdeveloped countries with a multitude of problems to resolve. I was raised in third world, so I know first hand. Please set your expectations to understand this. Secondly, yes, all this is true, but I lived in Tulum 2 years (2020 to 2022 and will be back to live again soon) and I fell in love with its beauty, uniqueness, and energy and there is a TON of initiatives from both locals and expats that also fell in love with Tulum coming together in community to help resolve these issues. The community in Tulum for those that choose to stay is nothing short of amazing. People from all over the world and backgrounds coming together for love of a place. There are beach clean ups and other environmental events initiated by local organizations and local community members regularly. We are working on building a Tulum local currency to help support local producers and businesses. We have an endless list of projects aiming for protecting the environment and pushing sustainable initiatives. Yes, we are up against massive issues, but there are also new government initiatives being launched to help resolve this situation. Just a week ago, a new council was set up by the municipality to oversee Tulum's development, aiming for protecting the environment and pushing for sustainability. Let's pray it is successful and does what it intends. What you see happening here is not uncommon in many other highly sought-after tourist beach destinations in underdeveloped third world countries that are under threat of overdevelopment and mass tourism without proper urban planning. Many forces and interests at play in a constant war against each other. I appreciate your asking to support locals, as that is exactly what is needed, among many other things. I'd also advise in your trips to also seek out the local initiatives that are fighting the battles on the ground to help resolve these issues and find a way to support these. You can do so from a distance. No, Tulum is not for everyone, but is an incredibly special place, unique, sacred and absolutely beautiful. Once you understand what is going on and you accept what is, but also do your best to be a part of the positive change, I promise you will experience magic and incredible life changing experiences. Much love and thanks for creating awareness. Feel free to reach out to me if you want to learn more about what we are doing. Follow @tulumcoindao on IG and get involved or create awareness also about this. Blessings.🙏🏻
Thank you for your comments. We are so happy to hear about the efforts being made. ❤️ We will be sure to follow along on Instagram as we are interested to learn more.
It’s an absolute rip off. I’m devastated to see the destruction . My fourth visit in 15 years. I’ll not come back anymore now. Tired of being scammed. Riviera rip off
I'd love to see things change. I wouldn't be as bothered by the third world things, if they were actually charging Mexican prices, yet, this may be the most expensive place in the world. Da fuq?!?!
@@GabrielaDey when I visited my first day there I took a cab there and as I was arriving into my hotel I told the taxi “know what just turn around back to Cancun lol” but that’ was my first feeling, now I did go there because I wanted to see some properties for investment but I just had a feeling of disgust, but had already payed for the hotel, and this that and the third so end up staying for a week,, I was surprised .. maybe I’m used to more of a city but my first impression wasn’t great
@@followingthecorporations yeah same here, Im usually one for adventure and trying new things but Tulum really had a “third world country” feel. Except for the hotel zone ofcoarse, but even that, the beach is completely blocked off by beach clubs and the strip isnt even walkable, just a road. The airbnb I stayed at was beautiful but the water in shower tasted like Chlorine. Also sad to see so much trash and plastic bottles on the sides of the streets. People living in handmade shacks right across the street from a luxury building. Cabs super expensive and the locals just try to extort money from you as much as possible. Not as friendly of a vibe as Cancun or Playa del carmen.
We agree.... we did not like Tulum as much as the hype is. There were some amazing parts, but its still don't think it's worth a long stay. We just bought a house in Medellin, Colombia, so maybe check Medellin out ;) It's a perfect city!
Very informative video and it keeps you watching. Very professionally done and fact based. Thanks Bret. Looking forward to watching your thoughts about Bali in Indonesia.
Definitely- most of our videos are places we recommend. We are in Puerto Vallarta right now and we far prefer it over Tulum. In the meantime check out this video on Mexico City! ruclips.net/video/V8dQSD8fZmM/видео.htmlsi=a1CASIBb4vn_8WIO
This video is 100% accurate. I've been to Tulum 6 years ago and it was nothing like what I've found when I've been there last week. Cartels ruined this place and they totally privatized it. The maintance of public (but no so public) beaches is laughable for a place like this. Roads are 3rd world material, and yes you almost need a 4x4 Jeep/pickup in La Valeta if you get a hotel there like I did. Pollution is just crazy. The massive presence of police and military sometimes feels weird to say the least. But me personally I didn’t had issues with them. The stuff you find on local shops are sooo overpriced and they can be found at the local Chedraui or Walmart in Cancun for more than half the price. Same stuff. You can't even take a walk to enjoy the place because you will be ASSAULTED by hundreds of people wanting to sell you something in a very annoying and disrespectful way. Another thing I totally HATE and everyone should be aware of are those people all around the city (even inside Chedraui and on the road at the entrance of the Ruins right next to the police) rushing you to sell their tours claiming to be Mexican authorities or actual tour guides. THEY ARE NOT! They are just scammers, probably criminals, DO NOT FALL FOR THEIR LIES and do not pay them a single pesos. These people are not just stealing off tourists and not improving the local people's lives at all, they also stress the local fauna so so much. All they care about is their income, doesn’t matter who or what they’re hurting on the process. Even Akumal is quickly following the same path and it's really really sad... This place deserve better.
We just got back from Tulum and I agree with all of your points. It made me sad and confused as to why things are the way they are there. Namely, the hundreds of construction projects, trash, and lack of good touristy things to do like shopping or walking stretches of beach. I enjoyed my time there because I liked our resort and the food, but I won’t go back.
@@ShouldWeLiveHere I'm planning on looking at Kuala Lumpur this summer, but haven't been yet. We looked at Spain last year and Portugal. I should have done videos :)
@@cookingwithadamkahnandlixu2718 Keep in touch and let us know what you think of Kuala Lumpur! We want to take a big trip to Asia and another to Europe. What did you think of Spain and Portugal? Any favorite cities we should check out?
Watched the video as i was planning to go next year; certainly put me off and i am a seasoned world traveller. What could be a better alternative to Tulum? Is the whole Riviera Maya like that? Is Cozumel a better option?
Check out my video about the best Mexican beach town. We really liked Puerto Vallarta and Plays Del Carmen. I haven’t been to Cozumel yet but I see online there’s pros and cons of going there. Cheers!
I went to Tulum during December in 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2017. Each time I stayed in inexpensive hostels and hotels in the town. I had a good time every time I visited. I like the funky, gritty feel of the town. I always biked to the beach, no problem, I like the heat. Scuba diving in all the cenotes is amazing, did that every visit. However, I may never go back as in 2017 I could tell it was getting more expensive and overbuilt, and the last stretch of beach that hadn’t been developed as of 2012 had finally been developed as of 2017, so there was no longer any beach area in Tulum with nothing behind it but trees and other plants. That was hugely disappointing to me, my excitement turned to sadness. I didn’t even hang out there, I biked a couple minutes south to the Papaya Playa hotel where I was able to hang out on their relaxing beach for the cost of a Corona beer purchased at their bar, which was fine. I hope they can get the pollution and trash problems under control. In 2017, I also visited Playa del Carmen for the fourth time, and the amount of beach erosion in the central part of the city, paralleled to Quinta Avenida, as compared to 2012 was shocking. The beach width from hotels to water was half what it was in 2012; the stench of sewage in the seawater was quite noticeable, too, so I didn’t even go in the water. Alas, we are loving the “Riviera Maya” to death.
Check out my latest video. I really enjoyed staying in Puerto Vallarta versus Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. The Mexican culture there was alone worth the trip!
We just got back from Tulum a few days ago. Stayed at Secrets Tulum Resort, which is an all inclusive resort. It was very beautiful and the food was amazing. We did try to venture out to walk into town but we could not find our way and ended up going back to the resort. During our walk I was so shocked and saddened to see trash absolutely everywhere. It’s so beautiful there but I wish they took more pride in their land in keeping it clean. All in all we had a nice and relaxing time.
got back from Tulum about 3 days ago, definately need to rent an atv or scooter but driving is chaotic to say the least ! restaurants in town are okay but beach side we felt being taken advantage off most of the time wich is unfortunate on vacation. it is very expensive.. ive seen ice cream sell for 14$ in a supermarket and prices were almost the same or higher than Canada. The national guard is hard to get used to as well..and police are corrupted to the bones. Overall weather is great, we found a beach club that we liked so spent most of our time there but definately not going back and wonder if we would have traveled there having seen this video before ! I recommend going elsewhere :) enjoy your trips and thanks for the video it explain well whats going on there behind the instagram photos ;)
Right now returned from Tulum. And it was my biggest mistake. Thailand 100 times better. Tulum prices are crazy. Taxi drivers take minimum of 500 even it’s 5 minutes walk. Attitude is incredibly horrible. They look at you like on the wallet. Rude. Lot of scams. I went on petrol station and was said to pay 1200 pesos. I’m giving 1500 (500 3 times). The same time another guys comes to me and offers to clean the wind. I say no. Turn back to the guy I’ve just paid too and he shows me 500, 500 and 50 pesos. They do it on petrol stations, hotels. Like the Mexican vibe, music but WILL NEVER GO BACK TO TULUM OR CANCUN. You can have much better vacation for this money
The only thing you will be surprised in Tulum is how SUPER expensive everything is. The Hotel Zone has higher prices then the USA does, huge rip off in this area. You will find much better pricing on the city strip of Tulum.
This is very sad. I visited Tulum during the pandemic in 2020, so barely anyone was there. Just a sprinkling of us. At that time it was very magical and peaceful. I remember the beaches and environment smelling very fresh and floral like. I am glad that I went at that moment in time. I had planned to return this summer, but after watching your video I may have to honestly reconsider.
Well just got robbed by cops stopping cars tonight. My daughter and I had just finished an excellent yoga session. One of them had me stand outside the car with my hands on the car. They said they were checking for drugs. Very intimidating. Yes all the other stuff on your video is true.
Muy buen video me gustó bastante, qué muestra los alrededores, el ecosistema donde no hay una infraestructura para aguas residuales, donde muestra que está creciendo sin control, y dónde muestra la riqueza del lado de la playa y la pobreza del otro lado, es exactamente documental, Y si yo viviera del lado donde todo es bello , dónde es playa, es mar, etcétera, todo se vería bien. pero tú video muestra todos los aspectos que hay que ver, antes de decidir dónde vivir.
Hi! We live here in Tulum since May 2021. We are completely agree with all that you said, but, you forgot about the street animals issue, they are each day more, abandoned or abused, education, information and resources is all what citizens need. Beyond this, we have a lot of reasons because we live here, but, we still wishing this kind of changes in Tulum. We are form Buenos Aires, Argentina bdw. Greetings ❤
@@ShouldWeLiveHere Oh! And I forgot to say, that you're right about the sargassum in February 2023, but fortunely it stops around June, and luckily for local people, we could enjoy turquoise and clean water during the summer. And this year we only had around May/June , and the rest of the year the sea was incredible beautiful. So I think that now, with the climatic change none season is 100% stable.
Por qué viven en México, regresen a Argentina. No necesitamos más Caravanos viviendo en carpas en terrenos baldíos.....gracias por contribuir al desmadre
Got back from tulum last weekend. Stayed a week. I've been to tulum 6 times. One visit every 2 years more or less. This time around, I was super disappointed of the experience. I felt tires and robbed al.ost every day. Taxis and food has become super expensive. I remember bekng able to negotiate prices a bit but now it seems like the local have learned to say no and maintain their ridiculous prices. In my 6 visits, I've never ever seen the beach as it was the first time I went there. I remember it was the whitest of the sands and the clearest of the water you can ever get. Now, sand is full of plastic pieces and other residues like dried sea weed or full-on seaweed. Getting around is frustrating. Roads are sub saharan-like. Really bad infrastucture. I dont think I will be going back, sadly.
As Mexican I must say that is True what you say about ‘profit over people’. Te destruction of Tulum is related with the destruction of the originals community.
NOOOO! Was advised to stay in Tulum so we can do some cenotes and Bacalar and we are leaving in two weeks. I feel ripped off already!!! I am in Australia and ten minutes from awesome quiet beaches so we were never attracted to that part of Tulum - it just seemed the best option to use as a base for four days. Any ideas on how to rearrange?
Sadly I just watched a video that shows the seaweed is quite bad right now in nearby Playa Del Carmen. ruclips.net/video/5izyxRobYeY/видео.htmlsi=TOaMjfd_2a5F2b_E
Although most things said in this video are true, the cenotes are still beautiful and worth the visit. Don't be too discouraged! Playa del Carmen has also always had a problem with seaweed, it's not nearly as bad in Tulum this time of year.
How did you like your vacation? Getting to tulum soon and I am depressed :( We don’t even have a transfer yet as we just cannot decide if we should pay the exorbitant hotel transfer, take a car or just the ado bus and then try to find a cab in tulum that takes us to the hotel. Seriously very very sad and depressed about the trip :(
Currently in Tulum, May 2024 and everything you said is spot on. I wish I saw your video before coming. It is not a good vacation spot and I’m genuinely disappointed
I totally agree in some of your points. I hope they will get the problems under control. Please would you say me, where is the place in the "Expensive" chapter?
Just a heads up to anybody reading this, if you go during the summer there will be sargassum (seaweed) between October and May it’s not really an issue
Wow! Great video. A friend works for one of the All Inclusive hotels in Tulum. His recommendation for us was not to stay at one of the beach hotels, and to stay in town. He said the drug cartels run Tulum and target the beach hotels more so than in the town area. And those policia and National guard vehicles we saw, the cartel control them. And its to keep those midlevel guys safe, not us. I liked Tulum, but not enough to go back. Have you explored Bacalar or Isla Holbox? I decided Chetumal is not the place for me either.
😞 Wow. We used to fly into Cancun & immediately take the bus to Tulum. In the mid 90's, paid $4 per night to hang mi hamaca en una palapa right on the beach, almost next to the ruins. ~$10 for food & 1 piña colada per day. It was very safe & beautiful.
I have to agree with most of the points you mention, especially the trash issue. Unfortunately, it is like this in most tourist places in Mexico. Being in Holbox especially broke my heart from seeing some many layers of plastic trash in the natural areas. I’ve see the locals just leave their trash everywhere, such ignorance and disregard for their beautiful home. I have decided to stay out from places like that🤕.
Well I remember Tulum from 1990. There was only 1 small restaurant and only one palapa on the beach. Maybe, maybe 100 houses. It was an incredible place. Yes Xel-ha was incredible, I swam up one of the canals for hours. I have lived in Mexico now for 20 years. I did have a waterfront coconut farm but tourism and land grabs forced me out. I live in a small town in Chiapas now that does have a good sewage system, a village water supply and is well maintained. Living in Mexico does have it’s challenges and yes it has gotten more expensive, how do the locals survive? With difficulty. I am presently doing my one year obligation to work for the local water board, Agua entubada Ejidal. Your reporting fits in with what I experience in all Mexican towns but it did seem to be far worse because of the tourist explosion. The foto of the construction trash was a classic example of how things are done here. I hate to imagine about the amount of sewage and where it is ending up. Good video.
Thank you for watching and your comment. You have certainly have had experience living in Mexico. Do you think it’s possible change will ever happen in places like Tulum?
@@ShouldWeLiveHere I am sure that I was the first private purchase of waterfront property in Chiapas and possibly most other states. The issues that I ran into were based upon racism ( Mexico is for Mexicans ) and corruption. The corruption at the local level is what affects the locals the most and also causes major problems for tourists and land purchasers. I am a Mexican citizen so I was able to buy a lot inside of the Ejido, which is not legally possible for a non-resident. The garbage is a long standing cultural issue and if you look at it from a rational standpoint, if it is no longer useful, you discard it. We in the ¨West ¨ have a preoccupation with the visual but being a student of Taoism I understand the importance of Feng-Shui in our lives and that of the community. I did not criticize anyone here, I just started cleaning the streets in my neighborhood and the neighbors saw the value of this in their lives. I live next to a tourist attraction and the tourists, mostly National tourism, throw their garbage in the street or hide it in the planters lining the street. You asked about Tulum. I loved that place, I was alone in the ruins for over a week. No fences, no police, no hassle. The huge influx of wealthy foreigners and their huge appetites for everything was probably an overload for the locals and a gold mine for the ¨ officials ¨. I suspect that most land was Ejidal and has subsequently been transferred to ¨ propiedad privada ¨ to facilitate the sale to non-residents. Their must be a lot of shady deals going on with both parties. Local officials, municipal authorities and the state as well. One issue that makes local corruption so bad is that municipalities are autonomous. It is very difficult to iníciate an investigation into them. Apart from this a non-resident does not have access to the legal system unless they are the target. That would be expensive and troublesome. I have been to court many times as making a false accusation is a very common tactic here in Mexico. I have won every case by using my rights and the protection that is afforded Mexican citizen under those rights. A foreigner only has one right, that is the right to be expelled to his or her home country. This is accomplished when the foreigner is deemed to be inconvenient, hahaha. It is not done by a court but rather by SEGOB through an administrative act. If you want to know the ins and outs of property purchase, land issues, documents, procedures, corruption, SEMARNAT and waterfront issues I would be glad to communicate by email. Best wishes, I thought your video was well done, polite considering the subject and also had an objective view of the various situations. Piter Pan
Hay muchos cambios en Tulum. El aeropuerto, el Tren Maya, las construcciones ... es cuestión de tiempo para que se organicen temas como el de la basura y el saneamiento. El sargazo llega a muchos lugares como República Dominicana, Miami, etc. Creo que va a mejorar bastante y los precios se adecuaran a la demanda.
I travelled the gringo trail way back in the 80's - spent 10 days in Tulum. There was only 2 restaurants... stayed in a cabana aka a thatched roof hut - hooked up my hammock & the floor was sand. The only shower was down the road w/a huge bag of water that spilled over me while I washed up. The whole area was quite primitive which is exactly what I was aiming for. Looks like the world mindset has infiltrated the area... nowhere near what I experienced way back when. I could go to one of the two local restaurants & have a fresh local fish steamed to perfection... with hm salsa, beans & tortillas. Seems like those days are long gone which is very saddening. There was no city way back then - it was a quiet off the grid paradise - no more. Even the beaches have changed & I wonder if the coral reef is still alive? 😥
Thank you for publicizing the trend in Mexico to trash the small towns once on the beach not allowing for a laid back "beach vibe" to continue or develop and the fact that none the profits from luxury developments end up in the hands of the local indigenous families, existing small businesses, or the improvement of local infrastructure. It can all be summed up as GREED.
Very sad to see what has happened to what was one of my favourite places to visit. We have stayed at several resorts down the Mayan Riviera and every time back you could see more and more development, traffic, garbage, etc. Have not been back for several years now.....don't think I'll be back anytime soon. Sorry to say. I still remember Playa Del Carmen as a laid back sleepy town. Corporate boom....
I agree with most of your points however you clearly have not spent much time in Mexico. People living in dirt floored shacks with no running water is not uncommon at all. Playa del Carmen suffered most of the same issues 10 years ago but has grown up since. Comparing a new, rapidly growing Caribean tourist town to the metro Mexico City is comparing apples to oranges. Mexico is not the US but it is rapidly being over run by the hords of US citizens escaping from that nightmare and bringing their money and problems here.
Playa del Carmen was never this bad and still isn't. You want people to enjoy Tulum then reduce prices, stop ripping tourists off and the native Tulum residents who where promised by the Mayor to receive a plot of land for voting for her 7 years ago! It's a shame how the average Mexican Tulum residents have to dwell in shanty areas in Tulum surrounded by filth or tourists who stay in condominims surrounded by garbage, potholes, dust boles and loud, very loud construction all day long! You want tourists to come then Tulum clean up your act! I wasted 2 months of hard earned money on a lease, to visit a Tulum I onced enjoyed. Taxis, the Beach Chairs, access to the Beach are completely corrupt. 500 peso taxis to go 20 minutes to the beach, having to pay per person, 500 pesos to sit on a chair on the beach. Acess to the beach is next to impossible unless you slip some guy a hundred pesos to walk through the property and 375 pesos for a Hamburger It's all so outrageous!
@@joserobertoramirezarevalo4610what he was getting at was the income inequality. The amounts they're charging there and bringing in is absurd. Workers, with that kind of money coming in, should be living like the Vegas residents.
This is so sad. I went in 2002 for the first time. It was a magical place back then. Getting to the beach from the town was less than $5 and there was hardly anything on it. I camped or stayed in huts on the beach for five bucks a night.
Visiting now. Totally agree with all in the video. Will never return. Really sad. Puerto Vallarta, where I have been living is a totally better experience.
Tulum is indeed undergoing a massive transformation. It’ll look and feel more like Playa Del Carmen in about 3-5 years. All the building is happening now so it’s chaotic, but it will and is a special place. If you want something polished where the kinks are fleshed out and the gentrification is more organized then Tulum would not be a place for you right now. PDC would be more likely your place.
You are more optimistic than we are. 😁 Playa Del Carmen has more housing/infrastructure for residents that we didn’t see in Tulum. Aldea Zama, La Valeta and the beach area are set up for tourists/investors. Will be interesting to see what it is like in 5 years….
The taxis are all part of one union, they have a fixed charge they charge everyone. It's price fixing to the max. But Uber has won a supreme court decision to operate in Quintana Roo now.
I was there a few years back and outside batey bar when a shootout broke out !! There was a shootout 2 nights later in the main town between cartels …… I personally find Mexico 🇲🇽 a hellish affair!! There’s a whole world out there which is much safer, cleaner, and cheaper !!
I Think greed has made that place SUCK rn but it will get better with the years as more governance reaches every corner of Mexico. Like you mentioned Mexico City has everything now that Tulum doesn't but it didnt always.
These are good insights about the problems in Tulúm that even people living there have been identifiying throughout this last decade. Just remember, Tulúm is still a small town, and all these problems are common with many towns around the world evolving into small cities and/or tourisric destinations. Remember: "Rome wasn't built it in one day" (Even Rome today, as well as many huge cities around the world, including México City, are also facing similar huge challenges in a different scale.)
It looks like it can be very beautiful they should employ the locals to clean up the area. Imo when individuals are valued they tend to take better care of their areas. Wow I wanted to visit,I'm glad I saw this video.
Tristemente cierto!! Todo lo que mencionas es 100% real. Yo y mi novio habíamos ido 3 veces antes, claro, hace 5 años y era OTRO lugar!! Sin tanta basura, sin mafias de argentinos (en arriendo de moto, bicis, autos, deptos, todo!!!) Es muy triste ver cómo en 5 años cambió tan drásticamente todo 🥺 destruyeron algo que pudo ser un paraíso. También desistimos en invertir y vivir ahí. No tiene absolutamente nada del espíritu mexicano, solo les interesa sacar el máximo de dólares posible a alguien. Una pena y un robo todo. Ni en Ibiza pagué por una cerveza lo que cobraban ahí.
Tengo muchísimos amigos argentinos, no tengo nada contra la nacionalidad de nadie, sí contra el ABUSO y que destruyan algo que fue hermoso y que NO respeten a los locales. Uno cuando llega a un paìs debe adpatarse y respetar desde la cultura, la naturaleza, el entorno, costumbres y por sobretodo ser amable y educado. Si te sentiste identificado, o eres parte de esos grupos, dale una vuelta entonces constructivamente y ve que si sigues así será pan para hoy y hambre para mañana. Salu2
I go to Puerto Vallarta. Nice condo $100 a night, one block from a beautiful beach. Lunch $10 - $15, dinner $30 for 2 WE use the bus to get downtown, 10 pesos Uber $5
It's true what he says about income inequality BUT it's not like there are better-paying jobs that the people are CHOOSING not to take in the area. If everyone boycotts Tulum over low wages the companies that pay these wages won't pay more and the people will be left with nothing. Tourists shouldn't have to subsidize corporations that exploit workers but if this really bothers you (and it should) since you're already getting a deal on your vacation, tip generously. I'm all for boycotting to improve things, but in this case, it won't.
@@back2theunderground What’s your opinion? I’d rather vacation or live somewhere else in Mexico- there are much better places. For example if you watch our Mexico City video it seems like the residents, in general, have a better quality of life.
I'm under the impression they don't get to keep their tips. Maybe a small percentage. Some try to steal tips from you through incorrect change or overcharging (they then close out the transaction for the correct amount, and keep the rest as a tip). Mexico is a sh*thole for them, yet trying to be world class with what they're doing to Tulum.
As a Mexican, I understand there are many inequalities in terms of salaries when you compare what a person from a large city in Mexico earns to what people who are in the provinces and in Towns I can only tell you that there are indeed many problems to correct in Tulum, it is an archaeological zone and beaches with a lot of potential but it is just beginning its modernization process Currently, its new international airport has just been built, which is expected to bring more foreign investment and at the same time better development, foreign investment, also with the arrival of the train Maya to the area, all these areas are going to be modernized, therefore we hope that there will also be more presence of the national guard in terms of security but in general a lot to work on.
That seemed to me to be a fair and balanced real time description of an area this here gringo knew well 35 years ago. Having lived in both Merida and Chetumal when Playa del Carmen was a still and quiet fishing village with only a couple of spots to really hang out, I lament the passing of that area's quaint & rustic charm. Quintana Roo is a Territory of Mexico, not one of the federated States of Mexico. To understand this fact and it's attached history, is to understand the People and the Place, with Love, unconditionally. There is a Something Present there which, while being far from hidden, is all but Invisible to most. Ojo. ❤ 🌙 🌞 🌧
You are right! I am a tourguide from germany and yes, i kwow Tulum from 25 jears ago, where it was just a quiet fishing town without a bank or oxxos! It was a bit like a hippieplace...so sad, how money can destruye a really magical space!
Just go To Costa Rica 🇨🇷 🌊🌎🏄♂️🦋Caribbean ,pacific mountain, volcanos forest and much more in a small country the take you 5 hrs to drive from one side to the other side of the country...
That’s why I love Croatia … I travel to Dubrovnik every year. I love Croatia because it is so clean, extremely safe and the people are very friendly and civilised. No crime …. I have never seen anything in 8 years of visiting . I live in Lo don but I feel at home in Dubrovnik . It can be a bit expensive but not extortionate …. There is something for all budgets
Two amazing beaches that you can't access. The public beach has a bit of free parking on the street but the hotels and restaurants charge $25 to park. That was 2022 prices, who knows what they charge now. I first went there in 2008 what a find. I want to retire in Mexico but this area is turning into Florida.
![I Bought THIS VILLA in Tulum! [Full Breakdown]](/img/1.gif)
I moved to Tulum for a six month stay last year. I lasted two months before returning to San Francisco. This video is spot on. The last thing Tulum needs is another foreigner like me impacting the environment. Thank you for posting this.
Glad I saw Tulum 30 years ago when it was still relatively rustic and quiet.
Same here, remember the beach back then? Amazing!
My brother and sister n law just bought a condo in Selva Norte Tulum. November 18 as they were excited to decorate it, there condo exploded due to a gas leak. My brother died a week later and my sister n law died 11 days later 😢 💔 many residents there had complained about gas smells and nothing was done. My whole family is so heartbroken and seeking justice for them 💔
So sorry to hear your tragic story. Our prayers go out to you and your family.
Oh wow. Condolences ❤
Girl, this gave me chills I was supposed to move there in July because I thought I made friends but I think they were sex traffickers I think everything is just really corrupt there. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I’m so heartbroken for you and your family that is absolutely devastating. I’m so sorry for your loss😢 I really think that it’s like the wild wild West so it’s a lot of rich Americans that are into scams and stuff and I think it’s pretty obvious because how can you live like royalty in a place and constantly see the wealth division. I’m just so heartbroken for your family. I’m so sorry to hear that that’s absolutely devastating and there’s no words I would not recommend for anyone to move to tulum Ever. Also, in Mexico, the real estate agent Seema little Siri so I would never buy property there now or rent unless it was through my actual close family friends that I’ve known since I was like six years old they have Associates there. I literally thought it was like a dream come true and like the most magical city I’m so glad that a sex trafficker laughed in my face when I told him it was the most magical place. I’m so glad. I wish I could give you a hug, and I hope you’re getting through this insane loss I can’t even begin to fathom.
Beyond heartbreaking. Condolences ❤️🩹
Horrific. I am so so sorry for your loss 😭😭😭
I live in nearby Akumal. All of our beaches are easily accessible and we still have a quiet and quaint vibe. No overdevelopment has happened yet. I've been here 9 years from the USA and love it. I'd never think of going anywhere else. I get annoyed when people over emphasize the cartel or drug trade. Have you seen the US news lately? I feel much safer here than I ever did in the USA. We don't have to worry about school shootings or Super Bowl Parade shootings. If you stay away from drugs, you will be fine. The cross-fire shootings are few and far between. There is so much beauty in Mexico. Don't judge it more harshly than your own country.
Thanks for your comment. Much appreciated. We certainly do love visiting Mexico…
Where did you live in the USA? And was it hard at first with finding a place and job? I'm at occidental Xcaret
That is such great news. I love Mexico and I prefer to think people can live peace there.
Gracias por tu comentario. 🙏🏼
Akumal is Kind of gated
Thank you for the honest and authentic video about Tulum. Basically its the equivalent of Bali, Indonesia where I lived for 3 years. Almost identical problems and issues, land ownership, overpriced, sewage, etc., etc.
Thank you for your comment! Never knew that about Bali….
Bali was on my bucket list now I’m reconsidering
Appreciate the video.
I want to share a few thoughts.
1. You are right, a lot of people see profit over people, and that's why I see it as essential to step in where we can and help out where there is inequality.
2. For the beach access, there are unfortunately only 2 or 3 public beach spots left.. some hotels will let you through without needing to stay at their beach clubs or paying anything.
3. I would at all costs avoid taxis in tulum if you need to take one, ask locals what the ride should cost, insist on the price, and never take a cab that is stationary.. always look for someone who is already on the move as the, are somehow less likely to overcharge. Also, if you want to go to the beach, there is a collectivo (minivan) going every few minutes (they have red letters on the front), and they just cost 20-30 pesos.
I don't know what to say about 4. & 5. .... Tulum needs some serious systems for waste!
6. Yep, that's the mafia...
7. Luckily, there are systems now to build houses out of seaweed :) There is a project going on. You can find info on vice
8. At least it's armed guards and not the mafia rolling around 24/7, lol
9. If you know where and how it can be affordable... you honestly need to know which places to avoid :)
Overall, Tulum is the most expensive town in Mexico!!
10. I hate them Instagrammers 😂
Just returned from Tulum. I chose not to watch your video before I traveled and everything you said is absolutely true. It was such a disappointing trip. It was not a vacation it was absolutely stressful.
Did you visit anywhere else less stressful? I was thinking of Holbox before it turns this way...
@@unknownpleasures100 only Tulum. If you visit the pyramids or would like to try the restaurants its really just a one day visit.
Thanks im crossing Tulum off my list
@@unknownpleasures100 Holbox is on the radar and I imagine will probably be quickly consumed.
how is this man living here? this is so dangerous. is he surviving? that's what you get for not listening to him before traveling
I have been going to Tulum since 2002 - I would go at various times of the year - No Seaweed!! I remember walking along the beach for hours and occasionally seeing another person/couple - At one point I walked by a giant sea turtle laying eggs on the beach - sooo Magical!!! The “biosphere” national park gave me the impression that the area was protected from over development. Most of the cabanas were “owned” by Europeans - there were a few restaurants on the beach and tons of access - Several years later I began to see trash on the beach, increased development but still pretty suite. I loved going there to get out of the city and decompress, and connect with the locals - there is so much to do and see in the natural world there. Then in around 2012 the seaweed started to appear at certain times of the year - I didn’t go back until last year 2022 - I always stayed at my favorite quirky cabana’s La Luna - I was shocked to see exactly what you are talking about!!! I had to wear ear plugs at night due too (2) clubs next to the cabana’s pumping music until 4am - instagramer’s EVERYWHERE!!! Trash, seaweed - total insanity - I left there more stressed then when I arrived. I literally had a good cry on the beach as I had to let go and say good by to Tulum - It’s so sad to see what we as humans are doing to this planet. How can we not see that we need to live in harmony with the environment, with eachother - with other culture’s. This video is very accurate - so sad!!!!
It is very sad. You are fortunate you got to see it when you did.
The seaweed is normal for the whole yucatan
I live in usa and when I go to a park if I find garbage I pick it up
Welcome to global warming and the affect of humans garbage in the ocean.
@@alexfranco3879 lol… Elmo 🎉🎉
You really hit the nail on the head with this video. My wife and I did a day trip from Puerto Adventures to Tulum Feb/2024 and felt the same way. We had rented a car and literally drove and or was stuck in traffic for hours to get to the beach and never did see it. We finally gave up and went back to PA. We were so excited to check it out and was extremely disappointed. With the amount of expansion going on it will only get worse. Great video!
And thank you for watching. Sorry you didn’t get to see the beach!
I have a holiday in Mexico booked and coming up. I was considering Tulum. I try not to watch too many of these videos, but this one is very useful.
Thanks for sharing the other side. It definitely changed our plan and we are skipping Tulum.
Why just go and find out yourself 😂
So sad. Almost brought me to tears. Loved Tulum before it was 'discovered' and destroyed.
So true- It is such a beautiful location. With proper thoughtful planning and development it could have been so much better.
Instead folks wanted to cash in and here we are. End of.
@@ShouldWeLiveHere THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH for getting "the word out" about
this horrible town. Your well-tempered commentary is 100% accurate.
Since 2007, I've lived on The Yucatan Peninsula & I've traveled yearly to what's referred to as The Riveria Maya since 1984.
The fact is...Tulum is a VERY DANGEROUS, VERY FILTHY, VERY EXPENSIVE SHITHOLE. It is quite the opposite of the seductive travel brochures, etc. The paradise that was once Tulum is long gone.
The ecological disaster is well known. But the tourist-driven economy of this region of Mexico disregards this profoundly sad reality while murdering "The Golden Goose".
I believe you'll find this documentary very interesting: ruclips.net/video/izKoyIfDI3w/видео.html
The town of Tulum & all its' authorities are corrupt & controlled by a vicious cartel. It controls the area from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. Another cartel controls North of Playa del Carmen to Cancun. They're equally vicious & control government authorities as well. Only the diligence of The National Guard provides a "sense" of safety.
Tourists & residents are not safe in Tulum. Every year, assaults & murders of tourists increase. Information related to this criminal activity is aggressively suppressed to preserve tourism; from which the entire economy is derived.
The government of Mexico knows too well how the uncontrolled cartels destroyed tourism on The West Coast during the 1970s & '80s. That was the impetus causing The Caribbean Region of Mexico to be developed for tourism. Before the 1980s, The Yucatan Peninsula was regarded as a foreign country by officials in the capital city.
Your points & keen observations about the senseless & irrational building projects are accurate & well-spoken. They are the result of money laundering by corrupt officials, the corrupt wealthy and the cartels.
To keep my commentary from being agonizingly longer, I won't say anything about the issue of sargassum...except...it's now a year-round problem & will continue to inundate beaches of The Caribbean Region for the foreseeable future.
I know my commentary is lengthy...but...your excellent video about Tulum kinda' lit a fire in me. For what it's worth, I have subscribed to your RUclips Channel. 🙂
Best regards from Yucatan,
Ben
It was destroyed by greedy businesses, mexican citizens themselves (dumping trash) and the cartel who only cares about profit
Most of the American and European tourists I saw DID NOT dump trash, and instead were picking up after the Mexicans who dump trash
Alright old Darren. Move to Detroit with your grandson
10 minutes in Tulum, and I was turned off. The Seaweed was rancid, and the price gouging ridiculous. Asked a taxi for a ride for what amounted to about 3 blocks, and he wanted 500 pesos. No thanks, I'll walk. The same attitude was present multiple times. I have no interest in going back.
Loving Bacalar, though.
Thanks for your comments. There are much better places to visit in Mexico.
As mexican i am, it's a shame, that this place its so incredibly over rated, and so its so unsafe, check what happened in February 5th in a beach club, an inocent tourist was a victim of the huge violence rate in that piece of sht town
Unfortunately this is the story for lots of coastal tourism cities in Mexico and Latin America, really sad to see the the two extremes of wealth living side by side. Also hard to see this cycle ever ending😢.
Thanks for watching! Yes it was very sad to see. Playa del Carmen, just a short distance away, seemed better.
@@ShouldWeLiveHere People are 1000x more likely to complain about trash, than to pick it up
I am different--- I complain a little bit, but then I pick up trash 1-2 hours per day every time I walk, bike or travel in general
Mexican citizens need to take pride in their country and PICK UP TRASH..... but instead they trash their own towns
EstA bien pachec0
not all Latin America .... El Salvador is AMAZING .... we ave been all over latin America (Margarita Island, Venezuela .... San Andres, Colombia, both coasts in Mexico, Roatan, Honduras, Costa Rica .... etc etc) NOTHING TOUCHES EL SALVADOR RIGHT NOW ! truly PARADISE !
The problem is not the wealth the discrepancy of wealth (avoiding envy) but poverty. But what can't you expect when the state expropiates everybody at least half of their
Work/wealth while coercively regulates our lives and entrepreneurship initiatives through thousands of laws and regulations
Yes I just saw where a couple where on a special trip came from Texas a wave broke the one guys next and the hospital wouldn't do anything until they paid 20,000 and when they got back to american he was in critical condition. Because the unsanitary conditions at the hospital he got meningitis and they also did the surgery wrong. Doctors in Texas saved his life.
Thanks for sharing. I just read an article about what happened. What a terrible tragedy!
Tulum is beautiful. The hotel industries do not care about the Ecosystem or the community.
This is why I chose not to return.
My goal is to support local economy and the people to help them prosper aswell.
Yes, we believe in supporting the locals as well! Thanks for sharing 👍🏻
It’s ironic because when I went in the late 90s it was a small hippy style retreat with eco thinking before anyone else did
Very helpful information. Thank you for this!
Thank you for making your video so informative on a level of importance. And for not stating 'superficial' facts as to why you dont like a place, like so many other travel videos ive seen. These are important facts and they are well received.
Thank you for your kind response. I really appreciate it!
Everything said on this video is totally true, just returned Mar 11 2023
Thanks for your comments!
Yep, we were there for a week and it's scammers central. They put way more emphasis on using visitors like ATMs than immersing people in a real cultural experience. It's disappointing for a place with so much history. I'm not going to discourage people not to go even tho it was the worst experience we've had, but if you're going to visit, make sure you do a lot of research and DO NOT take taxis - rent a car from a top rated rental company!
Like a mexican I would like to say THANK YOU!!! Please go and NEVER return. The tourist are destroying our most beautiful natural places.
@@jh11fulthanks for your tip, but should've taken cabs instead of renting a car, the only scam I had.
Thank you so much for sharing this! You sure saved us a lot of hassle.❤❤❤
And thanks for watching plus adding your comment!
This is barely scratching the surface. What I felt when I was in Tulum this last weekend was the palpable grip of extremely powerful, greedy, and dangerous cartels. Short of the evil, most people were just entirely fake. The real Tulum, as I imagine it was was probably far more public or at least not so disjointed between dozens of beach clubs. It's not just that the prices are high, it's that you can't skip from party to party on the beach and just have a good time like you should be able to or like you can in places like Boracay, Thailand, etc. What you end up with is paying over $20 per drink and blind covers of over $50 in an elaborate and classless money washing station. Tulum is invariable proof that billionaire cartel leaders still don't have good taste and don't know how to create a great party. They're more about the flex, but clearly don't understand the first thing about authenticity and human space interaction. This is a particular shame when you consider the immense beauty that could be enjoyed if none of the clubs were there, or at least were far less intrusive. Tulum is a treasure, nightmare, and a tragedy all wrapped into one. Mexico is losing its charm, most prominently in Tulum.
Bravo!
It looks like an armpit. Thx. Now I can skip this place.
I blame the greediness of Spanish conquistadors for your unpleasant trip.
Maybe you should visit New Jersey or Atlantic City?
I agree. On a side note, Mexico is getting expensive now. Especially accomodation.
Shitskins gonna shitskin
You nailed this one brother
Thanks for your comment! Much appreciated 😊⭐️👍🏻
Yup, he did a great job of putting down a place he couldn’t afford to even rent a place 20 minutes from the beach
I have lived in Tulum for months and greatly loved the place. Just be slightly open-minded and considerate and you will fall in love with Tulum. Most of the comments trashing tulum on the web come from Karens, uncultured, Americans. Don't be a Karen, if steppin' out of your comfort zone and into a different lifestyle just stay home. :)
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.
Not true. If you love garbage, constant construction, dead animals m dirt roads, mud or dust bowls, over priced restaurants truck and car exhaust pollution, over priced restaurants and taxi, police presence in the beach and high amounts of sargassum along the beach. It's more expensive then anywhere I've been in Mexico, 375 peso for a burger, come in. 500 peos each to site in a chair, then Tulum is the place for you
@@ShouldWeLiveHere tu canal es demasiado negativo y solo se dedica a criticar, si quieres ver lugares perfectos deberías ir a Europa o a países desarrollados como USA o Canadá
You are a Karen, this is all lies, I am from Miami and been living here 2 yearS, violence here is nothing like what I see in USA, canada and Europe, I don't see the trash he is talking about, I know countless people here who work here and I know people who making more than most people from USA, this guy is what they call Karen in USA
Reminds me of some places in jamaica .
I wish everyone considering Tulum as a destination would watch this video. I have stayed in Tulum for 2 months and experienced everything in your video. You did a good job putting this together. Please keep posting links to your video on the message boards so people have all information to make informed decisions.
Thanks for confirming what we saw there. I will definitely post links so more people know what Tulum is like….😎👍🏻
Me too
@@ShouldWeLiveHere Its a cultural issue, where mexican citizens choose to dump trash, rather than pick up trash
Most of the European and American tourtists I saw DID NOT DUMP TRASH
Infact I didn't drop a single piece of trash in my 3 weeks in Mexico recently, but I picked up 12,500 pieces of trash (from what I counted).......and I am European
@@tremblence i did the same in Thailand
Thank you for this very honest, detailed & accurate review of Tulum! The whole place has turned into such a money-grabbing tourist trap so between that, the total lack of environmental consideration & planning, and unpredictability of drug violence, it is a no-go for investing for us. Anyone who visits, will see every one of the points you brought up completely confirmed. Ugggh, its very sad & my heart goes out to the locals, who deserve so much better.
We agree. It could have been so much better!
😂🇺🇸 schools more dangerous than 🇲🇽❤️
This review is of someone who got scammed or overpaid for a rental. It’s a totally inaccurate depiction of the town
The locals benefit from tourism as it’s the #1 industry there. What else do you think they’d do for money? Sell sand or coconuts?
you have to realize that looking to invest is the problem. The more demand we give, the more unscrupulous people will develop. So if we don’t want to contribute, foreigners have to stay away FROM ALL AREAS not just Tulum. I contributed to the problem because I am tired of having these morals and not having anything to my name. So yeah, I had to take my piece of the pie before I don’t have a place to fall dead in
Excellent information. Complete, well organized and respectfully presented. Thank YOu!! We hope the local government addresses these serious challenges so the life quality improves for all residents and tourists. 👌
So nice of you to comment! Yes, hopefully things can change in Tulum for the better.🙏🏼
Hello, My wife and I were planning a two-week vacation in March 2025 in Tulum. Thank you for this video. Regards, Stani
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for this info. You’re totally right!!!
Tulum is polluted and dirty. We spent 500 pesos for 6 km !!!
My Deceased Husband and I had a Ball in Tulum...We we're at the Resort but we Rented at the Airport and drove to Tulum..
RIP Benji Miss you BAby
thank you so much for your report and the facts you presented...it helps me in the choice of my future vacation in Mexico
the fact is if tourism ended in tulum 99% of the locals would be in far worse shape. i also became friends with a few locals that i speak with pretty regularly who moved from mexico city and they enjoy the slow paced life there. Also, go to Playa Mirador right on beach road and it's pretty much ONLY locals as it's free parking and access. It's clear you only spent a couple days in Tulum and act like you are an expert on local life.
Thanks for your feedback. I can only report on what I see at the time…
If you look at resort towns in Latin America through the lens of a humanitarian, you are always going to witness many conditions of a third world country. It sounds like you are better suited to be a Peace Corp volunteer than an exploitive American tourist and that's ok.
Your video is very real and I appreciate you pointing out the problems that need to be resolved in Tulum. Creating awareness is important. Now I do have to point out a few things, for those looking for first world country feel, in Mexico tourist beach towns, and others such as Dominican Republic you will not find it there. These are THIRD world underdeveloped countries with a multitude of problems to resolve. I was raised in third world, so I know first hand. Please set your expectations to understand this. Secondly, yes, all this is true, but I lived in Tulum 2 years (2020 to 2022 and will be back to live again soon) and I fell in love with its beauty, uniqueness, and energy and there is a TON of initiatives from both locals and expats that also fell in love with Tulum coming together in community to help resolve these issues. The community in Tulum for those that choose to stay is nothing short of amazing. People from all over the world and backgrounds coming together for love of a place. There are beach clean ups and other environmental events initiated by local organizations and local community members regularly. We are working on building a Tulum local currency to help support local producers and businesses. We have an endless list of projects aiming for protecting the environment and pushing sustainable initiatives. Yes, we are up against massive issues, but there are also new government initiatives being launched to help resolve this situation. Just a week ago, a new council was set up by the municipality to oversee Tulum's development, aiming for protecting the environment and pushing for sustainability. Let's pray it is successful and does what it intends. What you see happening here is not uncommon in many other highly sought-after tourist beach destinations in underdeveloped third world countries that are under threat of overdevelopment and mass tourism without proper urban planning. Many forces and interests at play in a constant war against each other. I appreciate your asking to support locals, as that is exactly what is needed, among many other things. I'd also advise in your trips to also seek out the local initiatives that are fighting the battles on the ground to help resolve these issues and find a way to support these. You can do so from a distance. No, Tulum is not for everyone, but is an incredibly special place, unique, sacred and absolutely beautiful. Once you understand what is going on and you accept what is, but also do your best to be a part of the positive change, I promise you will experience magic and incredible life changing experiences. Much love and thanks for creating awareness. Feel free to reach out to me if you want to learn more about what we are doing. Follow @tulumcoindao on IG and get involved or create awareness also about this. Blessings.🙏🏻
Thank you for your comments. We are so happy to hear about the efforts being made. ❤️ We will be sure to follow along on Instagram as we are interested to learn more.
Thank you! We appreciate all the support we can get.🙏🏻
It’s an absolute rip off. I’m devastated to see the destruction . My fourth visit in 15 years. I’ll not come back anymore now. Tired of being scammed. Riviera rip off
I'd love to see things change. I wouldn't be as bothered by the third world things, if they were actually charging Mexican prices, yet, this may be the most expensive place in the world. Da fuq?!?!
Nice try, good luck trying to convince yourself. Tulum is garbage.
Ive been in Tulum for 1 day and I’m already over it. Might end my trip early
I hear you on that! Thanks for watching⭐️😊👍🏻
How did it turn out for you?
@@followingthecorporations hated it. Ended my trip after 3 days and went to Cancun.
@@GabrielaDey when I visited my first day there I took a cab there and as I was arriving into my hotel I told the taxi “know what just turn around back to Cancun lol” but that’ was my first feeling, now I did go there because I wanted to see some properties for investment but I just had a feeling of disgust, but had already payed for the hotel, and this that and the third so end up staying for a week,, I was surprised .. maybe I’m used to more of a city but my first impression wasn’t great
@@followingthecorporations yeah same here, Im usually one for adventure and trying new things but Tulum really had a “third world country” feel. Except for the hotel zone ofcoarse, but even that, the beach is completely blocked off by beach clubs and the strip isnt even walkable, just a road. The airbnb I stayed at was beautiful but the water in shower tasted like Chlorine. Also sad to see so much trash and plastic bottles on the sides of the streets. People living in handmade shacks right across the street from a luxury building. Cabs super expensive and the locals just try to extort money from you as much as possible. Not as friendly of a vibe as Cancun or Playa del carmen.
We agree.... we did not like Tulum as much as the hype is. There were some amazing parts, but its still don't think it's worth a long stay. We just bought a house in Medellin, Colombia, so maybe check Medellin out ;) It's a perfect city!
Thanks for watching. We have added Medellin to our list to check out. 😀
I agree. I am dying to leave after 2 days. Can't wait. It sucks.
Very informative video and it keeps you watching. Very professionally done and fact based. Thanks Bret. Looking forward to watching your thoughts about Bali in Indonesia.
Thanks Tina! 😁👍🏼
The only reason he’ll be able to go to Bali is because he likes Detroit where crime is the highest in the country and you can get free houses
Man, this was depressing. Do you have a video on places you recommend?? (beaches) . Thank you for the info!
Definitely- most of our videos are places we recommend. We are in Puerto Vallarta right now and we far prefer it over Tulum. In the meantime check out this video on Mexico City! ruclips.net/video/V8dQSD8fZmM/видео.htmlsi=a1CASIBb4vn_8WIO
Wow! Extremely informative!
Thank you for your feedback! Well appreciated.😊
This video is 100% accurate. I've been to Tulum 6 years ago and it was nothing like what I've found when I've been there last week. Cartels ruined this place and they totally privatized it. The maintance of public (but no so public) beaches is laughable for a place like this. Roads are 3rd world material, and yes you almost need a 4x4 Jeep/pickup in La Valeta if you get a hotel there like I did. Pollution is just crazy. The massive presence of police and military sometimes feels weird to say the least. But me personally I didn’t had issues with them. The stuff you find on local shops are sooo overpriced and they can be found at the local Chedraui or Walmart in Cancun for more than half the price. Same stuff. You can't even take a walk to enjoy the place because you will be ASSAULTED by hundreds of people wanting to sell you something in a very annoying and disrespectful way. Another thing I totally HATE and everyone should be aware of are those people all around the city (even inside Chedraui and on the road at the entrance of the Ruins right next to the police) rushing you to sell their tours claiming to be Mexican authorities or actual tour guides. THEY ARE NOT! They are just scammers, probably criminals, DO NOT FALL FOR THEIR LIES and do not pay them a single pesos. These people are not just stealing off tourists and not improving the local people's lives at all, they also stress the local fauna so so much. All they care about is their income, doesn’t matter who or what they’re hurting on the process. Even Akumal is quickly following the same path and it's really really sad... This place deserve better.
Thanks for your comment…appreciated!
We just got back from Tulum and I agree with all of your points. It made me sad and confused as to why things are the way they are there. Namely, the hundreds of construction projects, trash, and lack of good touristy things to do like shopping or walking stretches of beach. I enjoyed my time there because I liked our resort and the food, but I won’t go back.
We scratched Tulum off our list about a month ago. We'll still be looking for our place too.
Thanks for watching! Do you have any favorite places so far? We are planning out where we will go next.
@@ShouldWeLiveHere I'm planning on looking at Kuala Lumpur this summer, but haven't been yet. We looked at Spain last year and Portugal. I should have done videos :)
@@cookingwithadamkahnandlixu2718 Keep in touch and let us know what you think of Kuala Lumpur! We want to take a big trip to Asia and another to Europe. What did you think of Spain and Portugal? Any favorite cities we should check out?
Try Stewart Island, NZ. Beauty and you can still dive for abolone.
Great informative video. Appreciate all the sources included. It’s sad to see a beautiful place and their people ran down by greed.
Thanks for watching! Really appreciate the feedback. I always hope though Tulum can turn itself around….
Thanks for this video.
And thanks for watching!
Watched the video as i was planning to go next year; certainly put me off and i am a seasoned world traveller. What could be a better alternative to Tulum? Is the whole Riviera Maya like that? Is Cozumel a better option?
Check out my video about the best Mexican beach town. We really liked Puerto Vallarta and Plays Del Carmen. I haven’t been to Cozumel yet but I see online there’s pros and cons of going there. Cheers!
You forgot to metion a few things, but I like your video in general. Thanks!
Yes to all of this! You my friend understand what is really going on here 👌🏼
Thanks for your feedback! As always I really hope Tulum can turn itself around and be a better place for the locals.
I went to Tulum during December in 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2017. Each time I stayed in inexpensive hostels and hotels in the town. I had a good time every time I visited. I like the funky, gritty feel of the town. I always biked to the beach, no problem, I like the heat. Scuba diving in all the cenotes is amazing, did that every visit. However, I may never go back as in 2017 I could tell it was getting more expensive and overbuilt, and the last stretch of beach that hadn’t been developed as of 2012 had finally been developed as of 2017, so there was no longer any beach area in Tulum with nothing behind it but trees and other plants. That was hugely disappointing to me, my excitement turned to sadness. I didn’t even hang out there, I biked a couple minutes south to the Papaya Playa hotel where I was able to hang out on their relaxing beach for the cost of a Corona beer purchased at their bar, which was fine. I hope they can get the pollution and trash problems under control. In 2017, I also visited Playa del Carmen for the fourth time, and the amount of beach erosion in the central part of the city, paralleled to Quinta Avenida, as compared to 2012 was shocking. The beach width from hotels to water was half what it was in 2012; the stench of sewage in the seawater was quite noticeable, too, so I didn’t even go in the water. Alas, we are loving the “Riviera Maya” to death.
Check out my latest video. I really enjoyed staying in Puerto Vallarta versus Playa Del Carmen and Tulum. The Mexican culture there was alone worth the trip!
Thanks for your video. Never been but will definitely reconsider 😮
There are many better places in Mexico.
We just got back from Tulum a few days ago. Stayed at Secrets Tulum Resort, which is an all inclusive resort. It was very beautiful and the food was amazing. We did try to venture out to walk into town but we could not find our way and ended up going back to the resort. During our walk I was so shocked and saddened to see trash absolutely everywhere. It’s so beautiful there but I wish they took more pride in their land in keeping it clean.
All in all we had a nice and relaxing time.
I’m happy your stay was amazing at the resort. And yes, hopefully Tulum can turn itself around in the future!
got back from Tulum about 3 days ago, definately need to rent an atv or scooter but driving is chaotic to say the least ! restaurants in town are okay but beach side we felt being taken advantage off most of the time wich is unfortunate on vacation. it is very expensive.. ive seen ice cream sell for 14$ in a supermarket and prices were almost the same or higher than Canada. The national guard is hard to get used to as well..and police are corrupted to the bones. Overall weather is great, we found a beach club that we liked so spent most of our time there but definately not going back and wonder if we would have traveled there having seen this video before ! I recommend going elsewhere :) enjoy your trips and thanks for the video it explain well whats going on there behind the instagram photos ;)
Thanks for your comments!
got robbed at beachclubbathroom at gunpoint got kicked n hit on head f tulum
Right now returned from Tulum. And it was my biggest mistake. Thailand 100 times better. Tulum prices are crazy. Taxi drivers take minimum of 500 even it’s 5 minutes walk. Attitude is incredibly horrible. They look at you like on the wallet. Rude. Lot of scams. I went on petrol station and was said to pay 1200 pesos. I’m giving 1500 (500 3 times). The same time another guys comes to me and offers to clean the wind. I say no. Turn back to the guy I’ve just paid too and he shows me 500, 500 and 50 pesos. They do it on petrol stations, hotels. Like the Mexican vibe, music but WILL NEVER GO BACK TO TULUM OR CANCUN. You can have much better vacation for this money
The only thing you will be surprised in Tulum is how SUPER expensive everything is. The Hotel Zone has higher prices then the USA does, huge rip off in this area. You will find much better pricing on the city strip of Tulum.
Thank you for this video!
This is very sad. I visited Tulum during the pandemic in 2020, so barely anyone was there. Just a sprinkling of us. At that time it was very magical and peaceful. I remember the beaches and environment smelling very fresh and floral like. I am glad that I went at that moment in time. I had planned to return this summer, but after watching your video I may have to honestly reconsider.
Thanks for watching! Your comment is well appreciated.
Well just got robbed by cops stopping cars tonight. My daughter and I had just finished an excellent yoga session. One of them had me stand outside the car with my hands on the car. They said they were checking for drugs. Very intimidating. Yes all the other stuff on your video is true.
Oh man! Sorry to hear about your police stop. Frightening.
@@ShouldWeLiveHere will add it to life’s experiences. I lived in South Africa for four years and felt safer.
Muy buen video me gustó bastante, qué muestra los alrededores, el ecosistema donde no hay una infraestructura para aguas residuales, donde muestra que está creciendo sin control, y dónde muestra la riqueza del lado de la playa y la pobreza del otro lado, es exactamente documental, Y si yo viviera del lado donde todo es bello , dónde es playa, es mar, etcétera, todo se vería bien.
pero tú video muestra todos los aspectos que hay que ver, antes de decidir dónde vivir.
Hi! We live here in Tulum since May 2021. We are completely agree with all that you said, but, you forgot about the street animals issue, they are each day more, abandoned or abused, education, information and resources is all what citizens need. Beyond this, we have a lot of reasons because we live here, but, we still wishing this kind of changes in Tulum. We are form Buenos Aires, Argentina bdw. Greetings ❤
Thanks for your nice comment. We also hope changes for the better occur in Tulum!
@@ShouldWeLiveHere Oh! And I forgot to say, that you're right about the sargassum in February 2023, but fortunely it stops around June, and luckily for local people, we could enjoy turquoise and clean water during the summer. And this year we only had around May/June , and the rest of the year the sea was incredible beautiful. So I think that now, with the climatic change none season is 100% stable.
Por qué viven en México, regresen a Argentina. No necesitamos más Caravanos viviendo en carpas en terrenos baldíos.....gracias por contribuir al desmadre
Got back from tulum last weekend. Stayed a week. I've been to tulum 6 times. One visit every 2 years more or less. This time around, I was super disappointed of the experience. I felt tires and robbed al.ost every day. Taxis and food has become super expensive. I remember bekng able to negotiate prices a bit but now it seems like the local have learned to say no and maintain their ridiculous prices. In my 6 visits, I've never ever seen the beach as it was the first time I went there. I remember it was the whitest of the sands and the clearest of the water you can ever get. Now, sand is full of plastic pieces and other residues like dried sea weed or full-on seaweed. Getting around is frustrating. Roads are sub saharan-like. Really bad infrastucture. I dont think I will be going back, sadly.
Yes, hopefully things can still turn around there for the better!
As Mexican I must say that is True what you say about ‘profit over people’. Te destruction of Tulum is related with the destruction of the originals community.
NOOOO! Was advised to stay in Tulum so we can do some cenotes and Bacalar and we are leaving in two weeks. I feel ripped off already!!! I am in Australia and ten minutes from awesome quiet beaches so we were never attracted to that part of Tulum - it just seemed the best option to use as a base for four days. Any ideas on how to rearrange?
Sadly I just watched a video that shows the seaweed is quite bad right now in nearby Playa Del Carmen. ruclips.net/video/5izyxRobYeY/видео.htmlsi=TOaMjfd_2a5F2b_E
Although most things said in this video are true, the cenotes are still beautiful and worth the visit. Don't be too discouraged! Playa del Carmen has also always had a problem with seaweed, it's not nearly as bad in Tulum this time of year.
How was your trip?
THANK YOU for this eye opening video about Tulum! You saved us from a potential investment nightmare!
Me watching this a week before my 2 week Tulum trip. Can you share some positives at least? Because this was pretty discouraging
What we loved starts at 12:00 in the video. I’m sure you’ll have a great vacation with sun, palm trees and warm weather!
Me watching this a day before my trip because my partner tried to surprise me with a vacation but didn’t do his research 👎🏼👎🏼👎🏼👎🏼
How did you like your vacation? Getting to tulum soon and I am depressed :(
We don’t even have a transfer yet as we just cannot decide if we should pay the exorbitant hotel transfer, take a car or just the ado bus and then try to find a cab in tulum that takes us to the hotel.
Seriously very very sad and depressed about the trip :(
Currently in Tulum, May 2024 and everything you said is spot on. I wish I saw your video before coming. It is not a good vacation spot and I’m genuinely disappointed
Sorry your trip to Tulum wasn’t as planned. I do hope though that changes will happen for the good there in the near future!
I love this videos, please make more...may the CARAVANS will stop 🙏🙏🙏
Thanks for sharing this information with us
I totally agree in some of your points. I hope they will get the problems under control.
Please would you say me, where is the place in the "Expensive" chapter?
I was walking by the Ahau Tulum hotel….
@@ShouldWeLiveHere: Perfect! Thank you for your reply! 😊👍
Just a heads up to anybody reading this, if you go during the summer there will be sargassum (seaweed) between October and May it’s not really an issue
Wow! Great video. A friend works for one of the All Inclusive hotels in Tulum. His recommendation for us was not to stay at one of the beach hotels, and to stay in town. He said the drug cartels run Tulum and target the beach hotels more so than in the town area. And those policia and National guard vehicles we saw, the cartel control them. And its to keep those midlevel guys safe, not us. I liked Tulum, but not enough to go back. Have you explored Bacalar or Isla Holbox? I decided Chetumal is not the place for me either.
Thanks for your inside info. We will add Holbox and Bacalar to our list to check out. In November we are going to Puerto Vallarta.
:-(…. Omg.
😞 Wow.
We used to fly into Cancun & immediately take the bus to Tulum.
In the mid 90's, paid $4 per night to hang mi hamaca en una palapa right on the beach, almost next to the ruins. ~$10 for food & 1 piña colada per day.
It was very safe & beautiful.
I have to agree with most of the points you mention, especially the trash issue. Unfortunately, it is like this in most tourist places in Mexico. Being in Holbox especially broke my heart from seeing some many layers of plastic trash in the natural areas. I’ve see the locals just leave their trash everywhere, such ignorance and disregard for their beautiful home. I have decided to stay out from places like that🤕.
This was a your personal opinion! I have live there and travel many times. We absolutely loved it!!!!❤️❤️
So glad!
Well I remember Tulum from 1990. There was only 1 small restaurant and only one palapa on the beach. Maybe, maybe 100 houses. It was an incredible place. Yes Xel-ha was incredible, I swam up one of the canals for hours. I have lived in Mexico now for 20 years. I did have a waterfront coconut farm but tourism and land grabs forced me out. I live in a small town in Chiapas now that does have a good sewage system, a village water supply and is well maintained. Living in Mexico does have it’s challenges and yes it has gotten more expensive, how do the locals survive? With difficulty. I am presently doing my one year obligation to work for the local water board, Agua entubada Ejidal. Your reporting fits in with what I experience in all Mexican towns but it did seem to be far worse because of the tourist explosion. The foto of the construction trash was a classic example of how things are done here. I hate to imagine about the amount of sewage and where it is ending up. Good video.
Thank you for watching and your comment. You have certainly have had experience living in Mexico. Do you think it’s possible change will ever happen in places like Tulum?
@@ShouldWeLiveHere I am sure that I was the first private purchase of waterfront property in Chiapas and possibly most other states. The issues that I ran into were based upon racism ( Mexico is for Mexicans ) and corruption. The corruption at the local level is what affects the locals the most and also causes major problems for tourists and land purchasers. I am a Mexican citizen so I was able to buy a lot inside of the Ejido, which is not legally possible for a non-resident. The garbage is a long standing cultural issue and if you look at it from a rational standpoint, if it is no longer useful, you discard it. We in the ¨West ¨ have a preoccupation with the visual but being a student of Taoism I understand the importance of Feng-Shui in our lives and that of the community. I did not criticize anyone here, I just started cleaning the streets in my neighborhood and the neighbors saw the value of this in their lives. I live next to a tourist attraction and the tourists, mostly National tourism, throw their garbage in the street or hide it in the planters lining the street. You asked about Tulum. I loved that place, I was alone in the ruins for over a week. No fences, no police, no hassle. The huge influx of wealthy foreigners and their huge appetites for everything was probably an overload for the locals and a gold mine for the ¨ officials ¨. I suspect that most land was Ejidal and has subsequently been transferred to ¨ propiedad privada ¨ to facilitate the sale to non-residents. Their must be a lot of shady deals going on with both parties. Local officials, municipal authorities and the state as well. One issue that makes local corruption so bad is that municipalities are autonomous. It is very difficult to iníciate an investigation into them. Apart from this a non-resident does not have access to the legal system unless they are the target. That would be expensive and troublesome. I have been to court many times as making a false accusation is a very common tactic here in Mexico. I have won every case by using my rights and the protection that is afforded Mexican citizen under those rights. A foreigner only has one right, that is the right to be expelled to his or her home country. This is accomplished when the foreigner is deemed to be inconvenient, hahaha. It is not done by a court but rather by SEGOB through an administrative act. If you want to know the ins and outs of property purchase, land issues, documents, procedures, corruption, SEMARNAT and waterfront issues I would be glad to communicate by email. Best wishes, I thought your video was well done, polite considering the subject and also had an objective view of the various situations. Piter Pan
completely agree with you, I thought I was the only one who could organize the situation.
Hay muchos cambios en Tulum. El aeropuerto, el Tren Maya, las construcciones ... es cuestión de tiempo para que se organicen temas como el de la basura y el saneamiento. El sargazo llega a muchos lugares como República Dominicana, Miami, etc. Creo que va a mejorar bastante y los precios se adecuaran a la demanda.
Thanks for your feedback. Much appreciated!
I'll never return again either, loved it before but this video is totally accurate. Try staying in La Veleta it's a nightmare
Thanks for watching! 🙏🏻
I travelled the gringo trail way back in the 80's - spent 10 days in Tulum. There was only 2 restaurants... stayed in a cabana aka a thatched roof hut - hooked up my hammock & the floor was sand. The only shower was down the road w/a huge bag of water that spilled over me while I washed up. The whole area was quite primitive which is exactly what I was aiming for. Looks like the world mindset has infiltrated the area... nowhere near what I experienced way back when. I could go to one of the two local restaurants & have a fresh local fish steamed to perfection... with hm salsa, beans & tortillas. Seems like those days are long gone which is very saddening. There was no city way back then - it was a quiet off the grid paradise - no more. Even the beaches have changed & I wonder if the coral reef is still alive? 😥
Thanks for sharing!
Likewise. Was there in the 80s. After watching this and reading the confirming comments, I have no desire to go back. Paradise lost.
Thank you for publicizing the trend in Mexico to trash the small towns once on the beach not allowing for a laid back "beach vibe" to continue or develop and the fact that none the profits from luxury developments end up in the hands of the local indigenous families, existing small businesses, or the improvement of local infrastructure. It can all be summed up as GREED.
Very sad to see what has happened to what was one of my favourite places to visit. We have stayed at several resorts down the Mayan Riviera and every time back you could see more and more development, traffic, garbage, etc. Have not been back for several years now.....don't think I'll be back anytime soon. Sorry to say.
I still remember Playa Del Carmen as a laid back sleepy town. Corporate boom....
Yes, I always hope that things will eventually turn around in the Mayan Riviera!🙏🏼
Great job on this video
Thank you!😊
I agree with most of your points however you clearly have not spent much time in Mexico. People living in dirt floored shacks with no running water is not uncommon at all. Playa del Carmen suffered most of the same issues 10 years ago but has grown up since. Comparing a new, rapidly growing Caribean tourist town to the metro Mexico City is comparing apples to oranges. Mexico is not the US but it is rapidly being over run by the hords of US citizens escaping from that nightmare and bringing their money and problems here.
Good to know! Thank you for your insight…and for watching. 👍🏻
People live in what?!...sir, you described an average African country, but the american ignorance, don't surprise me.
Playa del Carmen was never this bad and still isn't.
You want people to enjoy Tulum then reduce prices, stop ripping tourists off and the native Tulum residents who where promised by the Mayor to receive a plot of land for voting for her 7 years ago! It's a shame how the average Mexican Tulum residents have to dwell in shanty areas in Tulum surrounded by filth or tourists who stay in condominims surrounded by garbage, potholes, dust boles and loud, very loud construction all day long!
You want tourists to come then Tulum clean up your act! I wasted 2 months of hard earned money on a lease, to visit a Tulum I onced enjoyed. Taxis, the Beach Chairs, access to the Beach are completely corrupt. 500 peso taxis to go 20 minutes to the beach, having to pay per person, 500 pesos to sit on a chair on the beach. Acess to the beach is next to impossible unless you slip some guy a hundred pesos to walk through the property and 375 pesos for a Hamburger It's all so outrageous!
Mexico is not as poor or violent as the USA.
@@joserobertoramirezarevalo4610what he was getting at was the income inequality. The amounts they're charging there and bringing in is absurd. Workers, with that kind of money coming in, should be living like the Vegas residents.
This is so sad. I went in 2002 for the first time. It was a magical place back then. Getting to the beach from the town was less than $5 and there was hardly anything on it. I camped or stayed in huts on the beach for five bucks a night.
Thanks for the memory. Times have certainly changed!
You do realize many cities in Mexico are like this? If you don’t stay in a tourist hotel area this is what you experience.
This is rural Mexico. Tulum is a somewhat isolated TOWN. The cities are way more developed, especially the bigger ones.
@@alexone8338 honestly the taxi drivers and police are who you need to avoid in Tulum. The are in cahoots
Visiting now. Totally agree with all in the video. Will never return. Really sad. Puerto Vallarta, where I have been living is a totally better experience.
Thank you for watching! Still hope Tulum can turn itself around….
Tulum is indeed undergoing a massive transformation. It’ll look and feel more like Playa Del Carmen in about 3-5 years. All the building is happening now so it’s chaotic, but it will and is a special place. If you want something polished where the kinks are fleshed out and the gentrification is more organized then Tulum would not be a place for you right now. PDC would be more likely your place.
You are more optimistic than we are. 😁 Playa Del Carmen has more housing/infrastructure for residents that we didn’t see in Tulum. Aldea Zama, La Valeta and the beach area are set up for tourists/investors. Will be interesting to see what it is like in 5 years….
Totally different vibes in Playa del Carmen though.
Your video reminds me the time we spent in Thailand.
The taxis are all part of one union, they have a fixed charge they charge everyone. It's price fixing to the max. But Uber has won a supreme court decision to operate in Quintana Roo now.
We are interested to see how that plays out!
I was there a few years back and outside batey bar when a shootout broke out !! There was a shootout 2 nights later in the main town between cartels ……
I personally find Mexico 🇲🇽 a hellish affair!! There’s a whole world out there which is much safer, cleaner, and cheaper !!
I Think greed has made that place SUCK rn but it will get better with the years as more governance reaches every corner of Mexico. Like you mentioned Mexico City has everything now that Tulum doesn't but it didnt always.
I can’t imagine the beaches being opened up to the public. The way it is laid out almost ensures it can never become walkable. But one can hope…
These are good insights about the problems in Tulúm that even people living there have been identifiying throughout this last decade.
Just remember, Tulúm is still a small town, and all these problems are common with many towns around the world evolving into small cities and/or tourisric destinations.
Remember: "Rome wasn't built it in one day" (Even Rome today, as well as many huge cities around the world, including México City, are also facing similar huge challenges in a different scale.)
It looks like it can be very beautiful they should employ the locals to clean up the area.
Imo when individuals are valued they tend to take better care of their areas.
Wow I wanted to visit,I'm glad I saw this video.
Thank you for watching! Really appreciate your comment…😊⭐️👍🏻
Tristemente cierto!! Todo lo que mencionas es 100% real. Yo y mi novio habíamos ido 3 veces antes, claro, hace 5 años y era OTRO lugar!! Sin tanta basura, sin mafias de argentinos (en arriendo de moto, bicis, autos, deptos, todo!!!) Es muy triste ver cómo en 5 años cambió tan drásticamente todo 🥺 destruyeron algo que pudo ser un paraíso. También desistimos en invertir y vivir ahí. No tiene absolutamente nada del espíritu mexicano, solo les interesa sacar el máximo de dólares posible a alguien. Una pena y un robo todo. Ni en Ibiza pagué por una cerveza lo que cobraban ahí.
Chilena no ? Q rato criticando a los argentinos jajajaja
Tengo muchísimos amigos argentinos, no tengo nada contra la nacionalidad de nadie, sí contra el ABUSO y que destruyan algo que fue hermoso y que NO respeten a los locales. Uno cuando llega a un paìs debe adpatarse y respetar desde la cultura, la naturaleza, el entorno, costumbres y por sobretodo ser amable y educado. Si te sentiste identificado, o eres parte de esos grupos, dale una vuelta entonces constructivamente y ve que si sigues así será pan para hoy y hambre para mañana. Salu2
I go to Puerto Vallarta. Nice condo $100 a night, one block from a beautiful beach.
Lunch $10 - $15, dinner $30 for 2
WE use the bus to get downtown, 10 pesos
Uber $5
It's true what he says about income inequality BUT it's not like there are better-paying jobs that the people are CHOOSING not to take in the area. If everyone boycotts Tulum over low wages the companies that pay these wages won't pay more and the people will be left with nothing. Tourists shouldn't have to subsidize corporations that exploit workers but if this really bothers you (and it should) since you're already getting a deal on your vacation, tip generously. I'm all for boycotting to improve things, but in this case, it won't.
Thanks for your feedback. Much appreciated!👍🏻
@@ShouldWeLiveHere same copy paste response and no interaction with commenters.
@@back2theunderground What’s your opinion? I’d rather vacation or live somewhere else in Mexico- there are much better places. For example if you watch our Mexico City video it seems like the residents, in general, have a better quality of life.
I'm under the impression they don't get to keep their tips. Maybe a small percentage. Some try to steal tips from you through incorrect change or overcharging (they then close out the transaction for the correct amount, and keep the rest as a tip). Mexico is a sh*thole for them, yet trying to be world class with what they're doing to Tulum.
As a Mexican, I understand there are many inequalities in terms of salaries when you compare what a person from a large city in Mexico earns to what people who are in the provinces and in Towns I can only tell you that there are indeed many problems to correct in Tulum, it is an archaeological zone and beaches with a lot of potential but it is just beginning its modernization process Currently, its new international airport has just been built, which is expected to bring more foreign investment and at the same time better development, foreign investment, also with the arrival of the train Maya to the area, all these areas are going to be modernized, therefore we hope that there will also be more presence of the national guard in terms of security but in general a lot to work on.
That seemed to me to be a fair and balanced real time description of an area this here gringo knew well 35 years ago.
Having lived in both Merida and Chetumal when Playa del Carmen was a still and quiet fishing village with only a couple of spots to really hang out, I lament the passing of that area's quaint & rustic charm.
Quintana Roo is a Territory of Mexico, not one of the federated States of Mexico. To understand this fact and it's attached history, is to understand the People and the Place, with Love, unconditionally. There is a Something Present there which, while being far from hidden, is all but Invisible to most. Ojo. ❤
🌙 🌞 🌧
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Much appreciated.
You are right! I am a tourguide from germany and yes, i kwow Tulum from 25 jears ago, where it was just a quiet fishing town without a bank or oxxos! It was a bit like a hippieplace...so sad, how money can destruye a really magical space!
Thanks for watching, and sharing! Hopefully Tulum can still change for the better.
My and my bff went in 2022. We had a blast. Swam w the turtles, never had an ounce of a problem.
Thanks for sharing…
Just go To Costa Rica 🇨🇷 🌊🌎🏄♂️🦋Caribbean ,pacific mountain, volcanos forest and much more in a small country the take you 5 hrs to drive from one side to the other side of the country...
We have been to Ciara Rica as well and love it there! Thanks for sharing⭐️😄
🙏🏻🦥🇨🇷🏄♂️🌊♥️ thanks for your videos!🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
This is spot on!
Thanks for watching. Where do you like to travel to instead?
That’s why I love Croatia … I travel to Dubrovnik every year. I love Croatia because it is so clean, extremely safe and the people are very friendly and civilised. No crime …. I have never seen anything in 8 years of visiting . I live in Lo don but I feel at home in Dubrovnik . It can be a bit expensive but not extortionate …. There is something for all budgets
Thanks for the information! Hopefully someday we can travel to Croatia….
Two amazing beaches that you can't access. The public beach has a bit of free parking on the street but the hotels and restaurants charge $25 to park. That was 2022 prices, who knows what they charge now. I first went there in 2008 what a find. I want to retire in Mexico but this area is turning into Florida.