Tired of Tulum? Come to Belize!

by Megan Rodden

A few years ago, Tulum gained popularity with travelers as a lesser-visited, bohemian-styled alternative to Mexican hot spots like Cancun and Playa Del Carmen.  It was a quieter, more authentic seaside destination than the resort-heavy cities surrounding it, but the secret is out, and it seems like anyone and everyone is heading to Tulum. 

 

With its new-found fame, Tulum is booming.  But that isn’t necessarily a good thing, since it comes with everything from tons of construction to a sudden surge of trendy overpriced restaurants and a slew of Ibiza-esque beach clubs blasting techno music across the golden sand.  Don’t get me wrong, Tulum is still gorgeous and is growing its portfolio of amenities to cater to the onslaught of international tourist clientele, but if you’re looking for the next best-kept secret in travel I think you should visit Belize.

Three Reasons to Set Your Sights on Belize

Authenticity

Hamanasi Resort in Hopkins, Belize. Photo courtesy of property.

Sure, Tulum has a rich history and vibrant culture with friendly local people and delicious cuisine, but it’s not the quaint and sleepy town it once was.  Modern development has unequivocally changed the face of Tulum forever.  While you can find vegan restaurants and a few high-rise condominium buildings on the island of Ambergris Caye, Belize is, for the most part, underdeveloped – and that’s a good thing.  Instead, Belize is a country of small resorts, eco-lodges, family-run guesthouses, and private vacation homes. 

Fry Jack at Pop’s Restaurant. Photo by the Belize Tourism Board

You won’t find strip malls or franchise restaurants here, but you will find roadside taco stands and backyard barbeque joints.  The “vibe” that visitors love about Tulum is similarly strong in Belize.  Loads of talented artisans perfect their crafts here among lush natural beauty and a tempered climate.  The ancient Maya culture of the region is not only cherished but surprisingly well-preserved in Belize.

Similar: Get to Enjoy Both Central America and the Caribbean With Just One 4-Hour Flight
Beaches and Jungle

 

The obvious draws for Tulum visitors are the beautiful beaches and the neighboring Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, an ecological UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Both Belize and Mexico recognize the importance of conservation and protecting their unique and precious wildlife.  Wonderful opportunities for viewing monkeys, manatees, crocodiles, and wild cats can be had at either destination.  Most of Tulum’s beaches, however, can only be accessed through resorts, so enjoying them is typically not a quiet or private affair, though, if you like a lively beach club scene, you’re in luck.  Belize beaches are, by comparison, completely uncrowded.  

Caves vs Cenotes
Rio Frio Cave (9) belize-mountain-pine-ridge-BTB

Rio Frio Cave, Mountain Pine Ridge. Image courtesy Belize Tourism Board

Tulum’s many cenotes are all over Instagram and they’re undeniably beautiful.  Belize’s central region has a similar geological composition of erodible limestone but instead of producing a multitude of cenotes, this area is home to extensive networks of caves. 

The ancient Maya of Mesoamerica used cenotes and caves in sacred ceremonies and visiting any of these stunning and mysterious formations is a special treat.  True adventurers would prefer a small group subterrain expedition to the over-crowded swimming holes. 

While Tulum is still a more laid-back alternative to Cancun or Cozumel, if you’re looking for a truly charming, barefoot, and bohemian retreat with unspoiled natural wonder and authenticity then you should consider Belize for your next adventure.

Featured: Lamanai in Orange Walk, Belize. Photo by the Belize Tourism Board

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