🌍 Overview
As a seasoned digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Tulum, Mexico, my home for several months. This coastal town on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula has become a hotspot for remote workers, and for good reason. With its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and rich Mayan history, Tulum offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. The town’s laid-back vibe, coupled with its growing expat community, makes it an ideal destination for Tulum digital nomads looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As a remote worker, you’ll find that Tulum for remote workers is a haven, with plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and stay productive.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Tulum, digital nomads have a range of options to suit their lifestyle and budget. Here are three areas that I highly recommend:
- Aldea Zama: This upscale neighborhood is located just a few minutes from the town center and offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and coworking spaces. Rentals in Aldea Zama can range from $600-$1,200 USD per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- La Veleta: This charming neighborhood is situated near the beach and offers a more relaxed, bohemian vibe. La Veleta is home to many expats and digital nomads, and rentals can range from $400-$900 USD per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Tulum Centro: For those who want to be in the heart of the action, Tulum Centro is the way to go. This bustling neighborhood is home to many restaurants, shops, and bars, and rentals can range from $500-$1,000 USD per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Tulum is relatively affordable, especially compared to other popular digital nomad destinations. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for typical expenses:
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in a decent neighborhood can cost between $759-$1,200 MXN ($35-$55 USD) per month.
- Food: Eating out at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $100-$200 MXN ($5-$10 USD) per meal. Groceries can cost around $500-$750 MXN ($25-$35 USD) per week for basic items.
- Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass can cost around $200-$300 MXN ($10-$15 USD). Renting a bike or scooter can cost around $500-$750 MXN ($25-$35 USD) per month.
- Coworking: A monthly coworking membership can cost around $2,000-$3,000 MXN ($100-$150 USD).
Internet & Coworking
Tulum has a range of coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet. Some popular options include:
- We Work Tulum: This coworking space offers high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and a range of amenities. Membership starts at around $2,500 MXN ($125 USD) per month.
- Selina Tulum: This coworking space and hotel hybrid offers a range of workspaces, including private offices and communal areas. Membership starts at around $1,500 MXN ($75 USD) per month.
- Ahau Tulum: This cafe and coworking space offers reliable internet, comfortable workspaces, and a range of food and drink options. Day passes start at around $100 MXN ($5 USD).
Internet speeds in Tulum are generally good, with average speeds of 46 Mbps. However, it’s worth noting that internet can be slower in some areas, especially during peak season.
Tulum has a thriving digital nomad community, with many meetups and events taking place throughout the year. Some popular groups include:
- Tulum Digital Nomads: This Facebook group has over 1,000 members and is a great place to connect with other remote workers, find housing, and get tips on the best places to eat and drink.
- Nomads Tulum: This group offers a range of events and meetups, including coworking sessions, yoga classes, and social gatherings.
Culture & Lifestyle
Tulum is a culturally rich and vibrant town, with a range of activities and events to suit all interests. Some popular things to do include:
- Visiting the Tulum Ruins: These ancient Mayan ruins are a must-see, and offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
- Snorkeling or diving in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a range of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.
- Trying local cuisine: Tulum is known for its delicious Mexican food, including dishes like tacos, ceviche, and chiles rellenos.
The dating scene in Tulum is also lively, with many expats and locals looking to meet new people. Some popular places to meet people include:
- La Zebra Colibri: This trendy bar and restaurant is a popular spot for expats and locals alike.
- Papaya Playa Project: This beachfront bar and restaurant offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and is a great place to meet new people.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a tourist visa to enter Mexico. This can be done online or at a Mexican embassy or consulate. The cost of a tourist visa is around $20-$30 USD, and it’s valid for up to 180 days.
Mexico also offers a digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to one year. To apply for this visa, you’ll need to meet certain requirements, including:
- Proof of income: You’ll need to show that you have a minimum income of around $1,500-$2,000 USD per month.
- Proof of health insurance: You’ll need to show that you have valid health insurance that covers you in Mexico.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when living and working in Tulum:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at many convenience stores or telecom shops in Tulum. The cost is around $10-$20 USD, and it’s a great way to stay connected.
- Transportation: Tulum has a range of transportation options, including public buses, taxis, and bike rentals. Be sure to negotiate the price before you start your journey.
- Safety: Tulum is generally a safe town, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Be sure to lock your doors and windows, and avoid walking alone at night.
- Weather: Tulum has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather year-round. Be sure to stay hydrated, and take breaks in the shade or air conditioning when needed.
