Top
  >  Solo Travel

Take a solo trip to paradise and visit Tulum with Shari Bayer in today's Women Who Travel Solo.

How did you get started traveling?

I was in my 30’s and working for myself with the ability, and desire, to travel. Since I was single, and making plans with friends or family wasn’t easy, I started to plan my own solo adventures. I began with weekend getaways, such as Aruba, and soon progressed to longer overseas trips, from Italy to Australia and New Zealand. I found that the more I traveled on my own, the more I loved it. I enjoyed my independence and having my own itinerary, which always revolved around food and restaurants. I could do whatever I wanted at my own pace, and dine solo at the best restaurants in the world. It was a new sense of freedom.

Why did you decide to take a solo trip to Tulum, Mexico?

I wanted to escape to a beautiful and peaceful place that I had not been to before for some R&R.  I had heard about Tulum from industry friends and it seemed like the ideal destination for a long weekend.  It was fairly easy to get to from NYC with a direct flight to Cancun and then about a 1 ½ drive. Solo Trip to Tulum - Sunrise

Tell us about your experience in Tulum as a solo traveler.

Tulum was paradise! My hotel was located right on the beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea. I spent time relaxing on the beach, sipping on green juice and coconut water as I lounged in the sun. I treated myself to outdoor massage listening to the soothing waves, and enjoyed swimming in the crystal clear water, walking on the white sand beach and vegging out in a hammock. One morning, I naturally woke up very early and watched the sunrise on the deck. It was amazing.  I also visited a lovely cenote, explored the Mayan ruins and practiced yoga in a treehouse. I dined al fresco for every meal, often with sand in my toes, feasting on authentic Mexican dishes and fresh seafood. Tulum’s low-key vibe was exactly what I needed to unwind from my busy NYC schedule. Solo trip to Tulum - Cenote Dos Ojos

What recommendations do you have for solo travelers in Tulum?

Hotels: Mezzanine Hotel, Be Tulum Activities: Yaan Wellness Center, Cenote Dos Ojos, Mayan Ruins Restaurants: Chamico, Posada Margherita, Unico at Mi Amor Hotel, Mateo’s Mexican Grill, Hartwood, Arca Solo Trip to Tulum - Chamico

What was the best part of your solo trip to Tulum?

Breathing in the fresh air and enjoying nature’s beauty.

What was the worst part of the trip?

I missed dining at Hartwood, the most renowned restaurant in Tulum, as it was closed for a break. Solo Trip to Tulum - Mayan Ruins

Are there any safety concern for women traveling alone to Tulum?