Tulum, Mexico, a town located on the coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula, is known for its historic pre-Columbian Mayan walled city that overlooks white beaches and a turquoise blue coastline.

The well-preserved ruins are highlighted by a large stone structure known as El Castillo (the castle) 39 feet (ca. 12 m) upon a bluff facing the Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo. The most prosperous period for the city was between the 13th and 15th centuries, the walls having served to defend against invasion, allowing Tulum to become an important trade hub.

Today Tulum serves as a unique tourist destination, one that demands relaxation with beautiful beaches and cerulean waters. At the same time, the city possesses a rich heritage ready to be explored. Some of the highlights include a local town offering regional delights and an active nightlife, excellent accommodations, cenotes (water-filled caves and caverns) and the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka’ an.

There are no direct flights into Tulum but accessing the city is relatively uncomplicated. You may fly into Cancun and drive two hours by car to Tulum, or fly into Cozumel and take a forty-minute ferry and one-hour finishing car ride. While not inexpensive, Tulum does offer accommodations across the spectrum, from resorts to more modest beachfront cabanas and exceptionally comfortable Airbnb offerings.

The Tulum climate is, of course, tropical, so it’s usually hot, often muggy, but with a cooler and drier period from November to April. But regardless of when you choose to visit, pack a sweater for the evenings.