Tulum: Digital Nomads, Full Moons, and Conversations That Went Too Deep Too Fast

I’ve been in Tulum for about a month now. I came here after a stretch in Mexico City—needed a change of pace. CDMX was great: productive, busy, efficient. But I was ready for something slower, quieter, and ideally closer to the ocean. Tulum made sense.

It’s an easy place to settle into. You can get a decent apartment, rent a bike, and pretend time doesn’t exist. I didn’t come here looking for anything. I’m not chasing sunsets or trying to “find myself.” I just work remotely and, like always, had the itch to move.

The routine came fast. Mornings were for emails and editing. Afternoons, I’d hit the beach or go for a long bike ride out of town. Evenings... they varied. A few good dinners, a few solo nights, and a few conversations that got way too deep for someone you just met over coconut water.

Tulum attracts a certain type. A lot of digital nomads, startup people, wellness coaches. Everyone’s working on something—or at least talking like they are. Some of the conversations were interesting. Others felt like podcasts no one asked for. Still, people were kind. And I’ve got nothing against a city where no one blinks if you show up barefoot.

I got invited to a full moon ceremony. Said yes. No big revelations—just an excuse to sit in the dark with strangers and not be on my phone for a while. Honestly, that alone made it worth it.

Work got done. Calls were taken. Nothing fell behind. But I wasn’t here to optimize anything. I just needed a place to breathe, think, and let the days stretch out a bit.

I’m heading out soon. Not sure where next yet—but that’s normal for me. I don’t get too attached to places. Even if I like them, I eventually need to move. Tulum’s been good. Slower than what I’m used to, but useful in its own way.

Would I come back? Maybe. Off-season. Quiet. Less ceremony.
Would I recommend it? Depends what you’re looking for.
Would I stay long-term? No. But then again, I never do.