Thinking about moving to Tulum, Mexico? Discover what life is really like beyond the beaches. From mosquito battles and “Tulum time” to amazing rentals, expat communities, and hidden challenges, here are 10 things I wish I knew before calling Tulum home.

About Me

My name is Gaspar Michel. I was born in Chihuahua, Chihuahua, and moved to Kansas when I was just two years old. I later moved to Arizona, where I completed high school then spent seven years working in restaurant management before heading to Texas, where I lived for 15 years. There, I transitioned from bar management into insurance sales, a career I enjoyed for 13 years.

Five years ago, I decided to make a change. I first moved to Playa del Carmen for a year, then briefly returned to Houston for six months, followed by a year in Cancún, and another quick return to Houston. Finally, two years ago, I made my move to Tulum, and that’s where I decided to work full-time in real estate, helping others find their home in paradise.

After all these moves, I can honestly say: Tulum is not just a place, it’s home.

Here are 10 things I wish I knew before I moved to Tulum, Mexico.

1. Tulum Is a Better City to Live In Than to Visit

Most people say that a vacation destination is a great place to visit but not a good place to live. I have found the opposite to be true here. Tulum has a way of accepting or rejecting people and as a visitor, it can feel like an expensive tourist town with Instagram-perfect moments. But when you live here, you discover a deeper rhythm with morning walks, community events, and a genuine connection to nature and people. Tulum rewards those who commit to it.

2. Mosquitos Are Relentless

I was used to humidity after living in Texas, but nothing prepared me for Tulum’s mosquitoes. They’re part of jungle life here, and just when I thought they accepted me as a friend or forgot about me they find me again to remind me I am just like everyone else. Bug spray, citronella, and good screens on your windows will quickly become your best friends.

3. Amazing Rental Options

One of the biggest surprises was how flexible the rental market is here. You can find furnished apartments, condos, and villas for short or long stays, and most landlords only ask for one month’s deposit. Whether you want to live close to downtown or in a quiet residential area, there’s something for every lifestyle.

4. “Tulum Time” Is Real

Everything here moves slow but somehow faster than you expect. Things happen in divine timing. You learn patience, and you learn to go with the flow. A coffee date might turn into a full day of new connections and opportunities. Sometimes I feel like I have 3 day weeks and another week has passed.

5. Neighborhood Selection Is Everything

Each part of Tulum has a totally different vibe:

• Downtown (Centro): The heart of local life, filled with restaurants, bars, and authentic energy.

• Aldea Zama: The most developed and established neighborhood thats safe, walkable, and close to the beach. My favorite so far.

• La Veleta: Trendy and growing fast, with a mix of expats, digital nomads, and jungle-style homes.

Choosing the right area can make or break your experience of living in Tulum.

6. Water and Internet Work 95% of the Time... But That 5%

For the most part, utilities are reliable—but that remaining 5% can happen when you least expect it. Power or internet outages usually don’t last long, but they remind you that you’re still living in the jungle. Backup data plans and water jugs are part of the routine.

7. Lots of International People

Tulum is an great mix of cultures and you’ll meet people from all over the world, from entrepreneurs and artists to healers and digital nomads. Everyone has their story of how they ended up here, and most are open-minded and full of life.

8. Great Place to Find Your Tribe

What I love most about Tulum is the community. It’s easy to find groups that match your interests and values.
Here are a few great ones to start with:

• 🏃‍♂️ Run Tulum – Twice weekly community runs.

• 🍽️ Tulum Dinner Club – Intimate, curated dining experiences once a week.

• 🍷 Vintention Wine Club – Social wine tastings and gatherings.

• 🌱 Refi Tulum – Environmental and sustainability community focused on making Tulum a better place.

• 🗣️ Toastmasters Tulum – Improve your public speaking and leadership skills.

• 🤝 Networking Tulum – Connect with entrepreneurs, creatives, and local.

Whatever your passion, there’s a place for you here.

9. Cash Is King

While more places are accepting cards, cash is still preferred—especially at local spots, taxis, and small businesses. I use Revolut to easily transfer and withdraw money internationally with great rates. It’s a must-have for anyone moving to Tulum, Mexico. Click here to try it out

10. If You Come, You May Never Want to Leave

There’s a magic here that’s hard to describe. Tulum teaches you patience, presence, and peace. What starts as an escape can easily become home—and that’s exactly what happened to me.

If you’re thinking about how to move to Tulum, Mexico, or want to explore real estate in Tulum, I’d love to help you find your perfect match.

Let’s connect and make your Tulum dream a reality.