Prepare: Tulum, Mexico
The following questions and answers will assist you in preparing for your luxury yoga retreat in Tulum, Mexico. Download Printable Version.

Note: Keep in mind that you will be receiving a Venture Newsletter with additional details regarding  packing, hotel contact information, and other travel-related information approximately 30 days prior to departure.

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Prepare for Tulum
Choose from the following categories. For more information and resources about Tulum, please visit Resources.

>Yoga
>Fitness & Activities
>Resort & Travel
>Food & Water
>What to Bring
>Currency & Passports
>Communication & Emergencies

YOGA
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• I have never done yoga before. Will you teach to different levels?
  Fit Ventures teaches the Yogafit® style, which is a style of yoga that is inclusive of all abilities and levels.  Modifications and props together with progressive flowing movements ensure that your experience is safe, relaxing, and fun. 
  
  
• Do I need to bring a yoga mat or any other yoga class equipment?
  Fit Ventures provides all yoga equipment, however, if you own your own mat and are partial to it, please feel free to bring it with you.
  

FITNESS & ACTIVITIES
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• Do I need to do any specific physical training/exercises to prepare for this venture?
  If you are currently following an exercise regime, continue.  If not, rest assured you do not need to have specific training for your Tulum Venture.  During scheduled activities professional instruction will offer choices for all abilities with your safety and success in mind. You might want to align your preparation with any goals you may have for your trip —resting, walking, yoga, swimming. It is recommended, however, that you do seek your physician’s approval before beginning any new physical activity.
  
  
• Do I need to bring my own snorkeling or other equipment necessary for the outdoor activities?
  If you own your own gear (i.e. for snorkeling, boogie or skim boarding) go ahead and pack it.  Fit Ventures supplies equipment for all organized group activities.  There is a separate nominal charge for equipment rental offered by the resort for usage other than during the organized tours.
  
  
• What level of physical activity does the visit to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere entail?
  This one-of-a-kind adventure will involve walking, swimming (snorkeling is optional),  and riding in small boats through lagoons with a professional guide.  This experience is meant to be both educational and enjoyable for everyone.
  

RESORT & TRAVEL
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• In which time zone is Tulum located?
  Although Mexico operates under 3 different time zones, Tulum recognizes Central Standard Time.
  
  
• If I travel alone, is it possible to share a room?
  Yes, absolutely.  When you submit your reservation request please note your interest in sharing a room.  Fit Ventures will make the rooming arrangement if there is another single, same gender, traveler interested.    You will be charged the Shared Room rate if we are able to accommodate your request.  If not, you will be charged a Private Room supplement.
  
  
• What is the average temperature for this time of year?
  The Yucatan peninsula has a tropical weather pattern.  During May the weather is transitioning from the dry season into the beginning of the wet season.  The average year-round temperature is 78-82o, with June-September being the hottest months.  No matter what time of year you visit, there will usually be a pleasant and cool Caribbean breeze.
  
  
• Does the hotel have air conditioning?
  No. However, each room has a ceiling fan and has been selected based on its proximity to the beachfront to feel the almost constant breeze off the Caribbean.
  
  
• If I do not travel with the group from/to Denver, can transportation still be arranged to the hotel upon my arrival?
  Yes. Just notify Fit Ventures ahead of time to provide you with a price quote for this service.
  
  
• Can I reserve a spa treatment prior to the tour?
  Yes. Reservations can be arranged through Fit Ventures prior to your arrival if you wish.  Contact us for the spa services menu.
  
  
• Does the hotel offer additional tours not included in your venture?
  Yes. The hotel offers half-day tours to a variety of sites at an additional cost. If you are interested, just sign up the evening before at the front desk.
  
  
• What is the expected resort attire?
  Hotel Mayatulum is a relaxing atmosphere where clothing choice is dictated by the current weather, and nothing more.  Loose, comfortable clothing for yoga sessions is suggested as well as cover-up for beach attire when dining in the restaurant.  Shoes are optional throughout the resort.
  
  
• Should I purchase travel insurance?
  It is highly advisable to purchase travel insurance prior to leaving.  There are a variety of policies which cover, for example, loss or theft of baggage, accidents, illness, hospitalization, and other emergency situations.  Please contact Fit Ventures if you need a referral.
  
  
• Should I worry about Mosquitos?
  Mosquitoes are mostly active around dusk (please be assured that mosquitoes are not malarial in the Yucatan).  For your comfort, bug repellent is advisable to bring.
  

FOOD & WATER
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• Can the restaurant provide optional meals for special dietary needs?
  Yes. With advance notice the resort kitchen can prepare special meals which may incur a supplementary charge.  The resort cuisine uses fresh, local ingredients and is primarily vegetarian, with some seafood selections.  You may also order any of the a-la-carte items on the menu at the listed price.
  
  
• Is the water in Mexico safe to drink?
  Yes. At the hotel, fresh water is provided daily in your room.  Tap water is potable as well. When you are away from the hotel, it is advisable to purchase bottled water.
  

WHAT TO BRING
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• Do I need to bring beach towels?
  Yes. The hotel offers fresh room towels as needed, but requests that you bring your own towels for use at the beach.
  
  
• Why do I need a flashlight?
  The evening beauty of Tulum is that there are no citylights!  Flashlights are handy walking the beach at night, and may even help you avoid stepping on a nesting turtle.
  

CURRENCY & PASSPORTS
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• Do I need to have a passport to travel to Mexico?
  Yes. Beginning in December, 2006, all travelers to Mexico will be required to carry a valid passport.  No visa is required for stays shorter than 90 days.
  
  
• Are credit cards accepted at Hotel Mayatulum and in town?
  Yes. The hotel accepts credit cards for any additional charges you may incur.  Certain stores also accept credit cards, however, a commission of 2.5% of the purchase value (for a maximum of $9.20) is deducted per transaction.  Most small shops and restaurants still accept cash only. 
  
  
• Does the hotel exchange money? Is there an ATM?
  The Hotel Maya Tulum does exchange money and also accepts U.S. currency.  Traveler’s checks can also be exchanged and provide safety when traveling (make sure to keep your receipts separate from your checks in case they are lost).  There is no ATM at the resort,  however, there are ATM’s nearby in town.  Be aware that banks charge a 2% commission of the sum withdrawn (up to a maximum of $9.20), plus a charge of $3.60 per transaction.
  

COMMUNICATION & EMERGENCIES
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• What if I should need medical attention while in Mexico?
  The American Hospital in Cancun (998) 884-6133, is available to all travelers who have purchased full travel health insurance, or who have international coverage through their domestic policy.  There are also nearby pharmacies in Tulum and Playa, most of which stay open 24 hours.  If this is an emergency situation the local Police can be of assistance (998) 885-0569.  The US Consulates, in either Playa (987) 872-4574, or in Cancun (998) 883-0272, are also available to help any U.S. citizen.
  
  
• Is there telephone, fax and/or internet service available at the resort?
  Yes, limited telephone service is offered respective to the quiet, soothing atmosphere at Hotel Maya Tulum.  The hotel will only accept emergency incoming calls, and only during office hours.  There is also internet access during office hours at the front desk.  Two pay phones (operable by credit cards or phone cards) are located adjacent to the hotel entrance.