The Credentials:
Ideally situated on the rustic Solimon Bay in Tulum, Mexico, this chic hotel oozes Caribbean cool. From cave diving in the cenotes to chilling by the Caribbean, Tulum is fast becoming the go-to destination.
Hotel Jashita opened in 2011 and is constantly evolving. It initially began life as a restaurant, but the owners soon saw its potential and started developing a blissfully small boutique hotel. Expect luxury and decadence but in the most unpretentious way.
Dine:
The food at Jashita was outstanding. Take your time with the scrumptious breakfast while soaking up the breathtaking views over the bay. I would suggest trying the Huevos Rancheros (eggs any style, plantain, bacon and refried chilli beans) or ‘eggs with a kick’. There was plenty of choice on the menu and amazing value for under £10 (220 pesos) per head.
The hotel is a 20-minute taxi drive away from the main area in Tulum, so make good use of the à la carte menu at Jashita. Every Tuesday and Saturday the hotel provides a BBQ on the terrace, so you can indulge in fresh tuna, swordfish or whatever the catch of the day might be. Dive into the comprehensive wine list and, obviously, sup on the selection of tequila!
Sleep:
I stayed in the superior deluxe double suite (390 USD + 19% tax off peak, 470 USD + 19% tax peak) which overlooked both the ocean and the jungle. On arrival, the west Londoner in me was shocked that there were no phones in the hotel rooms—but you have to remember you are staying in an eco hotel. Utilities, like electricity and water, are supplied but you are asked to be mindful of how much effort goes into providing these. The spacious suite was tastefully decorated and much use was made of the grand outside terrace with our own pool, ideal for cooling off.
Who Goes There?
Mainly North and South Americans. However, we met one couple from Kensington and another from Shepherds Bush! You may get the odd honeymooner, but nothing too offensive.
Out & About:
A must are the cenotes and the Mayan ruins – all close to the hotel. At the end of the bay is outstanding ceviche in the most understated restaurant possible: take a right out of the hotel, walk along the bay and keep an eye out for rustic chairs. Take a seat and wait for the local fisherman/chef to take your order.
Head to the main strip in Tulum and dine jungle-side—better food and better value for money than the ocean side. Try Cenzontle and Casa Banana.
If you are a yogi, check out Yoga Shala. Advice: take your own mat! Strangers’ sweat mixed with humidity equals rancid-smelling mats. For shopping, visit Josa for beautiful kaftans and easy-to-throw-on dresses.
The Worst Thing:
I’m struggling to find fault, but at a push:
• The beds were a little soft (personal preference, of course).
• The water for our tea and the coffee was never hot enough (see, struggling!).
• The reception staff could have been a little more helpful and attentive.
The Best Thing:
There are so many…
• The stunning location of the hotel. Sweeps of golden sand and warm clear water.
• Child-friendly beaches and environment.
• The standard of food was consistently high.
• Each room is provided with snorkelling equipment and you also have canoes and boards – all free of charge. No matter how choppy the sea, the bay is protected so all-year-round swimming, canoeing etc is possible.
• The restaurant staff—particularly a waiter named Martin—were amazing.
