I take my Verizon phone so that US people can call me and take an old GSM SIM card so that I can call my vendors.
I also suggest practicing text messaging with older guests in order to get them more comfortable with the process. It's sure a lot cheaper to text than call once you are in Mexico.
Finzip
I always make a point of taking the following:
Driver's License
ATM card
Credit Card
Passport
I have scanned a copy of my passport and e-mailed it to my yahoo account, so that even if it gets stolen I have access to the number.
Then I always keep my ATM card and passport on me, preferably in a little travel pouch that goes under my pants. I carry a small of cash in a separate wallet, in a pocket or small purse that is easy to get at. That's what people see.
I leave the credit card and driver's license in my safe (unless I'm driving). That way if I get robbed, I can still carry-on.
Then it's just the basics. Always lock your door. Never be seen with large amounts of cash. Do not look confused or distracted and always be aware of your surroundings. Most places are safe, but there are always scrupulous people in the world. I think someone already said that if someone is set on robbing you, they will. Be sure you have a back up plan.
Welcome! We chose Tulum, Mexico because:
1) It seems that you can get a 5 hour flight to Cancun from anywhere,except Europe
2) Pristine beaches
3) White sand beach
4) A ton to do, cenotes, snorkeling, scuba, wind surfing, ruins, ziplining
I think you have a good plan and should stick to it. A good photographer will have a fast enough lens and maybe even a good flash to take your strip pictures. If you look at my wedding pictures you can see what I'm talking about. We had a session at the carnival parade at night and around a campfire. The trick is to have an honest conversation and get comfortable with your photographer.
Tulum, Mexico Wedding Photography: Malisa and Todd – Dreamtime Images
Welcome - I agree, there's almost too much information here. Be sure you know what your priorities are before you dive in. It's easy to get overwhelmed. With that - welcome - you are going to have a blast!
Another Arizonan!
Dana Point is a beautiful area. I lived out there for a year, and I can see why your father loves it. I would definitely recommend looking at private venues for your wedding. The hotels are very very expensive, but maybe you can negotiate something if you go in with your budget, as Jaclynda suggested.
I know there is a yacht club in the area as well as private homes.
Good luck and keep us up to date.
Is Red Rock Canyon in the Valley of Fire? If so, I would talk to the Red Rock Resort and see what they suggest? I might talk to them anyways. They have probably had a request similar enough to yours that they will know who to talk to.
Hi Jill & Jim,
Glad to have you here! I was married in Tulum in February. There are a ton of choices for a group your size depending on the atmosphere you want. Anna y Jose's is nice. So is Zamas, La Zebra, La Nueva Vida, Luna Maya, Hechizo, and my favorite Milamores. You might want to look at Soliman Bay as well.
I love this thread!
Things I would do again:
Tulum - I wanted a pristine beach, and that is what I got. Despite all of the flack I received from my MIL about it being too far away and too rustic BEFORE she got there, every one of my guests (including MIL) loved the place and now I have the job of arranging annual group trips back for our friends.
Shaman Ceremony with friend doing the exchanging of vows: It was so cool to have a theme for my wedding. Not being religious, this made the ceremony very special. And it was so nice to get to know the DH's friend better since he was part of the ceremony.
Not spent alot on decoration: I chose my location for it's beauty so I didn't need to do much to make it beautiful
My photographer: Dreamtime Images - Absolutely worth every dime
Wouldn't do again:
Leave my room during the honeymoon
Answer my cell phone
Not designate someone to deal with my vendors on the wedding day
When I was in Japan I had my palm read. She told me I would meet the love of my life when I was 27. I met my DH at a friend's b-day party but because he lived in AZ and I lived in CA it took him two years to ask me out. On our first date, we were already so in love. We were talking about how long it had taken him to ask me out, and then it struck me - it had been one month before my 28th B-day. That's it. I was done.
We just left out the time (to give ourselves some leniency) and exact venue, listing just the city, country
On February 25, 2009
in Tulum, MX
We knew that the group would be with us at least a day or so before and that we could work the details out later.