Hotel Posada 06 Tulum

There’s 12 rooms to choose from at the Hotel Posada 06, and for those who don’t need many extras while on vacation, it’s the perfect spot. This boutique hotel has a relaxed and tropical vibe, with a thatch-roofed entrance and a tropical garden centered around a courtyard pool. Despite its laid-back appeal, the hotel has a nice dash of modern style, including handsome dark woodwork, antiqued floors, and artsy ironwork details like starburst light fixtures hanging over the front desk. This is a fine step up from the budget hotels in the area, and the atmosphere is quiet -- precisely what many travelers to Tulum are seeking. It's an ideal pick for couples who prefer to spend their money on experiences as opposed to lodging, but don't want to skimp on charm.

The Posada 06 is right in the heart of downtown Tulum and is a solid choice for those who prefer to bed down near lots of things to see and do. There are plenty of cafes, shops, restaurants, and bars within a 10- to 15-minute walk of the hotel, though the immediate area is mostly filled with local haunts and budget hotels. Tulum's famous ruins are a little over a 10-minute drive from the hotel, and while the beach isn't within walking distance, it's only 10 to 15 minutes away by car. Chichen Itza is about two hours away by road. The closest airport is in Cancun, a 90-minute drive up the coast. Playa del Carmen and the ferries to Cozumel are along the way, about 45 minutes north of the hotel.

There are 12 rooms at the Posada 06, and despite differences in the bed configurations, the style is uniform across the board. Expect to see the same simple, rustic-modern decor as in the hotel's common areas. Painted concrete floors contribute to the adobe-style charm, while dark wood fans spin overhead, matching the dark wood accents found elsewhere in the rooms. The decor is charming and artsy, if minimal, with floral pillows and purple coverlets. There are crafted clay mugs for coffee as well, and beds are built into concrete frames. Rooms are fairly spacious for the category, with seating areas near the windows, though beds may be too hard for some guests.

Standard features included air-conditioning and small flat-screen TVs, plus free Wi-Fi. Rooms also have mini-fridges and snacks, though the latter cost extra. Furnished balconies look out over the pool and gardens below. Bathrooms are done in the style as the rooms, with river-rock patterns around the mirrors, painted porcelain sinks, and dark wood cabinets. The walk-in showers are roomy and basic toiletries are provided.

There’s not much going on at the Hotel Posada 06, though what's on offer is nice to have in downtown Tulum. The small courtyard pool has a jetted section and is a fine place to cool off with a quick dip, though not exactly ideal for a swim. There's no space to lounge poolside. The downstairs restaurant is open every morning for breakfast, which is included in the cost of the room and features plenty of hot and cold options. Various activities and excursions can be arranged by the hotel, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Parking is available, but there are only two spots and otherwise guests must find spots on the streets around the hotel.