Has anyone been to the Zahara?

[Juanito]

Is it OK to post links to different web sites here?

Here's why I asked:

I found a site that advertises the Zahara. I did a search on it here, and nothing came up.

The site I found said that they have a "Tunich" room with no ocean view for $45, with a private bath. Heck, the Motel 6 here in Salt Lake City costs more.

Is there something wrong with this room or this property? All the ocean view rooms seemed to be priced similarly to the other properties.

Even if we were in their "garden view" room, we can still use the beach in front of their property, right?

Tulum is like everywhere else in Mexico, right; in that the beach is considered "federal property" and anyone can go there but you have to pay if you want to use umbrellas, lounges etc or be the guest of the hotel that provides them?

[Gale in KY]

I have been to their sister property, Copal but have not stayed at Zahra. I always visit their restaurant, as I like their Mexican Fare.

Here's their website

http://www.zahra.com.mx/

I dont' think there is anything in particular wrong with the property, I do think it gets bad reviews due to people not doing their research and knowing what "rustic accomodations" really means when staying in Tulum. There is nothing fancy, luxurious etc. about the place..the real star of the show here is the caribbean and how close you are to it. The place is clean, but rustic can be confused with run down by those who are not familiar with rustic in Tulum type accomodations.

As with all beach accomodations along the Caribe, the salt wreaks havoc with plumbing fixtures and other stuff, so things may not work properly all the time and may need to be replaced frequently.

No matter what room you stay in, you have use of all facilites at the hotel, and of course, the beach is accessible to everyone.

Just keep in mind when choosing a room that the farther you are from the beach, the less you will enjoy the cool breezes from the water to keep you comfortable. I wouldn't consider a room away from the beach, especially in the hot super humid summer months. If budget is a concern, you might want to consider Copal's beachfront cabanas with a shared bath, they are right on the beach and you will enjoy the breeze.

Cabanas Tulum, further to the south has rooms beachfront, not huts, but actual hotel rooms with patio/balcony for just a bit more. I love this place. It is not luxury either, just clean and great beach with a motel 6 room. I spend so little time in the room that it doesn't have to have anything but a bed and be clean for me to be happy. They also have a great restaurant, food was excellent.