Planning a Boho-Chic Destination Wedding at Jashita Hotel, Tulum: Q&A with Marta De Zambiasi from Jashita Hotel
Oh Tulum, where the sun-kissed beaches meet the soulful rhythms of the Mexican Caribbean. If you dream of a destination wedding in Mexico that effortlessly combines modern luxury with a laid-back, boho-chic vibe, then Tulum is calling your name. While the town is dotted with small boutique hotels and all-inclusives popping up, a boutique property on the outskirts of town is quickly becoming one of the area’s best-kept secrets.
Jashita Hotel, a boutique property, left a lasting impression on our CEO and Founder, Courtnie Nichols, during her visit in May 2023. Courtnie was impressed by the property’s suites and culinary team. After a full tour of the property with Marta De Zambiasi, Global Sales, it became clear that Jashita is the perfect buyout destination for your next celebration.
We recently sat down with Marta at Jashita Hotel to delve into the secrets of this secluded property. In this interview, Marta highlights why Jashita is the epitome of luxury in this Mexican paradise.
Interview with Marta De Zambiasi, Global Sales at Jashita Hotel
What is the story of Jashita?
Nestled in Soliman Bay, Jashita Hotel is our well-kept secret in Tulum. The bay, just 15 km north of Tulum and a scenic 1.5-hour drive from Cancun's Airport offers seclusion without sacrificing proximity. The best time to bask in Tulum's charm is November through April. But if you’re looking for the best time to visit in terms of availability, then you want to consider dates between May and October. The property caters really well to couples, honeymooners, wedding parties, and even large families in our luxurious villas.
What was your first experience visiting Tulum?
Not everyone might know this but I’m Italian and I was actually 5 years old when I first visited, and it was the family holiday of my dreams. I then returned as an adult in 2017 and I fell in love with Tulum. I know it's what most people say, but I really love the place. It has a very unique energy and the people are just incredible. I also fell in love with the hotel itself because I feel very much at home when I go there.
Why should couples consider Jashita Hotel Tulum for their destination wedding?
Tulum is a canvas for a couple’s destination wedding dreams, and Jashita offers clients a unique blend of modern luxury against a jungle backdrop. One of the main reasons for choosing Jashita for a destination wedding is that couples can buy out the entire hotel. By buying out the hotel, guests get exclusive access to the hotel’s facilities, including a private beach, three swimming pools, the Thousand-and-One Rooftop Terrace, the Caoba Spa & Yoga Studio, Pandano Restaurant & Beach Bar, and the Adventure Shack.
The three-night minimum buyout package includes a one-hour “Save The Date” photo shoot with a professional photographer for the couple, a romantic breakfast set up in the suite for the wedding couple, a complimentary massage for the couple, and a complimentary Group Yoga Session for all guests. ****Details of the wedding package are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change at the hotel’s discretion.
Of course, weddings are also trendy, and we’ve done some exclusive ceremonies based on Mayan wedding ceremonies. This isn’t something that you will find at most resorts. We have been able to offer this to some of our clients because we connect with an inland Mayan community through an intermediary.
In the Mayan culture, the eldest is a judge and religious figure. The judge comes to the hotel along with translators and performs the ceremony. This is an extraordinary moment not only for the couple but all who are witnesses of the ceremony. There is something exceptional about a Mayan wedding ceremony - deeply rooted in nature but with some similarities, you would find in a Western ceremony.
Who other types of guests come to stay at Jashita Tulum?
We have a lot of honeymooners who come and stay at the hotel. It’s also become popular with couples looking to celebrate their anniversary or coming on a babymoon. Because the resort is secluded but close to everything, these couples can enjoy their privacy, feel like they are the only ones in the world, and also be able to go and have a fancy dinner in Tulum.
We tend to have more mature guests coming to stay at Jashita. Our guests are usually here to enjoy the true beauty and nature of Tulum, and are not really after that “Tulum vibe” so many resorts promote.
The hotel is also becoming popular with bachelorette groups, but more so staying at the villas rather than the main hotel. In the villas, these groups have all the space they need, as well as being closer to Tulum’s activities and nightlife, as well as access to the resort’s facilities including the beach, restaurant and spa.
Are there any local touches that set you apart from other hotels and venues in the area?
Jashita is not just a hotel; it's a family's legacy. The Italian-owned boutique hotel, born from a home-away-from-home concept, oozes a distinct personality. The hotel’s linens are made in Italy. As are the bathrobes, towels and bed sheets, which belong to the brand Once Milano, owned by the sister of the manager. The bathroom amenities are all-natural and organic and produced by the local brand Yucatan Senses.
When is the best time to visit Jashita Hotel Tulum?
In terms of weather, it is perfect in November, and there is no seaweed. November marks the beginning of high season so it’s not too busy. It’s followed by the festive period when the weather is really at its best, but it’s also the busiest time for visitors. However, it’s never crowded at Jashita, thanks to its secluded location and boutique size. However, remember that most guests who come to stay during the festive season usually book a year in advance and are repeat guests. There is also a minimum length of stay during the festive season of 5 nights to consider.
Between February and March, there is more availability as there are fewer visitors, but the weather is still great. I recommend you avoid the summer, especially August and September, as it’s the rainy season. May is the start of the low season, but you could still be lucky with the weather and good availability.
Insider tip: Seaweed is prominent during the summer months due to the ocean's temperature. Access to the beach in Tulum gets bad because of the amount of seaweed washing up to the shore. However, Jashita is so well located that its bay and reef act as barriers to the seaweed, so it’s generally not an issue for guests staying here.
What's unique about the guest experience at Jashita Hotel Tulum?
Jashita Hotel Tulum offers a sanctuary away from the crowds, providing the luxury of time, breathtaking views, and tranquility. A unique blend of old Tulum sophistication and barefoot luxury ensures an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. With incredibly Instagramable backdrops, Jashita Hotel Tulum is very popular with couples looking for a modern approach to boho-chic.
What activities can guests enjoy at Jashita Hotel Tulum?
Hotel guests can enjoy yoga classes, and use the spa and treatments and tours can be arranged by the hotel team at an additional cost. For destination weddings, any service can be added to the wedding package to make it even more personalized and tailored to the couple’s needs.
Why should guests choose Jashita over other hotels in Tulum?
Jashita's exclusivity sets it apart. Located on a private bay, it boasts the only beach where the coral reef creates a natural swimming pool. The personalized identity of the hotel, shaped by a well-traveled Italian family, ensures a cozy atmosphere. And yes, the best homemade pasta in town is here!
What are other dining options available close by that you would recommend?
For a romantic spot, "Pandano" at the hotel is a culinary highlight and the only real choice. It is the only restaurant on the bay, but it is truly the most romantic spot, full stop. Alternatively, in the town of Tulum or at the beach, a short drive away, you'll find diverse dining experiences like NU Restaurant, Wild, and Taboo.
I would also recommend Hartwood, one of the most iconic restaurants in Tulum known for its open-fire cooking. For a night out, Gitano is iconic and has stood the test of time. If you're seeking more of a hotel vibe, both Nomad and Be Tulum offer great options.
If you have a car, consider visiting the Coba ruins and Valladolid for a different perspective and change of scenery.
Insider tip: 20 minutes south of Tulum you’ll find Neek, a small lagoon with crystal clear water and a beach club - perfect for a day out.
What are your best tips for those travelers visiting Tulum?
Be aware of the traffic. Although the airport in Tulum has opened, there is still a 40-minute drive from Tulum airport to Jashita (compared to 1.5 hours from Cancun). If you are planning on staying in downtown Tulum, it may take you an hour to get there from Tulum airport due to congestion on the main road.
Again, Jashita isn’t affected by traffic as it’s located before the main traffic area. We can arrange taxis for guests, but just be aware that they operate at a fixed rate and are quite expensive. We do have on-site parking, and guests can rent a car directly from the hotel.
Does Jashita Hotel Tulum partner with onsite vendors? Is the use of third-party vendors permitted?
The hotel has an in-house wedding coordinator who can provide the services of preferred local vendors. Third-party vendors like hair and make-up and photographers are allowed, but an “outside vendors fee” applies.
What is one of your favorite memories of a couple getting married at the hotel?
We briefly touched on this before, but one of my favorite memories is a beautiful couple from Brazil who wanted to renew their vows. We arranged the most exclusive Mayan Wedding Ceremony for them. The Mayan Judge from a Mayan community came to perform this ancient and traditional ceremony, that took place at the beautiful Caoba Spa, as well as in the water at the beach. I was asked to take photos for the couple so it was such an honor to be a part of this special moment for them. The love energy was so strong that the whole staff cried a bit at the end of the ceremony.
Why would you recommend a guest stay at Jashita?
Because you will truly feel at home. The property used to be the home of the owners, who fell in love with Tulum in the 90s when Tulum was nothing more than a fishing village. They have ensured that this sense of “being at home” is carried out throughout the hotel. From the design to the small team of staff members who know each guest's name. Then, of course, the Italian influence truly makes Jashita unique. This is Tulum, as it used to be a few years back, and it's something that we are proud of.
What are your best tips for couples getting married in Tulum?
I advise opting for secluded properties over the bustling Tulum Beach, ensuring privacy and an intimate celebration. There are so many destination weddings taking place in Tulum that can be seen by everyone! So if you want to have an intimate and private event, you’ll want to steer clear of the town.
Insider tip: Between 1 pm and 2 pm, the ocean is a unique turquoise color. So, if you are looking for an amazing backdrop, this would be a great time for pictures.
If you’ve been dreaming of an elegant destination wedding in the middle of the jungle, consider Jashita Hotel for a wedding that transcends expectations. If you’re ready to turn your boho-chic dreams into reality, submit an inquiry, and let’s get started!
Courtnie is the founder & CEO of TravelBash. After years as an ambitious fundraiser, she took her passion for travel full-time. She has lived all over the U.S. and abroad and after planning her own destination wedding, she decided to help other couples plan their big day abroad too. She has written “Passport to Paradise: The Complete Destination Wedding Guide,” a top seller on Amazon. She has also been featured in Travel + Leisure, Destination I Do and The Washington Post. As a certified travel advisor, expert event planner and natural connector, she uses her powers to create VIP travel experiences.
