Where do you go for the most beautiful stay?
It’s interesting as my thoughts have evolved over time. You can’t go wrong with Habitas, Azulik, or Nômade in Tulum however if you’re seeking a deeper experience, something sensual and more elevated I’d head out of Tulum and drive to Naum. It’s a private jungle destination with its very own cenote. It’s secluded, surrounded by nature, a little slice of paradise. It’s the location of my next retreat.
The best place for a morning swim?
Pargo, a private cenote opposite beach front Tulum. You wander five minutes through the jungle and it opens to a stunning natural pool. You instantly feel the water resetting your system. It’s activating, quiet, and they have a small restaurant should you want to eat something. One of Tulum’s best kept secrets.
Where do you go when you want to be surrounded by nature?
A couple of years ago I went to stay in the jungle to finish writing my book. No people. No cars. No internet. Just me, myself and my pen. It’s where I birthed the White Raven Method. It was the first time I had ever truly been alone, fully immersed in nature, and it did not disappoint. For anyone seeking solitude and nature, Coba (an ancient Maya city on the Yucatán Peninsula, located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo) is the place. It can be a little daunting at first but growth requires us to step into the unknown.
Your favourite beach in Mexico and why?
Holbox. There is something magical about this island. As soon as I step off the boat my nervous system is instantly relaxed. The beach is never ending. White sand. Crystal blue water. Sunsets to die for. Without a doubt one of my favourite beaches in the world, not only Mexico.
Where is your favourite place to watch the sunset?
Bacalar. This place is the real deal. A turquoise blue lagoon set against deep jungle. An incredible place to truly disconnect. The vastness, the colours, the milky hues, it has to be seen to be believed.
The restaurant you always return to?
I’m a simple being and love vegan food so Holistika is my local go to in Tulum. Fresh. Healthy. Vegan.
Where would you send someone for an unforgettable dinner; somewhere where the food, setting and atmosphere all come together?
Arca. Sophisticated, fine dining with an easy jungle feel. My instant go to whenever I have guests in town. I recommend booking ahead as reservations are in high demand.
Is there a particular Mexican dish that you think everyone should try?
Pozole. I spent years avoiding this dish until I was asked to make it while serving a Vipassana. Life changed. What I love is that it arrives unfinished. A deep hominy stew, a plate of cabbage, radish, oregano and lime, you build your own bowl. It slows you down. There are pozolerías that serve nothing but this one dish!!
And where do you go for the best tacos?
The street! Don’t be fooled, you cannot beat street tacos. The produce is fresh and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture. You can also eat for $2. What’s not to love?!
Your favourite place for a mezcal or margarita?
I’m alcohol free but Arca makes a mocktail that puts most cocktails to shame with the added benefit of escaping the hangover.
Mexico is increasingly associated with wellness travel, but what does genuine wellbeing in Mexico look like to you beyond the luxury spas and beautiful retreat spaces?
Genuine wellbeing in Mexico is easy. The produce is farm fresh, free of additives, preservatives, every street corner selling fresh coconuts. Food is medicine, and I eat my skincare, hydrating from the inside out. My life hack is a litre of coconut water alongside the flesh. Flooded with potassium, magnesium, antioxidants, it’s anti-inflammatory and the thing my body misses most when I travel.
Is there a Mexican wellness ritual, treatment or practice that has stayed with you?
I open all my retreats in Mexico with a Temezcal ceremony. It is a small clay dome you crawl into on your hands and knees, humbling or extremely on-brand for a Tuesday, depending on your week. It’s a Mayan sweat lodge that replicates the mother’s womb. It runs in four rounds, four doors, with a Temazcalero drumming, chanting. Your heart races, your thoughts get loud, then silence. You crawl out sweaty but clear. A process of purification, rebirthing. The Maya and Mexica were doing this centuries before anyone thought to call it wellness.
Is there a shop in Mexico you love?
There are so many!! Tulum, although ridiculously overpriced, is home to some of the most stunning boutiques. Get off the beach road and head to Presencia to discover unique, authentic pieces. And of course Mexico City! If you like alternative off duty fashion then Roma Norte is the place for you, Calle Colima is my favourite street flooded with beautiful stores.
Chelsea’s next White Raven Mexico Retreat will take place in Tulum November 12-16th 2026
www.whiteravenmethod.com/retreats
Follow Chelsea on Instagram – @chelsea_whiteraven
