Sometimes the best destinations are way off the beaten path, far removed from modern reality and not particularly easy to get to.
One of the best places for that kind of getaway is Mexico, specifically a strip of sand known as Zipolite that's been a bohemian paradise for backpackers, hippies and the occasional sun worshipper since the 1970s.
It's only a couple hundred miles down the beach from Acapulco, but the atmosphere is worlds away. A room in a local guest house will run you a bohemian-friendly $20 a day, but the truly adventurous should try one of the dollar-a-day hammocks near the beach. They won't give much protection against the elements, but as far as feeling one with the beach, it's tough to do much better. Of course, if you want to try, Zipolite is also home to Mexico's only officially sanctioned nude beach....just watch out for sunburn.
The usual rules of the road apply regarding pickpockets and petty crime, but the backpacker vibe has largely replaced the more dangerous elements in Zipolite. One of the main remaining dangers is the relentless riptide that can challenge even the strongest swimmers. The best advice is swimming around the current instead of against it, or venturing to other beaches for any deep water swimming. But after a few days of soaking up the sun and sampling the local taco vendors, venturing out past the breakers will probably be the last thing on your mind.
The quickest path to Zipolite is to fly into the Huatulco and take a cab from there, but bus routes from Mexico City can offer breathtaking views of Mexico's Pacific coast - provided you don't mind a few bumps on the way. For a head-start on lodging, we recommend Posada Kiko, a local outpost that splits the difference between indoor and outdoor accommodations.
We recommend the room....with or without the walls.
Posada Kiko, Zipolite, Mexico, +52 958.584.3176