Tulum is changing. The beaches just south of the Mayan ruins used to be scattered with just a few rustic beach cabanas, but Mezzanine is changing all that with its inspired modern design and a lively party beat. It's set to become the coolest bar in town, and the four guestrooms are guaranteed to be amongst the most coveted addresses for the in-crowd.

Hotel Mezzanine was created and is run by a couple of young New Zealanders, together with a talented Thai chef and an enthusiastic staff. Despite being hip and design-oriented, it's also one of the friendliest, up-beat hotels we've visited and there's a welcome emphasis on good service. We're confidently expecting rave reviews from guests.

Positioned just yards from the ocean, the guest rooms are eminently comfortable as well as being sleek and stylish. Each has a double height sleeping area and novel mezzanine level for additional guests or for lounging.

Fittings are of the highest quality and the ethos is definitely "less is more" (fashion junkies beware - you only get a short rail and a few hangers to store your vacation wardrobe).

Tulum is still free from conventional electricity, so there are no TVs or CD players in the rooms and no air-conditioning or phones either, but bring your laptop and (incredibly) you can be in touch with your office using the high speed wi-fi in the restaurant.

On Fridays guest DJs from the top clubs worldwide attract scores of revelers here and the music plays until the early hours.

Consequently, for longer stays we recommend the hotel mainly for those who intend to join in the party spirit. But if you're a lark rather than a night owl don't despair - during the weekdays Mezzanine is chilled out and muted, so you can enjoy the stylish surroundings and still get a good night's sleep.