Vacations

Cozumel: Useful Travel Information

Located just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, the island of Cozumel often sits in the shadow of Cancun's illustrious reputation as the "best" resort on the peninsula.  Mexico's most popular sun destination boasts an enormous array of activities.  Golf, snorkeling, scuba diving, wind surfing, water skiing, deep sea fishing and even jungle tours are just a few of the options Cancun is famous for.   Cozumel is home to the world's largest coral reefs. Jacques Cousteau discovered black coral here nearly 20 years ago, and during the summer months, visibility is often 300 feet. There are 20 miles of incredible reefs and caves and over 200 varieties of magnificently-colored fish. The most famous reef, "Palancar" is a mountainous underwater formation six miles long and 300 feet wide.  In order to protect the unique beauty beneath the waters of Cozumel, all of the reefs around the island have been declared National parks.

The first inhabitants on Cozumel Island were the Mayans.  Cozumel, in Maya means "Island of the Swallows." The remains of the Mayan temples and ceremonial centers are proudly preserved and makes for an interesting excursion. Cozumel is only 32 miles long, and 9 miles wide, enticing visitors to rent a jeep or a moped and  explore its beaches.  The wonderfully quaint town of San Miguel faces the sea. Its long palm fringed malecon filled with courtyard cafes, colorful shops, and art galleries is the perfect setting for evening strolls.

The perfect climate to relax!  Average year round temperatures in Cozumel stay around 80 degrees.   Perfect for the sports enthusiast or for those who prefer to spend lazy days in the sun or soaking up the lush surrounding poolside. 

 

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Cozumel: Diving

OVERVIEW: The reefs of Cozumel, popularized by Jacques Cousteau are among the finest in the Caribbean and the world. The warm water and strong currents that sweep the island make the weather predictable but not stable. The beautiful reefs hidden below the calm surface generally range in depth from 40 feet to 100 feet and are quite diverse from location to location. The world famous Palancar is known for its cavernous buttresses and nearly unlimited visibility. Cozumel is also the home of many awe-inspiring wall dives of unlimited depth. Depending on the dive site, skill level ranges from the novice to the expert.

For the non-diver there are plenty of activities on the island and the mainland. Cozumel has plenty of shopping, restaurants, beautiful secluded beaches, and ruins. A short ferry ride to the mainland will offer day trips to Tulum, Chichen Itza, Xcaret, and Xel-Ha, all worthwhile sites.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What "skill level" must I have in order to dive in Cozumel?
An Open Water Certification is all that is necessary. Most charters will have dive instructor and/or Dive Master on all trips. Since the current is quite strong, you can expect to "drift dive" on nearly all of your dives.

Do I have to dive from a charter boat?
No, but it is highly recommended. The best sites are only accessible by boat and it would be a shame to miss them. There are several good shore dives around Cozumel and many hotel/resorts offer unlimited shore diving.

 Should I bring my own gear or rent?
Quality gear can be rented at most dive shops and is usually in like new 
condition and extremely reliable. The choice to bring your own gear or rent is a personal one. Most divers prefer to dive with their own equipment because they are comfortable with it and trust it but traveling with diving gear can be a hassle so many divers prefer to rent.

Do I need to be certified to SCUBA dive?
Unless you have a certification with you, you will not be able to rent tanks or charter boats. The bottom line is; no card no diving. However, you do not need a certification to go snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean is available in Cozumel and the mainland.

Can I get certified to SCUBA dive while in Cozumel?
Yes. Many dive shops and resorts offer SCUBA instruction. Reservations are recommended. The certifications vary from short term, single dive, "Resort Certifications" to full certifications recognized worldwide. A "Resort Certification is a single dive under direct supervision of an instructor. You will not earn a certification and the cost is usually the same as a complete certification. If you would like to a full certification, you must allow yourself at least 4 days to do so.

Can flying and diving be a problem?
When planning a trip, remember that you must schedule your flights and diving, taking into consideration the 24 hour minimum decompression time following your last dive before getting on a plane. As a general rule, you can dive every day except the days you are flying.

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Shopping & Exploring 
Thanks to its increasing importance as an international port-of-call developed into a wonderful place to shop.  Mexican handcrafts, cotton sportswear, hammocks and black coral jewelry can all be purchased at excellent prices!  
The colorful town of San Miguel is the center of activity.   Its main square is surrounded by many shops and eateries.  Nightlife is varied, too with exciting clubs, lively discos, and quiet, romantic strolls around the quaint city plaza or along the miles of beach. 

Day trips are available to the mainland to visit the Chichen-Itza and Uxmal Mayan ruins; however, if you prefer to say on the island, their are smaller ruins which are hidden in the jungle. 

Dining and Dancing 
Wonderful restaurants can be found at the major resorts, as well as downtown within walking distance of the main square.  Nights in Cozumel end early - oftentimes following a long meal.  Since the main attraction is diving, many vacationers want to wake up early to get the most out of their time in Cozumel.  So wether you want relaxation and exploration, this scenic playground gives you the best of Mexico with a Caribbean flare!

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OTHER TRAVEL INFORMATION: from the Mexico Tourist Department

HEALTH:Health problems sometimes affect visitors to Mexico. Information on health precautions can be obtained from local health departments or private doctors. It is wise to review your health insurance policy before you travel. 
There are short-term health insurance policies designed specifically to cover travel.

Most hotels offer purified water, but it is always advised to drink bottled water. Be aware of ice cubes (sorry, this includes Margaritas) that may not have been made with purified water Vegetables and fruits should be peeled or washed in 
a purifying solution. A good rule to follow is if you can't peel it or cook it, do 
not eat it. Diarrhea may benefit from antimicrobial treatment which may be prescribed or purchased over the counter. Travelers should consult a physician, rather than attempt self-medication, if the diarrhea is severe or persists several days.

 


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All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators and cruise lines. Availability is limited and must be confirmed at time of booking. All information presented is based on promotional material provided by tour operators and cruise lines. Please call us toll free at 1-800-942-3301 to confirm availability and current pricing on all packages. The prices on this website are not guaranteed until a deposit has been made. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by an agent.

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