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 77 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.
 Watersports & Land Activities
Water sports are popular in
Cozumel. Although the major focus in on snorkeling and scuba diving, there are many other
activities available. Have fun on water skis, hobie cats, jet skis or sailboats.
If you want to stay dry, you can still capture the amazing beauty of the sea life
below as you cruise along the clear waters in a glass bottom boat.
 Fishing trips can be chartered for anglers
who
want to try their hand at catching sailfish, swordfish &
marlin. Many fishing records have been set here.
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.
 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!
 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.
A Guide to Entry and Exit Regulations
Getting Into Mexico:
U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for no more than 72 hours and remaining within 25 kilometers
of the border do not need a permit to enter. Those wishing to travel past the 25 kilometer
border
area of Mexico must be properly documented. Those transiting Mexico to another
country need a transit visa which costs a nominal fee and is valid for up to 30 days.
Tourist Cards:
All U.S. citizens visiting Mexico for tourism or study for up to 180 days need a document,
called a tourist card in English or FMT in Spanish, to enter and leave Mexico, The
airlines will provide you with one prior to landing. Upon entering Mexico, retain and
safeguard the pink copy of your tourist card so you may surrender it to Mexican
immigration when you depart. You must leave Mexico before your tourist card expires or you
are subject to a fine. A tourist card for less than 180 days may be revalidated in Mexico
by the Mexican immigration service (Direccion General de Servicios
Migratorios).
Traveling With Minors
A child under the age of 18 traveling with only one parent must have written, notarized
consent from the other parent to travel, or must carry, if applicable,
a decree of sole
custody for the accompanying parent or a death certificate
for the other parent. Children
traveling alone or in someone else's custody must have notarized consent from both parents
to travel, or if applicable, notarized consent from a single parent plus documentation
that the parent is the only custodial parent.
Returning to the United States
You must present the pink copy of your tourist card at your
point of departure from Mexico.
The U.S. Customs Service currently permits U.S. citizens
returning from international travel to bring back $400 worth of merchandise, including 1
liter of alcohol, duty free. The next $1,000 worth of items brought back is subject to a
duty of 10%. In addition to U.S. Customs regulations, be aware that some U.S. border
states (most notably, Texas) have imposed state restrictions on liquor, wine, and beer
imports from Mexico. If you are planning to bring back alcoholic beverages, inquire about
these restrictions from the liquor control office of the state through which you plan to
return.
TIPPING:In Mexico, it is customary to tip 10
percent in restaurants, and you
may also give a couple of dollars to any passing
band whose playing is particularly pleasing. However, the American custom of tipping 15 to
20
percent is practiced at international resorts. Housemaids in
hotels may be covered by an all-inclusive charge, but welcome US$2-$3 tips per night, and don't forget to hand
over something small to the little boy who runs to clean
your windshield or who fills your car up with gasoline for you. Mexicans always
tell you that tipping is not expected; it may, however, be
well deserved and
they always thank you. |
Cozumel: Useful Travel Information