Isla
Cozumel, Mexico
-
was originally
named Xaman-Ha and known as the
capital of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen
is a living vibrant part of the Maya World. Located on the beautiful Caribbean
coast some 40 miles south of Cancun.
Cozumel is the largest inhabited island in Mexico, is a paradise for divers from
all over the world. The island is surrounded by more than 25 reef formations
where divers of all ages and skills can enter into a completely fascinating and
different world: endless coral inhabited by immense shoals of colorful fish. The
possibilities are endless for beginners and experts.
Hoteles
Isla
Cozumel
- Cozumel has gained worldwide attention via its extensive
tall coral reefs. Cozumel has developed
into a cruise ship stop along the Caribbean waters. Full line accommodations,
restaurants and shopping compliment the best diving you can ever
experience. Non-divers also enjoy the water sports and beaches.
Moped rental has become the
preferred method of touring.
Cozumel has lots to offer to everybody regardless of age, with great Hotel
facilities and accommodations, ranging from 5 star hotels in the downtown area
to hostels. Tourists and locals stroll together in the main plaza while
international cruise ships dock in the bay. Come and enjoy a relaxed and safe
vacation in the Mexico.
The Island of Cozumel -
is the biggest island in the country, it's
small enough to cover as a nice day trip. The town on the island, San
Miguel, lacks the charm and personality of Playa, but offers some nice
restaurants and generic tourist shopping. Cruise ships stop here almost
every day of the week, so prices can be pretty steep. The eating and
drinking scene is more focused on the American visitor, like Hard Rock
Café and other franchise establishments. What the island really has
going for it is the snorkeling and diving. Cozumel has been a diving
destination since the 1960's when Jacques Cousteau made the world aware
of the incredible reefs of the area. It is easier to dive and snorkel
directly off the beach in Cozumel than in Playa. To get around the
island you will have to rent transportation (taxi, car or, more
commonly, scooter), since there really is no bus service. There are a
few small ruins, but none of any real significance. Ferries leave to
Cozumel from Playa every hour on the hour (with a couple of exceptions),
starting at 5am. Check out the schedule when you get here, as it changes
on a regular basis. It is a 30 minute ride and a round trip run for
about 15 US dollars. Ferries back to Playa also leave every hour on the
hour (again with a few exceptions) and the last one leaves the island at
10pm.
Cozumel has a
Country Club where golfers will enjoy great games and
beautiful sceneries. The island of Cozumel´s first golf course is also
the Riviera Maya’s newest championship test of golf.
Transportation in Cozumel - By
plane there are many domestic and international flights into Cozumel
each day. There are daily flights from several Mexican cities
including Merida, Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Weekly flights from
Houston and Newark. Weekend flights from Charlotte. Also, every major
tour operator offer direct charter flight from Chicago, Detroit,
Minneapolis, Toronto and Denver as well as from Dallas to Cozumel.
From Cancun Airport a shuttle bus runs directly to Playa del Carmen
and back for catching a passengers ferry with continuous crossings all
day. Automobiles - In addition to
car rentals, there are several alternatives for getting around Cozumel
mopeds and bicycles which are available at most locations that rent
mopeds. Taxis are abundant, but not metered *** negotiate your fare
before bording.
Cozumel ferries Cozumel
Shuttle - Two passenger ferries travel between
Cozumel's town pier and Playa Del Carmen. There are frequent discounted
specials on the slower boats. Service is continuous from 4 a.m. to
around 10 p.m., with departures normally leaving on the hour or
half-hour. Your best bet is to check with the ticket stands located
around the pier for exact times.
