Cozumel

Dubbed "the crown jewel of the Caribbean Sea", Cozumel is sought after as a breezy holiday destination away from the everyday. Known for its magnificent coral reefs and white sandy beaches with pristine waters, this sun-kissed Mexican island offers plenty of outdoor activities: snorkelling and scuba diving take on a whole new dimension here.

The Island

Just south of Cancun and opposite Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean as well as an important cruise ship port. Home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world - the Mesoamerican Reef - Cozumel is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. White, unblemished beaches stretch north to south, east to west, leaving travelers taken with the island's seemingly endless swathes of sand. The city of San Miguel de Cozumel is the largest city on the island and the right place to get a peek into the mystical Mayan culture and catch a glimpse of Spanish colonial architecture.

Do & See

The fascinating island of Cozumel is a treasure trove for snorkelers and divers who come here to admire the beauty of its underwater world. Boasting 500 different species of fish, 65 different corals, pristine waters, archaeological sites, and white beaches, Cozumel is undoubtedly a must-visit leisure destination in Mexico. Read on to find out about the best places to snorkel and dive around Cozumel.

Punta Sur

In the southern point of the island and part of the largest ecological park on Cozumel, Punta Sur is a tiny piece of heaven on earth made up of white beaches, turquoise waters, wild flora, exotic birds, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Must-do activities include snorkeling, visiting the "El Caracol" Mayan Vestige, and taking in the stunning view from the Celarian Lighthouse. The fastest way to get here is by booking a private jeep excursion.

Useful Information

Address: Autopista Km. 30 Sur Matamoros Norte-Centro-Sur, Guaycura, San Miguel de Cozumel

Phone: +52 987 872 0833

Opening House: Mon–Sat 9am–4pm

El Cielo

Famous for its silky white beaches, El Cielo is a mesmerizing hidden gem about 2 miles from the Cozumel coast. It is a popular snorkelling spot where locals and tourists come to swim among thousands of colourful starfish and stingrays to catch a glimpse of the magical underwater world. Note that El Cielo is only accessible by boat.

Punta Molas

One of the most famous sights and one definitely not to be missed is Punta Molas – a picturesque beach in the north of Cozumel. The anchor point here is the old white-and-red lighthouse surrounded by tropical vegetation and secluded beaches. Punta Molas is where the bright blue of the sky blends with the pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea creating a stunning horizon line. The fastest way to reach the destination is by jeep (this can be challenging because of the unpaved roads) or tour boat.

Playa Palancar

On the western coast of Cozumel and about 17 km from San Miguel, Playa Palancar boasts flawless white beaches, crystal clear waters, and a palapa-roofed dining area where you can sample the acclaimed local fish tacos. Activities such as snorkeling are also pursued here.

San Gervasio Ruins

Located on the northern part of the island, the San Gervasio ruins are an archaeological site of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization and a must-do excursion for history buffs. The site was originally dedicated to the deity of midwifery and medicine, Ix Chel, and was an important pilgrimage site for Mayan women. Today, the ruins are Cozumel's only preserved Mayan ruins and a noteworthy location to learn more about the fascinating Mayan civilization.

Useful Information

More Info: 77684 San Miguel de Cozumel

Phone: +52 983 837 0796

More Info: www.inah.gob.mx/zonas/101-zona-arqueologica-san-gervasio

Opening House: Daily 9am–5pm

Dining

While the main attractions are underwater, Cozumel has much to offer on dry land, too. The cuisine here is mainly a mélange of Mayan/Aztec and Spanish influences, but the tourist boom of the last decades has opened up new horizons and many international chefs have made the island their home, making Italian and French cuisines easy to come by.

Guido's

Guido's brings the authentic taste of Italy to the sun-kissed island of Cozumel. With top-notch Italian food from wood-oven pizza to lasagna, homemade pasta and fresh seafood, it's easy to understand why the beloved restaurant is an institution to locals and a lovely find to tourists.

Useful Information

Address: Avenida Rafael E. Melgar 23, San Miguel de Cozumel

Email: info@guidoscozumel.com

Phone: +52 987 872 0946

More Info: www.guidoscozumel.com

Opening House: Daily 2–11pm

More Info: https://www.facebook.com/CozumelGuidos

La Choza Cozumel

Set a few strides from the main square, La Choza serves typical Yucatecan-Mexican dishes like "poc chuc" (a Mayan/Yucateco version of barbecued pork) and "mole poblano" (a sauce of chilies, fruits, nuts, spices, and chocolate) in an upbeat and relaxing atmosphere.

Useful Information

Address: 10 Avenida Nte. # 216, San Miguel de Cozumel

Email: lachozacozumel@gmail.com

Phone: +52 987 872 0958

Opening House: Daily 8am–9pm

More Info: https://www.facebook.com/lachozaczm/

Burritos Gorditos

Burritos Gorditos is a great pit stop for something fast yet delightful. The menu offers around 21 types of burritos, from vegetarian to meat-based, as well as salad burritos, quesadillas, and tacos. Yucatan-style burritos filled with cochinita (pulled pork shoulder marinated and braised in achiote paste, orange juice, and lime) are also on offer.

Useful Information

Address: 5a Avenida Nte S/N, San Miguel de Cozumel

Email: burritosgorditos@gmail.com

Phone: +52 987 116 7214

More Info: burritosgorditos.wixsite.com/burritosgorditos

Opening House: Mon–Sat 8am–5pm

More Info: https://www.facebook.com/burritosgorditos

El Sitio

No trip to Cozumel would be complete without paying a visit to El Sitio, a hole-in-the-wall eatery with red folding chairs specializing in tacos. Try out the "puerco torta" (pork sandwich) or the mouth-watering "camarón tacos" (shrimp tacos).

Useful Information

Address: 10a Avenida Nte entre Calle 6 Norte y 8, San Miguel de Cozumel

Phone: +52 987 119 2544

Opening House: Daily 7am–1:30pm

Kinta Mexican Bistro

Considered the chicest restaurant on the island, Kinta offers traditional Mexican food with a modern twist. From the main course to dessert, Kinta knows how to pamper guests. The Midnight Pork Ribs accompanied by a refreshing drink is a combo to die for.

Useful Information

Address: 5ta Avenida 148 X 2 y 4, San Miguel de Cozumel

Email: reservaskinta@gmail.com

Phone: +52 987 869 0544

Opening House: Daily 5:30–11:30pm

More Info: https://www.facebook.com/KintaCozumel/

Buccanos

Buccanos is both a vibrant beach club where tourists can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the sun as well as a laid-back restaurant serving simple and modern Mexican food, with an infusion of local seafood and other street-food favourites. Everything here is made with fresh and authentic ingredients and their menu also features vegetarian and vegan options. Drop by Buccanos to sip some margaritas while watching the sunset or come here for a romantic dinner on their terrace overlooking the ocean and decorated with torches and candlelight.

Useful Information

Address: Carretera San Juan Kilometro 4.5, Zona Hotelera Nte., San Miguel de Cozumel

Email: buccanos@yahoo.com

Phone: +52 987 114 5607

More Info: www.buccanos.com/en/inicio/night

Address: Wed–Sat 6am–9pm, Sun 10am–5:30pm

More Info: https://www.facebook.com/BuccanosAtNight/

Señor Frog's

Restaurant chain with locations in Mexico, the United States, and the Caribbean, Señor Frog's is known for its festive atmosphere, great food, gigantic drinks, and lots of singing and dancing. So, join the conga line and make the best out of your time here!

Useful Information

Address: Cruise Ship Terminal, Cozumel

More Info: www.senorfrogs.com

Opening House: Daily 12pm–12am

Tourist Information

 Cozumel International Airport

The island of Cozumel on the Caribbean coast is served by Cozumel International Airport, which handles both international and domestic flights. Approximately 2.8 km (1.7 miles) from the center, taxis and shuttle buses are an easy way to move from the airport to the city center, and vice versa. While hailing a taxi, make sure to have Mexican pesos or US dollars, as many taxi drivers do not accept credit cards. Taxi fares start at USD 5 for short rides up to USD 60 for an all-island tour.

Useful Information

Address: Boulevard Aeropuerto Cozumel s/n, Mexico

Phone: +52 987 872 2081

 Tourist Tax

As of April 1 2021, international travelers that are 15 years or older visiting the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, where Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel are situated, are required to pay a tourist tax known as Visitax. This payment can be made before, during, or after your trip, but it must be paid before boarding your departure flight. At the time of writing, the Visitax costs $224 Mexican pesos (USD $11) per visitor. Once the payment is made, you will receive a QR Code that must be shown at the airport before leaving Mexico. Below is the official government website of Quintana Roo:  Visit Tax Information

 

 Ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel

The fastest way to reach Cozumel from the mainland is by ferry from downtown Playa del Carmen. Ferries leave nearly every hour, and the ride lasts approximately 45 minutes. The company Ultramar has introduced a luxury ferry that takes you to Cozumel in only 20 minutes. The slightly higher prices reflect the service provided on board.

Ferry Information

 PASSPORTS & VISAS

Upon arrival in Mexico, you will need to produce an up to date passport plus a visitor’s permit which is now known as the FMM “Forma Migratoria Multiple”. This form is provided free of charge by your travel agent, airline or at point of entry. As before, passport holders from countries on Mexico’s no visa required list do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. If you’re visiting Mexico from the US or Canada, this applies to you.

The immigration officer at passport control may also ask you to prove the necessary economic means and a return ticket to your country.

Immigration will check your documents and stamp and process the form, handing you back the right-hand portion, which you must keep and surrender when you leave Mexico. If you lose this form, you will have to go to the immigration desk at the airport and may have to pay a fine for another one, so it is best to attach it to your passport so it cannot be misplaced.

Mexico Visa Policy permits citizens of the countries listed below to travel to Mexico without a visa. (FMTTV):

Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Irland, Island, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweeden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Uruguay, USA, Venezuela.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

 Best Time to Visit

March to June represents the best period to visit the island of Cozumel and enjoy its pleasant temperatures. Cozumel is also a hit spot during the winter. Being a snow-free island, it is the perfect place to soak up the sun. The low season runs from July to November. During this time, the island is quieter, and accommodation rates are lower, but keep an eye out for hurricane warnings as they are rather frequent during this time of the year. Every season is characterized by a particular event or festivity. Here are some highlights: - Fiesta of the Virgin of Guadalupe (December) - Carnaval (February-March) - El Cedral Festival (April-May) - Boat Rodeo and Fishing Tournament (May) - Cozumel Independence Day (September) - Ironman Cozumel (November)

 Taxi

Taxis are the easiest way for cruise passengers to get from the port to downtown and vice versa. Taxi fares are relatively cheap (particularly if compared to other countries) and depend on the different zones you want to reach. Since 2016, all taxi drivers must produce a list of fares before taking on a passenger. Taxi stands can be found just outside the pier. Also, rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft do not operate on the island of Cozumel. The best option to explore Cozumel for bigger groups or families is by renting a van service. Uniper Cozumel has a fleet of more than 60 vehicles that can accommodate from 20 to 50 passengers.

 Public Transport

Travelling around Cozumel by public transportation is not very common among tourists, who prefer to hail a taxi or book a minivan. Uniper Cozumel is a private company that handles public transportation on the island. Download their app to learn about their routes and the location of their units in real time.

 Electricity

In Mexico, the standard voltage is 127V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz. If you are travelling from the US, all US appliances and devices should work without a power converter. Power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. Plug type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins - used in North and Central America as well as in Japan. Plug type B is the one that has two flat parallel pins and a round grounding pin.

 Telephone

+52 is Mexico's country code that allows calls from abroad; 987 is Cozumel's area code; +52 987 is then followed by a 7-digit number (e.g. +52 987 xxx xxxx). Note that when calling via cell phone an extra 1 is required (e.g. +52 1 987 xxx xxxx).

 Medical Care in Cozumel

The most reputable hospital in Cozumel is the Cozumel Medical Center (CMC) ready to offer the best service to patients in need of help. Other clinics to be found throughout the area are Amerimed Cozumel Islamed, International Hospital, Cozumel General Hospital. All visits will require a fee to be paid by cash (US dollars also accepted) or credit cards. As for pharmacies, check the list below for the nearest one to the centre. - Farmacias del Ahorro (Mon–Sat 8 am–10 pm, Sun 8 am–9 pm) - Farmacias YZA (24/7 service) Please note that travel insurance is highly recommended while travelling to Cozumel.

👉DrugStore Cozumel International Hospital

Address: Centro, 77600 San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Hours: 

Open 24 hours

Phone: +52 987 872 1430

👉Farmacia y articulos ortopedicos Dori

Pharmacy

San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico · +52 987 872 0559

7AM - 11 PM

In-store shopping

👉Value Drugstore Pharmacy

Pharmacy

San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico · +52 987 872 0944

In-store shopping·

👉Drugs & Deli

Pharmacy

San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico

In-store shopping·

 

 Exploring Key West

By Nadia Ali

Key West is described as the southernmost city giving visitors a taste of the Caribbean without even leaving the US. The tourist board even states Key West is a “unique tropical island city.” However it is defined, Key West is alluring, entertaining and peaceful all at the same time with sightseeing tours conducted on conch trains down roads lined with Colonial houses.

The Conch Train

One of the coolest things to see is the conch train chugging its way through the streets of Key West. It originally began back in 1958 by Bill and Olive Kroll and has become a signature attraction. Visitors can take a 90-minute tour on the tourist trolley which gives a somewhat rough ride compared to the smooth ride of cars today. It has just four stops and the tour guide gives the ins and out of the historical town and points of interest.

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is a popular area in the heart of Key West. It comes alive at night and is a hive of activity. Visitors can be entertained by the jugglers, acrobats, musicians and even unicyclists who bring a carnival atmosphere to the coastal town. There are also numerous vendors with homemade handicraft and paintings for the art lovers.

Duval Street

The main shopping, bar and restaurant area is on Duval Street. It is runs for about a mile and a quarter in length, north to south and has an old time charm to it enhanced by the old wooden colonial shops. Look for Walgreens, as it is housed in what used to be the Strand Movie Theatre, fortunately a lot of the architectural design are incorporated in the modern day shop including the figurines at the front. Duval Street has everything on offer from a variety of Cuban cigars, to tropical swimwear and even coral and shells. At night time it comes alive!

The Oldest House in Key West

The address is 322 Duval Street where the oldest house in Key West sits. It dates back to 1829 and was owned by Confederate blockade-runner Francis B. Watlington. Visitors can roam through the house and gardens free of charge during opening hours where antique furniture, portraits and other period pieces give a glimpse into the nautical past. Be sure and visit the cook house located in the serene garden. It is now the location of the Wreckers Museum.

The Ernest Hemingway House and Museum

World-famous writer Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote in Key West, having bought a Spanish Colonial house at 980 Whitehead Street in 1931. He was here that created some of his more memorable characters. It is also here that his love for cats began, be it six-toed cats lovingly referred to as Gypsy Cats many moons ago. Today, the house and its grounds are open to the public for an admission price. You can see the well-preserved interior where mementos from the author remain on display.

Harry S. Truman the Little White House

Located at 111 Front Street and originally built in 1890, this was once the home of Harry S Truman. He used it as his winter retreat in 1946. Nowadays, visitors can take a guided tour around the premises and view the original rooms complete with décor and furniture.

Ghost Tours

For the fearsome tourist Key West boasts of being the most haunted town in the US. It even gives statistics of the dead outnumbering the living 4 to 1. It comes complete with a book full of ‘real’ ghost stories and several paranormal encounters. You can even join a ghost tour and experience the spirit of a young Bahamian girl who plays in the fire engine room at night or listen for the sound of clinking marbles on the staircase in the oldest house in Key West or to see the ghost of thee Ernest Hemingway pacing the veranda on the second story of his house.

The drive to Key West is as rewarding as being in the town. It is known as one of the best scenic drives in the US. It features the elevated Florida Keys Overseas Highway recently dubbed an “All-American” road which is flanked by the blue azure sea on both sides – yes both sides!

 Discovering Mexico’s Most Enchanting Magical Towns

By Sue King

Most visitors to Mexico head straight to the country’s stunning beaches, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with that. However, there is an abundance of delights in store for those who venture beyond the beaches to Mexico’s beguiling magic towns. The Mexican tourist board has selected 132 pueblos to be included on a list of so-called ‘magic towns’. The towns are chosen for a combination of characteristics, including culture, architecture, natural beauty, cuisine, and indigenous history. Although they have these traits in common, they each have a distinctive vibe of their own. Such is the diverse landscape of Mexico that magic towns can be found in deserts, jungles, and mountains, and even on islands.  

Mexico’s large cities have their own unique qualities, but magic towns allow visitors the opportunity to relax and soak up a more laid-back atmosphere. Whether you are shopping in the colorful markets, people watching in the plazas, or sampling the regional cuisine, magic towns offer a taste of authentic Mexico that just can’t be found in Cancun.

To make magic towns even more alluring, often, foreign tourists are few and far between. Another bonus is that they are often located conveniently close to ancient Mayan ruins or areas of natural beauty. To whet your appetite further, here are just a handful of Mexico’s enchanting magic towns:

Palenque

Despite the fact that Palenque itself is an attractive pueblo with restaurants that serve tasty Mayan cuisine and local craft shops aplenty, it is the mystifying ruins lying five miles outside town which attract the bulk of visitors. Situated in the north of Chiapas, the imposing Mayan ruins were abandoned around 800 AD. The reason for the sudden departure remains a mystery. Surrounded by verdant tropical jungle, exploring the impressively preserved temples, along with carvings and statues, is an enthralling experience. Channel your inner Indiana Jones as the jungle comes alive with the sounds of howler monkeys and parrots, and you are transported to the world of the ancient Mayans.

Mayan ruins near Palenque

Todos Santos

Situated near the foot of the Baja Peninsula and tucked between the ocean, desert, and mountains, Todos Santos is, for want of a less cliched term, a gem. The cobbled streets are lined with colorful buildings and row after row of papel picado flutter overhead against the blue sky. Images of Baja fill the many galleries and there is a profusion of shops selling locally produced crafts. The town’s mission, which is located on the plaza, dates to 1733. The serene sound of the choir can often be heard emanating from within. If you need convincing further that Todos Santos is worthy of a visit, the town is within walking distance of a stunning, largely deserted beach where you can spot whales from the shore.

Mexican handcraft and folk art in Todos Santos

Campeche

As in all Mexican towns, the main plaza lies at the heart of the local community, and Campeche is no exception. At weekends, dances and concerts take place, and the atmosphere is high-spirited and inclusive. Campeche is located on the Gulf of Mexico and is known for its attractive pastel-colored architecture. The Malecon is perfect for strolling and the sea breeze provides pleasant relief from the intense Mexican heat. There is a cluster of seafood restaurants, where you can dine while watching pelicans swooping in for their own catch of the day.

Campeche, Mexico, Independence Plaza

Tlaquepaque

A suburb of Guadalajara, this vibrant barrio is home to oodles of shops, bars, restaurants, and galleries. The pedestrianized main street leads to a central plaza and is adorned with quirky sculptures. In the evenings, the evocative sound of mariachi can be heard as bands wander around the plaza delighting the crowds. If you’re in the market to buy a piece of art, Tlaquepaque is the ideal place to do it. The shops are brimming with everything from traditional Mexican folk to cutting-edge creations. The town is especially captivating during the Day of the Dead festival when colorful altars are erected, and dancing skeletons take to the streets.

Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Street Of Tlaquepaque

Cholula

Cholula is a short jaunt from the beautiful colonial city of Puebla, around eight miles away. Home to the largest manmade pyramid on the planet, these days, the pre-Hispanic structure is covered in vegetation. Below it lies a network of tunnels that can be explored with a guide. A church built on the top of the pyramid has panoramic views of the town below. The active Popocatepetl Volcano can be seen puffing away in the distance. The peaceful, shaded plaza is a perfect spot to take a seat and people-watch. Check out the nearby Cholula Museum, which traces the history, art, and geology of the local area.

Cholula, Puebla, Mexico

Tequila

Named after the national tipple, the town of Tequila is encompassed by fields of blue agave, the plant from which it derives. Tequila, located in the state of Jalisco, is easy to reach from Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city. As expected, the town is home to historic distilleries and tequila shops galore. Even the restaurants get in on the act and serve tequila-based dishes. Most of the distilleries operate tours where tourists can learn all about the distilling process and, of course, indulge in a sample. The chances are you won’t leave this magic town without a hangover – but it’ll be worth it.

Tequila, Jalisco, Mexico

Xilitla

This mountain village in the state of San Luis Potosi is known for its nearby jungle fantasyland, Las Pozas. Created by sculptor and artist, Edward James, stepping into Las Pozas is akin to being in a psychedelic dream. Towering sculptures of serpents and flowers are enshrouded in the jungle. There are trails, hidden doorways, and surprises wherever you wander. A scenic waterfall tumbles into a series of pools, surrounded by pillars, and nature merges seamlessly with art. Xilitla itself is a peaceful village and is frequently shrouded in mist due to its high altitude. Recently, an excellent new museum dedicated to the surrealist artist, Leonora Carrington, opened. Locals attired in indigenous costumes, shop at the market for tamales wrapped in banana leaves or jungle fruits, and tourist sightings are rare.  

Xilitla a magic town located in the heart of Huasteca

Valladolid

Not only does Valladolid have a charming plaza, fine colonial architecture, and a scattering of enticing shops and restaurants, but this magic town of Yucatan also happens to be home to the largest private collection of folk art in Mexico. Casa de los Venados is the extraordinary house of US ex-pats, John and Dorianne Venator, who own the dazzling collection. Daily tours are free, and donations support local charities. Valladolid also has a cenote (limestone swimming hole) in the heart of the town – ideal for a cooling dip when the heat is overbearing. To tempt you further, the famous Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza are only twenty-five miles away and are easily accessible by bus or taxi.

Main square with Cathedral in Valladolid