Cozumel,
the largest island in Mexico; measuring 33 miles long and
8 miles wide, located 12 miles off the tip of the Yucatan
Peninsula, is a paradise playground. Cozumel is a rarity
in today's travel world. It has maintained a laid back,
relaxed pace and a distinctive Mexican culture, yet it has
all the services of a larger travel destination.
Yet until recently, the island has been best known as a
cruise ship port-of-call and mecca for hard-core scuba divers.
Cozumel is now shedding some of its "divers only"
reputation and making strides in attracting more mainstream
international guests. The majority of the island's visitors
are now families, ecotourists, honeymooners, and Yucatan-bound
visitors that find nearby Cancun a bit overwhelming.
The island has something for everyone. Sightseeing includes
over 35 archaeological sites (only a few of which are accessible
and worth seeing), and the charming city of San Miguel (population
50,000). The town is a hodgepodge of cafes, restaurants,
and attractive boutiques. It encircles the main plaza, and
extends several blocks along the city's breezy seaside promenade.
Nature lovers come to Cozumel to see giant sea turtles laying
their eggs (May to September) and to observe the island's
variety of exotic migratory bird life. Visitors are only
a 40-minute ferry ride from the incredible Tulum Corridor
region of the Yucatan Peninsula, brimming with hidden beaches,
secluded resorts and archaeological treasures.
Divers world wide have discovered Cozumel's most valuable
treasure... it's coral reefs. Cozumel is constantly bathed
by the south to north flow of the Yucatan current, which
produces visibility often exceeding 100 feet, and most dives
are conducted as mild drift diving. The underwater landscape
includes majestic cliffs, canyons, tunnels, and cathedrals
overgrown with black coral, sponges, and giant sea fans.
The reefs and walls support a prolific amount of friendly
fish life such as giant groupers and angelfish.
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Cozumel
At A Glance
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Cozumel
At a Glance
Language: Spanish is the official language. English
is widely spoken
Government: Republic since 1917. Gained independence
from Spain in 1821
Mexico Capital: Mexico City
Size: Mexico - 1,953,162 sq km (754,120 sq miles)
Cozumel - 33 miles long and 8 miles wide
Climate: The climate of Cozumel is semi-tropical
and humid, with a rainy season from May to November, mainly
concentrated in the fall months. March and April are the
driest months. It doesn’t rain all the time during the
rainy season, but in short, intense afternoon downpours,
so any time is good for a visit to Cozumel.
Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60Hz. US 2-pin (flat)
plugs are usual
Currency: Mexican Peso
Driving: Drivers license required, drive on right
Rentals: International and local auto rental agencies
can be found at the airport and around Cancun. must be
21 years old, hold a driver's license and major credit
card. Road signs are in Spanish
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