Brokers and Brokerage

Cozumel -- Local Guide

Author: Staff
Tourist Information: Ministry of Tourism 800-44-MEXICO or www.viva-cozumel.com.

Location: Cozumel, the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean is located 12 miles off the eastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula in the State of Quintana Roo. The island is approximately 30 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point.

Topography: The island is relatively flat, its interior full of marshy lagoons and dense jungle. The west side is lined with white-sand beaches bordered by an extensive reef system. The rugged east coast has a rocky shoreline broken by calm sandy coves. Only 3 percent of the island is developed and a large chunk of the rest is a national park and teems with birds, iguanas and other wildlife.

Climate: Cozumel's weather is typical of the Caribbean. The average air temperature is 800F. From July through August, expect highs in the 80s0F to low 90s0F and from December to January temperatures range in the mid-70s0F. The wettest months are May, June, September and October.

Area Code: To dial from the U.S., you must use the international code (011), then the country code (52), then the area code (987) followed local number.

Language: Spanish is the official language but English is understood by most people employed by the tourism industry.

Documents: Tourist card, proof of U.S. citizenship and return ticket are required.

Currency: US$1=9.35 pesos.

Electricity: 120 volts, 60 cycles AC.

Time: Central Standard Time year-round.

Taxes and Tipping: Mexico's value-added tax (I.V.A.) is ten percent. Phone calls, lodging and dining are subject to additional taxes and charges. Be careful, international calls are very expensive in Mexico. A considerable tax is added to calls and most hotels add a service charge. An airport departure tax of US$17.50 must also be paid. Tipping is similar to the U.S.

Ground Transportation: Rental cars, taxis, bicycles and mopeds are widely available. An international driver's license is not required.

Airlines: Aeromexico (800-237-6639), American Airlines (800-433-7300), Continental Airlines (800-525-0280) and Mexicana (800-531-7921) serve Cozumel.

HOTELS

El Cozumeleno Beach Resort, 800-437-3923. One of Cozumel's original luxury resorts, this waterfront property recently completed a total makeover, increasing to 254 rooms, all with balconies and Caribbean views. There are two new swimming pools, a spa and workout room, plus a lineup of daily activities that help guests sample the local culture. Scuba diving, snorkeling, sport fishing and other recreational diversions can be arranged through the concierge. There's an outdoor restaurant and, for more formal occasions, an indoor dining room. Fax: 52-987-20381. Or visit www.cozumel.com.mx/hoteles/hotelcoz.

Casa del Mar, 800-235-5892. Situated on the beach just 15 minutes from the airport, this hotel has 106 rooms with air conditioning, color TV and phone. Restaurant and swimming pool on site. Activities include diving, snorkeling and windsurfing. Fax: 011-52-98-72-1855.

Coral Princess, 800-253-2702. This beachfront property has 198 rooms, suites and villas, including two penthouses. Activities include diving and volleyball. There are two restaurants and three bars on site.

Fiesta Americana Cozumel Reef, 800-FIESTA-1. Overlooking the Caribbean on the south side of the island, this property has 228 units including standard rooms with air conditioning, color TV, mini-bar, purified water and more. Suites have same amenities plus terraces with hammocks. There are three restaurants, two bars and a pool, and activities include diving, snorkeling, tennis and volleyball. Fax: 011-52-98-72-2680.

La Ceiba, 800-435-3240. This 113-room hotel is steps away from a secluded beach and only five minutes away from San Miguel Village. There are two restaurants on site, a pool bar, Jacuzzi and weight room. Activities include snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and tennis.

Paradisus Cozumel, 800-33-MELIA. This five-star, all-inclusive beachfront property has 150 rooms and is excellent for divers. There are three restaurants, five bars and two pools on site, and activities include a natural beach, water-sports, horseback riding, tennis and diving. Fax: 011-52-98-21599.

Plaza Las Glorias, 800-342-AMIGO (1-800-342-2644). This luxury, beachfront hotel is within walking distance of downtown. There is an ocean-view pool, Jacuzzi, bar and restaurant. All 170 suites include air conditioning, satellite color television, direct-dial telephone and bar/fridge. Activities include snorkeling and diving right off the hotel's private beach. Fax: 011-52-98-72-1937.

Sol Cabanas del Caribe, 800-33-MELIA. Located on the beach, this hotel has 528 rooms and cottages with air conditioning, balconies and views of the sea. Activities include snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, water skiing, fishing and sailing. Submarine tours are also available. Las Gaviotas restaurant serves seafood, Mexican and international cuisine.

ACTIVITIES

Cozumel's dive shop association has more than 60 members, and you can't walk through San Miguel's central district without passing most of them. Highly recommended is Careyitos Divers, 011-52-987-2231 or 011-52-987-23749, where Ricardo Madrigal leads trips. A two-tank dive is US$70 with discounts for multiple days.

Posted online 07/01/97.

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