We did the Atlantis Submarine excursion when we visited Cozumel in November 2004. It is a fun time, though pricey. Take your good digital camera for some great shots. Still left plenty of time to dicker with the local merchants...
We are going to Cozumel again in January 2006 - any suggestions for something "not to miss" ??
We are going there in Dec.. I was wondering what are the best places to find good shopping and something to do (we only have from 7-5:30, according to carnival's website)?
If you go shopping down town in Cozumel, be prepared to be hasseled every 30 ft.. Always dicker over price, always.. If you can ride on, or drive a scooter, you can rent one for about $30 a day.. We like to get one and ride around the coast highway. The back side of the Island has miles of deserted beaches and bar/restr. every mile, or so... We like to stop and just enjoy the seclusion.... Enjoy you cruise....
I agree with Rog about being hassled every few feet. Keep a smile on your face and just keep moving to where you want to go. However, if they do lure you in, haggle. None of those prices are as low as they'll go.
If you're just looking for some beach time, grab a cab after getting ashore and head up the coast a bit. There's some really great beaches up there. There are admission fees. If you've arranged it on the ship they are included. Food at the concession stands is expensive. We took a cab around the island the first time we were there. Just ask one of them to show you the island. He'll do it for a price, but negotiate before you get in.
Anyone know how far it is from the pier to the main strip in town? Do you walk or take a cab? Also, how do you get around the main town? Any tips on how to get/pay/how much to pay for a taxi? (I've never been out of the country, so I'm afraid of transportation, esp. since where I live, I only drive, no buses, taxis, subways, etc.)
Independence OTS - Our First Hump!! in
384days 6hours 2minutes
NCL Dream 12/05 - W Carib
Rhapsody OTS 12/06 - W Carib
Voyager OTS 11/07- W Med
It depends on which pier you dock at. One is very close to the main shopping area and it's just a matter of walking anywhere. The other is a cab ride away from the shopping, but nearer the main beach areas. We were told the last time it was about a $5 fare to the main shopping area. Unless it's changed, the best cabbies are unionized and drive red cars or have some sort of id to say they're approved.
We have been researching things to do in Cozumel and I think we've decided to shop and hang out at Paradise Beach. For $8 you get a wrist band that allows you to play on all the water toys. From what I've read it has nice clean restrooms, good food, and a fairly nice beach. Have any of you been to this place?
I think several people have and have said its a good place to go, esp. with kids, or kids at heart! I'm still trying to decide between Paradise and Nachi-Cocom. Have you looked on CozumelInsider.com? Has tons of info on beaches!
Independence OTS - Our First Hump!! in
384days 6hours 2minutes
NCL Dream 12/05 - W Carib
Rhapsody OTS 12/06 - W Carib
Voyager OTS 11/07- W Med