Hi TC,
My family is going to Cozumel April 30th-May 9th. We want to snorkel, shop, and see any local sites that are unique to the island. I understand renting a vehicle is risky (laws, accidents, etc.) is there a huge cost difference between that and taxis? Also is there anything to know about Cinco de Mayo - things to avoid or see if you've been there during the festival? One of my sons is a photographer and would love to get some cool pictures. We have also heard about Isla Mujeres, have you ever been? Thank you and please send me your list! my email is skroach@charter.net

Hi, I will send you my "to do" list via email. Cinch de Maya is (much to the surprise of most Americans) not a big holiday in Mexico. Following is a link to an interesting article explaining why.

http://www.cozumelmycozumel.com/Pages/CozumelHolidaysCincodeMayo.htm

For photography, there are many wonderful opportunities on the island. I especially love strolling around the town square on Sunday evenings to capture the locals at play.

Renting a car is neither difficult or risky. The cost is about $30 per day for a fully insured vehicle. Taxi costs depend on where your hotel is located. Our condo is about 1.5 miles north of town. A taxi cost 60 pesos, one-way (about $5). If hour hotel is in the southern zone, it is more costly and a car might be to your advantage.

Isla is very nice. It is not near Cozumel. To get there you must take the ferry to the mainland, then a 1.5 hour bus ride to Cancun, then another ferry to Isla. Not exactly an easy day trip.

Hi TC. Could you pls send me your updated Cozumel list? tkowach@gmail.com

Thanks a lot (again)

GTK, The new information is on the way. Hope it helps.

Can you send me your updated list. tbhl3@verizon.net
Will be in Cozumel on a cruise in June. Looking for a clean beach, fresh water pool, no sand fleas, safe that offers access to cruisers. Any ideas? What is your favorite hotel/club that meets these requirements.

Hi P, I don't have a favorite that follows your criteria. We own a condo, so I'm at our pool and beach. However there are several nice beach clubs for your needs. I'm sure your cruise line will offer to take you to them. You can go to any on your own by taxi and probably save some money.

Here's a link with descriptions for some of the beaches. Typically there will be a lot of people at these beaches, but not in June. Playa Azul is a nice little hotel if that's what you want. Many others have lots of toys, if that's your deal. We have enjoyed a place called Nachi CoCom in years past. They had great food.

http://cozumelnachicocom.net/

http://thisiscozumel.com/content/blogcategory/78/65/

Hola TC,
I would be interested in a copy of your list. My husband and I try to get to Cozumel annually as well. We are going for the second time this year in June.
We love to try new places and we have our 'go to' favorites as well.
Happy travels,
Amy
masqsweeps @ yahoo.com

Hi Amy, I've sent two emails to your address. Let me know if you recieve them and if you have anything to add. Safe travels. TC

Could you send me your list - etvacation@cox.net.

We are planning on going in the fall with some friends. They went earlier this year and we went last year for a short trip but are always interested in finding new places.

Thanks, Eva

Hi Eva . The info is on it's way to you. Enjoy your trip.

Sorry Eva, The emails bounced back. Is the email address correct?

I would love a copy of your list.

Thanks

tazdup@yahoo.com

Heading there for the first time in July. I'd love your list, too. friendsemp@mindspring.com Thanks!

Happy to help.

Please send us your complete list. We leave very soon. Thanks so much! e

rodsong76@hotmail.com

i would love a copy of your list...heading there in the first week of nov to do some diving...hows the weather then? stevetropic@hotmail.com

Thanks for asking. Steve. Have sent to you two emails this AM.

I would love an updated list - Thanks! skindyca@gmail.com

Could you please send your Cozumel list? I realize time has elapsed but I am looking for tips since I will hopping off from a cruise. e-mail- lindaluker@fast.net

Hi Linda, My info is geared more toward those who are staying on the island, but I have sent it to you anyway. Hope it helps.

Going for the first time next February, please send your list.
Thanks much, lin1226@mail.com

Hi Linda, I've sent you a couple of emails. Let me know if they arrive. My AOL account has been acting weird lately and I've lost some emails.

BTW Linda: If you are in Cozumel February 17-21 you might catch Carnival (Mardi Gras) there will be three big parades -- Saturday, Sunday and Monday nights.

TC-

We are going for 5 days in November. I would be grateful if you sent the list. We went last year and Especias and La Choza were our favorites. Would like to try some of the Economias (sp?). Thanks. kdannenb@sbcglobal.net

Dear TC,
We are going for 5 days in November. I would be grateful if you sent the list. Thanks. clic_betty@yahoo.com

Looks like everyones going to be there in November We'll need a Fodors GTG on the beach.

I'd love the list too. Do you include condo suggestions (to rent, not buy!) thanks
jkalmanson@aol.com

Hi Grandma, No, I don't include condo suggestions in the list, but I would be happy to give you some information. After you get my emails, write back with your parameters -- how big, approx pricing, on the water, etc. I can give you some information on those that I have seen.

TC

I'd love a copy of your list too...We leave next week!! Thanks! meryle@roadrunner.com

Hi TC,

I want to thank you ahead of time for offering to update and send peeps lists. I have never posted to a board. DH & I will arrive Nov 26, Saturday post Thanksgiving - 1wk stay.

Last year did PDC virgin trip. We did not know there was a global summit of some kind going on and the military ck points, guns and army men was frightening to see.

Nonetheless, all was good and nothing to worry about in end. Only hint of trouble was crooked PDC (Pemex) attendant who attempted to cheat. Tried to double charge-pointed up claiming overcast prevented AMEX charge going through. Went over to the side called AMEX who confirmed charge DID go though & man was cheat. A very nice taxi driver came over said this was common scam. DH went to station mgr requested our cash back in pleasant way. Mgr also claimed cloud cover ruse but since we were persistent and told what AMEX said the crooked attendent returned our money. We don't speak Spanish and were at a disadvantage. (TO DO: learn Spanish) We rented a car from Thrifty (I think) had coat hanger for an antennae w/a squealing engine but made it to Tulum and back w/no mishaps.

The Mexican people were kind and honest folks and we loved this area. TC, I see you are an expert and would love to follow your recommendations. I am particularly interested in hearing local music so keeping watch out for posters on anything going on Nov 26-Dec3.

We are looking to explore, snorkel, relax and rejuvenate & be safe in Cozumel .

Could you kindly send to me "the list"? hanketh@hotmail.com

OOPs... meant to say went to Tulum and Chichen Itza (last year) in our little whinnying rental. Very happy, by the way, we did not listen to some Americanos who said don't rent a car down there. We were just fine, maybe slightly worried but it offered an adventure of sorts and definite excitement that frankly is no different than going into bad areas in our own country.

We would love a copy of your list - please send to tnd92@comcast.net
Thanks.

I would appreciate your list. Could you also help with ideas on lodging? I am looking for the best deal on lodging that is decent.. I would be upset to stay some place dirty or with worn furnishings etc but do not require an AI or activites etc. Thanks! sdelano@sbcglobal.net

One of my favorite small, inexpensive places is Hacienda San Miguel. While it isn't on the water, it is less than a block from the water. It is right on the edge of downtown so you can walk easily to any shopping or dining. It's a great little spot in the $90 - $150 range.

http://www.haciendasanmiguel.com/eng/index.html

Hi TC,

I will be in Cozumel on 12/31 as a stop on my cruise. I already have a rental car and have been to Cozumel before but not in some time. I would love a copy of your list. If you could please send it to glam@nyc.rr.com, and perhaps share 1 or 2 of your best off-the-beaten-path places/things to do there. We plan to visit the ruins, and do some snorkeling (with our on gear), and try to have lunch at a beach shack!

Thanks,
Gordon

Hi Gordon, Unfortunately there aren't any beach "shacks" left. Most blew away during Hurricane Wilma and have been replaced with fancier beach clubs - complete with umbrellas, cafes, bars, water toys, etc. Probably the best for snorkeling is a place called Money Bar -- south of town. It used to be the old Dhul Ha. The reef there is making a decent comeback after the hurricane, especially if you swim out a way. There is a wicked current, be sure to have fins.

www.moneybarbeachclub.com

Another beach club on the same road is Playa Uvas. It is equally as nice and may have better snorkeling from shore.

http://www.playauvas.com/cozumel-diving-and-snorkeling-prices.php

All the shallow, shore accessed reefs were pretty severely damaged, but these have had some help in recovering. They are, however, used by cruise lines for day tours, so you won't have them all to yourself.

Another option for snorkeling is to take a boat excursion to one of the deeper reefs not effected so much by the turmoil of the hurricane. A very good one is Columbia Shallows. Most snorkeling excursions go to Columbia.

You could snorkel at Money Bar, then drive on around the island for lunch at Chen Rio on the "wild side" (the snorkeling isn't any good on that side of the island), then continue on to the ruins and back to town.

Or you could take the cross island road to the ruins first thing, then backtrack to town and head to Buccanos Beach Club on the north end of the island. Its a pretty spot with a nice beach, pool, showers, dressing rooms, restaurant with really good food and some snorkeling just off shore.

www.buccanos.com

I will send you my list via email. It includes my favorite places for shopping, eating and hanging out.

Hi TC,

Would love a copy of your list. Debbie_lee88 at hotmail dot com.

Thanks!

Hi Everyone: Please let me know when you get the list. I send them out to every request and rarely get a reply to let me know if the list was received, used or appreciated.

Just a "thanks - got it" is enough. A follow-up after your trip to add what you found isn't necessary, but sure would be a much appreciated return favor.

Thanks, TC

List please, gracias. kandilan@sbcglobal.net

I have emailed directly to you, TrvlMaven. Let me know if your "Travel Monsters" find it helpful. LOL

Hi TC,

This is a great forum! Can I get your list? My husband and I will be going to Playa next month and we're planning on hopping over to Cozumel for a day trip or overnight. I am a diver (somewhat beginner) but my husband is not. With so little time, would love to know what's worth doing there. Thank you! My email is phenjee2@gmail.com.

Your list is on the way, phenjee.

Hi TC

I would love a copy of your list !! My husband and I are going to Cozumel early February 2012 for the 1st time and spending 4 nights at the Aura Cozumel Grand Resort...
We're very excited and... hopefully it's a good choice...??

My email address is nclarose@telus.net

Thank you !!

Hi TC, Hubby and I are headed to Playa Azul for first stay in Cozumel end of February. Would love to get my hands on your list. We've got the golf and snorkelling figured out (that's why we chose Playa Azul), looking at Kinta for dinner for one evening out but am open to your suggestions and 'insider tips'. Have followed you giving advice on other Cozumel forums and am pretty sure you're legit. Thanks so much in advance. maggiebutters@hotmail.com aka Mrs Mantequillas

Hello TC, Please send your list...Thanks so much for your time & help! Deanna O deanna6325@hotmail.com

Emails off to you both. Hope it helps you enjoy.

Hi TC, would you please send mea copy of your list? flynn_60@hotmail.com Thank you so much!

Would love your list. We will be choosing a condo on Cozumel or Playa and would love pros and cons or suggestions. Want to be on the beach.
We'll be going in April.
Perkimom@aol.com

Thank you!

I have sent you both a couple of emails with the information. I hope it helps with your planning.

Hi TC
I would really appreciate having your list as we are going to Cozumel at the end of the month and I think it would be very helpful. Could you please send it to islandview-inn@rogers.com

Thanks in advance
DR

Spectacular days here this month...Feb. Perfect weather during the day. A little rain at night. Excellent! Come on down.

Please send me a list to vwshoppe@hotmail.com
Thanks Viki

Viki....done.

Another request please - emtd9@comcast.net.

Also, do you know if Playa Corona still exists? It's where I learned to snorkle many many moons ago.

Thanks

Hi Elle. I'm not sure if Playa Corona is still called Playa Corona. Of course, the beach is still there. A lot of that area was damaged heavily in hurricane Wilma and some of the clubs went under. "The Money Bar" is in that stretch of reef, so if Corona isn't in existence, try TMB.

Elle. Not sure if emails are getting to you. Several times they have bounced back. Let me know.

Hi TC,

Would love your list (metzhaus@comcast.net). We are going to Cozumel the end of March and then going to Akumal for a few days. We like to be able to go exploring on our own. We are thinking of renting a car in Cozumel and also renting one once we get to the mainland. Do you think that is advisable? It seems that many people do not recommend rental cars but that's our preferred method of transportation. Thanks in advance for your help. Laurie

Could you send me your updated list please? Thank you!
Cassiefluke@gmail.com

Looking at going in July with 4 adults one teenager and a 6 yr old all who love to snorkel and explore
jamieandjim319@yahoo.com would love your info

Thanks

please send me a copy lemoinep@shaw.ca Thank you

Gigi11 and Hocuschickens. Have sent emails to you both. Hope it helps.

Photos of some of the island are on my web page:
www.tonna.zenfolio.com

Hi TC-My husband and I along with 6 others will be traveling to Cozumel in 3 weeks. One question we have been researching is deciding whether or not to prepay for our transportation from the airport to our hotel and back or just catch a taxi outside of the airport-suggestions? We are all staying at Park Royal, do you know if that is within walking distance to town and do you feel it is a safe walk? We would love to have a copy of your list to take with us, what a great service you are giving to many people. Thank you very much and I will let you know as soon as I receive the list.

I guess you may need my e-mail address:

griggs_m@yahoo.com

Thanks again!

Buzzratt, Hope the email answers your questions. Let me know.

Hi, TC,

May I impose on your generosity and kindness to send me a copy of your Cozumel info? We'll be spending a week next June in Cozumel, followed by one week in Cancun. Thank you in advance. E-mail: tdelab at yahoo dot com

On its way, Treesa. Hope it helps.

Got it, TC. Thanks ever so much. Excellent info. I'm sure it was a labor of love for you.

Hello - I am planning a trip to Cozumel for New Year's and I'd love to receive your list. My email is: kisnead@yahoo.com. Thank you!

I have sent two emails, kim5. Hope they help.

heading to Cozumel early November. Could you please email your list? timaknsn@gmail.com

Thanks!

Correction on email address:
timatknsn@gmail.com

Heading to Cozumel this weekend for a week. Looking for your Cozumel information and tipping information for the Iberostar resort. Am very excited to be going and want to be a proper guest. My email is sandyswanson@sbcglobal.net. Thank you very much in advance.

Also if you have some good snorkeling spots that we can go to on our own. Thanks again.

Have sent to both Sandy and Tim. Sandy...your email bounces. Let me know if you receive mine.

Would like your list also - currently in Cancun and headed over to Cozumel: msmhmd@yahoo.com

Thanks!

I have sent two emails to you this morning, mstraveler. Hope they help you enjoy your day.

Hi TC,
We're headed to Cozumel this coming weekend and would kindly appreaciate your list. Looks to be very popular! Thanks, Maria
fontmn@gmail.com

No problem, Maria. Let me know what you discover on your visit to the island.

I would like a copy of your list please. I would particularly be interested in the less touristy, more authentic, hole in the walls. Thank you!
brenda_hayes@comcast.net

I sent you information this morning, Brenda.

Will be in Cancun and 5days travel around Mayan sites for next three weeks. May get to Cozumel. Would love your lists ESP the mainland info. Bepstein@prodigy.net. Gracias!

Hi Elainee. I don't really have any mainland advice. I have only been to Cancun once -- decades ago. We never even take the ferry across to Playa. My list is really geared to people who are spending time on the island of Cozumel.

Hi TC, I would love to have your list. We will be on Cozumel in two weeks and your list would be a great help.
kmonroster@gmail.com. Thanks!

Hi K.M. I have sent your emails. Hope they help with your fun. Post back when you return with any favorites.

Hello TC, thanks for this, we are heading to Cozumel in a little more than a month. Still looking for things to do and great spots to hang out. We would really appreciate your list thanks!

chemicaljunkie AT hotmail.com

No problemo...Doug. Just curious how you got that particular handle for your email address? Should I be worried? LOL

I would love a copy of your list. We are traveling to Mexico in June and trying to decide between Cozumel or Playa del Carmen. We Are bringing two 18 year old boys. Interested in snorkeling but not diving, also deep sea fishing and just hanging out at the beach and swimming Any advice as to which place would be better?

I would say...Playa. The boys will find much more to do there, I believe.

Hi TC,
Would love a copy of your list. kellig248@yahoo.com
We are going to an AI there, but might only rent a car for one day to tour the island. Have you spent much time at punta sur or playa palancar? If so, which one would be better? We love nature, but wasn't sure if we could see the same wildlife (crocodiles and birds) at playa palancar as we could at punta sur. Sounds like there is an admission fee at punta sur but not at playa palancar from my research, but I'm not 100% confident about that. We'd probably order food at either place.

I have sent your emails, Kelly and answered your questions in them.

Hi TC,
can you send me your list please.

joan.cossette@csc-scc.gc.ca

Thanks!

Hi TC,

I've really enjoyed reading your comments here. I'm coming with partner plus 15 year-old and 12 year-old in mid-February. We would very much appreciate your list.

Sarah

Hello Sunfish and Cucuchi. I am happy to share my information with you.

Enjoy!

Thanks I got both!

Please send your list

jk@se-asiatravel.com

I would like a copy of you list.
Thanks!
MMMMendenhall@AOL.com

OK on the way.

Can you please resend me your list? Got it a few years back, but am heading to Coz again in April!

beanweb24@gmail.com

Thanks!

Hi from Nova Scotia. I would appreciate it if you would send us your list. My wife and I are off to Cozumel in early April. Our first time in Mexico. al.simpson@tc.tc

Hi TC. Would appreciate it if you could email me your updated list. my wife and i are making our first trip to Cozumel in April. al.simpson@tc.tc