Theft on Beaches?
 

Excuse my ignorance, but I've never been snorkeling in Mexico (Cozumel) - or any other location for that matter... <BR> <BR>What would be a word of advice on personal belongings when diving and snorkeling? Say I find a beach, I toss on some flippers and a mask but leave behind on the beach my bag with towels, lotions, and the like. <BR> <BR>In the states there's a little bit less of a 'risk' - most of the time you can watch your stuff because you're not under the water staring at fish, and blanket neighbors can often 'watch out' for your stuff and vice versa while swimming. <BR> <BR>Thoughts? Experiences? Common sense on the topic? <BR> <BR>marc <BR> <BR> <BR>

Thievery on the beach is getting to be a big problem, especially in areas that are heavily visited by cruise ships. Never carry more than you can stand to lose. Don't leave watches, credit cards, pocketbooks, or other valuable items, on the beach whether in sight or not. <BR>When we go snorkeling we bring cash and put it in a floating container - you can buy these in boat stores or travel catalogs- that we tie onto our bathing suits. Join forces with other people if possible, and go to the beach in groups. <BR>

You will most definitely want to try the snorkelling at Chankanab Park (pay to get in) and Playa Corona (very small but excellent snorkelling - don't have to pay to use the beach). Both have restaurants/refreshments, so all you will need to take with you is cash for cab and refreshments and your room key. Use the waterproof container suggested by the people above if you want to go it alone and then you can leave your bag with towel and suntan lotions only in it on the beach - it should be okay. Wear a waterproof watch and wear it into the water. If you plan on carrying anything more with you, ie. a camera then you must travel with a group and hope someone who is a non-snorkeler will watch your stuff, while everyone is in the water. Everything else should be left back in your room safe! If you go on one of the snorkelling/sail tours, you are pretty well safe to leave your stuff on the boat while snorkelling. <BR>Have a ball and remember those places I mentioned above. <BR>

I know that Chankanaab has lockers that you can rent for your valuables. We usually leave a towel, book, suntan lotion, but I would never leave anything valuable unwatched. The waterproof container and watch are excellent ideas, use common sense and you will be fine. <BR> <BR>Have fun!!!!

Yes, the lockers at Chakanaab rent for $1--not much for peace of mind--the comes on a wristband. There are also lockers for rent at Xel Ha. Have a good trip! <BR>