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Cozumel's main souvenir-shopping area is downtown on or near the waterfront; tourist-trap malls at the cruise-ship piers sell jewelry, perfume, sportswear, and low-end souvenirs at high-end prices.
Most downtown shops accept U.S. greenbacks, and many goods are priced in dollars. But to get better prices, pay with pesos and stick to cash—some shops tack a hefty surcharge on credit-card purchases. Shops, restaurants, and streets are always crowded between 10 am and 2 pm, but slow down in the evening. Traditionally, stores are open from 9 to 9, although most do close on Sunday morning.
When you shop for souvenirs, be sure you don't buy anything made with black coral. Not only is it overpriced, it's also an endangered species, and you may be barred from bringing it to the United States and other countries.
Open daily from 7 am to 11 pm, this big, full-service grocery store also carries clothing, kitchenware, appliances, furniture, and a terrific selection of wine. For those renting a nearby condo, this is a place to stock up on food and beverages. Brand-name sunscreens, while expensive, are available. The deli and bakery are excellent places to pick up picnic provisions; coolers and ice are sold here, too.
A supermarket, pharmacy, and department store all under one big roof, Mega Soriana has a huge covered parking lot and pretty much anything you would need for a short or extended stay on Cozumel. Soriana's wine and international beer offerings are second to none. It's open daily from 8 am to 10 pm, though alcohol sales on Sunday cease at 3 as they do around the island for carryout.
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