New York City can really suck during the summer time. It’s so hot and humid, that a short trip to the Caribbean sounds like heaven. Well, it actually is heaven, and diving in Cozumel‘s turquoise waters is just what the doctor ordered.
Cozumel, known as one of world’s best diving spots, is Mexico’s largest Atlantic island. It lies of the coast of Yucatan Peninsula, closely opposite another popular Mexican getaway – Playa del Carmen. It also lies some 37 miles south of Cancun. Tourists come here for the white sand beaches, the stunning lagoons and the pristine coral reefs. I went for Cinco de Mayo, to experience the real deal on this celebration of Mexican heritage.
While there are many activities to be done on this Caribbean island, the number one pass time here are water sports: scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing and kite surfing. There is also considerable fishing to be done. Since the island is covered in green jungle vegetation and surrounded by rocky coastlines, there are also hiking trips or exploring opportunities by Jeep or ATVs. The size of the island is fairly small, so renting a car and exploring the various beaches on your own can also be an option. Taxis don’t come in cheap, so driving your own rental might be infinitely better.
The main town of San Miguel de Cozumel is a small but vibrant community of traditional stores, lively buildings and Mexican restaurants. I wasn’t all too thrilled by the entertainment options – given it was so small – but I did love the bright colors that were as sunny as the sky above. It definitely gave me that feel of Mexican fiesta, with boundless streams of fresh tequila!
You will find that most tourists in Cozumel are not first timers, but frequent divers. They cannot get enough of the Great Mayan Reef, the second largest reef system in the world. However, for all you beginners, it is required to take a few lessons before you can do any diving or snorkeling. Bear this in mind when planning your Cozumel getaway, as a weekend trip might not be enough for both taking lessons and diving. Also, professional divers advise beginners not to dive and fly on the same day.
Unfortunately, I cannot give my input on the world-famous diving site, as I had a massive coughing spree throughout my stay, and avoided any oxygen tubes or under water chocking scenarios 🙂 But I can tell you that diving was all that everyone was doing. I woud however, for those similar to my situation unable to dive or snorkel, to take the ferry to the neighboring island of Playa del Carmen (so vibrant and so much to do), and furthermore to Tulum. As for Cancun, I took a one-hour bus from Playa del Carmen – short and sweet. And if you can get by in Spanish, I suggest the local bus for exploring Cancun itself. I did, and it was so entertaining! They are all so close to each other, it would be a pity not to see them.
