This is a guest post by Danielle Smith, an agricultural communications student at the University of Arkansas.
Puerta Maya Cruise Pier, Cozumel, Mexico. Photo by Crispas.
Tuesday is Travel Tip Day
Today: 5 Travel Tips for Cruise Visitors to Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, Mexico is one of the most traveled cruise ports. If you are taking a Western Caribbean cruise, chances are that Cozumel will be one of the destinations. These 5 travel tips will help you navigate the island so you can spend more of your time in port playing and less time planning.
1. Money
Although the national currency of Mexico is the peso, you can use US Dollars for just about everything in Cozumel, including tips, bus fares, shopping, etc. In fact, most price tags in Cozumel will be marked for US Dollars. Visa and MasterCard are also widely accepted, but remember to ask your bank/card provider about using your card internationally.
2. Getting Around
San Miguel de Cozumel is the largest town on the island municipality of Cozumel. Walking in San Miguel is easy to navigate. Be cautious of aggressive drivers who are always in a hurry and don’t always watch for pedestrians.
Taxi rates in Cozumel are quite affordable, but be sure to agree on the fare before stepping into the cab. You can flag down a driver along the street or you can catch a taxi at the cruise ship terminals.
Almost all traveling can be done in Cozumel on foot or in a taxi since the cruise ports are near the areas interest for travelers.
3. Beaches
Cozumel has beaches for all types of beach lovers.
The east coast beaches are about 20 minutes from town and are known as the windward side of the island. These beaches are less populated and are great for surfers or those who like to play in the sand, but it is not great for swimming due to the possible undertow.
The west coast beaches offer calm waters that are great for all swimmers and waders. Paradise Beach, Playa San Francisco and Playa Palancar are among the most popular and beautiful beaches on Cozumel and are just 6-9 miles south of the port.
4. Shopping
Popular shopping spots include Plaza del Sol and Punta Langosta Pier’s.
There are also many shops in San Miguel, which is a duty-free zone, where you can find items for as much as 30 percent less than in the US. Bargaining is not nearly as common as in other Caribbean ports, but there is some wiggle room for those that like to haggle.
5. Relax, you’re in Mexico!
Remember that Cozumel is a Latin American country and operates at a much slower pace than what we are used to in the United States. Many things can and will take longer than you expect so grab a margarita, relax and enjoy being in Mexico!
Have you ever traveled to Cozumel on a cruise or on vacation? What was your favorite part about this beautiful country?
A native of Stilwell, Kansas, Danielle plans to return to the Kansas City area upon graduation.
Danielle is currently working as a social media intern with VentureTime Travel. When she isn’t working or in classes, Danielle enjoys traveling the world with her fiancée Will.
To learn more about Cozumel, Cancun, and the Yucatan check out these resources:
Lonely Planet Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan
Just Walkin’! A Kid’s Guide to Cozumel, Mexico