Monday, May 24, 2010

Isla Cozumel: a shopper's paradise



Isla Cozumel is famous for many things. Its clear turquoise waters, majestic underwater coral reefs, the natural beauty, including its rich and colorful history starting with the Maya, followed by pirates and war all make the island worth mentioning in history, biology and geography books. But the island is unique in a different way. In a way that is generally kept secret until the last minute.

Shopping! Today's treasures are found on the waterfront shops of Historic Downtown Cozumel. Isla Cozumel's exclusive tax status allows for duty-free cost savings to the consumer. Savings are especially noted on highly taxed goods such as perfumes and cosmetics, designer watches, gold and diamond jewelry, name brand sunglasses and many other items. Its no wonder that designers, the likes of Mont Blanc, La Coste, Cartier have setup boutique shops here. Cruise ships have exploited the shopping secret for decades to the benefit of their passengers. Port lectures are organized on board to guide savvy buyers into “must see” stores like Diamonds International, Pama Duty Free, Los Cinco Soles and Tanya Moss where the merchandise is always guaranteed for authenticity and quality.


Historic Downtown Cozumel can be seen as an outdoor mall with the ocean as its backdrop. A walk down the waterfront, or “Malecon,” as referred to by the locals, is a one of a kind relaxing and enjoyable experience with utmost safety and peace of mind. The downtown, also known as San Miguel de Cozumel, is the oldest town in the region. Even though Isla Cozumel has been populated on and off for centuries, the modern population dates back to the mid 1800’s with the clock tower erected in the 1920’s.


Upscale shops and boutiques will offer you a cool drink and air conditioning but there are two notable restaurants to enjoy for a drink and the best food on the island. One is Pancho’s Backyard, which is located in the courtyard of Los Cinco Soles, a restored colonial mansion turned store. Complete with fountains and lush tropical vegetation. You’ll find and excellent Mexican menu with exceptional Margaritas. The other restaurant is Las Palmeras, located directly across the ferry pier. Las Palmeras is the customary meeting place for locals. Offering a Mexican and International menu, this is a great place to wait for your return ferry to Playa del Carmen.
Isla Cozumel is definitely worth a trip from Playa del Carmen to shop and compare. You’ll see big price differences just by taking the 30 minute ferry ride. When visiting the island from Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya, I strongly recommend the purchase of an Isla Cozumel Day Pass. A Historic Downtown Day Pass includes round trip ferry, dining, entrance to the Island’s Museum and most importantly, exclusive savings and promotions available only to Day Pass holders.
For more information and day passes to Isla Cozumel from Playa del Carmen visit: http://www.islacozumeldaypass.com
Posted by Steven Lorenzo, senior editor Cozumel Visitors Guide

1 comment:

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