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

Isla Cozumel from Cancun

No trip to Cancun is complete without a day trip to Isla Cozumel, Mexico's largest island. Here you will find the Mexican traditions and flavors full of life. Friendly faces, warm welcomes, coral reefs, a variety of water sports, five star hotels, the Chankanaab National Park, Punta Sur Ecological Reserve, San Gervasio all can be found here.

At Chankanaab National Park see the dolphins as they live a less confined life. They live near the coast as compared to tanks in other parks. Chankanaab features a natural underwater park and botanical garden. Snorkelers and Scuba divers love to explore the fascinating caves along with a few sunken ships. For a more delightful experience, head to Palancar Reef rated as the best Scuba diving spot on the island.

Isla Cozumel is a perfect honeymoon getaway with its moonlit beach walks, colorful sunsets and candle lit dinners. You can rent a bike to go exploring. Visit Historical San Miguel, the Caribbean style, beautiful town. Here you can visit Museo de Cozumel where you can see apart from other items some interesting 3-D cave models. If you want to see Mayan ruins, visit the charming San Gervasio that once served as a sanctuary of the Goddess X´chel. It's a great experience especially during the morning hours and you can spend time looking around and relaxing. El Castillo Real is another site you may want to visit.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lamika_Zuberi

posted by Steven Lorenzo, senior editor of the Cozumel Visitors Guide

The best way to visit Isla Cozumel from Cancun or the Riviera Maya is with an Isla Cozumel Day Pass. Several Day Passes to choose from depending on the desired activity or interest. All Day Passes include round trip ferry, on-island transportation, entrances to national parks and museum, meal voucher and much more.
http://www.islacozumeldaypass.com