Isla Cozumel is the most popular day trip taken from Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. Read about the activities available on the island and how best to enjoy them with an Isla Cozumel Day Pass. From beaches to national parks, shopping and activities will all be covered. Thank you for reading my blog and see you on the ferry to Isla Cozumel.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Diving in Cozumel
ArticleCity.com Videos
Posted by Steven Lorenzo, Isla Cozumel Day Pass
IslaCozumelDayPass.com
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Isla Cozumel Day Pass Highlights Tour
We started the day with a leisurely stroll down 5th Avenue to meet up with the tour group in front of Sr. Frogs by the ferry terminal. Round trip tickets (included in the tour price) were distributed by our tour leader, and we boarded the ferry for the scenic and thankfully tranquil 50 minute passage to Cozumel. Being prone to sea sickness, I am not one for boats, but given the guided tour of Cozumel I was able to overcome the limited discomfort for a daytime of fun.
In Cozumel we boarded a safari type bus which was a mix between a cargo truck decked out in camouflage and an army transport vehicle. Our first stop was the famous snorkeling spot, Chankanaab. Cozumel has the second largest barrier reef in the world, and Chankanaab is known for its snorkeling. The water ranges from 10 to 30 feet in depth and is marked by large coral formations, bright purple fans and a kaleidoscope of colorful marine creatures.
Snorkeling equipment and mandatory life vests are included, but the vests can be inflated or deflated depending on how adventurous you are. I prefer to keep mine deflated so I can plunge down and explore things like the large statue of Christ which is probably 20 feet tall and the head is still about 10 feet below the surface. It is really sometime to behold.
After roughly an hour in the water we dried off and boarded the safari bus for a scenic ride into the Faro Celarain Eco Park. I never knew this part of the island existed. I thought Cozumel was all sand, trees and buildings. However the southern end of the island is covered in pristine mangroves, marked by large brackish ponds and marshes. We stopped at a nearby white sandy beach for a delicious all you can eat buffet lunch of fajitas, beans, nachos and beverages, including beer. The respite lasted about an hour, half of which we spent lazily lounging on beach side hammocks while another part of the group decided to go for a dip in ocean.
Then it was back in the safari bus for a tour of the rocky eastern side of Cozumel where we stopped at a beach side cart for some adult beverages made and served in fresh coconuts and photo shoots on the large rock out-cropping. Our friendly and informative tour guide talked about the area and how Cozumel got its name. In Mayan the word "Cuzamil-Pectin" means "Land of the Swallows," and Ixchel, Mayan goddess of fertility and love, was said to have sent swallows, her favorite birds, to the island in thanks for dedicating temples to her. Spanish explorers then converted the name from Cuzamil to Cozumel. Likewise the state of Yucatan got its name from the Spanish. After having landed in the Yucatan they asked the Mayans what this place was called. The Mayan replied "Yuk ak katán" meaning I don't understand you. The Spanish took "Yuk ak katán" and made it Yucatan.
At the end of the trip we were dropped off in downtown Cozumel for about an hour of shopping before it was time to board the ferry again. Instead of shopping Allan and I opted to feast on ice cream and enjoy the scenery of a nearby park. We boarded the ferry to Playa at about 5pm and were pleasantly surprised with live Latin music on the boat. Being someone who likes quiet I was initially resistant to having my peace disturbed, but I must say the music was really good and by the end I was listening intently. It certainly made the time on the water pass much faster.
The Cozumel Day Pass Highlights Tour is certainly a worthwhile activity for the whole family. Allan and I are used to planning and running activities, and it was nice to actually sit back and have an informative guide take us around and do all the work, and even serve us lunch! We're looking forward to when family comes and visits so we can take them on the tour. If you'd like to book the tour please contact our concierge Claudia at claudia@nasplaya.com.




www.nasplaya.com
bostontomexico.blogspot.com
US Tel: 617-314-6232
MX Tel: 52 + 984-873-3548
"The lowest fees with the highest standards."
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
COPARMEX COZUMEL PROMOTES DAY TRIP TOURISM TO ISLA COZUMEL
"Cozumel is by far the best day trip that anyone can take from the mainland. Especially when you consider accessibility, natural beauty, cultural and historical significance, and the diversity of activities such as shopping, snorkeling and dining," comments Steven Lorenzo, president of International Advertising in Miami. "We (Cozumel) offer the best day trip value when compared to Xcaret, Tulum and Chichen-Itza"
The centerpiece of the promotional campaign will include 40,000 brochure maps distributed in 150 hotels, restaurants and stores throughout the Riviera. The collateral is design to invite visitors to the island. Participants in the brochure map will benefit from increased traffic directed to their businesses.
The promotional campaign also offers the Isla Cozumel Day Pass, an all-inclusive day trip to Cozumel. The Day Pass includes r/t ferry, on-island transportation, dining, park and museum entrances, and more.
International Advertising will also implement a strong social marketing campaign will play an important part for vacationers planning their trip to the Riviera Maya. The social media will enforce the obligatory day trip to Cozumel. Isla Cozumel Day Passes may be purchased at http://www.IslaCozumelDayPass.com
Participation in the promotional brochure map and the Isla Cozumel Day pass are open to all businesses in Cozumel. To benefit from this unique opportunity, contact Steven Lorenzo, steven@intl-advertising.com, 305-499-9000
Posted by Steven Lorenzo, president of International Advertising http://www.intl-advertising.com and director the Isla Cozumel Day Pass http://www.IslaCozumelDayPass.com
- More from the author
- Isla Cozumel is Riviera Maya's Private Island
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Top 10 Reasons for a Day Trip to Isla Cozumel
1. The Weather:
Because it's an island in the Caribbean, Isla Cozumel receives the cool gentle trade winds. Sunny days and warm water abound with only the occasional passing shower. Heavy rains are rare and usually don't last very long.
2. The Food:
Because of the great diversity in cuisine, Isla Cozumel is a top leader in culinary discovery. One can find a great restaurant highlighting the cuisine from around the world.
3. The Shopping:
Some of the best shopping in all the Riviera Maya is in Isla Cozumel. to be had is in San Francisco. You can find design name brand watches. jewelry and perfumes at duty free prices. Great deals on .925 silver and designer diamonds. You’ll also find some obscure little known boutiques specializing in handcrafts, resort wear and national liquors like tequila and Kaluha.
4. The Walking:
Historic downtown Cozumel is a walking town so bring your walking shoes. On a self-guided walking tour down the famous "Malecon" seawall, can see the various monuments on your way to the main plaza where you'll find the clock tower. Downtown everything is always walking distance but if you need to hire transportation, a taxi fare within the downtown area is only about US$2.00.
5. Getting Here:
Accessible from Playa del Carmen on a 30 minute ferry ride is quick and comfortable. Air shuttles are also available from Playa del Carmen and Cancun.
6. The Culture and the people:
The proud people of Cozumel are always ready with a smile and a kind gesture. Unlike the rest of the Riviera, families have been living in Cozumel since the 1840's.
7. The Beaches:
Among the best in the world for many reasons. The water clarity, temperature, pink sand quality and calm water on the west side of the island contracted with dramatic ocean roar on the east make for spectacular beaches.
8. The National Parks:
There are three distinct national parks in Isla Cozumel. The underwater Reefs of Cozumel National Marine Park feature the world famous reefs. Faro Celarain Eco-Park includes a working lighthouse, beautiful beach, and a ecological reserve. Chankanaab National Park is full of activities in a natural setting. You can swim with dolphins, Snuba, SeaTrek, nature trail and a working Mayan house. All three parks offer excellent snorkeling and Scuba diving.
9. The History:
A colorful history through the millenia. Starting with the Maya, Isla Cozumel was home to the goddess Ixchel. People throughout the Mayan world had to make an obligatory journey to the island at least once in their lifetime. Later in history Hernan Cortez commenced his journey to rule Mexico from here. Shortly afterwards came the famous pirates like Henry Morgan and Jean Lafitte with hidden treasures. Isla Cozumel's current population came about during Mexico's battle of the Castilles. Isla Cozumel also played an important role in aviation. Charles Lindberg established the island as a stepping stone of air routes to Central and South America. The Museo de la Isla exhibit the island rich history.
10. The Isla Cozumel Day Pass
A self guided full day of fun includes round trip ferry, entrances to national parks and museum, dining, all on-island transportation and historic downtown Cozumel. Four different Day Passes to choose from. Day Passes can be purchased on the Internet at http://www.islacozumeldaypass.com or at your hotel in the Riviera Maya through your concierge or front desk.
Isla Cozumel Day Passes may be viewed at http://www.islacozumeldaypass.com
Written and posted by Steven Lorenzo, Senior Editor and Publisher
http://www.intl-advertising.com http://www.cozumelvisitorsguide.com www.islacozumeldaypass.com
Monday, January 18, 2010
Chankannab Day Pass
Beach, Dolphins, Snorkeling, Snuba, Scuba Diving, Mayan House and much more. This is why Cozumel is so famous... for the breathtaking turquoise waters, diverse wildlife and underwater adventures. Day Pass Includes:
| ||
Chankanaab National Park
Other activities include beach, a working Mayan house, exotic gardens and prehispanic vestiges.
Chankanaab is the natural choice! | La Laguna Beach Grill
The most prominent restaurant inside prestigious Chankanaab National Park with a breathtaking view of the transparent turquoise Caribbean waters. Its superb lunch menu specializes in the freshest seafood and other tropical delights. Cool off under its beautiful palapa while enjoying the ocean breeze. You can spoil yourself and be pampered with beachside service while you bask in the sun. | |
Sea-Trek
Snuba
| Dolphin Discovery
More than 13 years of experience has gained the Dolphin Discovery Group the advantage of being the world-wide leader in interactive programs with marine animals. Explore Dolphin Discovery with the whole family and create memories that will last a lifetime! | |
| Underwater Wonders Inside Chankanaab Park
Visit the 14 ft underwater statue of Christ and the smaller statue of the Virgin Mary. See coral heads and abounding fish-life as soon as you enter the water. Excellent shore snorkeling and Scuba diving. Depth: 20 ft maximum. | ||
| Shopping
With a wide variety of merchandise ranging from beautifully crafted textiles, Mexican handcrafts, designer jewelry to duty-free perfumes and watches you are sure to find the perfect gift at one of the many shops found downtown. | Island Museum: Museo de la Isla
The museum offers a look into the history of Cozumel. Interesting and educational information on the island's ecosystems and reefs, the geological evolution of the island, the Mayan legacy and its history. | |
| Main Plaza: Parque Benito Juarez
The main square was established at the turn of the 20th century and the clock tower (1925-1930) soon became the island's landmark. The town of San Miguel de Cozumel was built around the main square and has always been the traditional meeting place. | El Malecon and Flag Esplanade
Cozumel's iconic seawall (El Malecon) was built in 1935. For decades, residents and visitors alike, have enjoyed an afternoon stroll while admiring the waving flag overhead. | |
| Iglesia de San Miguel's (town church)
Home to the precious statue of St. Michael the Archangel believed to have been deposited in Cozumel in 1518. The ivory statue sits on the alter and can be visited anytime. | Diver's Monument
In 1961 Jacques Cousteau discovered the extent and beauty of the reefs of Cozumel and publicized it as one of the most beautiful scuba diving areas of the world. | |
http://www.islacozumeldaypass.com
Written and posted by Steven Lorenzo, Senior Editor and Publisher
http://www.intl-advertising.com http://www.cozumelvisitorsguide.com www.islacozumeldaypass.com
Monday, January 11, 2010
Isla Cozumel is Riviera Maya's Private Island
Only a 30 minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, is San Miguel de Cozumel. This is Isla Cozumel's historic downtown, the oldest city on the eastern Yucatan. Here you can find world class shops like Cartier, Mont Blanc, Lacoste, along with designer fragrances, watches and jewelry. The best news is that these items can be purchased here at duty-free prices.
Visitors to the Riviera Maya can go for a day trip and return with the memories of a lifetime. By purchasing a Isla Cozumel Day Pass at http://www.islacozumeldaypass.com, a full day of fun will include rount trip ferry, all on-island transportation, meal voucher, entrances to national parks and museums.
Isla Cozumel is Riviera Maya's private island. Expect fun and beautiful beaches and an historic downtown.
The Isla Cozumel Day Pass is also available through many concierges or front desks of hotels throughout the Riviera Maya and Playa del Carmen.
Other Isla Cozumel Day Passes may be viewed at http://www.islacozumeldaypass.com
Written and posted by Steven Lorenzo, Senior Editor and Publisher
http://www.intl-advertising.com http://www.cozumelvisitorsguide.com