Nancy Norris

Having visited Cozumel on numerous occasions, my most recent being August 2003, this review offers opinions and suggestions for excursions, as a compilation of those visits.

On my first visit to Cozumel we chose to take a snorkeling excursion offered by the cruise line. It was disappointing, to say the least, and have since learned that snorkeling can be done easily, more affordably and offers greater enjoyment, on your own. As a side note about Cozumel, be careful when snorkeling. Although my experiences have been wonderful (some of the best snorkeling I have done), all 3 times my daughter has snorkeled in Cozumel she has been attacked by tiny jellyfish. This is not uncommon in these waters, so just be cautious. Some members of our group chose to rent jeeps instead, and toured the island, which they found to be quite enjoyable. After our morning excursions our entire group met on board to head to San Miguel, the only real town in Cozumel. After a bit of shopping, we spent the remainder of our time in port at Carlos ‘n Charlie’s. Although, this was my first visit to this infamous watering hole, it would definitely not be my last.

Every time I have stopped at this port, my cruise ship has docked at the International Pier. I have witnessed the evolution of this location as it has grown and developed. It now offers some excellent shopping opportunities and is a very pleasant area to take a stroll. Fat Tuesday’s is a great place to start as you wander through the open mall to the taxi terminal. Taxis with preset fares are plentiful, even when numerous ships are in port.

On another visit, our first stop was Playa Sol Beach Club. My daughter and her friend had checked this out on the web before we left home, and were anxious to try the water trampolines and climbing iceberg slide. Although this is an excursion offered from the cruise line, we again chose to do this on our own. The cab ride was $12 and we paid $6 at the gate for the basic package, which did not include lunch or drinks. It was a nice beach with plenty of chaises, a pool, kayaks, and rafts. We had arrived early enough to enjoy ourselves for about 2 ½ hours, before the party boat descended on the beach. It became crowded very quickly, which was our cue to leave. Since it was still early we stopped at San Francisco Beach on the way back to the ship (cost $2). It was a very nice beach, much less crowded and entrance is free. As has been reported elsewhere, if you wish to visit the more crowded and chaotic of these two beaches, I would suggest you take a taxi to San Francisco Beach first. Then, just walk along the shoreline to the neighboring Playa Sol.

After playing at the beach, we still had time to grab a cab into town and make my requisite visit to Carlos ‘n Charlie’s. Since my first visit, it has moved to a new location on the strip at the Punta Langosta Shopping Mall. Carlos ’n Charlie’s is downstairs and Senõr Frogs is located upstairs in the same building. Personally, I think the old location was more suited for the craziness they are so well known for, and lent more of a Mexican flavor to the experience. The new location reminds me of a TGI Fridays, but still offers some outlandish fun!

On my most recent visit, we revisited Chankanaab Marine National Park, as we had some novice snorkelers within our group. For a $10 taxi ride, plus $10 per person entrance fee, this park is a great first time experience for those who wish safe, calm waters to snorkel, as well as a clean, beautiful beach. The park also offers animal shows, a beautiful botanical garden and an opportunity to swim with dolphins. But, as we were celebrating the 82nd birthday of a very special lady on this cruise another visit to Carlos ‘n Charlie’s was absolutely essential.

In closing, if you are looking for a great margarita, accompanied by some tasty Mexican fare, make a stop at Pancho’s Backyard in the Los Cincos Soles Plaza.

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