by Amaryllis Holloway-Turman

Created on: April 20, 2009   Last Updated: April 21, 2009

Many people know Cozumel Mexico as a port of call on many cruise itineraries. Others know it as an alternative destination to going to Cancun Mexico. Despite your mode of transportation, keep in mind that there is plenty to do on this Mexican island without spending the whole day in Carlos and Charlie's or Senor Frogs drinking beer and margaritas.

Cozumel Basic Information

The Mexican currency is Peso. The usual exchange rate is 10 pesos to $1. Near downtown, most prices are listed in US dollars. But as you go further away, you might see more prices in Pesos. If you use your credit card, the price will probably be listed in Pesos. Find out who you can call in the event of an emergency. If something happens while you are on the other side of the island, you need to know who you can call. This is especially important if you do not speak Spanish. Also, you need make sure that your cell phone will work on the island. Since some cell phone carriers have service in Mexico, you can check that before you leave for your trip.

Transportation

When you are ready to explore what the island of Cozumel offers, you can catch a taxi or rent a jeep. Do not rent a scooter! That might seem like fun, but you do not want to take the chance in case you are in an accident. It is better to have the frame of a car or jeep for protection. For jeep rentals, prepare to spend $50 -60 plus taxes and insurance per day. You want to get liability insurance (which is extra). Who knows what could happen? You do not want to be stuck paying for damages or worse.

Exploring the Island

It is easy to drive in Cozumel because there is one main road that circles the island. If you are traveling with your family, you might think about going to
Chakanaab Park. There is surfing, snorkeling, and plenty of sandy beaches for you relax. You have to pay to enter the park. You can also go to Playa Mia-Grand Beach Park. This is a park that has an entrance fee too. However, this is more like a resort than a park. You can buy packages that include all the amenities of the park along with food and alcoholic drinks. There is something for everyone. The children can enjoy the activities, games, and contests. The adults can take a guided tour to the underwater Mayan city, lay on the beach while sipping a cold drink, swim in the pool while visiting the wet bar. They have an on-duty lifeguard and first aid stations in case of emergency.

If you want to enjoy the beach without paying an entrance fee, you can drive down the main

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