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Cozumel
is one of those rare destinations that doesn't strive to be more
than it is or something it's not. Cozumel is simply itself. And
it doesn't get any better than that. What finer place to escape
to than this tropical Mexican Caribbean Island thriving with adventure
and fun. Just a hop, skip and jump from the U.S., Cozumel is a
dream retreat for those seeeking a safe, affordable, festive vacation
destination with activities for every age and interest.
The
beautiful island is an exotic retreat for divers, sun worshippers,
snorkelers, adventure seekers, families, golfers, newlyweds and
anniversary celebrants. You'll find that in Cozumel, things happen
comfortably, with a purpose-even if that purpose is to do nothing
at all. And that's what makes perfect vacations.
This
is an island that dazzles with its natural beauty and remarkable
wonders. It breathes the fresh breeze of its people and proud
traditions. Cozumel lures you into it's heart with festivals,
activities, shopping and attractions. From the Maya ruins of San
Gervasio to Carnival, visitors are whisked away with its distinctive
beat.
As
they eagerly approach the water, energetic divers pause a moment
to sink their toes in the sand before plunging oin for an ambush
of underwater marine marvels. What else would you expect from
the second largest reef in the world?
While
the island's pace is mild, its diversions run wild. Aside from
diving and snorkeling, visitors can get into kiteboarding, fishing
(both deep sea and fly), buggy tours, windsurfing, boating, biking,
kayaking, horseback riding, ATV touring, golf and tennis.
Family
Fun
Chankanaab
National Park is packed with ocean action. Snorkeling and scuba
diving are a dream here, with instruction and gear rentals available
from a selection of onsite dive operators. The Reef is renowned
for its trees of black coral, grat coral mounds, and underwater
sculptures of Christ and the Virgin.
Hammocks, beach chairs, a children's play area and restaurants
round out the beach offerings. When it comes to one-of-a-kind
encounters on the surface, it's right here at Chankanaab. Guests
of all ages can swim and socialize with acrobatic dolphins at
the park's Dolphin Discovery. Friendly and intelligent, these
marvelous mammels splash and dash with humans in a selection of
interactive programs that are both educational and packed with
fun. Also at the park, Sea Trek provides the easiest and most
comfortable way to explore underwater. Looking much like astronauts
on a space walk, undersea visitors wear an oxygen-supplying helmet
to head below the surface to experience the reefs and their thousands
of aquatic inhabitants.
Beach
lovers can also get into all the action at the island's unique
collection of colorful beach clubs like Mr. Sancho's offer a wide
selection of motorized water sports, glass bottom boat tours,
snorkeling and diving.
Eco-land
options include ATV's and horseback riding treks traveling through
jungle to white sand beaches. Toss in tequila tastings, massages,
shopping and a festive palapa roofed reataurtant, and this one
has something for everyone.
Eco-Attractions
On
the southern tip of the island, eco-adventurers will find Parque
Punta Sur Ecological Reserve rich in coastal sand dunes, mangroves,
reefs, lagoon systems and scenic beaches. Also part of this huge
protected area is Punta Celarain and its historical lighthouse,
as well as the Columbia Lagoon, a shelter for many of the island's
endemic species and endangered marine turtles. Visitors can enjoy
bilingual tours, catamaran rides, a craftswork store, snack bar
and restauarant.
For
those preferring to stay dry, Atlantis Submarine hits depths of
over 100 feet as it weaves through coral heads brimming with tropical
fish, southern stingrays, barracuda, green sea turtles and other
marine life. The sub is designed for comfort and visibility with
its large viewing ports that allow passengers to relax and enjoy
the wonders of the deep. The adventure makes even the most reluctant
open to the idea of learning to dive.
For a little more eco-action, travelers with a yen for adventure
will find thrills and chills off the beaten track. Dig into the
island's untouched heart on less conventional means of transportation
such as horseback, Jeep or ATV.
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BEACHES
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