The island of swallows
In the Mayan language, Cozumel means "Ah-Cuzamil-Petin", the island of the swallows. Before the arrival of the Spaniards, the cult of the god Quetzalcoatl or Kukulkan (Plumed Serpent) had also reached Cozumel from the Central American highlands. During the colonial period, the island was primarily a haven for pirates, until the population finally expelled the pirates at the beginning of this century. At that time Cozumel had about 10.000 inhabitants, today there are about 80.000.
Cozumel is the largest Mexican island, measuring 53 km north to south and 14 km west to east. The shortest distance to the mainland is 18 km. Evergreen rainforest dominates the interior of the island.
On the west coast of Cozumel is San Miguel, the island's capital, where you will find plenty of shopping opportunities, especially since the island is still a duty-free port for many items. A visit to the museum directly on the main street is worthwhile, among other things with a collection of exceptionally large and beautiful Kaui shells.
The immediate proximity to the second largest coral reef in the world, the Great Maya Reef, makes Cozumel an attraction for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, who find almost paradisiacal conditions here, and is also the basis for by far the most important source of income for the residents: tourism.
Transportation
Since there are no regular buses on the island, taxis are the normal means of transport. Every taxi driver carries a price list with them, which you can use to ensure that the fare charged is correct.
Rental car prices are relatively high. Please note that insurance always includes a deductible. Small scooters and mopeds are popular, but unfortunately not without danger, since the streets are sometimes narrow and people often drive quite recklessly.
shopping
In the pedestrian zone of San Miguel you can buy all kinds of souvenirs from all over Mexico. But don't forget to trade! Clothing (t-shirts, shorts, etc.) is mostly found in shops on the main street, which is also where the only major department store, Cinco Soles, is located, offering good quality Mexican items. Jewelry is available in numerous jewelry stores, perfumes at Pama.
to eat out
Cozumel isn't exactly a culinary paradise. However, there are several fish restaurants in the pedestrian zone. If you don't want fish and want something quick, Pizza Hut or Kentucky Fried Chicken are the options.
Ferry Playa del Carmen - Cozumel
Directly across from Playa del Carmen, at a distance of about 18 km, is the largest Mexican island: Cozumel. A day trip here is definitely worth it and can be done on your own.
At the beginning of the pedestrian zone of Playa del Carmen is the pier for the ferries. There are 2 companies that take turns driving. The journey time for both is about 35 minutes and costs 160 pesos (about 12 USD) per person and per single crossing. Children pay 90 pesos each (approx. 7 USD).
Ferry Cozumel – Playa del Carmen
The ferries run almost every hour on the hour, the times vary depending on the season.
