Playa del Carmen and Cozumel
Mexico has beautiful beaches on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean. In this article, we look at two hot spots on the east coast – Playa del Carmen and Cozumel
Playa del Carmen
With one of the prettiest beaches on the Caribbean coast, Playa del Carmen was the hidden gem of Mexico for years and years. About 10 years ago, the word got out and now Playa del Carmen is exploding. If you’re looking for solitude, this isn’t the place with cruise ships and so on packing the place during high season. On the other hand, this is definitely the place if you like a lot of “resort” in your beach vacation.
Playa del Carmen has a lot to offer its visitors. Of course, the beaches are beautiful and I highly recommend you catch the sunrise, which is some of Mother Nature’s finest work. Staying up shouldn’t be a problem since the nightlife in Playa del Carmen is plentiful.
During the day, you can loaf on the beach or head out for some diving in the clear waters of the Caribbean. Should you get tired of the beach, you can head inland for some surprisingly good quality hiking.
Cozumel
An island off the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is a slice of Caribbean paradise. With smooth, crystal clear waters, Cozumel has the white beaches you see in the Corona beer commercials. On the island proper, one can loaf on the beach, pursue world class diving or take a Jeep tour of the island. Dolphin petting and sitting in the hammocks of Xal-Hal are touristy, but fun things to do. Although Cozumel is on the cruise ship circuit, it maintains the relaxed atmosphere found in smaller destinations in the Mexican Riviera.
Unfortunately, Cozumel was in the news through much of the last week of October 2005 because Hurricane Wilma pounded it for over 24 hours. Cozumel is very resilient and after just a few months was back to its normal self and still a great location to go on your next vacation.
You can also enjoy Carnival on the island of Cozumel if you choose to take your vacation in February. Check with your local travel agent or online for dates. The great thing about Carnival is this. There are dancers all over the city all day long going around putting on their own little shows and every night there is a parade. This goes on for a solid week of music and festivities that are of the finest anywhere.
Enjoy some awesome fishing in the Carribbean as well. I caught this ‘Tarpon’ during one of my visits in 2006.
During one of my different visits, I have gotten to know several of the local residents and entrepreneurs. If you know someone in Cozumel, they will have family for almost any adventure you would like to go on. My friend chartered a full day of fishing for two people for a very reasonable price that included the captain, a guide, plus lunch and refreshments. If you do not know any of the locals, don’t be alarmed all of the prices in Cozumel are very reasonable.
If you are planning a visit to the Mexican Riviera area, Playa del Carmen and Cozumel are definitely worth your consideration. Personally, I would pick Cozumel in a heartbeat. I have personally bee to Cozumel five times and I am planning another trip there in the near future.
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