The Tour

1. The Monte Cristo Experience

2. The Cozumel Project Cozumel is a beautiful island in the Mexican Caribbean sea just 12 miles off the Yucatan Peninsula. The island is 28 miles long and 10 miles wide. The Mayan people were the first to settle on Cozumel over 2,000 years ago. It derives its name from the Mayan words Cuzam (swallow) and Lumil (land of), which form the word Cuzamil (land of swallows). The Mayan word changed with time to the Spanish name of Cozumel. The Mayans believed the island to be a sacred shrine. The Island

3. The Cozumel Project The Island Between 1519 and 1570, the island's population dropped from 40,000 to 30. By 1700 it was uninhabited. Several pirates used Cozumel as a base of operations in the 17th century, including the notorious Henry Morgan and Jean Lafitte, the island was not resettled until 1848.

4. Cozumel was a sleepy little fishing community until the 1960’s when Jacques Cousteau declared it one of the most beautiful scuba diving areas of the world, with the delicate balance of its dazzling coral reefs, said to rival Australia’s Great Barrier reef, and abundant variety of tropical fish. The Cozumel Project The Island

5. The underwater life is amazing here, the clarity of the water offers 100ft visibility which means you do not have to be a diver to enjoy it, simply put on a mask and snorkel and jump in, you will feel like you have jumped into a tropical fish tank!! Cozumel is now one of the most popular destinations in the world for scuba diving. The Cozumel Project The Island

6. The Cozumel Project The Island

7. The Cozumel Project You can swim with dolphins and turtles, go jet skiing, sport fishing, parasailing, or windsurfing, sail on a catamaran, or a glass bottom boat. The Island

8. The Cozumel Project Cozumel is world renown for its dazzling white sandy beaches and the remarkable clarity of the multi-hued azure Caribbean ocean in which it rests. The climate is subtropical, and the people native to Cozumel are of Mayan descent. The Island

9. The Cozumel Project In addition to the spectacular open water swimming and diving, you’ll enjoy a stroll along the water front, watching the cruise ships coming in. The Island

10. The Cozumel Project The downtown area of Cozumel, San Miguel, is a very clean city, with a wonderful selection of shops, fast food, restaurants, friendly people, reasonable prices and plentiful taxis. The Island

11. The Cozumel Project On the water front avenue Rafael E. Melgar, just in front of the Punta Langosta pier is a shopping mall with a wide variety of fast food restaurants like Burger King , Subway , T.G.I Friday's , Sr. Frog's , Ernesto's Fajitas Factory , and Jeanie's Waffle House . Fast Food

12. The Cozumel Project On the second floor of the Museum, Del Museo , you'll enjoy a beautiful view of the water and the breeze is lovely. It's one of our favorite places to go for breakfast and the prices are wonderful. Although they do serve sandwiches, etc. they serve breakfast anytime. Open from 7am to 2pm. Fast Food

13. The Cozumel Project When you’re ready for a break from the sun and surf, stroll through the shops in town. Walking the streets and shopping centers are a delightful experience. You'll see a wide array of imported items, including Duty-Free perfumes and cosmetics, fashion, jewelry, china and crystal, watches and cameras. Shopping

14. The Cozumel Project Leather goods, including shoes, boots, belts, purses and luggage reflect Mexico's proud tradition of a fine craftsmanship and its high quality, even shoe repair. Mexican handicrafts are among the most sought-after items here, and you'll be able to choose from a large assortment of works by artisans from nearly everywhere in the Country. Shopping

15. The Cozumel Project Reproductions of ancient native handicrafts, including jewelry, stone carvings; wooden masks and semiprecious-stone sculptures make wonderful souvenirs. Interesting objects crafted from onyx, one of Mexico's major exports, are widely available. Pottery art includes everything from unglazed clay pieces to beautiful stoneware crockery. Shopping

16. The Cozumel Project Forum Shops offer a new experience known as the Caribbean Shopping Style. This is where the customer will be able to save 50% from what is customarily charged in the United States and Canada for exclusive items as those found in the fine jewelry shops, clothes and designer accessories, perfumes and many more. Shopping

17. The Cozumel Project A big attraction is the interactive jewelry workshop where the tourist can watch while jewelry is being crafted into an exquisite piece. Prices on jewelry fashioned with Mexican silver and turquoise are exceptionally good value. Waterfront jewelries not only have exotic stones but also the finest diamonds; most jewelry stores are Duty-Free. Shopping

18. The Cozumel Project If you're just looking for a souvenir T-shirt, you have plenty of shops to choose from and with such a wide selection, you are sure to find the perfect one. You will also find a number of shops specializing in resort wear. Shopping

19. The Cozumel Project The Hotels are always packed for Carnival during the week before Ash Wednesday, when there's a parade for everyone from kids to family pets. Live music and dancing alongside locals in the plaza on Saturday nights along with authentic Yucatan cuisine straight from Abuela's kitchen. Music

20. The Cozumel Project The Island has so much to offer, the Mayan culture has very interesting sites here, San Gervacio, now a park with a project to study the Mayan culture, including a once sacred site where Mayan women journeyed to worship the goddess Ixchel, the goddess of fertility. Other fascinating sites such as Chichen Itza with its massive pyramids that rival those at Cheops, and Tulum, the only Mayan city built overlooking the sea, and even Tikal in its lush jungle settings where wild monkeys can still be seen. The Mayan’s

21. The Cozumel Project Several golf courses are available for the golfers. The Cozumel Country Club offer a great day at the tee. Golf

22. The Cozumel Project There’s also miniature golf, kite boarding, horseback riding, jeep tours and rental vehicles. Jet skis, Sailing, and fishing. Other Activities

23. The Cozumel Project Visitors can enjoy Fine Dining, Spicy, Vegetarian, French, Caribbean, Italian, American, Spanish, Lebanese, Chinese, Japanese, Cajun, Authentic Mexican and Yucatan cuisine. Restaurants Avenida Rafael Melgar is the most heavily traveled street in San Miguel, so naturally the most popular restaurants are clustered here, many with waterfront views of the sun going down over the ocean as you eat.

24. The Cozumel Project Restaurants Las Palmas - A few blocks from the seafront, a favorite with locals as well as visitors. Acuario - Seafood enthusiasts can be found here, dining amongst aquariums filled with tropical fish. Cafe del Puerto - Prepares gourmet dishes tableside. Pancho's Backyard - Be sure to check it out for its delightful Mexican menu geared to the gringo stomachs. Pancho’s

25. The Cozumel Project Restaurants Comida Casera Tonita - Between Avenida 10 and 15, is another good place to go; it serves up authentic regional food, and the lack of pretentiousness is clear when you realize it's actually a converted dining room in the owner's house. La Cocay - Those who like to get off the beaten track will enjoy the innovative cuisine. This small restaurant is considered one of the best on Cozumel. La Cocay

26. The Cozumel Project Restaurants Plaza Leza - and El Turix - are recommended for the adventuresome who would like to try Yucatan dishes like pollo pibil (chicken in banana leaves) or poc chuc (pork steak marinated in a sour orange sauce) and tikinchic (fish in a sour orange sauce). These regional delicacies are world-renowned and shouldn't be passed by.

27. The Cozumel Project Restaurants La Veranda - Highly regarded for Caribbean-style meals in a romantic atmosphere can be found between Avenida 5 and 10. This is a Caribbean-style house offering a fusion between West Indian and European cuisines. Regulars rave about the jerk chicken and shrimp curry.

28. The Cozumel Project Restaurants La Cabana del Pescador - A lobster lover's haven, you select a lobster tail, and brothers Fernando or Enrique will weigh it, boil it with a hint of spices, and serve it with melted butter, accompanied by sides of rice, vegetables, and bread and it's done superbly. Does lobster require anything more? This is the only thing on the menu on Fernando's side of the restaurant, but Enrique will cook up steaks,

29. The Cozumel Project Restaurants La Cabana del Pescador shrimp, or fish if you don't feel like lobster. The setting is quite tropical - a pair of thatched bungalows bordering a pond with lily pads and ……… reeds, traversed by a small footbridge. The rooms are softly lit with the glow of candles and furnished with rustic tables and chairs.

30. The Cozumel Project Restaurants Coconuts - Located on the windward side of the island at Playa de San Martin, (there's always a breeze to cool you down after fun in the sun), only 20 minutes from downtown, a great place to eat and drink. The salsa (and chips) which is served to everyon everyone is 100% fresh, so yummy with a kick. The view is spectacular, set way up on the only rock formation on the island - equivalent to a movie setting.

31. The Cozumel Project Restaurants French Quarter - Louisiana natives and father & son team, Mike and Mike, share their southern hospitality with you on their outdoor veranda. The French Quarter's menu offers a traditional Cajun cuisine prepared with a Caribbean flare. All dishes are served with southern sides like twice baked garlic potatoes and Cajun steamed veggies.

32. The Cozumel Project Restaurants French Quarter Friday night’s Mike Sr. offers a slow cooked rack of baby-back ribs that is heavenly. For dessert, be sure to leave room for the Margarita cheesecake.

33. The Cozumel Project Guido's - This family owned and operated restaurant offers southern and central Italian cuisine that is romantically complimented by the outdoor courtyard and gentle evening breeze. Guido's famous lasagna and garlic bread are the way to anyone's heart. The catch of the day is not to be missed. Be sure to share a pitcher of authentic Spanish sangria with fresh fruit. For dessert, try the banana supreme and a cup of cafe. Restaurants

34. The Cozumel Project Prima's - If you like northern Italian handmade pastas, fresh-baked bread, US Choice Grade A steaks and rich seafood, then Prima's is the place for you! It is located on the corner of the plaza on AR Salas and 5th Ave, upstairs. Dining on the rooftop in paradise is just what the doctor ordered! Prima's tends to fill up fast and there may be a wait. But just relax, have a cocktail, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the plaza because it's well worth it. Restaurants

35. The Cozumel Project Prima's The homemade desserts are the first thing to go, so be sure to get there early if you want to sample the peanut butter pie. Juan Carlos, the general manager, is almost always on hand to visit with you about the menu, the island, or your favorite dive spot. A very nice atmosphere where quality is all they serve. Restaurants

36. The Cozumel Project Azul Cobalto Restaurant & Bar - This little bistro is decorated with wall murals and paintings by local artists. Chef Pepe Gonzales has created a menu combining Chilean and Mexican flavors that produces some avant-garde dishes like the Squid Pil Pil a tender squid concoction in a rich garlic butter sauce. Be sure to try the filet mignon with a Roquefort sauce. A perfect lunch here would be one of the gourmet pizzas cooked in the wood-burning oven. Restaurants

37. The Cozumel Project La Cucina Italiana - Literally translated as "the Italian Kitchen", this restaurant is owned and operated by the Tarroni Family, migrants from the Old Country. They have updated their classic Venetian dishes with a hint of the Caribbean. In this small thatched roof dining room, you will be served a variety of homemade pastas, veal, chicken and seafood entrees prepared in the Northern Italian tradition. Gelati or a slice of rum cake is the perfect way to top off your meal. Restaurants

38. The Cozumel Project Casa Denis - This local family prides itself in this establishment that has photos of the decades of famous visitors on its wall including Jackie O and Fidel Castro. The traditional Yucatan dishes are sure to please. Just be careful of the hot sauce! A friendly place not only for the stomach, but for the wallet, too. Try the traditional Arroz con leche for dessert or a morning snack. In the mornings this is the place to eat delicious tacos! If you are unsure about what to order, just ask the English-speaking locals. Restaurants

39. The Cozumel Project La Choza - They serve a delicious menu! Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 7 days a week! You are greeted with a bowl of Salsa Verde and homemade chips along with La Choza's secret sauce. It's SPICEY but you have to try it once! If you want to try REAL Mexican and Mayan food in a friendly family atmosphere then this is the place. La Choza also serves one of the best margaritas on the island. Located on the corner of A.R. Salas and 10 Ave. Restaurants

40. The Cozumel Project El Moro - It's not likely you will be able to find this great eatery on your own and, once you do, you may think you have the wrong spot! Fear not! It is set in a local neighborhood. Just ask a taxi cab to take you there, it is one of Cozumel's oldest restaurants. The menu is very extensive and covers just about anything you might crave - from fish and chicken to Mexican steaks, soups, sandwiches and tasty Mayan dishes. Your hosts at El Moro love to take care their guests and look forward to serving you. Restaurants

41. The Cozumel Project Playa Azul Hotel - Just north of San Miguel, there are several fine restaurants well worth the 15-minute drive. The Palma Azul beachfront restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere and casual dining. It's located in the Playa Azul Hotel. Hotel Dining

42. The Cozumel Project The La Ceiba Hotel - Just south of downtown San Miguel in Plaza Las Glorias is the poolside La Palapa , famous for its daily theme buffets. Another 10 minutes brings you to Las Gaviotas , serving seafood and Mexican cuisine at the Sol Cabanas del Caribe . The La Ceiba Hotel is home to La Chopa Loca , where Mexican cuisine and piña coladas are the house specialties. The graceful Arrecife in the Presidente Inter-Continental Cozumel serves fine gourmet food with flair. Hotel Dining The La Ceiba Hotel

43. The Cozumel Project As for bars, Carlos 'n Charlie’s is generally the most popular as it is in the center of the downtown party circuit. Margaritas and frozen daiquiris are the most recommended beverages at Fat Tuesday , another open-air bar that has a DJ who keeps the joint rocking. Bars & Nightlife

44. The Cozumel Project The Hard Rock Cafe is part of the Cozumel party tradition, where having a good time is priority number one and T-shirt buying has become a routine custom. Cactus Bar & Restaurant is a recent addition and has rapidly become a popular stop for party goers. Bars & Nightlife

45. The Cozumel Project Another great place to go dancing is the Neptuno Dance Club , on two levels with a state-of-the-art sound system and flat screens dotted around. Bars & Nightlife If you want to dance, this is the place to be. For those who would like listen to hot jazz and smoke Cuban cigars, the Havana Club is a must.

46. The Cozumel Project The zócalo (the square) downtown is an atmos- pheric place to be with food stalls and live music attract many people in search of a good night out. Go just for the music and grab a snack from a stall. Bars & Nightlife

47. The Cozumel Project The area around the Punta Langosta shopping center and Punta Langosta pier is where you will find most Bars & Nightlife Cozumel nightlife, including La Pura Vida , a salsa club with live music and dance lessons.

48. The Cozumel Project Cozumel has so many good restaurants and bars that you'll have to be truly dedicated to try them all out. The restaurants and cafes cater to every budget and taste. Bars & Nightlife Cozumel is not a late-night town, since most of its visitors are up bright and early to enjoy the sights or dive the reef. But downtown party goers can keep things hopping until the small hours.

49. A beautiful island in the Caribbean, with a wild …... The Cozumel Project The Island Satellite Image Cozumel windward side which shelters nesting turtles and blissed-out isolationists.

50. The Cozumel Project Being only 12 miles from Riviera Maya, by ferry (runs hourly), gives you access to Playa del Carmen and Cancún (about 45 minutes), for even more shopping or night life. A Cozumel vacation is also a delight for those who want to enjoy the warmth and flavor of Mexico in a safe environment. The Island

51. The Cozumel Project A Beautiful Island Location !! Now you need some, Your Accommodations Fantastic Accommodations !!

62. The Cozumel Project Your Accommodations Take a trip round the Island or over to the mainland.

63. The Cozumel Project Your Accommodations Takeoff and land on paved runways, dirt strips, grass strips and in water as shallow as only 36 inches. The Super Goose will get you where you want to be.

64. The Cozumel Project The Vacation Just Love it!

65. The Cozumel Project The Accommodations The Island The Vacation Monte Cristo