How's the weather?
Most of the year, Cozumel is warm and sunny. There are some fluctuations in the seasons. During the winter months (November to March) the temperature in the daytime is in the low 80’s, with lows of high 60’s at night. If you are visiting the island during these months, it is wise to bring a light jacket and jeans or pants. During the summer months (April to October), it is hot and humid in Cozumel . The average daytime temperature is in the upper 80’s to low 90’s with high humidity, and at night it’s in the lower 70’s or high 60’s. These months offer perfect diving weather. The water is warm and so is the boat ride back to shore.
How safe is Cozumel ?
Very! Cozumel is one of the few places left where crime is at a minimum. You will find you are safer here than you are in the States! Feel free to walk around and explore during the day or in the evening. In fact, some of the best shopping deals and restaurants can be found off the beaten path. Do pay attention to your wallet and purses and don’t leave valuables like cameras unattended.
Is the water and food safe?
Yes. All of our oceanfront houses in Villas Costa del Sol offer purified and pressurized drinking water systems! The water outside Villas Costa del Sol is safe to bathe in, shave with, and even brush your teeth with, but it is not healthy to drink.
All restaurants and bars on the island serve purified water and ice. The food on the island is delicious, and there are many restaurants to choose from. We provide recommendations in the Tips & Resources section of our website. However, don’t be afraid as you are exploring the island to try little “hole-in-the-wall” restaurants (Mr. Taco and Los Seras) where you can find some excellent local tacos, tortas, fresh fish, such as grilled or fried whole Red Snapper, or delicious Mayan and Yucatecan dishes.
Is it appropriate to bargain when shopping?
Yes. It’s fun at many places, especially in the small boutiques off the ocean front street or with the street vendors selling jewelry, hammocks, etc. Larger established stores, especially on the ocean front street or in the cruise ship malls, have marked prices and do not negotiate. But, try anyway. Remember, to bargain, you should be serious about wanting the item.
Is English spoken in Cozumel?
Yes, in many places. Those working in the tourism industry will almost certainly speak English. You will find many waiters, vendors, dive masters, tour operators and store owners who speak very good English. Basically, the farther back from the ocean front street you go, the less English is spoken. But don’t let that deter you! If you know basic Spanish words (
beer-cerveza, bathroom-baño, where?-¿donde?, how much (cost)? -¿cuanto cuesta?), and can gesture with your hands (that’s very popular here), you’ll do just fine. One note: Speaking in a loud voice to try to make yourself understood, will usually create the opposite effect.
Can I use credit cards?
Many places do take them now, such as higher-priced restaurants and numerous dive shops and stores, including the largest grocery store on the island. However, some places charge an additional fee such as 5% or more to process a credit card. So have a back up plan in case you need cash. ATM’s are plentiful on the island and take Plus and Cirrus Bank Cards.
How do I exchange my money for pesos?
There are many money exchange houses on the island. The exchange rate fluctuates daily. We recommend that you do not exchange currency at the airports. They tend to offer the lowest exchange rates. ATMs and banks on the island will give you the best rate. Keep in mind that you pay bank fees to your bank for every withdrawal. US and Canadian cards usually are not charged the local bank fee. No matter which you choose, always count your money.
Can I buy essentials such as toiletries, etc. in Cozumel ?
Forget your toothbrush or razor? Toiletries are a breeze in Cozumel . Many of the pharmacies and grocery stores, especially Chedraui, sell familiar products including Colgate, Oral-B, Kleenex, Oil-of-Olay, Gillette, Pantene, etc. You can also easily find ibuprofen, Pepto Bismal, Tums, and Sudafed. And don’t forget the mosquito repellent! They sell plenty of it, along with fun in the sun items, such as Banana Boat sunscreen, Chapstick, and Aloe Vera lotion. If you are bringing a baby, you will be able to find diapers, many products from Johnson & Johnson, Pedialyte and Gerber.
What is the best mode of transportation on the island?
There are several different options to choose from. First, there are taxis, which are plentiful and fairly easy to find. A trip from downtown to a beach on the Southern part of the island can now cost you $100 to $150 pesos (around $10 - $15 USD). There are also bicycle, moped and car rentals. We do not recommend renting scooters! Too many tourists end up cutting their trips short after having scooter accidents. Car rental is the best option! We can even have one waiting for you at the airport when you arrive. It’s the best way to travel to the other side of the island.
Can I access the phone and the Internet?
In our ocean front homes, you will be able to make free calls home to the US and Canada. They also have high speed internet connections. Internet cafés with modern computers and DSL or cable Internet connections are on almost every corner in town. They charge approximately 10 pesos (a little less than a dollar) per hour to surf the web. There are some locations that will allow you to hook up your own laptop to the Internet for the same fee. Many employees of the Internet cafes are knowledgeable professionals who speak enough English to help you out if you run into problems. Some cafes also offer printing, scanning, and faxing service. Telephones & fax machines in town are also available for use, but they can be a little pricey. You will find many signs posted around town, especially in the areas in front of the cruise ship piers. Punta Langosta & Puerto Maya advertise long distance telephone service with rates posted clearly.