Cozumel, Mexico

If you're looking for a beautiful Caribbean style vacation within Mexico, then look no further than Cozumel, Mexico. This lovely hideaway is Mexico's largest island, yet remains somewhat undiscovered by Mexico's 20 million annual visitors. Cozumel is located 12 miles offshore of the city of Playa del Carmen. Yet only 3 percent of its land has been developed, making it an ideal place to explore the region in its pristine and nearly unaltered state.

Cozumel's history is centered on its importance to the Mayan culture as one of three ceremonial centers in the region, and this link to the past can be further explored by paying a visit to one of 40 archeological sites still present on the island. When the Spanish took over the island in 1519, Cozumel became a pivotal trading center in salt and honey. The collapse of the Spanish Empire in the late 16th century ushered in nearly 300 years of obscurity to this Caribbean land, yet it has recently flourished as a popular cruise and travel destination; luring people from across the globe to bask in its wonderful weather, amazing diving locations, and friendly people.

Cozumel, although not nearly as developed as its northern neighbor Cancun, still contains all the resources necessary for the ultimate cruise destination. Shopping is prevalent, and duty-free stores, selling everything under the tropical sun, invite the seasoned bargain hunter. Cozumel has been consistently rated the best spot in the world for scuba diving and snorkeling. Restaurants on the island are world-class as well as affordable. Finally, its proximity to the popular excursions of Xel-Ha Lagoons, the Mayan ruins at Tulum, and Playa del Carmen solidify its position as one of the top cruise destinations in the Caribbean.