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Cozumel's two claims to fame
are a colorful Mayan heritage and an ecological/oceanographic location that
attracts divers like fish to coral. As Mexico's largest island, Cozumel
sits off the Yucatan coast in Caribbean waters teeming with 230 species
of exotic fish, rainbow colored coral and sunken ships. More than 90% of
the island, untouched by development, is covered in low-lying jungle, marshes,
lagoons and small hills. The intrepid explorer can rent a 4-wheel drive
to navigate the dirt roads leading to secluded beaches and an occasional
Mayan ruin. But most utilize the hotel boats that transport guests to diving
sites considered to be among the best in the world. |
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Ecological protection is in
full force here: natural aquariums and breathtaking but fragile reef systems
surround the island. On the island's southwest quadrant is world-renowned
Palancar Reef, home to the black coral discovered by Jacques Cousteau. For
shallower but equally wondrous sights, snorkelers explore Chankanaab Nature
Park's marine habitat and botanical gardens. For those who prefer to be
above the water line, the Island's beaches are sugar white and the bathing
scene equal to the prettiest picture postcard. |
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And is there life once the
ships have come in and oxygen tanks stowed away? An international port of
call and cruise ship destination, the choice of non-aquatic activities in
San Miguel has, of recent years, increased dramatically. As the central
hub of the island, visitors are offered a poupouri of quaint shopping and
restaurant sites. |
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With the glamorous mega-resort
of Cancun hovering on the nearby mainland, Cozumel is acutely aware of maintaining
its position as a more tranquil but still luxurious vacation alternative.
Not to mention the diving . . . |
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