When most people hear "trip to Mexico", it conjures up images of wild spring breakers in the popular city of Cancun. Thank you MTV circa 1990's. 

 

While a trip to Cancun is sure to be fun filled, I want to take you with me to the island of Cozumel just off the coast of Mexico's mainland. Cozumel is a beautiful island that attracts tourists of varying interests. It is known mostly for it's almost unparalleled diving and snorkeling experience being home to part of the largest reef system in the Americas, the Mesoamerican reef system. There is tranquility in Cozumel that is perfect for the laidback traveler.

 

I was in Cozumel for my husband's birthday, which was late October. This is considered Cozumel's rainy season but I do not recall a drop of rain. Like most Caribbean islands, the temperature is always on average in the 80's (° Fahrenheit). A cool day in Cozumel will linger in the high 70's. And if you’re traveling from the east coast during fall / winter, anything above 65° Fahrenheit feels like summer.

 

While in Cozumel, we shopped, dined and we indulged in spa treatments. But our most memorable experience was snorkeling and swimming with the stingrays. If you’re an experienced scuba diver, then Cozumel is the perfect opportunity to see immeasurable undersea beauty. If diving is not your expertise and learning is not on your bucket list, the snorkeling does not fall short.

 

Because Cozumel is your Mexican destination, it does not mean it has to be your only destination. If you crave more action there is a ferry that travels frequently to the magnificent playa del Carmen in Cancun. We spent a day on the main land visiting Mayan temples, shopping near the port and enjoying the beach. While speaking Spanish is a plus, it’s not a must. Both my husband and I speak minimal Spanish and the locals were more than impressed at our attempts to engage them and speak their language.

 

Mexico, more specifically Cozumel, is on a short list of places I would definitely visit again and again. It is an island of beauty and culture. The locals are gracious and have cheerful playfulness in their communication that immediately puts you at ease. 

 

Happy transcends all language barriers and Mexico is nirvana. As the winter approaches I encourage you all living in cold climates to consider making Cozumel your getaway of choice. 

 

Until next year, my travel bunnies, jet setters and adventure seekers, felices fiestas y feliz año Nuevo, which is Spanish for Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!