KICKING BACK | COZUMEL
By the Sea Escape to Cozumel to soak up Caribbean sun and fun. BY ILONA KAUREMSZKY
Tropical Treasures: El Cedral ruins (above), and (opposite page, left to right) traditional Yucatán-style breaded shrimp and fish taco plate, and swimming with dolphins PHOTOS: © ALEKSANDR KUTIAVIN | DREAMSTIME.COM, © PETER MARIK | DREAMSTIME .COM, © RAMUNAS BRUZAS | DREAMSTIME.COM
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ur air-conditioned motor coach whisks us off to the edge of the sea by the dramatic El Mirador. This coastal walk along the rugged eastern shoreline of Cozumel offers a popular lookout from a sea-carved rock arch. The selfie crowd deals with their selfie sticks to take photos of the unusual natural limestone formations as we carry on our coastal tour to other sandy stretches. For cruisers, in winter the unspoiled blue waters, untamed beaches and the freshest seafood dishes are ready to tantalize any taste bud on the compact island of tropical Cozumel. The most important cruise destination in Mexico, Cozumel ensures sun-seeking vacationers who want to kick back get to sample a full spectrum of activities, dining and entertainment.
globaltravelerusa.com APRIL/MAY 2021
Visitors will find evidence of a rich history of the great Maya civilization at the ruins of San Gervasio and the fertility temple of El Cedral, considered the island’s first Maya sacred site. Located in the state of Quintana Roo, this island swath of white-sand beaches earns the accolades of the Mexico Tourism Board as “the place in Mexico to receive the first sunrays.” Blessed with a great marine biodiversity ideal for diving, Cozumel boasts a ribbon of coral reef framed by white-powder beaches. The setting offers a slice of marine paradise: Think dreamy, undulating landscapes framed by warm azure waters and rich tropical foliage that add endless ecotourism opportunities by both land and sea to this sun-kissed tropical mix. Off the coast of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, by the water’s edge in a shallow, submerged platform, a pod of dolphins performs tricks, smacking their fins in the water and squealing with sounds like laughter. It is time for my dolphin encounter. I exchange looks with my other half as I take my instructions and wait for my cool dolphin moment. “When they come at you, assume the dead man float and let the dolphins push you straight up in the air,” says our instructor. On cue, tickling sensations from a pair of them hit my heels, thrusting me fast and furious across the warm water. Before you know it, I’m flying up, up
