We didn't take a shore excursion in Cozumel, but we had as much fun if not more than those who did. A group of us took a cab to the Chankanaab National Park. The cab ride was ten dollars for five of us, and the park admission was ten dollars each. The park has a botanical park and cultural exhibits, plus the waterfront activities.
There were plenty of beach chairs, the place was exceptionally clean, and the staff roamed the beach taking drink orders. Beers were only two dollars each - definitely a bargain. There was also a restaurant with reasonable prices.
One of the adventures offered at the park is swimming with dolphins. Not only are the dolphins friendly, they are exceptionally well-trained. At one point the trainer had a pair of dolphins jumping almost eight feet out of the water, in perfect synchronization. Unfortunately, I was unable to get pictures as we never knew exactly where they dolphins would break water, and were unable to aim the camera to the right spot in time to capture them before they disappeared under the waves. This same pair of dolphins offered the swimmers a unique experience. A swimmer would float face down in the water. The dolphins would swim up, bump the person's feet, and push. The result is that the swimmer would be pushed upright and given a short ride standing on the backs of the dolphins.
After a few hours at the park, we returned to the ship to leave our gear then headed into town. Since we got there at noon, there was no pier space left at the New Town Pier and we were forced to dock at the International Pier instead. We thought it was within walking distance to town but after walking fifteen minutes managed to grab a cab for the rest of the trip. Our first stop was Carlos'N Charlie's, a local nightspot.
If you are young enough to remember how to drink and dance, this place is for you. Their enchiladas and fajitas were good, and the margaritas were extremely powerful. I'm amazed that everyone (on our ship, at least) managed to make it back to the pier before we left.
Copyright © 2008 by Dana Cline
Last updated on 7/8/2008
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