Overview
Located just 11 miles from the Yucatán Peninsula, the little island of Cozumel is Mexico's largest inhabited island. It Is 33 miles long by 9 miles wide and home to over 100,000 people. There are so many things to see and do in Cozumel. The island is full of Mexican charm, and the atmosphere is relaxed and gracious. Given the importance of tourism to the local economy, English is widely spoken. The only town on the island is San Miguel de Cozumel, where you will find most amenities, such as restaurants, bars, tour companies, grocery stores, and banks. The town is approximately 8 miles from Chango Villa. Cozumel is rich in history, culture, and tradition. Ruins scattered around the island, some dating back over 2000 years, are constant reminders of the once vast Mayan empire and its sacred island "Ah-Cuzamil-Peten." Definitely set aside some time to explore the Mayan ruins located at the island's north end. The ruins at San Gervasio are the largest and make for a very
interesting half-day excursion.
The Maya
Over 2000 years ago, the people of the Maya civilization discovered and settled on a tiny but beautiful island off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. They named this place "Ah-Cuzamil-Peten," meaning "land of the swallows," after the native birds that thrive there. The island was established as an essential port of trade for the Maya. But even more significant, it was the home of Ixchel, the Moon Goddess of fertility and childbirth. For centuries, women from the Mayan empire made pilgrimages to worship at Ixchel's sacred temples.
Money (Pesos)
Exchanging dollars for pesos is easy, but not necessary. Practically everyone on Cozumel will gladly accept dollars for payment. If you wish to exchange money, the best rate will be found at the banks. The easiest way to get pesos is to use ATMs. The ATMs are conveniently located in town and provide pesos at the current exchange rate.