Cozumel

OK, so on the cruise our first port was actually Grand Cayman, but I couldn't resist posting about Mexico on Cinco de Mayo! I mean, why not honor a Mexican victory against the French in 1892 at the Battle of Puebla with Tequila, Modelos, & a post about Mexico? Makes perfect sense to me.

Before I tell you all about Cozumel, I want to acknowledge all the recent media hype about how terribly dangerous Mexico is and how drug lords lie in wait to chop off the heads of American tourists for fun. First of all, our media exaggerates. These guys are businessmen, and they terrorize people who stand in their way (like cops and politicians and people who steal from them). It doesn't make sense for them to crap on their resorts by murdering American tourists. I'm not saying violence isn't a problem, and I'm definitely not saying that it's safe to wander the streets alone at night with a wad of cash, but the bottom line is, don't be a dumb tourist and you'll be just fine.

I wonder if 3 other ships mean it will be crowded...

That said, I love Mexico!! It was amazing. Upon arrival, we walked down the pier through duty free shops that had the biggest bottles of liquor I've ever seen. Apparently I was too mesmerized to take a picture. There might have been other things for sale there... I'm not sure.

Anyway, the last time I was in Cozumel was 12 years ago, and this time the port was unrecognizable to me. Whereas last time I left the pier it was necessary to get a taxi to take us to the best shops and restaurants {bars}, this time around there was a tourist's dream just outside the pier. No seedy vendors, dirty streets, or through traffic... this place was like a bubble. Gardens, fountains, air conditioned shops and restaurants, beautiful views of the ocean.... just gorgeous.

One thing that has not changed is the abundance of people looking for tips. The musicians, the costumed guys posing for photographs, the shot girl that won't take no for an answer, even the Mexican clown that gives spankings and makes naughty balloon hats. I don't mind, these guys all work hard for the money and they truly make the experience unforgettable. I just wish I'd remembered to break down my cash into smaller bills ahead of time.

My crew took a vote and since I'd already seen the less attractive parts of Cozumel and my brothers weren't exactly searching for local color, we decided to stay in the tourist bubble for the few hours we had to spend in Mexico.