Tips for Diving Cozumel

Rates: Rates in Cozumel are pretty competitive, except for high-end or specialized diving, and these tend to be better than prices elsewhere. Check for “extra” fees for southern dive sites, park and chamber daily fees ($2 and $1 respectively), and other services.

Money: The best exchange rate is using your ATM card at the many downtown banks. A couple even let you select dollars or pesos. Exchange rates in stores and hotels are often no bargain.

Transportation Tip: When you arrive at the airport, you need to purchase a ticket for the official van service. You are not allowed to take a taxi, so unless you are being met, ask for the “camionetas” (com-yeoh-net-uhs).

Health Tip: Drink bottled or purified water. Mosquitoes are common during the rainy season (June - October), and there is dengue fever on the island. If you feel very achy, fatigued, and have a headache when you get back home, to tell your physician you have been on the Caribbean coast where dengue fever has been reported.

Island Photo-Video: Same-day E-6 processing, u/w camera rentals and repairs (official Nikonos photo center and Sea and Sea rentals), professional photo and videos, instruction at the Hotel La Ceiba near the International Pier. Phone 52- 987-25833, fax 52-987-20065, e-mail photocoz@cozumel.net, website www.cozumel.net/services/armando/ Same day print film processing at Omega Photo, near Morgan’s Restaurant. This is one of several outlets but has been the most reliable and consistent — the operator is familiar with what underwater photos should look like!