The Untouched Beauty of Honduras

19 March 201431 August 2024

I can still remember the first time I visited Honduras, I was working for the cruise lines in the 1990s. I was amazed at the pure, untouched landscape with endless views of the country’s hills and valleys. Honduras was not yet an established cruise ship stop and became a popular port of call because of its uninhabited jungle with rare sightings of exotic birds and animals.

The Ocean Spirit, a live-aboard dive ship, was one of the few vessels that was permitted to anchor off of The Bay Islands of Honduras. Divers were drawn to our ship’s itinerary as it provided some of the best diving in the world. Second only to The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, dive enthusiasts had the opportunity to explore the underwater reefs of Roatan.

Although the majority of passengers were drawn to the ship because of its spectacular diving, the Ocean Spirit also provided shore excursions for non-diving passengers to go ashore. While in Honduras, these tours included either a boat ride to Roatan Beach (which also included lunch), or a catamaran cruise to Guanaja with a cultural trip into town. The group sizes were usually small, so ship’s officers were welcome to tag along when space was available.

The boat ride to Roatan included refreshments, musical entertainment and a tour guide providing commentary and insight to the lives and culture of the Hondurans. Within a few minutes we had arrived on the West End of the islet where miles of white sand and tropical palm trees welcomed both sunbathers and explorers. After four hours, which included lunch, the tourists would board the boat and enjoy the scenery on our way back to the ship. This was the most relaxing of the two tours and I enjoyed each opportunity I had to visit.

The most popular tour in Honduras included the opportunity for passengers to explore the Bay Island of Guanaja, also known as Bonacca. To reach the island, we took small passenger boats, hugging the Honduran coastline. Thatched huts and concrete homes came into view as we sailed along the shore. Little dinghies were tied up to the palm trees in preparation for an afternoon of fishing as wives hung their laundry on a clothesline outside of their home. The overgrown terrain acted as a shield to protect the families from the wildlife that lived deep in the unexplored jungle.

Guanaja was one of the more inhabited of the Bay Islands back in the 90’s. The central town of Bonacca was the most populated with about 10,000 residents. As the catamaran docked at a small pier near the downtown, passengers were provided their first glimpse of this poor, developing Honduran fishing village.

Stepping off of the tour boat, it was not difficult to see why the locals refer to Bonacca as “Little Italy”. The maze of channels, backstreets and alleys remind me of the canals of Venice. There are no roads here, so moving from one place to the next requires a lot of walking. The homes within the interior of town seem to be more upscale and roomy. I enjoyed losing myself among the walkways, stopping to watch children fishing here along the bridges.

Moving inland into the town of Bonacca, I was saddened to see areas of poverty and ruin. Refuse filled the waterways and the smell of garbage was overwhelming at times. I learned later that day that the town was undergoing renovation. The Hondurans were optimistic that these areas would be cleaned up over the next couple of years in an effort to attract more tourists. The government was hoping that this focus would lead to more visitors which would in turn improve the economy and provide local jobs. Little did I know that tourism would eventually play a large part in the future of Honduras and that major cruise lines would vie for position to include Honduras on their ship’s itineraries.

It was soon time for me to reach the pier where I would join the other passengers and we would enjoy another boat ride back to the Ocean Spirit. The ship anchored overnight which meant that divers and crew could experience the nightlife before the ship’s departure the next morning. This was always my favorite part of the day.

After the shore excursions returned and dive masters unloaded their boats after a day of diving, we would all catch a ride over to The Bayman Bay Club on Guanaja. It became our most popular spot to escape our cruise ship life and leave the passengers behind. Even if it was just for an evening, this was our special place. From here we could escape, discuss our dives and catch up with one another over a couple of games of pool.

I took great comfort each week visiting Roatan and Guanaja with its unbelievable scenery and laid back atmosphere. To us, the islands were so profound that it was hard to believe that a place like this could actually exist in a world that had become so commercialized. I remember how each of us felt so privileged to have had the opportunity to spend time in a place that felt as though we were the only ones who existed. It truly was a magical place.

Honduras will always have a special place in my heart as it was here that I passed my certification to become a diving instructor. Looking back, it is hard to believe that I had the chance to dive at one of the most amazing dive sites in the world and I look forward to an opportunity to return to experience it all over again. And of course, the day would not be complete without a few dive stories over a game of pool at Bayman Bay Club.

Have you had the opportunity to visit a location that was once your best kept secret and you had hoped it would stay that way forever? Have you visited there recently to find that things have changed yet you have fond memories of its earlier existence? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. I am so thankful that you read my post about cruise life in Honduras and look forward to hearing from you. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to Eat:

The food from Honduras is certainly a melting pot of flavors. Influenced by the Indian culture of the Maya, Lenca and Garifuna, it is also inspired by African, Caribbean and Spanish cuisine. Here are a few dishes one should try while visiting Honduras.

Black Bean Soup: A traditional staple, black beans are cooked with tomatoes and such spices as coriander and paprika. I love to top it off with sour cream and hot sauce.
Horchata: A milk-based drink, this concoction includes rice, water, sugar, cinnamon and vanilla, which is absolutely delicious.
Licuados: Another drink that comes from Honduras, this is a fruity dessert drink that is sweetened with honey and milk.
Machuca: This spicy dish is made of mashed plantains and then smothered with a jalapeno and garlic paste.
Pastelitos de Carne: Translated as a Meat Pie, pastry is stuffed with ground beef cooked in wine, with tomatoes, onions and raisins and cooked a golden brown.
Traditional Baleadas: Similar to a soft taco, a tortilla is filled with beans, eggs or beef, avocado and copious amounts of cheese and usually served at breakfast or lunch.
Yojoa Fish: Deep fried lake fish is marinated in cumin, paprika, cilantro paste and sugar, this dish is usually served with pickled onions (put on the fish) and lemon slices.

What to Read:

Diving and Snorkeling Guide to Roatan & Honduras’ Bay Islands by Sharon Collins
Roatan Honduras Dive Map & Reef Creatures Guide Franko Maps Laminated Fish Card by Franko Maps Ltd.

Photo Guide to Honduras:

Copan Ruins: Stelae (stone monuments), Maya Citadel, Step Pyramids, Ruins
Pico Bonito National Park: landscapes and scenic views
Utila: an island off of the mainland of Honduras best for photographing whale sharks and coral reefs
Jeannette Kawas National Park: lagoons, coral reefs tropical forests, swamps, and wetlands
Roatan: mountains, coral reefs
Lake Yojoa: lush landscape, birds, restaurants, coffee plantations, waterfalls and mountains
Comayagua: Spanish colonial architecture,

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Belize City, Belize: The Perfect Resort for Scuba Divers

26 February 201431 August 2024

Back in the early 1990’s not many people had heard of Belize, unless you were an avid scuba diver exploring the Barrier Reef and the Blue Hole.

Working on cruise ships throughout Central America, I began to develop a deep love for the Mayan culture and its people, so weekly visits to Belize would allow me to research the country’s strong Mayan influence and architecture. There are close to 30 additional Mayan ruin sites in the country, such as Caracol, Lamanai, Cerros and Xunantunich but the most visited archaeological site is Altun Ha. For more information about the Mayan Ruins in Belize, check out the website of Belize’s National Institute of Culture and History (NICH).

In addition to my fascination with the Mayans, I am also an animal lover and the wildlife in Central America is spectacular. It is not surprising that Jaguars make their home in this beautiful country and even less surprising that these animals were once hunted to the brink of extinction. To learn more about the Belizean Jaguars, you can visit the Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary and Preserve, where there are approximately 200 of these amazing felines. Unfortunately, the chance of a visitor seeing one in the preserve is 17,000 to 1. Other animals protected in the sanctuary include the armadillo, the scarlet macaw, the keel-billed toucan, the Baird’s tapir and various species of monkeys.

With a diverse population comes a wide variety of options when it comes to cuisine. Of course there are the foods that are influenced by Belize’s neighboring Central American countries, but there are also dishes that have a more “Jamaican/Anglo-Caribbean” influence. And if this does not suit you, there are also a number of fast-food restaurants from which to choose as well.

Today Belize continues to draw divers to its fascinating underwater world and the area has become a port for major cruise lines, so things have drastically changed in many ways. But this does not seem to change the hospitality of the local Belizeans and their generous disposition. So take a moment to immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Belize and you will be pleasantly rewarded.

Fun Facts About Belize
• It is the only country in Central America where the official language is English.
• Its population in 2014 was 340,844 & continues to grow annually at approximately 2%
• It has the lowest population density in Central America
• It is considered both Central American and Caribbean
• It was previously named British Honduras until its name changed in 1973

Is Belize on your bucket list or have you already had the opportunity to visit this amazing country? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for going down memory lane as I share my experience of visiting Belize and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins: I would suggest contacting a local tour guide for this trip who will provide transportation as well as a guide to walk you through the site.

Belize Exotic Adventures or Belize Fun Tours

Where to Stay:

Chateau de Pradines
Rock, Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone: 501 623 8656

Where to Eat:

Mayan Crystal Skull Mampi Diner
Rock Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone: 501 600 344

What to Eat:

Ceviche is a seafood dish made from raw fish cooked by the use of citrus juice.
Papusas are a popular street food also known as stuffed corn pancakes. Usually comes with hot sauce and a side of coleslaw.
Tamales are a traditional Mayan food and wrapped in plantain leaves instead of corn husks
Rice and Beans: made in coconut milk and pinto beans
Conch Fritters: Conch is a staple in Belize and this is their most popular appetizer
Chimole is a Creole stew made from local spices such as garlic, cumin and oregano.
Seafood which includes white fish, shrimp and lobster

What to Read:

Ping Wing Juk Mo, by various writers
Maya Cities and Sacred Caves: A Guide to the Maya Sites in Belize, by Dr. Jaime Awe
Tropical Nature by Adrian Forsyth
Maya Art and Architecture by Mary Ellen Miller

Photo Guide for Belize:

Baron Bliss Lighthouse is located at the mouth of Haulover Creek in Belize City
Barrier Reef
Beaches
Belize and Orange Walk Clock Tower
Belize Sign
Corozal Bay and its teal waters
Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio
Hummingbird Highway connects Western Belize and the South
Mayan Temples
Mountain Pine Ridge which is the home to 1000 foot falls, Rio On Pools, Big Rock Falls, and Caracol
San Ignacio Murals‘ colorful artwork
Tropic Air flights for amazing views of Belize’s Barrier Reef.

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A Cruise Ship Drydocks in Galveston

19 February 201431 August 2024

Have you ever wondered what happens to a cruise ship when it needs major maintenance or a much-needed remodeling? While working for the cruise lines, our ship’s Chief Purser explained that I would be traveling with the ship to Galveston, Texas for dry dock after returning from vacation. Over the next few weeks, the ship would undergo updates in the engine room, new carpet throughout and the installation of updated technology. Our ship left Tampa en route to Texas and we arrived at Todd Shipyards in less than six hours. I stood on the bridge as the captain entered the designated slip where the Vera Cruz would be dry-docked and met the local ship’s agent for instructions. Of course there were no passengers during this time, but a skeleton crew was required to carry out a number of shipboard activities, including customs and immigration.

Once the ship entered the slip and was securely tied, the water was drained from the basin, leaving the bottom of the ship exposed. I finally saw the ship’s hull from beneath the waterline, which ended my curiosity as to how far the ship extended below the water.

Additional bodywork was scheduled for the exterior of the ship to include the removal of barnacles and the repainting of the hull. During the drydock period, the water was shut off and electricity was only supplied to designated areas. The schedule to finalize the updates and maintenance was tight with not much margin for error.

I remember the first time I approached the gangway while in dry dock. It was the first time I realized I had a small fear of heights. The narrow bridge that connected the dock to the ship was much longer than what passengers experienced in port. Concrete replaced the usual water, so it made me weak in the knees when I looked down. The drop seemed so far that I held on for dear life to the railing and slowly walked toward the entrance.

During my experience in dry dock, many of the deck hands and ship’s officers provided oversight for the changes scheduled for the Vera Cruz. They worked long hours to ensure that the dry dock activities ran smoothly and that the ship would return to its regular sailing schedule.

Because of the limited electrical and water resources, the working crew and officers stayed at a local hotel so we could sleep comfortably at night and make it to work on time each day. Although ship life is hard work at times, our dry dock schedule was like working a REAL job….or at least we were able to experience what it was like to work “on land” for a few weeks putting in only eight hours a day. And while spending time on the ship during dry dock was an interesting experience, I was more than happy to return to sea.

Have you worked on a ship before and experienced dry dock? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post about my shipyard experience and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bishop’s Palace
1402 Broadway Avenue J
Galveston, TX 77550
Telephone: 409 762 2475

Historic mansion with public tours

Admission Fee: $12 for adults, Youth (ages 6 – 18): $9; Children 5 and under are free; Adult pre-arranged group tours are $9 per person; NOTE: The venue is not wheelchair nor walker accessible. The admission fee includes a self-guided audio tour (7 days per week). Additional fees charged for the Basement to Attic Tours ($30), Private Tour ($50) and a Private Behind the Scenes Tour ($80). Order online and SAVE!
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5PM
Amenities: Audio guides and shop,
Length of the Tour: 2 hours, tour of the house and gift shop
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes, purchase your tickets in advance for a discount,

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
2501 Seawall Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77550
Telephone: 855 789 7437

Old-fashioned waterfront amusement park

Admission Fee: Add day ride pass for visitors 48” and up: $26.99; All day ride pass for visitors 47” and under: $19.99.
Hours: Ride hours are seasonal and are subject to change without notice. The website suggests that you select a date on the calendar to view the hours for that day. http://www.pleasurepier.com/info.html
Amenities: Rides and Amusements, Midway Games, Restaurants and Shopping, Shuttle Buses, Lockers, Wheelchairs and Stroller rentals, ATM, nearby Hotels
Length of the Tour: All day
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes Parking is limited but there are several options from which to choose. Review the “Know Before You Go” section of the website to ensure adherence to the pier’s policies.

Moody Gardens
1 Hope Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77554
Telephone: 800 582 4673

242-acre amusement park with aquarium

Admission Fee: Value Passes can be purchased for one day ($69.95) or two days ($89.95). Save $5 when you purchase the Value Passes online. These passes include ONE admission into the Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, MG 3D Theater, 4D Special FX Theater, Discovery Museum, Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, SpongeBob SubPants Adventure, Ropes Course, Palm Beach (seasonal), Band on the Seal (seasonal), Festival of Lights (seasonal) and ICE LAND Ice Sculptures (seasonal); Receive 25% discount on Zip Line admission with day passes. Per Attraction Prices are also available for those guests who have limited time or are only interested in certain attractions. Select which ones you want to visit and purchase your individual attraction tickets upon arrival or online.
Animal Experiences include: Public Giant Otter Encounter ($75 per person) offered on Saturdays and Sundays only at 1:30PM. Public Penguin Encounter ($55 per person – Monday through Friday and $75 per person on Saturday and Sunday). NOTE: Price does not include Aquarium Pyramid admission. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Free for children ages 3 and under. Tickets must be purchased 20 minutes prior to the encounter. Penguin and Seal Experience: $250 per person and must be scheduled in advance. All participants must be at least 16 years of age. Private Otter Encounter: Monday through Friday for $375 per group; Saturday and Sunday for $475 for group. Each additional person is $65. Must schedule an appointment in advance. The Private Penguin Encounter: Monday through Friday for $375 per group; Saturday and Sunday for $425 per group. Each additional person is $65. Must schedule an appointment in advance. Visit Moody’s website for the most up to date information regarding hours, prices and restrictions. http://www.moodygardens.com/visitor_info/
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 8PM (Hours of Operation vary Seasonally & Per Individual Attraction, so check out Moody’s website.
Amenities: Special encounters programs (additional fees), discounts for Good Grades Program, Military Mondays, Senior Tuesdays and Mommy Wednesdays (visit the website for more information). Garden restaurant, Aquarium Pyramid food court, Rainforest concessions, Palm Beach concessions, Café in the Park, Moody Brews, Shearn’s Seafood & Prime Steaks, handicap accessibility; nearby hotel, spa and convention center.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes, download the map on Moody’s website and plan to make a day of it!

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island
2109 Lockheed Rd.
Galveston, TX 77554
Telephone: 409 770 9283

Water amusement park open year around

Admission Fee: One day Tickets: General Admission ages 12 – 54 for $50.99 and 38.99 for children ages 3 – 11 and seniors 55+ Packages: General Admission, Towel, Souvenir Bottle, & Free Refills (Ages 12 – 54) for $76.97; Child/Senior Admission, Towel, Souvenir Bottle & Free Refills (Ages 3 – 11 and 55+) for $64.97;
Hours: The Park is open daily in the months of June, July and most of August. The Indoor Water Park is open weekends and selected holidays from March to April and October to December. Check the website www.schlitterbahn.com for a calendar of hours.
Amenities: Cabanas and Loungers (additional fee), waterslides, heated pool, restaurants, snack bars, beaches, kiddy pools. Towels and water shoes for an additional fee.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes and plan a full day for your visit!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Galvez & Spa
2024 Seawall Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77550
Toll Free Number: 866 209 9122

Where to Eat:

Olympia Grill at Pier 21 – this restaurant is permanently closed (Updated 2019)
100 21st Street
Galveston, TX 77550
Phone Number: 409 765 0021

For a small bite to eat, I ordered the Crab Finger Trio: sauteed crab finger santorini, fried crab fingers and crab au gratin. Served with rice and vegetables. Delicious!

Benno’s Cajun Seafood
1212 Seawall Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77550
Phone Number: 409 762 4621

A great restaurant for cajun dishes, especially the local crawfish.

What to Eat:

Crawfish: Crawfish season in Texas runs from January to July. While the most popular way to eat this local seafood is in a crawfish boil, other options include etoufee and fried tails.
Texas BBQ: One of my favorite meals when I visit Texas, I can’t get enough of beef brisket slowly cooked in a BBQ pit. A tomato based sauce seasoned with spices, onions, and garlic, the amazing flavors bring out the smoky taste of the beef.
Tex-Mex cuisine: In addition to nachos, guacamole, burritos and tacos, there are several dishes that have evolved from the traditional Mexican offerings, such as:
- King Ranch Chicken: a dish made of shredded chicken, canned diced tomatoes and green chiles, cream of mushroom soup and cream of chicken soup, diced bell peppers and onion.
- Pan de campo is the official state bread of Texas which a type of flatbread used as the base for a variety of breakfast meals and meats often served with refried beans and rice.
- Frito Pie: With Fritos as its base, seasoned beef or chili, cheese and onion are piled on one another to make a hearty meal. Some people like to include salsa, sour cream and jalapenos for additional heat and flavor.

What to Read:

Galveston’s Red Light District: A History of the Line, by Kimber Fountain
The Galveston That Was, by Howard Barnstone
Galveston Architecture: A Visual Journey
Galveston, by Nic Pizzolatto
Galveston: A Novel, by Suzanne E. Morris
Isaac’s Storm, by Erik Larson
The Alleys and Back Buildings of Galveston: An Architectural and Social History, by Ellen Beasleyx`
Galveston’s Maceo Family Empire, by Nicole Boatman & Richard B. McCaslin

Photo Guide for New Orleans:

24th and Strand Mural
Beachtown Community
Bishop’s Palace
Galveston Kindness Project
Galveston Railroad Museum
LaKing’s Confectionary
Moody Gardens
Moody Mansion
Maceo Spice and Import Company
Pleasure Pier
Powell Arch
Saengerfest Park
Seawall Mural
Tall Ship ELISSA

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Hurricane Gilbert 1988: The Aftermath in Photos

22 January 201431 August 2024

Hurricane Gilbert made landfall on the Yucatan Peninsula on September 14th, 1988 after destroying the island of Jamaica just a couple of days prior. It would go down in history as one of the worst hurricanes to hit the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico.

The beaches of Playa del Carmen following Hurricane Gilbert in 1988

During this time, I was working as a Purser on the SS VeraCruz and based out of Tampa, Florida. The cruise ship was scheduled to leave port with an itinerary to include Cozumel and Playa del Carmen for a five day voyage. It was determined that the hurricane would most likely continue its path heading west with a slight direction towards the north, but the Captain decided to set sail. In hopes that we would miss the hurricane, the ship headed north towards New Orleans with the possibility of docking in Progresso.

As you can imagine, our ship did not make it to Cozumel that week and no sooner did the ship depart out of the Port of Tampa, it was determined that the ship needed to head north towards New Orleans to avoid the hurricane. With swells reaching over 30 feet in height, we waited out the storm only to return back to Tampa. Gilbert would eventually hit the Yucatan Peninsula resulting in massive damage and destruction.

According to the website Hurricanes: Science and Society, there was $1 – 2 billion dollars worth of damage to Mexico alone. Ships were tossed ashore and 341 people lost their lives.

Hurricane Gilbert was documented as a category 5 hurricane that resulted in 83 ships sinking, 60,000 homes destroyed and 35,000 people left homeless.

It was later learned that the aftermath of the hurricane had an impact on Mexico again in 1989 when wildfires went out of control as a result of the debris left by the hurricane, burning 460 square miles.

According to the website source, there were storm surges that reached heights of 20 feet causing ships to be washed ashore.

Some of the ships were literally tossed out of the water, making contact with the buildings ashore. This created additional destruction to hotels, homes, and other coastal establishments.

I visited the ports of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen weeks after Hurricane Gilbert touched down. In addition to damaging the coral reefs and buildings, we couldn’t believe the condition of the beaches which looked as though they were under demolition.

The island of Cozumel and resort town of Playa del Carmen have long since recuperated from the destruction of the hurricane, but for those who were there or visited the Yucatan shortly thereafter, it will forever have a long lasting impact on their lives.

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Cozumel, Mexico: The First Stamp on My Passport

1 January 20148 August 2024

Do you remember the day when you applied for your first passport? Had you already booked your vacation and were anxiously waiting for it to arrive? I remember how excited I was to travel out of the country for the first time and was thrilled when my passport showed up in my mailbox. I had just accepted a new job working for the cruise lines as an Assistant Purser, so I couldn’t wait to practice the few Spanish words I learned and explore the Mexican Riviera.

I had so much to learn before arriving in Cozumel. This popular tourist destination is a well-known hotspot for watersports such as scuba diving and snorkeling. With its turquoise waters and sunny weather year around, the island has been a popular cruise ship destination for many years.

I loved spending my summer cruising to Cozumel each week aboard the SS Vera Cruz. I enjoyed learning about the Mayan culture, spending time with friends at our favorite local hangouts and venturing out of my comfort zone to learn how to scuba dive. I became pals with the local dive masters where we would meet up at the late night discotheques and danced until the last tender (water shuttle) brought us back to the ship.

The Vera Cruz was anchored off of the main town of San Miguel, so the tender would drop us off at the downtown pier. Within minutes, we had a number of restaurants and shops at our disposal and ventured out as often as possible. It wasn’t difficult to grab lunch and catch the next shuttle back in time for an afternoon shift at work and most of us would return to the island to enjoy Cozumel’s nightlife.

We became regulars at one of the more popular restaurants on the island, Carlos ‘n Charlie’s. Located off of the pier, its high energy atmosphere drew cruise ship crowds searching for authentic tacos, tequila or a couple of local beers. It was a cheap, quick way for the crew to enjoy lunch before strolling Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, to pick up some personal items we would need onboard. As the day turned to night, Carlos ‘n Charlies emerged as a lively nightclub with music spilling out on the street. Rowdy waitstaff enticed bystanders with free shots of tequila, promising an evening of raucous fun.

UPDATE: Carlos ‘n Charlie’s has moved. They are now located south of the downtown area of Cozumel. Visit their website for more information.

The loud music drew us to a small staircase leading up to the restaurant and bar where we would be greeted by the wait staff who treated us like locals. We had our favorite table which overlooked the main thoroughfare so we could watch the crowds below. The packed tables were overflowing with customers as they waited for their food and drinks.

T-shirts from all over the world and US license plates hung from the rafters of the restaurant. The iconic red and white tablecloths covered the small tables where we anxiously awaited our orders of hash mash (tortillas with all of the toppings and black beans) and chips. We couldn’t help but encourage our cruise ship passengers as they dared to experience the “Tequila Headshake”, only to hear of their regret the next day.

Having the fortunate opportunity to visit Cozumel each week over the summer, I took advantage of joining some of our ship’s excursions to explore the island. One of the most popular outings was the party boat/beach excursion. This fun-filled triple-decker ferry would transport passengers to San Francisco Beach for a day of sunbathing, water sports or a relaxing afternoon at the beach.

The local guides arranged activities to encourage the passengers to eat, drink and be merry. With limbo contests, congo lines and an unlimited supply of margaritas, there was no shortage of entertainment. Great mariachi music gave the passengers a reason to dance as the alcohol flowed and inhibitions disappeared.

It was easy to identify the partiers as they stumbled off the boat searching for their next drink at the beach. Arriving at San Francisco Beach Club, beach rentals, a snack bar and scooters were available for passengers to fully enjoy their time on the beach or to explore the island by moped.

The beautiful soft sand was perfect for sunbathing so I usually opted to take some time to work on my tan. The tropical temperatures and the hot sun were intoxicating and a great way to escape the long hours at work. After a short period of sunbathing, I would usually find a small hut in the shade, grab a drink and a light meal and wait until it was time to return to the party boat.

Towards the end of the tour, an “All Aboard” call summoned us to board the over-sized pontoon back into town. Drifting away from the beach, it was the last chance for the passengers to join in the festivities and have a few more cocktails before joining the ship. This, undoubtedly, was the highlight of the trip as the music was cranked up a few decibels and the party would continue.

UPDATE: This beach has expanded and offers many beach activities that will keep you busy all day! Visit their Facebook page.

In addition to the party boat excursion, I had the opportunity to explore the island and its local ruins. What surprises most people about Cozumel is that it is not all about the party atmosphere and drinking. Steeped in deep Mayan culture, the archaeological site of San Gervasio dates back to 300 A.D. and is a pilgrimage site for Ix Chel, the goddess of fertility.

The tour, led by a Mayan guide, included insights to the local culture, the religious importance of the ruins and an overview of the daily lives of the ancient Maya.

After a lovely tour of San Gervasio, we were transported to a local hotel where an authentic Mexican dinner was prepared for us. The entertainment included a nighttime serenade by some of the most talented Mariachi musicians on the island. It was the perfect ending to a day of Mayan culture and entertainment.

Whether I spent my time on the beach, at the ruins or experiencing the local culture, Cozumel offered a wide range of activities and attractions. Over time, I was pleasantly surprised by the growing fondness I would have for Cozumel and I could not wait each week to return.

Have you visited Cozumel? I would love to hear about your trip as well and any recommendations you may have for a future visit. Just leave a message in the comments section below. I would also love to hear about your first trip outside of your home country, so include that too!

Many thanks for reading about my cruise ship experience and the amazing excursions to Cozumel. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

Travel Information About Cozumel, Mexico:

Best Time to Visit:
- December – March with average temperatures in the mid – low 80s
- April and November are shoulder seasons
- Note: June – August are the hottest months
Language: Spanish
Key Phrases (Spanish): Ola! (hello), por favor (please), gracias (thank you), Que pasa? (how are you), Salut! (cheers)
Currency: Mexican Peso
Payments: Mexico accepts local currency, US dollars, and credit cards in established businesses
Transportation: Bicycles, Cars (retro VW Beetles and Jeeps), Colectivos (Minivan-style buses), Scooter, Taxis and Water Taxis to the mainland
Dress Code: Tropical island, beachwear, business casual for upscale dining locations
Local Holidays:
- Carnival – 5 days preceding Ash Wednesday, usually celebrated for a week
- The Birth of Benito Juarez: March 21st
- Easter: Locals reenact the Passion of the Christ in front of the Corpus Christi church on Avenida 20 between Calles 15 & 17
- International Bill Fish Tournament in May (the end of April to the beginning of June)
- Santa Cruz Festival which celebrates the discovery of Cozumel May 2nd and 3rd
- Cinco de Mayo: May 5th
- St. Peter and St. Paul Festival from June 28th to 29th
- Mexican Independence Day: September 16th
- San Miguel Archangel Fiesta: September 28th
- Columbus Day: October 12
- Dia de Muertas (Day of the Dead): November 1st and 2nd
- Day of the Mexican Revolution: November 20
- Virgin of Guadeloupe Fiesta: December 12th until December 24th known as the Navidad Posadas
- New Years Eve: December 31st
Healthcare in Cozumel: Cozumel offers excellent private health care facilities. Private clinics and hospitals feature the latest modern facilities and are built to US-standards.

What to See and What to Do:

San Francisco Beach Club

Admission Fee: $20 per person and each guest is provided with a $10 drink/food voucher; Additional fees for various watersport activities: $60 for jet ski rental and parasailing; snorkel equipment rental for $30 and one tank dive for $95.00; deep sea fishing for $350; and the banana boat, $20.
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 5PM
Amenities: Swimming pool, bar beach access, water sports, restaurant, chaise lounges ($10 for chair and umbrella), pharmacy, inflatable water features
Tips for Your Visit: San Francisco Beach is eight miles south of downtown Cozumel and about five miles from the cruise port. A $15 taxi ride from the cruise ship port. Bring plenty of sunscreen, money/credit cards for bar and restaurant purchases; There are vendors that stroll the beach and sell various items or have your photo taken with exotic birds; this beach is not recommended for visitors that want to relax, as this location is very busy.

Carlos ‘N Charlie’s Beach Club
Carretera Costera Sur Km 14 #250
Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico CP 77600
Telephone: +52 987 564 0960

Admission Fee: Free! Additional fees for various watersports and amenities such as: wave runners, parasailing, glass bottom boat and snorkeling tours, banana boat, henna tattoo, massage.
Hours: Open Monday through Saturday, daily from 9AM to 4PM and the bar is open until 5PM; Sundays, open from 11AM to 4PM, the kitchen and the bar until 5PM
Amenities: Free entrance, free beach chairs and umbrellas, pool table, restrooms, fresh water showers, beach bed, volleyball court, restaurant, bar and free parking!
Tips for Your Visit: Carlos ‘n Charlies is ten miles south of downtown Cozumel and about seven miles from the cruise port. A $15 taxi ride from the cruise ship port. Bring plenty of sunscreen, money/credit cards for bar and restaurant purchases

San Gervasio Mayan Ruins
San Miguel de Cozumel
Quintana Roo, Mexico,
Telephone: +52 983 837 0796

Admission Fee: $8 per person; additional fee for a guide (see “Guided Tours and Informational Booklets”)
Transportation: From the cruise ship port or downtown Cozumel, a taxi can take you to the San Gervasio ruins who can drop you off, allow you to explore the ruins (up to 6 hours) and then take you back to your original location. Buses are also available from the pier, but I would recommend another route of transportation if you are visiting for the day on a cruise.
Hours: Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:45PM
Amenities: Bottled water available for purchase at the entrance. Brochure of the site provided, small gift shop, photo opportunity with a “Mayan Indian.” Tour guides available for additional cost.
Guided Tours and Informational Booklets: Guides are available at the site for a charge of $8 per person or $40 for up to 6 guests; The Guide to the Mayan Ruins of San Gervasio, by Ric Hajovsky is an excellent resource for this amazing attraction and is available on Amazon.com for $10 or less.
Length of the Tour: 1.5 to 2 hours; guided tour usually takes about 1.5 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The San Gervasio ruins are 11 miles from downtown Cozumel and the Punta Langosta cruise pier, which is about a 20 minute drive. Bring plenty of sunscreen and bug spray, bottled water (available at the entrance to the ruins) and a hat to protect from the hot Caribbean sun. Wear comfortable shoes, flip-flops not recommended.
Additional Suggestion: If you enjoyed the San Gervasio ruins and would like to explore some of the artifacts that were excavated from the site, make plans to visit the Museo de la Isla (the Island Museum). Located in downtown Cozumel along the waterfront (near Calle 6 Norte), there is a small entrance fee of $4 and it is open from 9AM to 5PM daily.

Day Trips from Cozumel:

Akumal: One of the best locations to swim with sea turtles, Akumal is located between the towns of Playa del Carmen and Tulum on the Riviera Maya
Cancun and Isla Mujeres: Cancun made the Yucatan Peninsula a vacation destination in the 1970s with the building of multiple resorts. Nearby Isla Mujeres is an island off of Cancun that is minutes away and provides a more remote setting with an abundance of activities.
Cenotes: Natural fresh-water sinkholes, sacred to the ancient Maya, the cenotes are so diverse in character offering unique experiences at each location to include snorkeling, swimming, diving or just floating on a raft.
Chichen Itza: One of the largest Mayan complexes in Mexico, this spectacular pre-Columbian ruin is worth the journey. Take the ferry to Playa del Carmen where you can catch a bus to this majestic archaeological site.
Playa del Carmen: A ferry from Cozumel will take you to the mainland of Mexico with pristine beaches and excellent cuisine.
Tulum: Once a major port on the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is another archaeological site which overlooks the Caribbean Sea.

Where to Stay:

Upscale Accommodations:
Presidente Inter-Continental Cozumel Resort & Spa
Carretera a Chankanaab km 6.5
Cozumel, Quintana Roo, 77600, Mexico
Toll Free Number: 877 859 5095

This is a magnificent property located near the popular dive site of Chankanaab National Park. There are so many fabulous amenities and you are sure to be delighted during your stay!

Amenities: infinity pool, spa, gourmet dining, ballroom, gardens, dive center with expert instructors, free parking, valet parking, guest services, scenic views, suites, 24-hour business center, printer, copying, wi-fi and fax services, fitness center, personal training sessions, yoga class, dry cleaning, butler service, child care, interpretation and translation services

Where to Eat:

Crazy King Burrito
San Miguel Shopping Area
5 AV Norte Esq Calle 4 Norte

It is approximately 4 miles from the Carnival Terminal in the heart of downtown. A taxi ride will cost about $8 – 10.

This restaurant has continuously been voted as one of the top restaurants in Cozumel that provides Mexican food with vegan and vegetarian options! For guaranteed good food and friendly service, this restaurant is worth a stop!

Rolandi’s (was Pizza Rolandi’s during my cruise ship days)
Waterfront dining, Italian cuisine
Avenida Rafael E. Melgar y Avenida Andres Q. Roo

Located about 3 miles from the Carnival Cruise ship terminal, with a taxi fare of approximately $6 – $8. The perfect time to dine at Rolandi’s is during sunset!

NOTE: It is always wise to confirm the information provided by visiting the website for the attractions, websites and hotels provided.

What to Eat:

Cochinita Pibil is a suckling pig marinated in a sauce which includes sour orange juice, spices and ground achiote. It is then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked overnight in an outdoor oven. Truly Authentic!!!
Pescado de la Veracruz – fish drowned in tomato sauce with green olives, onions, tomatoes, chiles and garlic.
Poc Chuc – pork marinated in sour orange juice which comes from a local fruit indigenous to the Yucatan.
Sopa de Lima – a type of chicken soup that is seasoned with limes.
Tikin – Xic – red snapper or grouper that is wrapped in banana leaves with sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions and drenched in a special sauce made with sour orange juice, oregano and spicy paste.

What to Read:

Insight Guides Cancun & Cozumel Pocket Guide
Guide to the Ruins of San Gervasio, by Ric Hajovsky
Cozumel Survival Guide, by Ric Hajovsky
Cozumel, the Complete Guide

Photo Guide for Cozumel:

The photobanks of El Cielo located southwest of the island are home to beautiful starfish
Playa Palancar (southwest side of the island): You will find coconut trees, crystal clear beaches and boats at this location
Punta Molas (north of the island): It is best to book a tour to visit this remote location on the northern side of Cozumel as a 4×4 vehicle will be required. Photograph the lighthouse and explore the abandoned military barracks for amazing pic. Bring plenty of sunscreen, bug spray, a hat and lots of water before setting out on this adventure. Playa Bonita is also located on the northern side of the island and perfect for photos of shallow inlets.
Punta Morena (on the east side of the island): Most people come to photograph the cross, abandoned buildings and the local resort off the beaten path.
Punta Sur Eco Beach Park (southwest on the island): The deserted beach is perfect for unobstructed photos and climbing to the top of the Faro Celerain lighthouse will provide stunning 360 degree views of the Caribbean Sea and intercoastal waterway. Explore the El Caracol ruins and small maritime museum. You won’t want to miss the crocodiles, iguanas and sea turtles here as well. Kayak the mangroves at Columbia Lagoon or relax on the beach in one of the hammocks for a lazy afternoon.
Restaurants such as Taco Tequila Cozumel will allow you to snap a few photos of the local cuisine and tequila samples.
San Gervasio Ruins (north central part of the island): Photograph the Temple of the Hands where red hands are painted on the wall.
San Miguel: Cozumel’s “downtown” is the restaurant and shopping district of the island.
Underwater Photos: There are several locations for shooting underwater photos such as Palancar garden, caves and reef, El Paso del Cedral, Paradise Reef, Caverns of Punta Sur reef, the Devil’s Throat, Santa Rosa wall, Columbia wall, El Cid plane wreck and Chankanaab Park.

Consider booking a photography tour with Cozumel Photo Tour with Tati Biermas who offers several tour options for taking photos of the beautiful island of Cozumel. You can reach Tati by contacting her on her website: https://tati82.wixsite.com/phototourcozumel.

Disclosure: Please note that the information provided in this post was correct at the time of posting but is subject to change. Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.