Akumal, Cozumel News Notes

News Roundup . . .

You've heard about cave diving; NOW there's cave DINING! 1001 Aluxes is a new nightspot for those looking for unusual settings. This restaurant/bar, located in a vast underground cave system in Playa del Carmen, is most unique. You have to see it believe it. See separate story for more details.

If you're thinking twice about investing more money in the stockmarket, consider purchasing land in Mexico. Americans have been buying property in Mexico for years and now, more than ever, that might be a wise decision. Property values have steadily increased year after year. You can own 5 acres of prime land in Mariposa Estates on the island of Cozumel. If you'd like more details, check it out: Mariposa Estates .

What a way to start the day! Jeanie's Waffle House in Cozumel has long been a favorite for a hearty breakfast or lunch. Jeanie's recently relocated to a beautiful spot directly on the ocean. Greet the morning with a stack of Jeanie's famous waffles, a tasty omelet or fresh fruit as you dine along the bright blue waters of the Caribbean. Or drop in for a delicious sandwich after a morning of heavy duty shopping or exploring. Every table has a stunning view. Now located on the oceanfront road, just off of 11th Street, directly behind Aquario Restaurant (next to the Lobster Cove), Jeanie's is open 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For evening dining along the sea at the same location is Aquario's Sunset Beach Restaurant. By day, it's Jeanie's Waffle House; when the sun sets, the atmosphere changes and the menu switches to lobster, shrimp, steak and more elegant fare. For a romantic dinner and incredible views, this is a great choice.

Also relocated in the same general area of the above two, is the Cocina Italiano, formerly located on 10th Ave. And, McDonald's is now open on the waterfront on the corner of 5th St. S.

NEW at Punta Langosta
shopping center in COZUMEL:

Fun and games . . . Up for a game of pool or Fusball? Want to test out your dancing shoes at the electronic disco? These and more are available at El Dilema on the second floor of the Punta Langosta shopping mall. A restaurant and bar serves up favorite foods and drinks in the bar/restaurant where pool tables and Fusball are ready for play. Swing into the separate arcade some evening to practice your electronic gaming skills like pro- truck driving, turkey hunt, basketball and various others. You'll find all kinds of fun in Cozumel! El Dilema is a pleasant spot for a casual game of pool as you catch the ocean breeze.

Sushi anyone? Newest taste treat is available at Shokumi, now open on the ground level of the Punta Langosta shopping center. Looks clean and tidy . . . but do people really eat raw fish when they come to Mexico?

Thank God It's Fridays . . . In Cozumel (and Playa del Carmen, too!), an American favorite in the States comes to Mexico. TGI Friday's in Cozumel is on the second floor of Punta Langosta shopping center. Choose from inside seating or a table overlooking the ocean on the terrace. Views are stunning and there's usually a gentle breeze from the ocean. Order a cold and frosty drink, nibble on some tasty appetizers or dig into a hearty steak, tender barbecued ribs, chicken or shrimp. Service is excellent . . . but slow (why would you want to be in a hurry anyway?). Ribs and stuffed potato were particuarly savory. Considering the prime location, the prices were very reasonable.

Other eateries in the Punta Langosta shopping center: Subway, Burger King, Moma Roma's, Senor Frog's, Carlos 'N Charlie's, Baskin Robbins and a Coffee Shop. In addition, there are jewelry, clothing and gift shops.

You'll want to visit at least a couple of the establishments in Punta Langosta.

Pesk control for timeshare salespeople

It's a fact: anyone who travels to Cozumel, Playa del Carmen or Cancun is going to have an encounter with persistent timeshare sales people. The good news is that they are generally confined to "information booths" . While they may provide some useful information if you need it, their intention is to lure you to a sales presentation where you will be pressured into purchasing a timeshare. If you're in the market for a timeshare unit, great, you'll certainly get the opportunity! Offers of free rental cars, free breakfast, tequila and other spiffs are used to lure potential buyers into attending these sessions. If you have plenty of time and want to sacrifice a couple of precious vacation hours, then consider it (you will get a free breakfast, or car or whatever it is they are offering). However, if you are not interested, you need to keep right on walking when you hear the come-on lines. We suggest that you simply ignore them (unless, of course, you are interested in a timeshare).

Unfortunately these people can be annoying and many people are duped into their high-pressure sales presentations. As long as you are aware that they are there and that you will likely be approached from someone behind a counter. Then, you can make a decision whether or not you want to engage in a discussion with them. If you are not interested, keep right on walking. They CANNOT follow you down the street; apparently they are required to stay within their booths.

And, you'll be glad to know that NO peddlers of any kind are allowed on any of the beaches in this part of Mexico. If you've traveled in other parts of Mexico or the Caribbean, you know how bothersome these people can be! Thank goodness they are not tolerated. Beaches are for relaxing and that's exactly what you can do here. No one will approach you on the beach selling jewelry or t-shirts or other doodads.

Share your favorite restaurants in Playa del Carmen,
Cozumel, Puerto Aventuras or Akumal . . .

Offer your tips to other travelers if you have favorite restaurants in any of these areas. There are SO many choices and you can help others by giving your inside tips on your dining experiences. Tell us which restaurants you've most enjoyed. Any specifics that you can provide would be appreciated by others who are in the planning stages of their vacation to this part of Mexico. Rate the service, give a brief description of the atmospher and your personal review of the quality of the food and the prices. We'll be happy to share your comments in an upcoming newsletter edition.
Just e-mail us at: rentals@mexico-villas.com?subject=Restaurants

Passenger/car/freight ferry from Tampa to Cancun

Beginning November 2002, Scotia Prince Cruise luxury cruise ferry, M/S Scotia Prince, will be providing service on a new route between Tampa, Florida and the Yucatan Peninsula. The Yucatan Express will sail the 36-hour Tampa-Mexico route four times a week from October to May. The ship is also equipped to provide motor coach, tractor-trailer and freight transportation services-including shipments with refrigeration requirements.

This sounds pretty interesting, but no other details as available as of now. We'll be sure to keep you updated on the rates and schedule.