| Cozumel Transportation |
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TAXIS There are hundreds of taxis along the streets of Cozumel. Unlike US taxis, these do not have meters, but the fares are regulated and drivers are supposed to carry a published rate sheet with them. To keep everyone honest, it is a good rule of thumb to ask what the fare will be before you get into the cab. Many drivers will get creative with their prices and some tend to "pad" the fare. If you fee that your fare was "padded," a tip is not necessary. It is good to carry correct change or close to it as most drivers do not carry a great deal of change. CAR RENTALS We strongly recommend that you purchase a full coverage insurance policy; one that will cover the cost of your bail. Please be aware that if you are involved in an automobile accident, you will be taken into police custody until it is determined who is at fault and whether you have the ability to pay any penalty. Your US automobile insurance is most likely not valid in Mexico, so do not rely on it. Driving is on the right hand side of the road. Be aware that many roads are not in the best of conditions. Driving at night should be avoided if possible; cars without lights, drunk drivers, cows in the road, drunks in the road, no reflective lines on the highway, potholes, etc. can all be dangers. We also do not recommend you drive downtown. Unless you have experience driving in Mexico, plan on walking or hailing a taxi. If you do decide to rent a car, there are three gas stations on the island, and they are not located on the southern or eastern side of the island. To be safe, do not go below 1/4 tank. Credit cards are NOT accepted at any of the gas stations. We have new Jeeps on site from one of the car rental companies on the Island. Simply ask the Concierge and all the paperwork will be done on site. You can rent here and return here. If you want something other than a Jeep, please ask at the Concierge desk. DRIVING TIPS Driving in Cozumel is unlike driving in the US. Here are some tips if you decide to take on the challenge:
PASSENGER FERRY The passenger ferry dock is within a nice walking distance from Agua Azul. With new fast boats, regular schedules and convenient service, the travel from Cozumel to Playa del Carmen and vice versa is a quick 30 minutes departing as early as 4:00 AM to as late as 11:00 PM. You may buy your tickets right before you depart, or they can be bought in advance. Space on the boats is enough for the demand of passengers so you do not have to worry about availability. The approximate cost for a round trip fare is about $16.00 per person. Cozumel to Playa del Carmen Ferry - During the ride you will be able to watch TV ads of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen, which contain useful information on both places, and in most boats you can also sit outside and enjoy the scenery. There are two separate ferry companies between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen; Ultra Mar and Water Jet. The ferries consistently run every hour up to 11:00pm. One ferry leaves 5 to 10 minutes ahead of the other one. Both ferries are equal in comfort, speed, and amenities but one is a dollar more per ride. Both ferries have refreshments. You can order beer, soft drinks, and juices. Remember, ferry schedules may change without notice, so your best bet is to get to the docks early and buy your ticket for the next available trip as soon as you get there, than sit and wait for the ferry. MOPEDS/SCOOTERS We strongly recommend that you do NOT rent a moped or scooter. We would like you to come back and stay with us again! However, if you do feel the need to feel the wind against your face, rent a Jeep. Otherwise, if you go against our suggestion and rent a moped, please use caution and common sense to prevent serious accidents and consequently, a ruined vacation. Be sure to observe the following rules:
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