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Cozumel Neighborhoods Explained |
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While many folks outside of Mexico have heard of Cozumel, only some are
familiar with the name of the island's only town, San Miguel. Now when
you break it down and start talking San Miguel neighborhoods, many would
have to admit that we really don't know the difference between a colonia
and a columpio.
What follows is the Insider's effort to familiarize first-timers and
frequent visitors with what is really the heart and soul of our community
-- the neighborhoods. In addition, we hope these descriptions and guidelines
will be especially useful to those looking to rent vacation home properties,
as well as prospective homebuyers.
This is by no means a complete listing, and the borders may not be exact,
but it can be a great starting point for learning more about the ever-changing
island of swallows.
The original island settlers divided themselves between two villages,
namely San Miguel and El Cedral. Over time only San Miguel continued
to grow, with newcomers constantly clearing their own space among the
thick, dense jungle that covers the island.
 Initially there was just a small area of wooden houses and businesses
that fringed the village's main plaza. As more and more people came to
reside on Cozumel, continued expansion was necessary to accommodate businesses
and housing, so little by little an area of jungle would be cleared,
streets carved and lots platted. Each new area is referred to as a "colonia"
or neighborhood. For the most part downtown or "El Centro"
is considered to be from Melgar to 30th and from 6 Norte to 11 Sur. Accommodations
in El Centro offer the obvious benefits: No need for transport since
restaurants, shopping, and money exchanges are nearby, as well as a good
selection of nightlife. Since downtown is situated on the waterfront,
there are spectacular views of the sunset, as well as a newly created
swimming area complete with buoys which is located next to the downtown
ferry pier.
If there is a downside to El Centro lodging, it might be the increasing
noise and congestion that result when an additional 5,000+ cruise ship
passengers converge on the center of San Miguel. Typically most day-trippers
are on their way back to their ship by sunset and the island's downtown
shifts back into low gear for the evening.
| Midtown Cozumel ~ The Best Values! |
Cozumel has experienced tremendous growth in recent years and the fundamentals
of the island's economy have changed as a result. While the economy continues
to be tourist-based, the profile of the average visitor has changed dramatically
over the years.
Folks who came to Cozumel in the 1980's and early 1990's found a simple
fishing village that was on its way to becoming a popular diving destination.
Divers who came to the island stayed for one or two weeks, eating in
local hotels and immersing themselves in island culture and tradition.
There was a quaint downtown plaza where Mexican families gathered on
Sunday evenings, a nearby movie theater on the waterfront, and a few
family-owned hotels, which were deemed both clean and affordable. The
only franchises in the area were Dairy Queen and Subway.
Today, with at least 2 to 6 cruise ships in port daily, the face of Cozumel
has changed. Melgar Avenue, which runs parallel to the ocean, has been
made over to appeal to passengers who are in Cozumel just for the day.
Commercial space around the downtown plaza and along Melgar Avenue has
become so costly that most of the small family-owned shops and restaurants
are being driven away from the waterfront and town square. The island's
oceanfront boulevard is saturated with diamond shops and high-priced
chain restaurants that cater to day-trippers whose main interest is shopping.
The little movie theater has closed in favor of an 8-screen cineplex
and the few small hotels that remain struggle against the massive all-inclusive
beachfront hotels further south.
For those looking to purchase homes or real estate, midtown properties are particularly attractive because it was originally divided into oversized lots back during that era of San Miguel’s expansion. Generally lots in this area measure 12 meters across by 30 meters deep, whereas something purchased in the pricier Corpus Christi area would likely be 12 meters by 20 – a significant difference when planning a construction project. This is a key factor in deciding value because not all properties throughout the city are of equal proportions.
This fundamental economic change has brought about the emergence of "Cozumel
Midtown" as a marketplace for the best values on the island for eating
and accommodations.
In the past, Cozumel was segmented into a north hotel zone, a south hotel
zone, Corpus Christi and Downtown. Now, with the center of San Miguel
and the waterfront essentially given over to cruise ship trade, regular
vacationers and long-term visitors who want to experience local color
and culture need an area defined just for them. They want to feel comfortable,
yet at the same time know that they are getting a good value for their
dollar. Midtown is coming into its own as the preferred area for this
particular market.
On the street map, Cozumel
Midtown is essentially composed of two colonias - 10 de Abril and Adolfo
Lopez Mateos. It is bounded by the 6th Street North and 11th Street South,
and runs from 30th to 65th Avenue. Visitors often elect to stay in a
vacation home in Corpus Christi or a hotel in the north or south because
they imagine that it is closer to the downtown area. In reality the plaza
is a quick ten to fifteen minute walk straight west from just about anywhere
in the midtown area, whereas a taxi would be the obvious choice from
any of the other areas just mentioned.
There are all kinds of great apartments, B & B's and other rental properties
available in the midtown area, as well as some excellent restaurants.
As of August 2001 Midtown became the home of one of the finest dining
experiences on the island when La Mission Hacienda Restaurant opened
its doors. Despite being a family-run landmark in downtown Cozumel with
3 locations, they eventually tired of the exorbitant rents in El Centro
and elected to open their stunning hacienda-style restaurant in the heart
of midtown on Avenida 55 and Juarez.
In the Insider's humble opinion, COZUMEL MIDTOWN is "the" new place to
be for vacationers looking to find paradise at a reasonable cost.
Watch out for vacation rental properties that advertise themselves as “1 block from the ocean” or "walking distance to the beach”. While these statements are factually correct, what they don’t say is this: There are no homes in Corpus Christi that actually have nearby beach access, except through the lobby of a beachfront hotel. This entire residential area is blocked from the ocean by multi-level hotels and condos where access is denied or must be paid for by anyone wishing to snorkel or sunbathe. Visitors who gladly pay higher rental fees because they will be closer to the beach, eventually realize that the lower priced downtown and midtown properties are in actuality just as close.
Corpus Christi is not the name of a colonia in San Miguel, but rather
it's a small area south of downtown that wraps around the Corpus Christi
Catholic Church and a large neighborhood park directly in front of the
church. The area roughly runs from 11th to 23rd Streets and is bounded
by Melgar Avenue and 30th Avenue. It's basically a section of about 14
city blocks that straddles the colonias of Gonzalo Guerrero, Andres Quintana
Roo and Colonos Cuzamil.
In addition to the island's largest Catholic church, Corpus includes
the Chedraui supermarket and shopping plaza, a cineplex movie theater,
and what will soon be the island's first bowling alley. It's a quiet
residential area where one is within walking distance of one of Cozumel's
largest supermarkets, however a visit to downtown may require calling
a taxi, since it's approximately a mile away. The construction in this
particular residential area tends to be newer and there are a number
of beautiful vacation rental homes available.
| San Miguel I and San Miguel II |
These colonias are considered to be two of the most densely populated
areas within the municipality and run from 23 Sur to 35 Sur, and on the
west and east side by Avenida Pedro Joaquin Coldwell and Avenida 65.
The community is made up of working class families, many of whom own
their homes. As with each colonia in Cozumel, the parks and the churches
are the main gathering places for children and families.
Always clarify what you are getting before you rent a beachfront home here in Cozumel. Ask the critical question: Where is the beach/ocean entrance? This is important because thee are many areas around the island where the old highway passes between a home and the beach. While this in and of itself is not necessarily bad, it should be a consideration if you have young children in your group. In addition, there are parts of the island where homes have been built atop rocky cliffs, so while you may indeed be on the water, there is no beach and actually getting down into the water can be a real adventure. Checking details like this can help avert a vacation problem: Ask now so you can relax later!
| Chen Tuk and San Gervasio |
These two sectors constitute the most recently opened areas of development
for the island, and are bordered by Avenidas 85 and 135 running north
and south, and Benito Juarez and Calle 11 to the east and west. Many
of the roads remain unpaved and virtually all of the homes are still
in some stage of construction. Chen in Mayan means small and Tuk is the
name for a native fruit called cocoyol. San Gervasio gets its name for
its close proximity to a grouping of rather important architectural structures,
namely the ancient Mayan ruin site San Gervasio.
Additional colonias not mentioned above that make up the municipality
of Cozumel are Centro Norte, Independencia, Emiliano Zapata, Flores Magon,
C.T.M, Flamingos, Maravilla, and Inviqroo Cuzamil. There are two new
areas that are becoming very popular with the American community as well
as new arrivals from other parts of Mexico; Urba is a very attractive
neighborhood located just east of the airport, and Kilometer 4.5 along
the cross-island road is also a rapidly developing new community.
Beachfront areas are just that -- anything that is positioned directly
on the beach. Intuitively, since this is an island, beachfront can mean
any property along the perimeter of the island meeting this criteria.
There are, of course, many hotels and resorts as well as vacation rental
properties on beaches all around Cozumel. The benefits of spending a
vacation on the beach are obvious - beautiful sunrises and sunsets over
the water; swimming; snorkeling; and awesome diving practically at your
doorstep. One downside to a beachfront property might be its distance
from downtown shopping, restaurants, money exchanges and nightlife. Often
a rental car is required or a $10 to $20 taxi ride both to and from El
Centro. |
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Some interesting places to stay!
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 Casa Juan Vacation Rental |
| This 2,000 square foot, two story stucco home is an extremely spacious four bedroom, three bath home and it sleeps up to 10 comfortably. Divers love the fresh water rinse tank for washing dive equipment. Centrally located, this diver's retreat is within walking distance to the ocean and close to dive shops, restaurants and the main plaza of town. Master bedroom has king bed, 1 bedroom has queen bed, 2 bedrooms have 2 standard beds in each.
$895/week
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| Casa Tres Chacas Vacation Rental |
| Casa Tres Chacas is an enchanting home with 2 large bedrooms & 2 bathrooms. This roomy house is a "home away from home" with vaulted ceilings and lovely wall decor. It has large living and dining rooms, a completely equipped kitchen plus an extra space that is usable as another bedroom (semi-private) or children's playroom.
$125/day, $875/week
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| Tres Chacas Terrace Suite Vacation Rental |
| The Tres Chacas Terrace Suite is located upstairs above Casa Tres Chacas and can also serve as a third bedroom. A private exterior stairway leads from the main Casa to a bedroom suite with its own terrace overlooking the town. The suite has twin or king size beds at your option, a refrigerator and a large closet to store your gear.
$65/day, $455/week
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| Casa Del Sol Vacation Rental |
| This tropical home will capture your heart as you enter the front door with its decor, antique tile floors and island feel. With 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, 4-6 persons can easily relax and unwind for an extended vacation stay. There is a large palapa with outdoor table/chairs on a cemented floor in the back garden where guests can sit and enjoy island breezes in the shade. Master bedroom has king bed ~ second bedroom has 2 queen beds.
$650/week
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| Casa Bahia Vacation Rental |
| Casa Bahia is a beautiful two story home located in the island's residential district about a mile off the ocean. Perfect for 4 people, the Bahia has two bedrooms, each with private bath. There is a private garden area with a 10x10 swimming pool. Benches built in the swimming pool provide a perfect spot for a refreshing soak in the pool. A wall surrounds the property for your privacy. Both bedrooms have king beds
$700/week
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| Casa Roberto Vacation Rental |
| A beautiful 2 story luxury home just waiting for your arrival. The entire main floor with 2 Bedrooms/3 Baths is yours to enjoy along with a backyard complete with a flowing fountain to provide peaceful background sounds for your leisure time. All bedrooms have king beds.
$150/day, $1050/week
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| El Cantil South # 3A- Casa de Colores |
| Enjoy the vivid splendour of Casa de Colores where guests can relax, unwind and get away from the hustle and bustle of every day life! The quiet luxury of El Cantil Condominiums shines through in this fabulous 4 bedroom & 4.5 bath island getaway with a huge oceanfront balcony and colorful decor. Pick a week and escape to this piece of paradise for a stress-busting rejuvenation!
From US$2800 Weekly (low season)
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| El Cantil South # 4C- Casa Tropical |
| Relax in the magic of Casa Tropical where your dream vacation comes true! The elegant luxury of El Cantil Condominiums shows itself in this fabulous 3 bedroom & 3 bath island retreat with a huge 62 ft oceanfront balcony. A sunset lover's dream, don't miss the chance to call this lovely home your vacation getaway at least for a week!
From US$2000 Weekly (low season)
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| El Delfin Townhome |
| A fabulous 4BR/3.5Bath oceanfront retreat for your next tropical island getaway!
From $1500/weekly (low season)
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| IslaMar Villa 4 West Vacation Rental |
| A wonderful 2 bedroom/2bath villa with lots of light. Spacious living room and kitchen and a shaded porch with hammocks and outside tables and chairs.
$110/day, $770/week
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| IslaMar Villa 5 Norte Vacation Rental |
| For those who like a little more space this lovely 1 bedroom/1bath ground floor bungalow is roomy and has a large private patio in front.
$75/day, $525/week
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| La Sirena Townhome |
| Sit back and relax in this fabulous 3 bedroom and 3.5 bath oceanfront retreat for your next island getaway! With the light and lively tropical decor, this splendid townhome is all a person needs as motivation to kick off the flip-flops and stay awhile.
$1800/week
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El Cantil South # 3A- Casa de Colores
IslaMar Villa 4 West Vacation Rental
Casa Roberto Vacation Rental
Casa Tres Chacas Vacation Rental
Casa Roberto Vacation Rental
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Sherri- The place is beautiful! The service was excellent and you as a hostess are superb!! I really enjoyed staying here at IslaMar Villas with you. Can’t wait ‘til you finish that place on the beach. D. Richards ~ Dallas, TX
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My third year here to stay with you at IslaMar Villas - clean, secure, close. Good luck and thanks. M. Palo ~ Clarion, PA
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Sherri- You were a great host and a wonderful friend. You made us feel at home at your IslaMar Villas. We’ll be back soon!! J.Taft & C. Hurley ~ Boston, MA
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Your IslaMar Villas ~ Excellent place!! Attention to each and every detail was beyond anything I expected! We owe you one! Keep us up to date on your adventures. S. & D. West ~ Dallas, TX
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We cannot begin to express our thanks to Sherri, Jacqueline, and the staff at IslaMar Villas for our wonderful 11-night stay. This was our third time staying at IslaMar Villas and for us it's the only place to stay in Cozumel. It has truly become our home away from home. We love the apartments, the courtyard and pool, and the warm and friendly neighborhood.
We also used "Insider" to book our car rental with Avis. It went very smoothly and Jacqueline also helped us trade in our little Chevy Pop for something a little bigger.
A big THANK YOU to Sherri for introducing us to a wonderful private driver on the mainland and for arranging our excursion to Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Akumal. We were so happy that we decided to finally venture off the island and go to the mainland to see the ruins. The driver Sherri arranged for us was extremely friendly and went above and beyond to make sure we saw things we wouldn't have even known about had we taken the car ferry and driven on our own. To anyone looking for a private tour of places on the mainland, we highly recommend asking Sherri to arrange it for you. It was well worth it!
Thank you again, Sherri! Your kindness and warm hospitality makes us choose IslaMar Villas and your services over and over again. R. & M. Browning ~ Superior, CO
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