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About COZUMEL, MEXICO (text courtesy Royal Caribbean)

The Conquistadors first saw Mexico from the shores of Cozumel while searching for gold. Today, visitors to the island continue to seek out gold and silver jewelry in the shops of San Miguel while having a great time in its many local bars and restaurants. Plus, the waters around Cozumel's sheltered coral reefs make this one of the best snorkeling areas in the world.

The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Tulúm, majestically perched above the turquoise Caribbean. The site was occupied as far back as 600 A.D. However, it was most densely populated around 1200 A.D. You will be struck by the pyramid-shaped El Castillo, which dominates the city from atop a forty-foot cliff. The nearby Temple of the Descending God provides equally excellent insight into the architecture of the Mayan people, who gained considerable achievements in the arts and sciences, only to decline and vanish for no apparent reason.

Other Fun Things to Do

Explore the underwater world of Chankanaab on a deep-sea adventure aboard the Atlantis Submarine.
Discover what makes a dolphin so magical as you play and interact with these amazing creatures in Chankanaab National Marine Park.
Sit back, relax, and bury your toes in the white sand of Playa Mia Beach in Cozumel. This destination offers all the food, drinks and activities you can imagine, including relaxing massages on the beach.
Take a Jeep®-safari adventure through the tropical landscape of Cozumel's east side. Ride through sand dunes and trails for an unforgettable experience.
Join the Fiesta party boat for a fun-filled trip to Playa del Sol, with margaritas, rum punch and a live band setting the mood for fun.
Escape to the secluded beauty of your own private beach paradise, Passion Island, by a four-person canoe or motorized tender.

Sporting Adventures

Experience snow-white bunkers and breathtaking views as you play a memorable round of golf on the championship course at the Cozumel Country Club.
Snorkel in the clear sapphire-colored water around Cozumel's coral reefs. It's a snorkeler's dream, and one of the world's premier snorkeling destinations. Equipment, instruction and guidance begin at Sand Dollar Beach. From there, you'll be able to enjoy everything your eyes behold for as long as you like, with transportation ready and waiting to take you back to your ship.

Shopping for Bargains

Regarded as the "St. Thomas of the Western Caribbean," Cozumel has become one of the world's best duty-free shopping ports. Cozumel offers unbelievable prices on diamonds, colored gemstones, jewelry, watches, gold, sterling silver, and even Oriental rugs as well as Mexican housewares and handicrafts. You can find designer jewelry pieces and watches from C2K, Caribbean Hook, Honora, House of Tanzanite, John Hardy, Kabana, La Nouvelle Bague, Starnight, White Diamonds, Cartier, Concord, Maurice Lacroix, Michele, Movado and more.

Local Currency

Mexico's currency is the peso (MXN). The $ sign is used to refer to pesos, so don't be shocked at the price tags. Any prices in U.S. dollars are listed as US$ or USD. Many hotels, restaurants and shops also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate.

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About BELIZE CITY, BELIZE (text courtesy Royal Caribbean)

With miles of lush tropical rain forest, a gorgeous Caribbean coastline and the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, it doesn't take long to realize why Belize City is known as "The Jewel." Located between Mexico and Guatemala, Belize possesses a unique combination of modernity and rustic Caribbean charm. Ancient ruins indicate that Belize was first inhabited by the Mayans in 900 A.D. This Indian heritage, combined with a rich European history, creates a destination full of charm and wonder for all to discover.

The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss

When you're in Belize, don't miss the chance to climb to the top of El Castillo. This 135-foot structure is one of the tallest Mayan structures in Belize. From the top, you can see the Peten Forest, the Mayan Mountains and even across the border into Guatemala. Keep your eyes open for flocks of toucans and parrots in the trees below you.

Other Fun Things to Do

Tour the amazing Altan Ha pyramid and discover the prevalence of Mayan influence in this culture. This ancient temple was erected as a symbol of Mayan honor and devotion to the Sun God, one of the central figures in their religious beliefs.

The Baboon Sanctuary and Belize Zoo are great places to witness some of Belize's wildlife. You'll see tapir, jaguars, pumas, ocelots, margays, jaguarundis and more.
Explore Belize's exciting underwater world and take in its unique coral structures, intricate caves and extensive marine life.

Stroll the marketplace in Belize City and mingle with the local vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and arts and crafts.

For an exciting adventure, hop on the powerboat Thriller, Belize City's fastest ride.

Sporting Adventures

With such a beautiful Caribbean coastline, Belize also provides the perfect setting to snorkel and dive. Marine life is abundant here and a trip to Gail's Point will provide you the opportunity to view some playful manatee in their own habitat.

Local Currency

The official currency of Belize is the Belizean dollar (BZD). Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate.

Bill van Gilder

Clay Times "Teaching Techniques"
columnist & host of DIY Pottery
TV series