Cozumel was a sacred island to the early Mayans, who made the pilgrimage from the mainland to the Isle of Swallows to worship their fertility gods. But today it's water lovers from around the world who come to worship on Cozumel, and it's the island's beautiful reefs and clear blue waters that are the object of their devotion. Cozumel is surrounded by one of the most magnificent reefs in the Caribbean, and if you like drift diving, then this is -- without question -- the place. All the dive action centers along Avenida Melgar, the main road running north and south along the island's west coast. And right about in the middle of Melgar's length is where another kind of action happens, because as well known as Cozumel is in diving circles, it's even more famed as one helluva place to party: good food, good music and partying as hard or soft as you want it. You can dive your days away, but don't miss at least a few nights out relaxing while you're on Cozumel. One of the best places to stay if you want easy accessibility to not only the diving but also the rest of the Cozumelenos experience is the Plaza Las Glorias Resort. Located less than a mile out of the center of town - far enough away for peace and quiet but near enough to stroll on over for some night life - Plaza Las Glorias offers all ocean-view mini-suites done in cool Mexican tile and marble, complete with wet bars, refrigerators, air conditioning, satellite television, its own water system and more. Right behind the hotel is its own beach, perfect for soaking up some rays after a hard day of having fun. For dining, La Fuente can set you up with authentic Mexican fare, or you can choose La Palapa and poolside dining, complete with swim-up bar and a daily breakfast buffet. If you're planning on an early evening (you've got a lot of reef to cover) and want to forego the manic hustle of downtown, check out the action in the hotel's lobby bar. Some options worth investigating at the Plaza Las Glorias are the kids stay and eat free program (ages 12 and under) and a free night program: Stay six nights and get the seventh for free. And what about the diving? Plaza Las Glorias is home to Aqua Safari, one of Cozumel's oldest and most respected dive operators. This PADI and NAUI operation allows you to do your diving from big, roomy Delta dive boats, or you can opt for the personal Mexican touch and use small, fast boats. Either way, you have access to reliable gear, full- or half-day dives, beach dives or night dives. (Soaring along the Cozumel reefs at night is one serious underwater rush.) If you're going to dive Cozumel, you can't beat Plaza Las Glorias: terrific accommodations, a top-notch dive operation, peace and quiet, and just a stroll away from all the night life of town. For more information about Cozumel diving, click on the home page below. For more information about Cozumel diving and reservations at Plaza Las Glorias, click onto the Caribbean Adventures home page below.
