You can get a ticket to get to El Coz on the shared van after you leave the customs area. Don't know the exact price but about $8 per person.

CZM ticket booth: http://tinyurl.com/2f5mme

CZM Vans: http://tinyurl.com/yqwpeh

Just get a taxi to return on your way home...no problem.

Unless it is a tour that is likely to be booked far in advance, you may just wait until you get there. I doubt that Xel-ha would be a problem.

There is a tour, The Tucan Sailing, and it has had rave reviews. If this is something you would want to do I would book it in advance, I have heard that they don't go out everyday and tend to fill up. Just my two cents.

The sign above the ticket booth is labeled "TAXI."

Ignore the Tourist Advisory booths/people. Know how to smile and keep moving. Do not stop. Try to avoid making eye contact.

If that fails and you are caught, tell your traveling companions to "Save yourself.....keep going."

Thanks COPilot - I love advice from the hometown! We are so inexperienced and don't want to make mistakes that will affect the fun of our trip! Since you all are experts - what side trips are not to be missed? I've read that others say to rent a jeep; is this best or take a jeep tour?

Ditto to scubaladee -

http://www.cozumelsailing.com/adventure.html

You will never find a bad review of that trip.

Thanks for the tip. What about Xel Ha compared to Xcaret? Both fun or are the similar? Is either better - what can we expect from spending a day at either?