News
5 Reasons to take your next dive vacation in Cozumel
If you are looking to vacation in the Caribbean, there are many destinations to choose from. Most have beautiful beaches, clear water, and plenty of sunshine, so how do you choose? Islands are like people, and they all have different personalities. What makes Cozumel so special? Well, let me tell you all about it!
- What Lies Beneath the Blue Water. Cozumel is a diving and snorkeling mecca, a true paradise discovered in the 1960’s by Jacques Cousteau himself. As a diver, I can highly recommend Cozumel for its astonishing clarity, visibility of 100-150 feet, and the glorious “drift”. The current is usually a comfortable, pleasing force, allowing one to drift along, whether snorkeling or diving, to see the beauty and color of the reefs. The fish are varied and colorful, and most snorkels and dives fall into the relaxing category. If looking for more excitement than a lazy drift, check out Punta Sur, The Devil’s Throat, and other faster current, deeper dives. The reefs of Cozumel offer both beginners and experts beautiful and exciting diving.
- The Laid Back Atmosphere. Sure, you can go to the Caribbean and go to locations where there are late night clubs, dressy venues, and flashy casinos. If that is your desire, find another vacation spot. Cozumel is not flashy, and more often than not, it is quiet after 10 p.m. It is an island of families, and actually has the highest standard of living in Mexico. The island has a breezy, easy, and very laid back feel to it. The Mexican standby of, “oh, let’s do it tomorrow” (manana, manana) is present on the island. No one is in a rush – there is no hurry scurry in Cozumel. Take it easy… and while you are at it, take a siesta. Everything will still be there when you wake up.
- Amazingly different Eco-Systems. Often, one wonders if the East Side of the Island of Cozumel (the windward side) is the same island as the West Side (facing the mainland, and leeward). The East side of Cozumel has endless sandy beaches, gorgeous blue waters crashing into shore, and low lying, succulent vegetation. It appears to be a different island from the lush, rainforested West side where the waves gently lap onto land. Visit the North Side of the Island and its lagoons and rare birdlife, a place where roads do not exist and cars cannot go. The interior of the island is still wild, heavily forested, and untainted by civilization. The only developed side of the island is the West Side, though the East Side has a few bars and beach clubs. Cozumel is also a labyrinth of cenotes and underground rivers, though most of them are not readily visible, and only expert cave divers venture in.
- Access to the Mainland is easy, as ferries run every hour to Playa del Carmen. It only takes 30-40 minutes to get across the channel. The ferries make access to the Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza easily available, and a day on the mainland at the Natural Parks of Xelha (shell-ha) and Ixcaret (Shka-ret) is always fun. Stepping from the ferry onto the dock at Playa del Carmen one can feel the difference in the atmosphere. The mainland crowds are bigger, the shopping is more intense, and the beach is a busy, busy place.
- The Foodie Restaurants. Cozumel has grown and gained in amenities, such as the Jack Niklaus Golf Course and the Country Club, but one of the best changes in Cozumel is the quality of the restaurants. It’s not just tacos and chips and salsa anymore. There have always been nice places to have dinner in Cozumel, but now there is true culinary artistry for traveling Foodies to enjoy. Restaurants such as La Cocay, Buccano’s at Night, Guido’s, and Kinta’s are blossoming on the island. La Cocay’s Mediterranean ambiance, and their Florentine and Napa Salads are so beautifully presented it seems a travesty to disturb them in order to eat them! The Lobster Tempura at Buccano’s at Night is delectable, Guido’s Garlic Bread is legendary on the island, and Kinta’s serves local art along with their fantastic Mexican foodie dishes. The food is worth a trip in itself!
Lobster Tempura is an appetizer….but it served as my entree. Delicious!
They are such artists in their presentation, don’t you agree?
Ah, Cozumel. I shall leave you with a few lyrics from the Cozumel Song, performed in this YouTube video by Luis, a rather well known guitarist on the island:
Navegando por el mar caribe,
Bella isla que yo encontre
Paraiso que todos admiramos,
La bella isla de Cozumel.
Son sus playas divinas tan hermosas.
Es su gente de buen Corazon.
Es la isla mas hermosa del caribe,
Asi es la isla de Cozumel.
Cozumel, Cozumel, bienvenidos a Cozumel!
Cozumel, Cozumel, Welcome to Cozumel!
Check out Villa Coronado – our second home, which we offer as a vacation rental – here.
For more from Tam, visit www.travelswithtam.com.
Ho Ho Ho! Vobster Quay’s recording-breaking charity Santa diving event returns on Sunday 15th December 2024 for another round of festive fundraising frivolities. Run in aid of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes, this ever-popular annual fundraising event aims to raise sack-loads of cash for these two very deserving charities.
Divers of all levels are invited to grab their Santa outfits – and as much festive cheer as they can muster – and head down to Vobster Quay near Mells, Somerset for a mass sponsored Santa dive in aid of charity. In previous years, the event has attracted divers from the far corners of the UK to join in the festive merriment for a final festive dive before the Christmas and New Year break. Back in 2015, the event smashed the world record for the most Santa divers with 188 divers taking to the waters donning their festive finery – a record that remains unbeaten to this day!
Vobster Santas isn’t just about setting records – it’s also about raising some serious cash for charity. Vobster Quay encourages all divers to get into the spirit of the season to raise much-needed funds for two very deserving charities – the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) and Help For Heroes.
Through individual sponsorship and online donations, divers can invite their friends, family and work colleagues to sponsor them to plunge into the balmy waters of Vobster Quay dressed in full festive finery. Since the very first Santa dive in 2007, the event has raised over £52,000 for charity. “It’s been over 17 years since the very first charity Santa dive took place at Vobster Quay and every year the event just keeps getting bigger and better” enthused Vobster Quay owner, Amy Stanton.
“Vobster Santas is a great way for divers to say a massive thank you to the both the RNLI and Help For Heroes – two very deserving charities close to our hearts. We’re immensely proud of all that Vobster Santas has achieved and hope that even more divers will join this year’s event on Sunday 15th December. I’m confident that we can make Vobster Santas 2024 the biggest yet!”.
Divers wishing to participate can get involved by simply registering their attendance at
www.vobster.com/event-vobstersantas.php.
Blogs
Dive into Adventure at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa: The Ultimate Diving Destination in the Maldives
Tucked away in the remote northern Haa Alifu Atoll, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With over 30 dive sites to explore, divers of all levels can witness the unique and mesmerising beauty of the underwater world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the sport, Hideaway offers an exceptional diving adventure that is not to be missed.
Explore the Beauty Beneath the Surface
Hideaway is perfectly situated near some of the most spectacular dive sites in the Maldives. The dive school and team at Hideaway offer a very personalised experience to ensure each diver gets an interactive, immersive experience.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Unique dive spots such as Theefaridhoo Thila (Heaven and Hell) as one of the 50 best dive sites in the whole of the Maldives, known for its beautiful soft coral gardens.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
As the resort is located next to a channel which gives guests surprise visits from eagle rays, manta rays, guitar sharks and more.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
One of the standout features of diving in the Haa Alifu Atoll is the abundance of rare and exotic marine species. The area is known for sightings of whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Diving at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa offers a rare opportunity to encounter these creatures in their natural habitat, creating lifelong memories for guests.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Whether you’re exploring deep coral gardens, dramatic overhangs, or vibrant reef walls, each dive offers something new and exciting. The visibility in the Maldives is exceptional, often exceeding 30 meters, making it ideal for both underwater photography and general exploration.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Diving for All Levels
At Hideaway, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the thrill of diving. That’s why we cater to divers of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals. Our professional dive center, led by expert instructors, offers a range of courses and guided dives. If you’re new to diving, you can start with an introductory course that will teach you the basics of scuba diving in a safe and controlled environment.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
For more experienced divers, we offer advanced dive courses and guided excursions to some of the more challenging dive sites. Our instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about the local marine life, ensuring that every dive is not only safe but also informative and enjoyable.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Exclusive Diving Offer
To make your stay even more unforgettable, Hideaway is offering an exclusive diving package designed to enhance your experience both above and below the water. When you book a minimum 7-night stay, you’ll receive:
- 35% discount on room rates.
- Complimentary diving: 3 dives per person for 2 guests, allowing you to experience the beauty of the Maldives underwater world.
- Free meal plan upgrade: enjoy a complimentary upgrade from Bed & Breakfast to Half Board, or from Half Board to Full Board. Guests who prefer the White Platinum Plan (WPP) can avail it at a discounted rate.
This incredible offer provides the perfect opportunity to experience world-class diving while enjoying all the luxury and comfort that Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is known for.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Combinable Offers for Even More Value
This diving offer can also be combined with our Anniversary and Honeymoon offers, allowing you to create the perfect celebration package. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply seeking a romantic getaway, this offer ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds – luxurious accommodations and unforgettable diving adventures.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Terms & Conditions
- This offer is available exclusively for bookings made through the official Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa website using a specific booking code.
- The offer cannot be combined with other promotions available on the website or through other channels, nor can it be redeemed for cash.
- All dives are subject to weather conditions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
- Black-out dates: This offer is not available from 24th December 2024 to 9th January 2025.
To book this exquisite offer, use the Promo Code: SCUBA24FD
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Hideaway is not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, adventure, and luxury. With spacious villas, private pools, and world-class dining options, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect holiday. From tennis, golf, gym, cycling to the exquisite underwater activities, unique dining options, Hideaway has something for everyone. And for diving enthusiasts, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful dive sites in the world.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Our dive center is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, ensuring that every dive is safe, comfortable, and enjoyable. Our instructors are passionate about the underwater world and are eager to share their knowledge with you, whether it’s your first dive or your 100th.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com / Call: +960 650-1515 / Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
The Ultimate Dive Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking for an unforgettable diving holiday in the Maldives, look no further than Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa. With over 30 dive sites, unique marine life, and exclusive offers, we provide the ultimate underwater experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking adventure, our diving package offers exceptional value and incredible memories.
Book now through our official website to take advantage of this exclusive offer and prepare for the dive adventure of a lifetime.
Email: reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
Call: +960 650-1515
Website: www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com
-
News1 month agoIconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
Blogs3 months agoNovoScuba’s Game-Changing Approach for Dive Store Owners: WE PAY YOU!
-
News2 months agoBook Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News2 months agoDYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News2 months agoExploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News2 months agoTry BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
News3 months agoComing Soon – 52 Assignments
-
News3 months agoSave £200 per person per week at Pole Pole Lodge with Dive Worldwide