Isla Mujeres

On Tuesday we made our way to Isla Mujeres. Ever seeking to experience things the local way, we skipped the overpriced ferry that left straight from the zona hotelera, and instead took a local bus downtown, where we caught a "collectivo" (informal van-shuttle that runs longer routes and charges less than a bus) to a ferry dock further up the coast, with the shortest, cheapest and most frequent departures to Isla Mujeres. I was transported back to Africa during this ride in the collectivo--if only you could see how many people were actually crammed in this van...notice that Noel is sitting on Kristin's lap.






















Here's a shot of the port as we leave Cancun for Isla:























The boats are very luxurious--an airconditioned cabin inside, with comfy seats, TV and a full bar.























Up top is a deck where you can enjoy the beautiful views during the 15 minute crossing.









































Looking out over the water en route to Isla...


























And here's the dock as we approach the island:
























We spent the first half of the day wandering the charming streets--very peaceful and low-key compared to Cancun, though the hard sell on the snorkeling adventures at the ferry dock does remind you where and who you are. While wandering we stumbled upon this beautiful cemetery.





































Turns out the best way to get around the island is to rent a golf cart--about $35 for the day. We toodled around on that sucker all afternoon, and were able to see pretty much the whole island.










































Here is Sawyer giving a kiss to his first-ever vacation souvenir:

































A beach shot taken from the cart while cruising the strip:





























Of course the main destination was Garrafon, for snorkeling. We paid a little to get into this excellent beach club, which provided the usual amenities, and access to a great snorkeling spot. We saw much multi-colored sealife, including one creature I dubbed 'snakeskin fish.'



































Noel shows us how it's done:






































In addition to a Barracuda ("ooooh, Barracuda!"), Chris found this starfish:









































On the boat ride home this guy came to serenade the passengers. For a minute I thougt I was in the Paris metro.