THE MAYA CIVILIZATION

To the foreigner, the words 'Maya' and 'Mayan' conjure up images of archeological ruins and a lost society and culture. Currently, the word 'Chiapas' brings to mind rebellion, Sub Commandante Marcos and a sense of confusion.

What many do not understand is the relationship between the historical Maya and today's living expression of that culture in the form of many indigenous groups. What is also not clearly understood is that the so called Chiapas crisis is not a recent conflict but, in fact, a modern expression of issues and conflicts that reach back over 400 years.

How to get to Cozmel ?

Driving Laws - The driving laws are about the same as the U.S., but if stopped for a moving violation, your vehicle will be impounded and you must accompany the officer to the station to pay your fine. Did you know a jeep carrying over 5 people constitutes a moving violation?

Parking and Fines - Curbs painted yellow are for bicycle and motorcycle/moped parking only. Curbs painted red are No Parking zones. If you park in a no parking zone, your car will either be towed, or police will remove the license plate and the rental agency will collect the fine(s) from you.

Taxis - Probably the most economical way to get around town and surrounding areas is by taxi. Taxi drivers are usually very friendly and courteous, and fares are reasonable. It is a good idea to settle on the price before you get in a taxi, as meters are not used (a taxi ride within town will generally cost around $6 to $25 pesos depending on distance). Fares are NOT per person, but rather per cab. Drivers do not usually carry a lot of change, so try not to pay with large bills. The maximum number of people a taxi can carry is 5 persons. Tips are expected and appreciated.

Ferries - Cozumel Shuttle: Two "people" ferries travel between Cozumel's town pier (in front of the main square) and Playa Del Carmen. There are frequent discounted specials on the slower boats. Schedules change so often that listing them is next to impossible. Service is continuous from 4 a.m. to around 10 p.m., with departures normally leaving on the hour or half-hour. Your best bet is to check with the ticket stands located around the pier for exact times.

Ferries - The only vehicle ferry servicing Cozmel leaves from the International pier (just south of La Ceiba Hotel) for Puerto Morelos. The trip lasts about two-and-a-half (2-1/2) hours. It leaves twice daily at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. You should get in line at least twelve (12) hours in advance to insure a place for your vehicle.