ISLA COZUMEL - along the seafront

Cozumel has that 'Tardis' feel about it - what seemed like a small island when we arrived has now assumed dimensions out of all proportion to its size.


It's difficult to know what to include and what to leave out  and I don't want you yawning!

So - the following photographs are simply taken from our daily walks along the waterfront where the town has spent a lot of money in trying to make it as attractive as possible.  Their efforts have been successful - palm trees, new paving, seating, endless photographic opportunities which include dozens of bronze sculptures, it is really a delightful place to spend time.


Between these giant eagles sits the base of a flagpole flying the Mexican flag.  Many civic events are held here throughout the year but it has always been deserted when we've travelled past.  The Golden Eagle is the official bird of Mexico and the coat of arms of Mexico depicts a golden eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus devouring a snake. The area is lit at nght which is a sight to see.

Cozumel means swallows and this beautiful bronze sculpture of three swallows in flight makes a dramatic picture.  You might notice the gentleman, bottom right, with the bicycle?......that's William! 

   

Excuse me Sir, would you care to dance with my daughter ?....."'Don't mind if I do...is 20 pesos enough?".........  this bronze duo  depicts the carnival side of Cozumel life.  

The Flute Player - girl sitting on a turtle engraved with Mayan reliefs

 


Leapfrog - this is probably the most animated sculpture - the longer you look at the two children the  more you expect them to move!  Mayan reliefs again on the turtle.

This is quite spectacular - an underwater scene depicting the wonders of  Cozumel's extensive reef.    Divers with airtanks on their backs, octopus, fish, rays, shells and more there's a lot of detail as you get closer.....the waterfall effect from the archway was better in real life than this photograph and really gave a good impression of being below the surface.

  Toward the end of the seafront walk, where the road starts to curve inland, is the airport where several WWII fighter plans are on display.  It is not generally known that Mexico participated with the allies in WWII when volunteers signed up to help the United States kick the Japanese out of the Pacific Islands.

 'El Escuadron 201' was composed  of more than 300 volunteers, known as the Aztec Eagles  - 36 experienced pilots and the rest ground crewmen.  10 of that 300 are still alive today!

 On the way back we pass 'Alexia y Julian' one more time



This shot is taken from a small dock that juts out about 50 yards beyond the sea wall  where small dive boats collect their guests.   As you can see there is no beach just limestone rock.




This is the quiet time of  day, the shopkeepers are just opening up, the hotel tourists are still eating breakfast  and the cruise ships have not yet arrived.