Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres
BRIEF HISTORY AND INTRODUCTION
Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women, where time passes slowly and your dream vacation becomes a reality. Located just eight miles across the Bahia de Mujeres (Bay of Women) from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is only 5 miles long and half a mile wide at its widest point. The downtown area (Centro) of Isla is just four by six blocks. The average temperature is 80 degrees with 60% humidity and the hottest months are June through September.
Historically, Isla Mujeres is a fishing village and though it is now thoroughly discovered by tourists it still retains it's charm and tranquil atmosphere. As you stroll the streets in the evening you will see families gathered together in Caribbean styled homes, tucked between stores and restaurants, mending their fishing nets and relaxing.
MONEY
Isla restaurants, taxis and most stores operate on a cash-only basis. The best way to handle this, is to convert USD to pesos. You can either exchange USD to pesos at a money exchange downtown (you may need your passport), or get pesos by using your debit card at an ATM. You will get a better exchange rate either way than if you exchange money at the airport or if you pay dollars directly at a store or restaurant.
It is best to tell your bank before you travel that you will be using your debit card in Mexico. As in the states or Canada, there has been some fraud from the ATM machines. If you use your ATM card, keep a close eye on your bank account when you return. It is recommended to change your ATM pin when you return home.
SHOPPING FOR FOOD AND DRINKS
The main grocery store downtown, Super Aki, is located in the town square on Av. Morelos, between Hidalgo and Guerrero. There is also a Super Aki located in the La Gloria neighborhood.
Chedraui, is the main grocery store on the island. It is located mid-island across from the baseball field. You can fine pretty much anything you need there and they have large beer/wine/liquor, organic and import sections.
RESTAURANTS
Besides the ocean, the best part of Isla Mujeres are the numerous restaurants. For a detailed list of restaurants, go to www.tasteofisla.com.
ISLAND ACTIVITIES
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Swim with Whale Sharks (June-Sept)
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Wing diving
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See turtles at the Tortugranja, turtle farm
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Take a day trip to Isla Contoy, the bird sanctuary
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Scuba Diving
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Snorkeling Tours
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Fishing (off-shore and deep sea)
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Dine at restaurants serving traditional Mexican, Caribbean, and International cuisine
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Tour the island via bicycle, moped or golf cart
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In-room massage
WEDDINGS AND CEREMONIES
A complete list of the required documents for getting married on Isla can be found at the Office of Tourism web site.
"The Barefoot Planners" was created by husband & wife team, Ben & Jana Mattox. Visit their website at: www.thebarefootplanners.com
“Sunhorse Weddings” is owned by Tiffany Lanier. Visit their website at www.sunhorseservices.com.
Sabina, a licensed minister, offers her services in English, German and Spanish! Visit her website at www.sundreamers.com
PHOTOGRAPHY
If you are wanting family portraits or wedding photography during your vacation to record your memories, contact:
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Susan Pacek at www.susanpacekdestinationweddings.com.
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Sean Mezzo at Giffidy Destination & Event Photography: giffidy@gmail.com
MEDICAL
The doctors on Isla Mujeres are great, though the medical facilities are probably not what you are use to. The main hospital on Isla Mujeres is located mid-island by Hacienda Mundaca.
Dr. Antonio Salas is an English speaking general medicine doctor on Isla with a private practice on Av. Abasolo. He also will come to the property for an appointment and to administer Covid tests.
Cellular: +52-998-845-2370 / +52-998-845-4924.
E-Mail: dr.asalas@hotmail.com
Dr. Xhanat Tze Mora, is also an English speaking general medicine doctor on Isla at Clínica Médica Isla. She also will come to the property for an appointment and to administer Covid tests.
Cellular: +52-998-233-1054
Email: drxhanattzemora@gmail.com
The Red Cross of Isla Mujeres (877-0280) is located is Colonia Gloria.
The hospitals in Cancun offer advanced medical facilities.
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Galenia Hospital at (998) 891-5200
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Hospital Americano (998) 884-6133
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AmeriMed Hospital (998) 881-3400
USEFUL INFORMATION
Police - Telefone: 877-0082, Emergencies dial 911
Laundry - Isla Mujeres has several Laundromats with 24-hour service located both downtown and mid-island.
Calling home from Isla Mujeres: Most US cell phones will work in Isla – it is a good idea to call your provider before you go to Mexico and tell them you will be in the Cancun Mexico area and you want t