Greg Benchwick: Hiya Cozumel Bound,

With one day on the island, I'd say there's only one thing to do: go diving or snorkeling. If you are already a certified diver, you'll be able to dive along some of the world's most amazing reefs. If you don't dive, then take a snorkel trip.

If getting wet just isn't your thing, then I'd suggest hopping on a moped and taking a ride around the island. There's a great reggae bar on the Eastern shore!

Have fun!
Greg

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Dunbarton, N.H.: Hi Greg, I'm taking a group on a Caribbean cruise in February over school vacation. We have a day in Cozumel. What shore excursion would you recommend that middle and high school students might use as a school project, such as an ecological program or historical site? Can you also recommend something for adults who might be interested in a culinary experience, such as a cooking lesson with a trip to a market or an agricultural location? Thanks, Lynn

Greg Benchwick: Hi Lynn,

Why didn't I get to go to Cozumel when I was in high school?

Anyway, those are some lucky kids, and there's plenty for them to do. For me, one of the most interesting school projects would be on reef ecology. Give the kids some snorkels and masks, and take them over to one of the reefs. From there, they can make a list of the species they encounter. Of course, with reefs it's important to encourage "look-don't-touch" ecological principles. There are no cooking classes in Cozumel, as far as I know, but a short ferry away (about 30 minutes) in Playa del Carmen, you can take cooking or dancing courses at any of the area's language schools.

Happy Travels,

Greg

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Stillwater, Minn.: My son and I are about to embark on a trip to the Yucatan. In fact, we are leaving next Tuesday, Oct. 14th and staying there for a week. We are going with his Spanish Class—7th and 8th Graders, along with two Spanish teachers and several moms are 'tagging-along' as well. My question is: what are the 'must not miss' places/sights/restaurants/entertainment that you recommend seeing/doing for this age bracket of children. Is there any meaningful type of souvenir/remembrance item that they can bring back that would benefit both the people in Mexico and the kids? Thank you for your time. Joy

Greg Benchwick: Hola Joy,

With a week, you definitely need to see some of the major archeological sites. If you are visiting the state of Quintana Roo (where Cancun and Playa del Carmen are found) then I'd suggest visiting Chichen Itza, Tulum and Coba. It'd also be great to take the kids to a cenote for an afternoon swim. There are tons of these limestone sinkholes throughout the region, and you can easily combine a day trip from Cancun or Playa with a trip to Chichen Itza with an afternoon cenote cool off.

The Maya are famous for their arts and crafts. But keep in mind that you don't want to buy anything made from endangered species like turtles of wild cats.

And, I must say that you are one brave lady to take an entire class of 7th graders on a weeklong trip. You may just deserve a cold margarita after your first day.

Have a great time!
Greg

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Salem, Ore.: My husband and I planning a trip to the Yucatan area for early May. As part of our trip, we are planning to drive from Campeche to Palenque (2 nights in Palenque) then drive to Calakmul and the Bio Reserve for two more nights. I'm nervous about two things—a place to get gasoline for the car and are there places to stop for lunch? Should we pack our own food? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

Greg Benchwick: Hello Calakmul Bound,

I love Calakmul, and I think you're going to have a great time there. There are generally numerous places to stop for lunch anywhere in Mexico. Unfortunately, some of these roadside stands have extremely circumspect sanitary conditions, so if you have a delicate stomach, you may wish to pack a sandwich or two before you hit the road. When driving in Mexico, I generally try to keep more than half a tank of gas. It takes a bit more time to stop at so many gas stations, but it's good to stretch your legs, and will keep you from getting stranded.

Have a great time, sounds like quite an adventure.

Greg

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Grand Prairie, Tex.: I just purchased the 2008 Lonely Planet Mexico guide and am wondering whether it would be worthwhile to purchase the new Lonely Planet Cancun, Cozumel & Yucatan (which I haven't yet been able to browse in local stores). What are the advantages of using the regional guide rather than the all-country guide? Would it mainly be size and convenience or will there actually be additional and different information? Thanks!