7DaysinParadise
Diving => Diving => Topic started by: Gambitt on March 29, 2006, 11:51:00 PM
-
Well, it looks like we are a go for a Dive Trip
(Marty, Dave, Warren, Mike, are you listening???)
Johnnycastaway and I will be your dive hosts for the trip. All we know for sure (sort of) is that we will be leaving on the weekend of May 20...
The actual destination, is yet to be determined, but if there are other divers interested, we could work out a group package with whomever we go with.
So, Who wants some great warm water diving?
-
I'm packed and ready to go!!!!
:D
-
What a great idea.
I would be really interested, for me it depends on getting the time off from work which will be my main hurdle but May is usually O.K.
If we could get some more details together then its a 'definately maybe', work depending !
Any ideas on location ?
-
That's Great!
The current "working idea" is to go to Cozumel Mexico and I was just checking and First Choice is flying direct, Manchester to Cozumel, starting May 5.
-
Cozumel sounds cool, I will look to see what deals are around during May.
It would be great if we could pull this off!!
-
Not sure what deals there are from England but right now Air Canada Vacations has a one week deal to the Allegro cozumel on May 20th for $604 plus tax.
that's a steal!!
-
Hola Buceadores,
I'll be in Varadero starting May 28. Who can make it that week?? I see there are quite a few dive shops in Varadero -- can anyone tell me which is the best??
-
Hi Messybill
The ice should be out of Catchacoma by then, so why are you going where it's warm? Come up to the Mosquitoes and BLACK FLIES!!! :D :D
Cheers....F&T
Looking forward to getting together!
-
F&T
Fear Not, We'll be feeding the blackflies soon, probably the 2-4 weekend... (Well I know 2-4s are suitable for all weekends, but you know what i mean...)
-
Just got confirmation, that we are on for the 20th of May.
The date is now set... we just need a place!
:dan: :dan: :dan: :dan:
-
Okay... Here we go!
The Date : May 20-27
The Place: Iberostar Cozumel
The Diving: Priceless!!!
-
Kewl!!
just having a chat with one of my employees who was there a few weeks ago, he says that if you book dives through the tour rep (he went with sunwing), they put you onto a different dive organization, off resort :confused: called "Dive with Martin". he didn't have as a good a dive with them as his wife did with with the dive shop that is on the resort. So remember, don't book through the tour operator, go down to the dive shop directly and book.
he's going to get me the pricing and contact information for them. I'll keep you more info as I can get it.
-
Thanks for the tip John... Can't wait to see that clear ocean water!
-
You may have company in the form of Wossa and myself.
We can fly from Manchester for 2 weeks arriving May 17th at a price of £669.10 per person, sharing a room.
That is nearly £100 cheaper than I can fly back to the PCV on the same date, where for some reason My Travel are not adding on a single supplement.
The ball is now in Wossa's court to sort out whether he can get the time off work. Hopefully he'll find out in the next day or so.
It's either Iberostar Cozumel with Wossa on May 17th or back to the PCV (for the third time in 8 weeks) - I'm hoping it's the Cozumel as it will make a nice change and I'll be having a Bailey's challenge with flopnfly (and maybe even Mojitomiss!!!!!!).
-
YES.......All systems go for me.....I have been given the time from work, so hopefully Mr B and I will be there!!
-
Way to go guys. That sounds like fun!
We'll be thinkin' about y'all as we're sunning on the beach in Varadero "across the way".
:s: :ham:
-
Holiday is now BOOKED!!!!
Wossa and Bellagio are going to Cozumel!!!!
Price was even better - an incredible £633.10 for 2 weeks - it dropped down by £30 per person this afternoon.
Depart Wed 17th May for 2 weeks at Iberostar Cozumel - just hope that's where everyone else is going!!!!!!
-
:dan: Woooo Hooo!!! :dan:
That is Great guys! The Iberostar Cozumel will be THE place to be that week!
-
Sure looks like it!!!
I feel like a traitor deserting my beloved Cuba though!!!
Anyone else likely to join us????
-
Great news! it will be great to all get together for a few dives and a few beers in the evening. Really looking forward to meeting you all.
I have found the dive company that operate from our hotel, they are going to send some prices across. I don't know what they are like, it would be nice to find someone who has dived with them.
http://www.dresseldivers.com/en/diving_hotel_cozumel.htm (http://www.dresseldivers.com/en/diving_hotel_cozumel.htm)
-
Hi Wossa, welcome aboard, I'm looking forward to our dives! :D
He also said to book your dives online through their website where you'll get a 15% discount of the posted prices. Down in Cozumel, if you book more dives, use cash (not Mexican Peso's) and you'll get 10% discount (I need to verify that) as opposed to full price with credit cards.
I have a client who is at the Iberostar now, diving with Dressler, so I'll hopefully have some more info in a week or so when he gets back.
Now's the hard part, waiting for a month before we get down there.
-
Originally posted by bellagio:
Sure looks like it!!!
I feel like a traitor deserting my beloved Cuba though!!!
Anyone else likely to join us????
welcome aboard Mr B!
-
While you guys are all diving, I'll, no doubt, be keeping the Ladies company.
Anyone up for a challenge??????
-
There is only one person who can take you on bellagio.
We should all take up a collection for her single supplement, as it doesn't seem fair that she should be left behind because they want to "extort" yet more $ for her to go as a single.
Think of all the terrific photo opportunities.
I think it's worth it!!! :D
-
OMG I just read this!!!! :D
Now we just have to wait until Bulldog and Wendy book up.
:dan: :dan: :dan:
-
As much as I would love to join you, it's just not in the budget so soon after the trip this month.
I was talking to Ken and he almost had me talked into it, but I would still love to squeeze another trip in this fall and if I selfishly go to Mexico, that just won't be feasible.
:( :( :( :( :(
-
Well time will tell for me, but you guys being there has up the temptation to just do it...but work is the main factor.....and maybe a price drop too ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
Hi Wossa, welcome aboard, I'm looking forward to our dives!
Thanks mate, me too, just counting the days down now.
It would be great to see what feedback your employee gives when he/she returns.
See you soon
-
Well with you three diving you should manage to get some excellent underwater photos.
-
Hi
This is the price list I have recieved from Dressel Divers this afternoon.
DIVE TIMETABLE
8:30-12:15 TWO-TANK DIVE
8:30-10:15 SINGLE DIVE
10:20-12:15 SINGLE DIVE
13:30-16:45 TWO-TANK DIVE
TWO-TANK PACKAGES You do 2 dives during 1 boat trip
* These packages can be shared by more divers
* A two-tank dive cannot be split up into 2 single dives.
* Prices do not include equipment rental, only tank and weights
1 two-tank dive at 80 USD = 80 USD ( 68 USD if you pay before arrival )
2 two-tank dive at 78 USD = 156 USD ( 132,6 USD if you pay before arrival )
3 two-tank dive at 76 USD = 228 USD ( 193,8 USD if you pay before arrival )
4 two-tank dive at 74 USD = 296 USD ( 251,6 USD if you pay before arrival )
5 two-tank dive at 72 USD = 360 USD ( 306 USD if you pay before arrival )
6 two-tank dive at 70 USD = 420 USD ( 357 USD if you pay before arrival )
7 two-tank dive at 68 USD = 476 USD (404,6 USD if you pay before arrival )
8 two-tank dive at 66 USD = 528 USD ( 448,8 USD if you pay before arrival )
9 two-tank dive at 64 USD = 576 USD (489,6 USD if you pay before arrival )
10 two-tank dive at 62 USD = 620 USD ( 527 USD if you pay before arrival )
11 two-tank dive at 60 USD = 660 USD ( 561 USD if you pay before arrival )
12 two-tank dive at 59 USD = 708 USD ( 601,8 USD if you pay before arrival )
more than 12 two-tank dives > 59 USD each / 50,15 USD if you pay before arrival
Wossa
-
That's all Greek to me.
I'll stick to the all inclusive bar with Lauren and Flopnfly for company!!!!
-
Bellagio, you have already booked..? how did the single suplement make it end up...$$$ if you don't want to say here PM me please as I'm trying to figure if I can swing this ;)
Thanks..
Bulldog :s:
-
Bulldog:
I could only book for two people - that's why Wossa and I are sharing - that way we avoid the single supplement.
I have just checked and there are only two hotels that First Choice are offereing in Cozumel on those dates that have 'doubles for singles' available.
El Cozumeleno £723.50 per person if shared but £1137.50 for a single. That's a supplement of £414 for the two week holiday.
Melia is also £723.50 per person if shared but a whacking £1321.10 for a single. That's a supplement of £597.60.
Guess I won't be going to these sort of places by myself - the supplements are ridiculous.
Incidentally when I booked yesterday there were 3 rooms available at the Iberostar, it's down to one now so Wossa and I are not the only ones thinking this is a real bargain.
-
Thanks for the info Bellagio, it seams that by the time I figure out if I can go, there maybe no rooms left :(
Timing is everything ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
BD seeing as how Wendy can't go, maybe we should take up a collection on 7 days for your single supplement. It's about time you met bellagio! :)
How many opportunities have you missed now? :(
You deserve a break! Don't ya think? :s: :s: :s:
-
Thanks Millybess :D I do I do !!
But it's not the single supplement as much as it is my ability to go... :D
As he needs some competition for the Ladies left behind by those divers..
You know what they say about divers don't you :s:
-
bulldog if I can manage to swing the time off, I'm sure you can.
do your best and book fast before it's too late.
-
Here is a great map for Cozumel and all the reefs and dive sites.
Cozumel maps (http://www.cozumeldivemap.com/)
I ordered the land one and the dive sites one. total of $18.
-
You know what they say about divers don't you (don't ask)
It's all true ladies !
-
Come on you NON diving types (like me!!!).
Please book up and join us or else I can see me being left stranded whilst all the remainder of the party are snorkelling or scuba diving.
BTW: I haven't a clue what they say about divers - please enlighten me!!!!!
Also Heather - how about supplying us all with 7Days in Paradise T shirts!!!!
I'm fed up wearing THAT blue shirt all the time.
-
"BTW: I haven't a clue what they say about divers - please enlighten me!!!!!"
I could tell you but then the ladies would all line up to slap me :D
-
I almost booked last night around 1am :)
-
Sure is going to be quiet around here last two weeks of May.
We will be diving (HB will be diving) I will be on beach - no ear drum in left ear - struggle with pressure, whilst we are in the Egypt - same time as you are all in Mexico.
Come on Bulldog youve got go somewhere - we don't want you to get lonely while we are all away.
-
Unfortunately...I'll be here to keep company with those who can't get away again so quick! Sure would rather be with you folks though! And I don't dive, so I could've kept Mr. B company on the beach with all those Tequilla's! :9:
And Bulldog, I hope you decide to throw in the towel and book...you deserve a great vacation! :party:
Don't you?
Charmaine
-
C'mon on Bulldog, it would be great to see you!
I have prebooked some dives with Dressel, there are some other charges that are not mentioned, a $2 admission fee to the reefs per each day of diving, and a $1 per dive to hire a cylinder. Never heard of paying to use a cylinder before!
-
That's a new one on me too... Maybe you can just order your air in a plastic bag???
Or you can be a silly bloke like me, and take your own tank!!!
-
Wheels are in motion....I will keep you guys posted :D
Bulldog :s:
-
Go for it Bulldog - it will be great to meet up - at long last!!!!!!!
-
OKAY...WE ARE BOOKED !!!
Bellagio thanks for you PM ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
Excellent news bulldog!!!!
This is turning into a great party. Anybody else want to join in?
:6: :6: :6: :6: :6:
-
Great news!
Cozumel will never be the same after the 7days gang gets there... :D
:6: :6: :6: :bus:
-
Congratulations Bulldog.
Well we didn't manage to meet up in COTU, nor in Cuba, but we are destined to meet in Cozumel.
This is going to be another fantastic 7 Days reunion party.
T shirts all round flopnfly for a group photo - medium size for me please!!!
-
Well hold the phone here, just recived a call from Sellofvacation to say those seats are not avalible and to try to book online...so stay tunned.. :(
-
Well I checked the Sell Off site about 30 minutes ago when I posted on the other thread and seats were available then.
Admittedly the price shown when you came to book was higher by $134 than the price shown on the original page.
Good luck anyway.
-
aircanadavacations has it available for $843 plus $299 for "class c supplemnt" whatever that means.
First class maybe?
-
Well when you go to book they will not let you do so, neither Selloffvacations or Yourtraveltickets :(
Not sure what to do....
Can you book online at Aircanadavacations.com ?
-
yes, I got all the way through to the booking part.
also try these
http://www.bookitforless.ca/ (http://www.bookitforless.ca/)
http://canadatravels.com/index.php (http://canadatravels.com/index.php)
they all worked'
good luck
-
I got through to the booking part also - said availability confirmed.
However it may be different once you put the names in and proceed, obviously I did not go that far.
Just checked on the First Choice website and the last room that they have for the Iberostar has been sold, so if any Brits had been thinking of joining us, it's too late I'm afraid.
-
YEs everything is fine up to that part, once you go to book then there is a problem, there seams to be no e class seats left....and the c class is going to be almost as much as the suplment price was the other day... :(
We will see... ;)
-
OKAY so...I am going to a travel agent tomorrow to see if we can get seats(c class)...so I will let you know as soon as I do ;)
-
did you try aircanadavacations ?
-
YES but as far as I can see you can't book it there :(
-
I wonder if they're open today? A lot of them are open on holiday weekends.
I really hope you can get booked. Let us know.
-
I sure will...the moment we do, you will too :D
-
I hope you manage to book it Bulldog. I'll have my fingers crossed for you.
-
I did call a few of them, they seam to be closed some are closed all weekend :(
-
Thanks Ken...
I hope so too ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
Good luck :cool:
-
Thank You Millibess :)
I'm sure we will be able to get the c class, just more $$$ then we wanted to spend ..but all
worth it to meet these fine people ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
It will be great to have you along Bulldog!
-
OKAY so...
I know I have said this before but this time it confirmed :D
Rainbow any help here would be great :D
It's great to know we are booked in... :s:
Bulldog :s:
-
FANTASTIC Bulldog and Freedom Ryder!!! Congrats on finally being able to book it.
I'm sure everyone will have a great time.
:s: Pics, pics, pics! :s:
:6: :6: :6:
-
:OMG:
:man:
-
OMG the stories that we will be able to tell when we get back. :D :rof: :rof:
-
:D
Maybe it will be her that will have the story to tell ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
Trust me - I will be on my best behaviour, as usual.
It will nice for the centre of attention to be on Wossa as he is the 'unknown' one.
-
Well as long as it's not on me :) :s:
-
Oh I think you will be the centre of attention also my friend. There will be plenty of photography flying around on this vacation I can assure you.
-
Who is bringing there Bubba :D
:rof:
-
My 34oz is so there!!! It goes in my dive bag, as scuba gear... When I go out diving, I fill it with ice, so when I get back to the boat, I have fresh ice-water to drink, after all that salt!!
Proper hydration, is a key to preventing DCS, so it is a "medical-nessessity"
-
I'll be bringing my little "hot pink chick" bubba. :D
Might bring along a big bubba for the room to use as an ice bucket. I need ice for my Baileys.
Bubba's are also useful as a flower vase in case somebody decides to buy me a bunch of flowers. :D
many uses for the Bubba.
-
No mojitos on this holiday, so it has to be Tequila Sunrise, Vodka and OJ and Baileys (if they have it).
The odd Pina colada and mimosa won't go amiss either.
-
Well we have to have some sort of drink challenged... :D
any other suggestions..?
:D :s:
TEQUILA SUNRISE
1 1/2 oz. Jose Cuervo Tequila
Juice of 1/2 Lime
1/2 oz. Lemon Juice
1/2 oz. Grenadine
1 oz. Grape Juice
1 oz. Orange Juice
Blend with 1 scoop ice. Serve in a tall chimney glass. Garnish with a sprig of cactus, then keep drinking till the sunrises or you fall over
-
Tequila and Corona ... sigh ... two of main only reasons I'd ever wanted to go to Mexico ...
Proud to say that I'm pretty good at shooting Tequila with the best of them, in fact we brought 2 bottles of it back from Cuba (imagine that)
-
Wasting away again in Margaritaville, searching for my lost shaker of salt....
I'd be drinking Margaritas, no doubt about that :)
Shine, my tequiler shooter days are behind me (thank god). Don't mind doing a couple of them, but that's about it.
-
BD, I want pics of you taking scuba lessons in the pool! :D
You might get certified by the end of the week and be able to go out with the pros!!!!!
-
millybess, I'll try to persuade him. :D
I don't suppose Bellagio will venture in, but who knows?
-
No way will I venture in for a scuba lesson.
I just cannot swim, so there is little point.
-
Originally posted by flopnfly:
millybess, I'll try to persuade him. :D
I don't suppose Bellagio will venture in, but who knows?
Hey flopnfly, this is a guy who said he'd never snow ski -- :D
-
No Scuba for me I'm afraid...tried it once and didn't lkie it...like to snorkle though :)
Bulldog :s:
-
ATTENTION COZUMEL GROUP!
Ok, now that I have your attention, i just got some images hot off the press from the Iberostar from a client who got back last night.
Divers, check out the water in the boat pictures... *sigh* 4 more weeks.
http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=u4jwpel.adqc2yhl&x=0&y=-mr79y8 (http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=u4jwpel.adqc2yhl&x=0&y=-mr79y8)
here's also a commentary:
Dressel divers was really great.
Easy to schedule/change dive schedules
Dive masters were great
Diving boats were the best I saw out there
Equipment was a-1
Be sure to do Palancaar Gardens – that was our favourite dive
Night dive was great, and hearing the croak of the ‘splendid toad fish’ at 25 feet deep in the complete darkness has to be one of the coolest things ever.
*The only bad thing is that they are very expensive compared to other dive shops. Be sure to haggle.
Resort is fantastic, food was great
Be sure to ask for a room near the ocean. We were building 84 (room 8403) I think we had the best room in the entire place. There was some construction near our room, but it was only noisey during the day – when we weren’t in our rooms anyways.
The rooms around the exterior weren’t that great, as they look out over the empty lots beside the resort.
The ‘Rum Runner’ was my favourite drink
Avoid the jeep tour
Jeep tour is $85 US per person and a complete rip off. They didn’t take us anywhere that we couldn’t have gone to on our own, and the guy giving the tour said shit all about where we were stopping and interesting facts about the island etc. A complete sham.
For $65 US you can rent your own jeep for 24 hours. They give you a map with all the places to stop, and its not like mainland mexico as its very safe.
Snorkling at the resort
The beach is pretty crappy for swimming
We took out a two person kayak, paddled out to the reef, then snorkeled there.
-
Thanks for the link John and the photos.
Not too much info though for the non diving types like me.
Still the company will be good, and I'm sure we will have plenty of laughs.
-
Motto;
:D :D :D :D
-
I may need more then the Bubba :D
:D
;)
-
Thanks JC, there are some great pictures of the resort, and the colour of the ocean, it looks fantastic.
I think Dressel Divers do appear a little expensive first of all, but if you can get free EAN 32 then this will really be a huge benefit. I have paid for 24 dives in advance with Dressel, which gave me 15% discount, which works out £14.50 per dive. I would expect to pay £6 for a EAN 32 fill, plus with the quality boats that Dressel seem to operate from, overall I don't think it is too bad.
I will book some additional dives with someone else as well when I am out there so I'll be able to compare. Good to see they do night dives as well.
-
Originally posted by Wossa:
I have paid for 24 dives in advance...
I will book some additional dives with someone else as well when I am out there....
Good to see they do night dives as well.
:p
-
24 Dives Wossa?? I'm jealous! the most I can hope for is between 12-15. I'll probably end up with 12. I think that we should definitely book at least 1 night dive. :D
-
How many dives do you do in one day????
johnnyC He doesn't need to sign a 'confidentiality agreement'.
"Nightlife of the fishies" is not what I had in mind.
well, you never know Millybess... you never know.
:p
-
Wow!!!
I see I'm really going to be busy in the water! It's going to be fun trying to keep up with you guys.
:b:
-
Bearing in mind Mr B and I are there for 14 nights, ideally about 35 or so dives I would plan on doing.
Also I will be 'wifey free', so just myself to entertain ! Can life get any better ?
-
Originally posted by Wossa:
Bearing in mind Mr B and I are there for 14 nights, ideally about 35 or so dives I would plan on doing.
Also I will be 'wifey free', so just myself to entertain ! Can life get any better ?
Isn't there a restriction on how many you can do a day? My son did 2 a day in the "bees knees" last month, and I thought that was a lot! :confused:
-
If there is no restriction, wouldn't you be totally exhausted after two?
Exhausted after two! Are we talking about the same thing here, I'm a happily married man Millybess!
There will be a restriction regarding the surface interval between each dive to allow you to 'de-fizz'. Plus each consecutive dive will evetually reduce your bottom time or push you into completing deco dives as the week goes on.
Hopefully, this will be relaxing, slow paced leisure dives, probably lasting no more than 45 /50 mins per dive. With the bonus of breathing 32% EAN, this will help to decrease your overall nitrogen in-take which will allow you to reduce your surface interval & deco time.
I still have the Madonna tickets, so it looks like the live-aboard to the Maldives remains a distant dream !
-
Warren I have just PM'd you re. car parking at the airport.
-
Originally posted by Wossa:
I'm a happily married man
THAT IS A VERY GOOD THING!!!! :D
Originally posted by Wossa:
There will be a restriction regarding the surface interval between each dive to allow you to 'de-fizz'. Plus each consecutive dive will evetually reduce your bottom time or push you into completing deco dives as the week goes on.
Hopefully, this will be relaxing, slow paced leisure dives, probably lasting no more than 45 /50 mins per dive. With the bonus of breathing 32% EAN, this will help to decrease your overall nitrogen in-take which will allow you to reduce your surface interval & deco time.
I understand everything you've said here except the part about "deco" dives.
-
I have been lost for a couple post :rof:
-
Still seats available...
Sign up now for this trip...
Travel Agency: YOUR TRAVEL TICKETS.COM
Airline: Air Canada (AC)
Departing From: Toronto (YYZ) to Cozumel (CZM)
Departure Time: 16:00 May 20, 2006 (Flight#: AC 1816)
Returning To: Cozumel (CZM) to Toronto (YYZ)
Return Time: 19:50 May 27, 2006 (Flight#: AC 1817)
Hotel/Resort: IBEROSTAR COZUMEL
Room Type: ROOM ROOM - AI
Meal Plan: AI ALL INCLUSIVE
Occupancy: Double (DOUBLE OCCUPANCY)
Adults(2): 2 x $729.19
Taxes: $467.64
Total Price: $1926.02
-
For you divers I found this on a review;
Diving/Beach area-
Dressel is up and fully operational. The pier has been completed although one of the large catamarans from a snorkel trip crashed into it and it had to be repaired again which they did within 24 hours. I only did 4 dives because of a sinus issue that I developed during the second dive. Note!!! You do save 10% if you pay for your dives in cash. BUT, they will not refund your money in the event you decide to cancel dives. Even if they are canceled due to weather, they will only give you a credit to be used later. I was very displeased at that and intend on writing to their main office. The actual dives were as fantastic as ever. Palancar Gardens, Yucab, Santa Rosa wall & Columbia were all still very wonderful and it almost seemed as if there was more marine life then usual.
We walked down to the next hotel, The Grand by Occidental, and talked with their dive staff. Their singles were only $39.00 and they would pick you up at I/B from their dock. We are probably going that route next time. They have a refund policy in place to give full cash back for unused dives. They also have a fishing boat fleet that is much more reasonable since they run it instead of making money off of someone else's charter.
The beach was in pretty good shape but the water clarity was very bad for us. Not worth snorkeling. We had bad West winds that messed things up for a couple of days and blew in thousands of the little tiny jellyfish.
-
bulldog, are the seats still available on our flight? I thought it was fully booked? I'm so confused. :confused:
-
Well it's still there when you search for it, not sure if when you go to book if it will work...but I'm thinking more should try to come :D :D
-
Maybe there was some cancellations or they just freed up another block of seats??
I agree Bulldog, I think we need more people on this trip. I know it's kind of last minute but I'm sure somebody wants to come with us. :D
-
LAST minute, it's 32 days away :)
Bulldog :s:
-
Originally posted by millybess:
I understand everything you've said here except the part about "deco" dives. [/QB][/QUOTE]
Decompression dives, are dives where you are Required to make one or more stops, on the way to the surface, to prevent Decompression Illness.
This is really an advanced condition, beyond recreational diving, where the idea is to do no-stop diving, but you need to know it, in case it happens.
-
Of course! It all makes sense now. Thank you Gambitt. :)
-
Hi Gambitt/JC
A links that may be of interest ?
http://www.sportdiver.com/article_search.jsp?keyword=cozumel (http://www.sportdiver.com/article_search.jsp?keyword=cozumel)
See you soon!
-
Cool Links... Thanks Wossa!
I was just talking to my dive buddy up here, and I think we're going for a dive this weekend.
Somehow, I don't think it's going to be like Coz?
:eek: :eek: :eek:
-
Nice one Gambitt, the weekend forecast for the U.K is apparently going to be warm, so fingers crossed for you guys.
Where do you normally dive ? Is it an inland site, not sure where you are situated in Canada!
-
I'm in Cobourg Ontario, which is 1 hr east of Toronto, on the north shore of Lake Ontario...
I'll be diving here...
http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?zoom=7&latlongtype=decimal&latitude=44.55620&longitude=-78.20241 (http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?zoom=7&latlongtype=decimal&latitude=44.55620&longitude=-78.20241)
You can expand the map, 3 indicators bigger, and find Cobourg straight South of this location...
-
Gambitt, you live on the door step of a diving paradise !! You lucky lucky thing, you must be spoilt for some good diving being in such a good proximity to such a vast expanse of water.
Do you know how deep the lake is at it's deepest?
Do they have diving schools/facilities set up around the lake ?
It must be an awesome place to dive & train.
-
It seams the Air Canada flights is sold out :( , but the sky service is not, but with them it mentions a ferry ride :eek:
:rof:
-
Originally posted by Wossa:
Hi Gambitt/JC
A links that may be of interest ?
http://www.sportdiver.com/article_search.jsp?keyword=cozumel (http://www.sportdiver.com/article_search.jsp?keyword=cozumel)
See you soon!
Great Links Wossa,
looks we'll have a bit of research to do this month. :D
The whole vivid undersea show plays out in visibility that often exceeds 150 feet. Dive sites like Palancar Reef, Tormentos and Columbia Reef seem to improve with the passing years.
the more I read, the more excited I get :b:
-
Johnny as Heather is away what are you doing with your self ?
Maybe you have the stories after Heather comes home :D :D
-
it was just me and the dogs this weekend, kinda quiet.
stories, what stories??? :rof:
-
resort map..
;)
-
Great link for info
Iberostar Cozumel (http://www.visitus-inc.com/iberostar.asp?conccodi=3&codiconc=68&idiocodi=2&session=5166735)
You can take a virtual tour of the resort ;)
-
I guess we are on the Ferry too :eek:
:rof:
-
BD, I took a virtual tour of the Iberostar Cozumel and it looks fantastic!!! :s: :s: :s:
I'm glad to see you sooo excited. :dan: You're going to have such a great time.
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
I guess we are on the Ferry too :eek:
:rof:
I don't think so Bulldog,
20 minutes from Cozumel Airport (taxi).
Our flight is a small Airbus, so I think we go straight into Coz.
-
I see now, thanks Gambitt :D
(http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_20_3.gif)
(http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_27.gif)
-
And I thought I post this here :D
Member of the Moment
Wossa - Member # 88
New Member
Interests: Scuba Diving
Occupation: Logistics Manager
Location: England
Male / Female: Male
:MOM:
-
Good Man BD.............I missed this !!
-
Hi Wossa,
Sorry about the delay, but here's the scoop on Lake Ontario....
LENGTH: 193 miles / 311 km.
BREADTH: 53 miles / 85 km.
AVERAGE DEPTH: 283 ft. / 86 m
MAXIMUM DEPTH: 802 ft. / 244 m.
VOLUME: 393 cubic miles / 1,640 cubic km.
Somehow, I've never made it to the deepest bottom LoL!
The Great Lakes are world known, for the huge number of wrecks, especially the St. Lawrence River, where I did my advanced last summer...
There are dive shops all up and down the lake, so after Mexico, your next trip will have to be to Canada!
(bring a bigger wetsuit!!!)
-
Gambitt, they are pretty impressive stats and a big piece of water you have on your doorstep!
Average depth of 86m and 244m at it's deepest point, that is unreal!
Even at the average depth that would be some dive, Advanced Techie boys only, not for me!
I guess it has various stages of depths as well. We only have a couple of inland dive sites here in the U.K that are any good, one of which has now banned divers because too many have got in to difficulty and either come up bent or didn't come up at all.
Anyway, still counting the days down to Cozumel, 3 weeks tomorrow!
-
Yup!
You get the chairs set up, and we'll be down to join you!
-
Originally posted by Gambitt:
Yup!
You get the chairs set up, and we'll be down to join you!
we'd better get them to order extra cervesa's, it's going to be 3 weeks of hell here at work...
:wall:
-
I know what you mean John ;)
:moj: :moj: :moj: :moj:
-
ok divers, information time from DAN.
I emailed them today to get some info about DAN associated facilities there, here's the response:
Dear John,
Thank you for your e-mail and support of DAN. Deborah Williams forwarded your e-mail to us in Medical Services. I am including the contact information for the hyperbaric facilities in Cozumel. If we can be any further assistance do not hesitate to contact DAN.
Buceo Medico Mexicano
5 ST between R.E.M. and Five Ave
PO Box 133
Cozumel, 77600 MX
Phone: 011-52-987-872-1430/872-2387
Hiperbarica de Cozumel
Calle 6 Norte #135, Entre 5 Y 10 Av
Cozumel, 77600 MX
Phone: 011 52 987 872-3070
-
Picked up the tickets today :D
Bulldog :s:
-
That's great Bulldog!
we got ours in the mail too.
:dan:
-
Ours just came today!!!
-
3 weeks tomorrow :D
:D :s:
-
that's great Gambitt!
:D
:1:
-
are we gonna survive that long BD? :D
-
Well, it's the first time I needed a Holiday so BAD ;)
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
Well, it's the first time I needed a Holiday so BAD ;)
I always need a holiday... :rof:
-
Then we should all have a great relaxing time ;)
:ham:
-
I need a holiday after our last holiday. :rof:
3 weeks will just fly by and before we know it we'll be sitting at the swim up bar.
:w:
-
Originally posted by flopnfly:
I need a holiday after our last holiday. :)
Air Canada Vacations to Cozumel is gone now. Only Signature Vacation is left.
-
so grab it and join US :D
-
BD, have you seen the price :eek: :eek:
-
YES I did...keep looking maybe an Aircanada will come up ;)
-
Air Canada sold out after we booked and then came up again for Bulldog.
I'll keep my eyes peeled for it appearing again.
Wendy, we'll find a way to get you there. :b:
-
I'm allowed up to 150LBS so we could store you there Wendy :D
we will keep looking... ;)
-
Well you can get it threw Aircanadvacations.com but it's the c class seats...and with the supplement it a little costly...
Description Price Tax Passenger(s) Amount
IBEROSTAR COZUMEL / ROOM - AI $1100.00 $248.24 1 $1348.24
C Class Supplement $299.00 $0.00 1 $299.00
Gross Total: $1399.00
Taxes Total: $248.24
Grand Total: $1647.24
Minimum Deposit: $1647.24
Final Payment Due: Apr 30, 2006
Description Price Tax Amount
Adult $1399.00 $248.24 $1647.24
Gross Total: $1399.00
Taxes Total: $248.24
Grand Total: $1647.24
-
So it's $2110.05 with signature with the economy seats...so it's almost 600.00 cheaper and you get the C class upgrade...with Aircanada ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
18 days and counting :D
:dan:
-
It would seem that my ticker agrees with you!!
:dan:
-
I don't have a ticker. I tried one but it didn't work. :D
anybody started to fake and bake yet?
-
Fake and Bake ?
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
I'm allowed up to 150LBS so we could store you there Wendy :)
I don't take up much space and I can curl up enough to fit the max height requirements of your suitcase :rof: :rof:
Though it's pretty amazing that you can book "cushy class" with AC for 600 bucks cheaper than "squishy class" with Signature
:rof:
-
Originally posted by Wossa:
Fake and Bake ?
Wossa, that would be the canadian euphenism for "tanning salons" :)
-
Wossa, that would be the canadian euphenism for "tanning salons"
Thanks for the translation mojito miss.........by the way...nice tattoo, lol.
-
You can chalk up one more who won't need to fake and bake...
Since I am on midnights this week, I decided today, being a nice afternoon, to go out and relax on the deck, and read my book...
Since I was on midnights, it seems I was a bit more tired than I thought, and fell asleep on the deck for about 4 hours....
Now, I'm just going to have to keep adding moisturizer, and hope I don't peel...
:sunin:
-
Hope the pain isn't too bad Gambitt
(http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/28/28_1_7v.gif)
-
by the way only 17 days to go :D
-
Do I detect some excitement in your post BD? :D
-
juat a little Millybess ;)
-
Well it seams that it's now 16 days :D
-
WOOOO HOOOOO!!!!
Guess what I just found on another board!!!
3. "RE: sharks"
In response to message #2
I've seen Black Tips, Caribbean Reef and one lone Hammerhead sharks in Cozumel.
And with all the nurse sharks that are common there, I better go buy some more memory cards for my camera!!!
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
Well it seams that it's now 16 days :D
That doesn't give bellagio enough time to launder everything , iron everything, weigh everything four times and, no doubt, return his glasses. :D
Welcome back Ken. Look forward to talking to you soon. :s:
-
And Ken has less time then us as he and Wossa leave a few days before ;)
:s:
-
Well it's now 15 days, half of what it was when I started my ticker :D
:s: :s: :s: :s: :s: :s: :s: :s: :s: :s:
-
I'm glad to see you excited BD. Not long now until
:s: and :dan: meet up on the :w: (flopnfly) while you and bellagio :blah: .
-
Sounds good to me :D
But maybe not to Heather ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
Latest reviews
http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150809-d184998-r5029006-Iberostar_Cozumel-Cozumel_Yucatan_Peninsula.html (http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g150809-d184998-r5029006-Iberostar_Cozumel-Cozumel_Yucatan_Peninsula.html)
:D
-
Quote from the above trip report that BD posted...
Dressel Divers is great! The boats leave right from the pier. There are morning dives, afternoon and a night dives.
That says it all !!
-
I've seen pictures of the boats too, nice big ones, (not the rowboats with a motor tied to the back :D ) A few of the reviews that I've read have talked about how spectacular the night dives are, with the sounds of the "splendid toad fish" coming out of the darkness.
soon come... patience. :D
-
For those non swimmers, you can still go diving. It's called Sea Trek.
(http://www.cozumelinsider.com/images/library/image108.jpg)
Sea Trek is helmet diving. It's the easiest and most comfortable way to explore underwater. It's as simple as walking and breathing. A space age helmet sits comfortably on the your shoulders while a continuous flow of air provides breathing with ease.
Your hair doesn't get wet and you can even wear prescription glasses. The maximum depth is approximately 20 feet. A sea Trek guide wears a helmet while and divers in scuba gear remain with the group.
Our Sea Trek staff entertains and stays with you every step of the way. If you can't swim, no problem! Sea Trek was developed to allow non-swimmers to explore underwater.
Our professional guides will provide a briefing, review safety procedures and describe the tour. After the tour, you will be able to enjoy unlimited use of Chankanaab National Park and all of it's facilities plus Sea Trek will provide you with FREE snorkel gear rental to use for the rest of the day at the park.
Schedule: Monday - Saturday ~ Flexible Times
Pricing: US$60 per person
-
Now that sounds good, is that available where we are going Heather..?
-
yeah it is. Want to try it? :D
-
another excursion is snorkelling with the whale sharks. It's not available while we are there, but it looks fantastic.
(http://www.cozumelinsider.com/images/library/image460.jpg)
Experience this once in a lifetime opportunity to snorkel with these gentle giants of the sea.
Known as "Dominoes" to the local fishermen in this region becuase of the coloring of their skin, these giant sharks can exceed 30 feet in length. They migrate to this area of the Yucatan pennisula to feed in the abundant plankton filled water and play with their off-spring. This phenomenon only occurs during the summer months in this region.
-
Well maybe :D
Who want to join in ;)
:rof:
-
And my ticker is at 14 days :D :D :D
-
Just 10 days for me Bulldog!!!!!
-
That is great Bellagio, When was the last time you where in Mexico..?
Bulldog :s:
-
I was in Cancun in October 2000 staying at the Moon Palace and then twice to Acapulco in 2001 staying at the Costa Club and Copacabana.
-
This will be my 4th trip to Mexico :)
Acapulco twice, Cancun and now Cozumel ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
Hi Guys
Found a little bit of info on Cozumel that you may find to be of interest. It's from cruise critic where we spend some time preping for our Bermuda cruise!
:1: F&T
Email This Print This Newsletter
May 5, 2006
Update on Cozumel: Six Months After the Storm
With the start of the 2006 Atlantic hurricane season less than a month away, we want to know: Has Cozumel recovered from Wilma's wallop in October 2005?
Yes, but not fully -- and we're hearing differing opinions on the extent of damage that still exists. A spokesperson for Cozumel's Paradise Beach tells us that while damage to some waterfront buildings and the piers is still evident, we'd otherwise be "hard-pushed to believe that a hurricane had passed." However, Cruise Critic's Senior Contributor Steve Faber, who just returned from a trip to the island, shares a slightly more somber story: "The damage to all the piers in Cozumel is horrendous. The shoreline looks like a jumble of fully renovated or totally undamaged structures, punctuated by completely gutted high-rises and older, smaller buildings reduced to rubble."
One thing is for sure: It's still business as usual. Almost all of the beach clubs are open, and many are wooing cruisers with deals: Paradise Beach offers cruisers free entrance -- including lounge chairs and umbrellas -- but also sells "fun passes" for $8 each, which entitle the user to unlimited use of beach toys (such as climbing icebergs, trampolines, kayaks and floating sun mats). And most downtown restaurants and business are operating -- many since late November.
"The shopaholic will have no problem finding as much silver as they want," Faber assures us, "and, in the thinning crowds, it's a buyer's market: The merchants are in a great mood to bargain."
We've included more commentary below from both our spokesperson on the island and Senior Correspondent Faber, but want to hear your opinion! Tell us what you think about the clean-up and recovery in Cozumel.
Notes from the Island....
"If you drive around the island, trees and plants are still recovering," Paradise Beach's spokesman tells us, "although it's looking pretty green again. All the main roads have been fully repaired and only part of the old coast road is still in need of repair. The island is 100 percent passable by car. The areas where you will still notice damage are when you arrive to the island by tender."
Notes from our Correspondent....
"For me, the most striking thing is what has happened to the natural assets of the island's edge," reports Faber. "To the casual observer, or first-time visitor, nothing may seem amiss -- a dense thicket of trees crowds the beach. But those who know better or look closer will note that one thing is lacking: leaves. Half the trees are uprooted, left standing only by the support afforded by the close proximity of neighboring trunks, but standing or felled, they are all dead. Gone is the sense of lush tropical rainforest pressing up against the beach."
Notes from the Boards....
Some posters have mentioned that rocks in the water, no doubt brought to the shore line during the hurricane, can make for an unpleasant swim, but for the most part, reaction to Cozumel port calls is positive:
"You can tell they are recovering from the hurricane. Lots of construction going on." -babylet'scruise
" was there the first week of April. Around the docks you can see obvious damage but major reconstruction ... went to Playa Mia and had a wonderful time!" -CrooznFool
Member CozSally, who lives in Cozumel, writes that the International pier -- one of three in Cozumel, all of which sustained damage during Wilma -- is now docking one ship per day, and that Punta Langosta is slated to have one ship per day docked there starting in July.
Editor's note: A Carnival spokesman has confirmed that one pier is indeed open for business, but no details are available on the status of the line's Puerto Maya pier; at press time, a Cozumel tourism representative was unable to provide a date for the re-opening of Punta Langosta.
Return to headlines
Free E-Letter FREE E-Letter
Email This Email This
RSS Feeds RSS Feeds
Search Cruise Critic
* SPONSORED LINKS
* Cruise.Com: Huge Online Discounts. Save Up To 81%
Huge Online Discounts,VIP Service Save Up To 81% Last Minute Deals,Low Price Discount Guarantee. Book Online Now or Call One of Our Cruise Specialist Standing By.
* Travel Agents Fighting to the Death?
No, but you can select your cruise and let discount agents comp
-
I've Never been to Mexico, so my plan is:
Hide behind Bellagio and Bulldog, whenever possible, and just pop out long enough, to pick up some silver jewelery, that I love!
Thanks All!
:rof:
-
13 Days to go.....
:s: :s:
-
Well I do NOT like to barter, but it's the only way to get a deal :D
Who can I hide behind ?
:rof:
-
Fred&Tracie, thanks for the info.
I'm a complete Mexico newbie so I'm looking for all the info I can find.
As for bartering. I'm the queen :D
However, after I get them down to a rock bottom price, I always end up giving them what they originally asked for.
I don't want to cheat them out of money, I just like the bartering game. :D
-
I did 13 years of retail in an electronics shop, so I got exposed to what seemed to be every form and style of bartering known in the world. :D
-
Only 10 more work days. :D
-
Just got home from working my LAST weekend...
I'll be packing next weekend so that's out, and then it's Party time...
-
12 DAYS to go :D
-
A good review...
Iberostar Cozumel Dan ~ North Bay, Ontario
May 2006
We travelled to the Iberostar for the week of April 24-May 1st, 2006. We were a group of 8 ranging in age from 19-40. I haven't travelled down south much (so far) but I can easily say this will be a hard trip to beat, it is an amazing resort and plan to visit it in the future. I would like to visit other places but I will probably try to make it to this one every 3 years or so.
Check In
When we first arrived at the hotel I was a little worried since they haven't fixed up their main entrance from the hurricane yet, there is no sign, just a gate but once you get to the lobby you breathe a sigh of relief, it is beautiful. We were greeted with nice fruity drinks and very friendly staff, I believe it took us 10-15 minutes to get checked in. We arrived around noon and most of our rooms were ready with the exception of one room (we needed 4).
Rooms
These rooms are awesome, we had a king sized bed in the top level of a 8 unit hut (6311). When I saw my room on the map I was dissapointed it was so far from the beach but the walk was maybe 3 minutes away, it just looked a lot farther on the map. Our room was a little musty but they provide a scented candle to help with that. It was immaculate, marble floors, beautiful bedding, mini bar (with beer!), free safe, TV with 99 channels (only a dozen were english but who wants TV). Everyday the maids cleaned the rooms, made animals out of our towels and left flower pedals everywhere. We got a big jug of water to brush our teeth with plus bottled water in the fridge to drink. The beer was quite good, much better than the stuff I had in the Dominican which took a few to get used to.
Beach
The beach is great for snorkeling but not so great for swimming. Luckily I have thick soles and was able to walk in and swim but like many people before me recommended you should probably bring some old sneakers or aqua shoes if you're set on swimming in the ocean. Back to snorkeling, it is much more interesting at this beach than a sandy beach, we saw a nice variety of tropical fish here and even saw a barracuda. I brought my own mask and snorkel but they provide some for you if needed. I highly recommend the snorkeling excursion, it's like swimming in someone's aquarium, it is very safe and the guide is quite entertaining. Back to the beach, the part out of the water is pretty nice sand, some people said the chunks of coral in the sand were hard on the feet but again it didn't bother me.. although I learned pretty quickly not to dive while playing beach volleyball.
Pool
I love how the pool is divided into a lounge area, kids area, activity area and just a general swimming area. The swim up bar is great and wasn't as busy as other resorts, it was also nice that it had two sides to it. Only a few times did I have to wait a bit to get a drink, otherwise the staff is quick and friendly. If Abraham is working then you must try some of his famous shots, I called him the shot-master because he made layered shots with an artistic precision, you have to try a mexican flag and a shot-in-a-glass, two very good layered shots.
Activities
I had so much fun at this resort, the staff is so friendly and are always running around trying to recruit people for activities. Of course if you don't want to they don't pester you, but if you are known for doing just about everything (like I was) you almost always get asked. Kenia, Fernando, Leo, Ismeal (sp?), Edwin, Christian and Alex are all so awesome, they made me feel like there couldn't be a game without me. Also, if you win or place in a lot of events you get a diploma at the end of the day which can be traded in for goodies.
Staff
I can't say enough about these people, I actually miss some of them, it feels like I made new friends. We spent a lot of time at the swim up bar and got to know Mario, Nicolas, Abraham, Agustin and Miseal (I hope I didn't forget anyone). They are all super friendly, always smiling and joking around. The activities people are the best I've ever seen, when they have their meals they will seat with guests and talk with them, we got to have a meal with Kenia and Fernando, they both enjoyed discussing theirs lives in Mexico as well as finding out about Canada. I was so busy all the time trying to do as many activities as possible, even if no one else wanted to join me I felt like I had a friend to go with. I wish I had gotten some contact information from some people, it would've been cool to have some penpals. I went out to Senor Frog's one night and met up with Ismeal and Edwin and even during their time off they didn't mind hanging around with us and dancing with us, they were great! All the girls gushed over Edwin while all the guys were drooling over Kenia. Also, one couple in our group had some power problems, I called the front desk and told them about it and then went outside to sit on the hammock and just as I was sitting down a maintenance guy (Miguel I believe) was coming up the stairs. He had us up and running in 2 minutes.
Drinks
Drinks are awesome at this place, there is so much selection and no one is stingy on the hooch. In fact if you find a drink weak most bartenders will hand you the bottle and let you add as much liquor as you want. Also, I may not have been the first to do this but I think I invented a really cool drink. I went over to the self-serve espresso machine and plopped a couple large espresso's in my Timmy's mug; I then ordered a coco-loco and dumped it in with the coffee.. the result? coco-loco-chino, it's an awesome way to start the day... man I could go for one right now. I don't know how many drinks I tried, I lost count in the 30's. Also, the bartender will invent stuff for you, you just tell them you want something fruity or sour and they will come up with a tasty concoction for you. They also serve up a tasty selection of shots, be carefull though, all that booze and sun can be pretty tough on the system, we had a few sick people on our hands.
Food
What can I say other than the food was great, the selection was sufficient for just about everything to find something they liked and one night there was lobster, how can you go wrong. We tried out the steak house, it was ok, but we preferred the buffet. My pants were a little tight for work this morning so I guess that is a good sign. The breakfast buffet was amazing, if you can think of a food to have for breakfast it was there... ever monte cristo's! I haven't had those in years.
Nighlife
I'm a little biased on this one, I'm not big into live shows with dancing and stuff.. the other people in my group assured me it was top notch entertainment but I normally skipped it and took a little siesta and shower during this time. I think the existing disco is still being worked on so the theater is the make-shift disco for the time being. Not many people dance and stay out late here, if this is your scene then I recommend a trip into town to Senor Frog's. The cab ride is $17US each way, which isn't too bad if you can get 4 people in a cab, also the downstairs bar will give you some "monopoly" money equalling your cab fare to spend on drinks, you have to get a form at the hotel, ask one of the staff. Make sure you get the cab driver to fill in the amount and present it to the doorman at the club, he gives you some play money good enough for a round at least. I forget the name of the downstairs bar.. Carlos and charlie's?, anyway, it's more relaxed and lit up, good for a few pre-dance drinks. Once you are ready head up to Senor Frog's for a great night of dancing (heads up: men have a $5 cover charge). The music is mostly techno with some mexican stuff thrown in, they sometimes show videos as well. Be prepared, it gets very hot in there, you WILL sweat, dress appropriatly. There are open balconies where you can cool off. The drinks are close to what you would pay in Canada.. I was paying $3.50 for beers (Sol, Dos Equis) and I was paying $5-$6 for mixed drinks. To maximize your savings do a bunch of shots before leaving the hotel, that way you only need a few rounds to stay "happy" ;-)
Shopping
There's a ton of shops downtown, just get a cab and ask to be dropped off at the Pier, again it's $17US each way. I spoke with some staff and they said the taxis are regulated and are 100% safe. Bartering at the shops is pretty simple, just tell them that whatever price they state is way too expensive and start walking away. You can bargain like crazy and get pretty good prices, I normally didn't try to hard and paid about half the asking price in most cases. I know I could probably get them lower but these people aren't living the high life, they could use the money more than I can. I found the shops very touristy, lots of trinkets and stuff you only find in tourist locations. It was still a fun way to spend a few hours.
Now for the cons
Not much wrong with this place but just wanted to point a few things out, once and awhile at night you get a sewage smell that blows through the place, it can get pretty rancid at times. Don't leave your door open, I had a little guest a couple of nights. Don't leave any food out, there are ants.
Summary
I HIGHLY recommend this place, I find it to be big enough that there's quite a bit to do yet small enough that you actually run into people you meet multiple times. The last resort I stayed with was too big, I would meet some cool people and then never see them again. The staff is exceptional, I cannot stress this enough... they dance with you, eat with you, will be your partner if needed for a sport of some type, etc.... everyone speaks English quite well, I tried my best to speak spanish when I could and learned as much as I could while there. The staff was more than willing to help you with spanish if you wanted. I would give this resort a 10/10
-
11 days TO GO :D
:s:
-
You guys are going to have a great trip. Have fun. :6:
-
Have just discovered that we are NOT flying Premium class, but as this is a Premium hotel we have 30 kilos luggage allowance plus our seats are prebooked free of charge.
However First Choice Star Class, which we are flying, still has more legroom than British Airways and it is considerably more comfortable than all its UK and Canadian charter competitors.
-
This is absolutely of no interest to any one else.....apologies in advance!
Ken this is First Choice 'Star' class, dosen't look to bad mate.
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y136/fca2005/economy2.jpg)
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y136/fca2005/economy.jpg)
(http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y136/fca2005/economy3.jpg)
-
WOW!!!
I want to come on your plane.
-
Not as good as my seats but look good just the same :D
And I like the color ;)
-
Thanks Wossa for those excellent photos. That is exactly how it is.
7" widescreen seatback TV, complimentary headphones, 8 movies on separate channels, 30 TV programmes, 12 audio channels, 6 interactive games, 33" seat pitch and leather seats. Choice of a 4 course meal and snack before landing.
Pretty good for economy class - you are definitely not in a sardine can.
-
Just sent off my "form" to Dressel re booking my dives.
Hopefully with the time shift, I will hear from them later this morning.
Oh, and a further note, that I hadn't seen... There is a wreck dive in Coz...
(http://www.dresseldivers.com/en/images/planos/cozumel/06_WRECK_C_53.jpg)
-
I have been looking at this as well, and hopefully we can get out to it if there are enough of us.
(http://www.cozumelinsider.com/images/reefinfo/C53.jpg)
The Felipe Xicotencatl, or C-53, was built in Florida in 1944, donated to Mexico by the US in 1962 & retired from service in 1999, having variously served as a minesweeper, anti-drug patrol boat, search and rescue ship, troop transport & Mexican Naval Academy cadet training craft.
The Xicotencatl was sunk on June 6, 2000 just outside of Balones de Chankanaab, on a sandy plain between Tormentos & Chankanaab. As such, don't expect to dive anything other than the wreck--the immediate environs are strictly featureless sand flats. All dive ops make regular trips. It could be done as a shore dive from Chankanaab Park under the proper conditions, hitting the Balones de Chankanaab on the way out, but would be a very healthy swim with scant to see in transit. No special certification is needed for this dive, although it most definitely is an overhead environment & the inexperienced diver should understand what this means & be comfortable with it.
Marked by a highly visible buoy, the vessel is 184 feet long & 33 feet wide, and consists of 4 decks. The sinking job by the Mexican Navy & wreck experts was quite remarkable in that it rests almost perfectly upright & flat with the bow facing SSE & stern NNW. According to my depth gauge, the superstructure starts at 26', the main deck at 54' & the bottom, which is secured to prevent movement in storms, is at 78'. The craft is intact as sunk with the exception of one rudder which is now about 25' to the stern.
While the wreck is not especially tight inside if you follow the marked route, it is snug at points & of course buoyancy control throughout is a must. There are large plates removed from the sides at regular intervals, which usually provides ample light & a ready escape route. Do be aware, however, that the edges of removed areas are sharp in spots, and there are opportunities to snag/impale yourself on main deck & superstructure features, so best not to go bolting about. Some hydroids & small anemones are taking hold, another reason to watch what you are contacting. The primary route through the boat is marked with penetration line & the occasional tag, and these are easy to follow. There are possible side trips, but I'd suggest you skip them unless wreck experienced. Do take a light if possible.
A good approach is to drop in behind the stern & take in the two massive screws, then raise to the aft most hold & enter through the main deck. The entry is a bit snug, so make sure you don't have a case of the "danglies." Simply follow the line to the fore, which later reverses and takes you back to the aft for exit. There is no need to hurry the dive, as any normal diver will have plenty of bottom time for a leisurely tour of the innards, which include holds & cabins, and exterior.
(http://www.cozumelinsider.com/images/reefinfo/C53wreck.jpg)
-
Some better pics of the wreck........
http://www.diveparadise.com/photos.htm (http://www.diveparadise.com/photos.htm)
Looks good.
-
Well it's only 10 days to go :D
And less then 1 week for Bellagio and Wossa ;)
-
Eric & Wossa, that looks amazing, we'll have to push for that one. Wossa, you'll be on point duty (seeing as you get there a couple of days before us :D ) so see what you can do... ;)
thanx for posting that.
-
Can I leave this weekend, and just sleep on the beach, until my room is ready?
-
I wish we were leaving this weekend too. :D
so the plan is that we will be at the resort around 9 PM and Bellagio and Wossa will be waiting in the lobby for us with a tray of drinks. :w:
We will dump our bags in the rooms (they should be ready by 9 PM!!) and then we head down to the bar (whichever one Bellagio has deemed suitable).
You guys won't be diving on the Sunday so we can all enjoy an evening of drinks and laughter.
Man, I can't wait!!!! :9: :9:
-
Flopnfly - can you please let me know all your flight details please. I'll write then down so hopefully I won't forget them.
-
No problem Bellagio, just have the drinks ready when we arrive. :D :w:
Air Canada flight 1816
May 20th
Arrival: 1850
I believe we are only 30 minutes from the airport so we should arrive at the Iberostar around 8 PM.
-
Well everyone should post here what drink they want as I've no idea what to order.
I know you would probably want a Baileys but as to the others I haven't a clue.
I assume it's Saturday evening that you arrive.
-
Well I'm up for anything Bellagio....
TEQUILA SUNRISE would be nice :D
-
Yes we leave Toronto at 4 pm on May 20th.
I'll have a Baileys or whatever it is they have that is similar. Failing that I'll have anything. :rof:
I'm sure that we'll all be hungry when we arrive so a stop at the Buffet should be in order before we start drinking too much. :9:
How many more sleeps Bulldog?
-
10 more sleeps :D :D
-
a corona would be nice Mr B> :D
-
A margarita for me :(
-
Mrs. Gambitt would be willing to be your "physical half" for the Margarita, and I'll take anything with Rum in it!
The Excitement builds!!!
:dan:
-
I don't dive and so I don't usually read this thread but I just did and :OMG: the excitement is almost unbearable. I wish I were going! I hope you all have a great time and I can't wait to hear about it.
-
I'm a fraid I'm a total light weight when it comes to consuming alcohol, a couple of beers and that's me done for.....I warn you all in advance!!
-
With your arrival scheduled at the hotel for around 8pm it might well be that Warren and I could at dinner.
Anyway I'll check with your rep (is it Air Canada Vacations?) on the day to see whether or not your flight is on time.
Anyway if we miss your arrival we'll get together in the evening for a welcome 7Days drink at the lobby bar.
Anyone have the email address of the hotel?
I sent a room request to
rrppczm@iberostar.com.mx
but haven't had an acknowledgement so far
-
Single numbers people !!!
9 more days :D
(http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_27.gif)
-
Don't worry Bellagio, we would have to track you down then :D
-
Anyone have the email address of the hotel?
Iberostar Coz email addy;
iberocozumel@correoweb.com
cheers,
Flygt
-
Thanks flygt - I'll try that as I have had no response from the email address I tried.
-
Originally posted by Gambitt:
Mrs. Gambitt would be willing to be your "physical half" for the Margarita, and I'll take anything with Rum in it!
The Excitement builds!!!
:)
-
Thanks flygt - I'll try that as I have had no response from the email address I tried.
Good luck. The fax number is an option and appears to function;
+52-987-872-9909
...looking through the posts has made me exited for you guys as my wife is there now visiting family. Best in your travels.
cheers
-
Don't have fax facilities now I'm retired!!!!!
BTW flygt - can't reply to your PM and it says
you are not accepting private messages.
-
I will look at that and change as needed...and done, both pm and email function in order.
-
flygt will your wife still be there when we arrive?
it would be great to meet her. Too bad you couldn't be there too. :D
-
Hey Gambitt!
thought you'd like this one from the dive Photo Blog for Dressel Cozumel
(http://www.woomp.com/media_library/medias/dressel/thumbs/XL01_ada98d33d5c5.jpg)
-
Movies for our flight....
Canada > U.S.A. / Hawaii / Mexico / Costa Rica & Caribbean*
May 16-31
Hoodwinked
Casanova
-
flygt will your wife still be there when we arrive?
She actually just phoned from Phoenix to advise that her flight is an hour late and landing about 00:30 hrs this morning in Calgary.
Lol, what I meant by 'there' though was at our home in Maz...Mexico may be a large country dimensionaly but it's a small town in many ways if you know what I mean... ;) . You guys won't have any major problems though, maybe get ripped off for a couple of bucks here or there, the island is pretty controled by old and connected families and they don't like bad press so tourists are kind of taken care of, no worries...I'm just trying to give you a heads up on a few of the major scams. cheers
-
Got my confirmation email today from Dressel, and I'm booked for 5 x 2tank dives....
-
Originally posted by johnnycastaway:
Hey Gambitt!
thought you'd like this one from the dive Photo Blog for Dressel Cozumel
(http://www.woomp.com/media_library/medias/dressel/thumbs/XL01_ada98d33d5c5.jpg)
That My Friend is a Shark... Now, we just have to Locate his Big Brother... and I have 10 dives to do it!
-
I'm just waiting for confirmation from Dressel as well :D
-
:D 8 more days :D
:s: :s: :s: :s:
:s: :s: :s: :s:
-
Hola Bulldog :confused:
I have a suitcase and a duffel bag stuffed full. In fact they are bulging at the seams. :1:
As for the ear plugs, well that is a whole new story, jejejeje. :7: ...........
-
:rof: :rof: :rof: :rof:
-
Poor bulldog :rof:
I wonder if we should warn customs ahead of time?
-
Originally posted by flopnfly:
Poor bulldog :7: ............
-
:D :D
-
Wait a minute, harness eh ! that sounds like fun :D :D
-
Just a few general questions here.
When I last went the arrival and departure tax was paid on departure and was $41 US - is it still the same?
No idea how much cash to take. I assume everyone will be taking US not Mexican pesos. As I rarely go to the US these days I don't want to take too many dollars, so I wondered if I can change sterling at the hotel or at a bank somewhere.
Haven't got the time to go searching around on the other channel for info. so just wondered if someone here 'knows the ropes' so to speak.
BTW - am I stupid or what - just booked the PCV for June 14th. Well outside my travelling time really, but it was a fantastic deal and that will be lot for me until September at the earliest.
-
I'll be taking US dollars and changing them when I get there. the CDN dollar is doing quite well these days so it shouldn't be too painful.
I'm not sure about your departure tax Bellagio, I assumed ours was included in our tickets, but not I'm not so sure. I'll have to do some research.
Flygt, any ideas about the departure tax? :confused:
-
Well it has always been 10$US departure tax for me in the past, I assume it's the same :(
And I also will be taking US dollars but not changing too much as US money is widely used in Mexico and easier to keep track of the exchange ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
found this for air canada vacations:
AIR ONLY:
Goods and service tax (GST) applicable only on flights to the Continental United States, and foreign country departure/airport tax if applicable.
PACKAGES:
Air-only taxes listed above plus hotel service charges, baggage handling, maid service, government hotel tax, energy surcharges, passenger handling fees and Tourist Card (if applicable). Note: Cuba, Dominican Republic and Costa Rica Departure Taxes must be paid locally, in cash only: approx. 25 Cuban Convertible Pesos per person (Cuba), approx. $20 US per person (Dominican Republic) and approx. $26 US per person (Costa Rica).
-
And that would mean....?
Please explain to me as my mind has stopped for the weekend :eek:
Even though I'm working tomorrow :rof:
-
your guess is as good as mine. :D
-
Because it only lists those three countries, that are to be paid locally, I would think that the tax is included in your ticket for other places ie. Mexico...
At least that would be my translation of the "aerospeak"
-
7 more Days :(
Bulldog :s: :s:
-
Hola
Hey Bulldog............ :eek: :confused:
Build Big MUSCLES........ :confused:
My suitcases weight more than me. Someone has to help me get them on the cart, jejeje.
Have a great day. :6:
See you in 7 days, then we head to Paradise! :7: ...........
-
Just re-packed my dive bag. This is most likely pack 2 of about 20 but I'm getting there!
Did I pack this?? Take it all apart to check.. and repack it again.
One week from right now, I'd be at the airport!!!
-
Good Luck Gambitt
I finally put the locks on my cases so I don't pack and repack any longer.
My carry-on is weighed but not locked and my purse still needs to be packed.
I leave tomorrow for a Training Course so I have to be packed for Cozumel tonight.
I get home Thrusday night and I leave for Toronto Friday.
See everyone at the airport on Saturday around 1:00 p.m.
I will be the one with the big smile and all the suitcases, jejejeje.
Freedom Ryder :7: ..............
-
that's great Sherry!!
We've got two cases packed.
One with kids clothes and shoes. I have 8 pairs of leather dress shoes, boys and girls, and various dresses, shorts, shirts etc.
One is full of puzzles, crayons, coloring books and hair accessories.
Total weight for the two cases is only about 50 lbs, maybe 60 by the time I'm finished.
Bulldog, how many cases are you taking? Can you take one of ours if needed?
I'll have one with our clothes, myabe two? and John has his dive bag which counts as one.
I can probably fill another small case if we can manage it. I'll be leaving the cases there.
See you at the airport Sherry. :dan:
-
I will be taking two cases myself, so there is room for one more with me. I should be able to take another 60-70lbs. I see that you and Sherry are going to make me work :D it will be all worth it for the cause you both are donating too...
Sherry, is there anything ells dear..?
:s:
-
I will be off Friday to due my packing :D and last minute shopping :D
-
Your luggage allowances make me sick with envy!!!!
-
We're packing a small second case, that can stay in Coz as Lauren's second bag...
Other than my dive bag, all our clothes together, would only be one more bag, so that's still two freebies...
-
Originally posted by bellagio:
Your luggage allowances make me sick with envy!!!!
Hey Mr."B"
I managed to squeeze in 3 tins of Tim Horton's Coffee.
2 for you and 1 for our room in Cozumel.
Heather.........
I will buy a bottle of Bailey's at the Duty free but Bulldog will have to claim it as his perhaps.
Air Canada says all duty free included in the weight allowance. :7: .............
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
Sherry, is there anything ells dear..?
:s:
Yes Bulldog, as a matter of fact there is.......
I still have 2 small things I can't fit in my bags (over weight) so I hope you can stick them in your carry-on for me.
I am still on the hunt for white shoes so if find some then they will also have to go in your bag, jejeje.
Just like being married isn't it? :7: ............
-
Sherry, we still have tons of weight left over, so pack as many shoes as you like. :D
I've got 1 bottle of Baileys and will pick up one at the duty free for the room. That should do us for one night Mr B. :D
Great idea about packing the coffee for the room Sherry, I'll have to add that to my list. Mr B I'll pack one for your room as well, and a couple more for Warren. If he doesn't want them then you will have two more. :D
I've got a portable ice bucket for the room, so we can have ice with our Baileys.
:9:
-
Originally posted by Freedom Ryder:
Originally posted by bellagio:
Your luggage allowances make me sick with envy!!!!
Hey Mr."B"
I managed to squeeze in 3 tins of Tim Horton's Coffee.
2 for you and 1 for our room in Cozumel.
[/b]
LoL I was Just talking to Ken tonight about taking Timmies!
-
I don't think there are coffee makers in the rooms, that's why I am taking a kettle and some instant coffee.
I can't see Timmies being much use there if there are no coffee makers.
-
Originally posted by Freedom Ryder:
Originally posted by Bulldog:
Sherry, is there anything ells dear..?
:D
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
I will be off Friday to due my packing :D and last minute shopping :D
Spent $100.00 today at Sears, for 4 pairs of shorts and 2 shirts!
-
Sherry, do you have room in your bag for all of those "colourful" gifts Dubois gave you today :rof: :rof: :rof:
-
Come on Wendy spill the BEANS.... :rof:
-
OKAY 6 more days for me, 4 work days as I start my holiday on Thursday afternoon ( half day ) :D :D
Bulldog :s: :s:
-
Originally posted by mojitomiss_cuba:
Sherry, do you have room in your bag for all of those "colourful" gifts Dubois gave you today :7: .............
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
Come on Wendy spill the BEANS.... :confused:
It seems you have signed up for the Cozumel "Super Surprise" Vacation of a Life Time. :6: :6: :6:
Hope you enjoy it, jejejejeje. :7: ..............
-
I will refer back a couple pages to this pic ;)
:rof:
-
Originally posted by bellagio:
I can't see Timmies being much use there if there are no coffee makers.
COFFEE MAKERS...........
I am bringing my own.
I went to Canadian Tire and picked up 2 small, 1 cup coffee makers for $14.99 each.
The coffee makers are black and come with a coffee cup. They have a coffee filter in them that can be washed and reused.
Rainbow always brings them to Cuba and usually gets them on sale for $9.99 at Canadian Tire.
They were not on sale this week but the worker at C.T. said to keep my receipt and if they come on sale in the next 30 days bring in my receipt for a refund of the difference in price.
Sorry Bulldog, I have 1 that needs a home in someones bag.
I will put together another small carry-on and hopefully we can split the items up so we can get it all to Cozumel.
One is for Ken and I will leave the other one for Warren when we go home.
Freedom Ryder :7: .............
-
Bulldog :s:
By the looks of that picture you need a Tequilla and a hair cut! :7: ............
-
;)
Bulldog :s:
-
Awww, come on BD, you'd look good carrying a Pink carry on bag. :D
:rof: :rof:
-
My Belkin wireless router crashed about an hour ago. I guessed it might only be the power supply unit, so I had to dash out and buy a new router.
It did prove to be the power supply unit so at £59.99 it was an expensive unit. At least I now have a brand new router in case the old one does pack up.
Belkin offer a lifetime guarantee so hopefully they will replace the faulty power unit. I couldn't wait for that though as I would have had no connection at all before I leave for Mexico.
Thanks FR. If you are bringing me that one cup coffee maker plus Timmies I'll not bother packing my kettle. I'll just have to manage for 3 mornings without my caffeine fix until you arrive.
Muchas gracias senora.
-
Well I don't think pink is my color :rof:
-
FR:
If you do a good job on Bulldog's hair, I'd be prepared to let you loose on mine as I'll need it cut before I go to Cuba.
-
Sure I'll be the ginny pig :D
(http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/3/3_2_21v.gif)
-
You may be the next Yul Brynner by the time she has finished with you!!!
-
At least you guys can shave your heads and get away with it. :D
Mr B, you might be lucky enough to have a coffee maker in your room already.
Only 3 more days for Bellagio and Wossa, and then they will be here:
(http://www.7daysinparadise.com/albums/Cozumel-Dive-Trip-2006/iberostar.jpg)
-
With all that vegetation around I definitely need a second floor room!!!!!!
Like you flopnfly I did request one.
-
It's nice too see the Beach and the pool close, unless the noise from the pool gets to the serenity of the beach that is :D
-
It looks great!!!
I can't wait, I'm getting so excited now and I hope this work week goes by fast.
Bellagio, if you get a chance to log on before we get there let us know what it's like and what room you got.
I believe that there are a couple of computer stations in the lobby and I read that the internet is free and a good speed.
-
Internet free!!!!! Surely not.
You seem to know a lot more about this resort than you are letting on flopnfly!!!!!!!
Just tied up the details with Wossa. He should be at my door at 4.30am Wednesday to pick me up for the drive to Manchester airport.
Might just have time to say good evening or good morning to you all around 11pm your time on Tuesday night before we set off.
-
I'm envious Mr B. and Wossa. We still have to wait 3 days after you get there. *sigh*
Please do log in and send us a quick update when you get there.
:1:
-
I'll try - just hope that I can remember my password!!!!
-
You should email it to your account that can be access from any where :D
-
Whoo-hoo.........dive gear packed this afternoon and ready to go!! :D
Just two crap days of work to get through, then two weeks of dive heaven !!
How exciting is this turning out to be!
-
Ok, first pass done on the dive gear, I could barely pickup my dive bag, but once I took 34lbs of weights out of there, as well as cold water wetsuit, then it was a bit more manageable. :D
I'll have to test the regs, do a final check on my "save-a-dive kit" then then I can close it up.
Now, just a week of agrivation at work left, and we'll be on our way.
:b: :b:
-
Yes 4 works days for me....then we are off....I hope this weeks goes FAST for all of US :D
Bulldog :s:
-
My ticker is down to 5 Days ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
There are coffee makers in the rooms.
Rich said that they were putting brand new ones in the day he was leaving, so they are all brand spanking new. :D
I can deal with anything else in the room but I need my coffee maker. :rof:
-
Excellent news Heather.
-
Well I am all packed at last - just over a day to go and Wossa and I will be on our way.
BTW: The deals for Cuba in June are plentiful.
Just had a phone call from a couple I met at the PP in December. They have booked 2 weeks allocated on arrival (either the PCV and PP} departing Manchester on June 5th for £580 each, so hopefully I'll be able to meet up with them. They are going to text me when they arrive to let me know which hotel they are at.
I think it's because of the World Cup - people are staying at home.
-
Well, You guys have a Great flight, and try not to drink them out of Rum before we get there...
Can't wait to join you!
-
Well the excitement is mounting this side of the pond I can tell you.
Not sure what to do about sleep as Wossa is picking me up at 4.30am on Wednesday morning.
It's just past midnight now - so I suppose I should make tracks to bed, because I need to be in bed a lot earlier tomorrow night.
-
Bellagio,
Can you get all the ladies warmed up for me :D
I can say I'm Bellagio friend then I will be in for sure ;)
Bulldog :s:
-
I really need a few...
(http://www.modernsurf.com/drinks/drink_art/big_drink_guy.jpg)
-
Wossa and Mr B.
have a great flight, we'll see you soon!!
:D
:1: :6:
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
Bellagio,
Can you get all the ladies warmed up for me
Bulldog :s:
Considering all the ladies are on YOUR flight Bulldog :s: you should be warming them up for ME!!!!
-
It's 9.15am here, just got into the office for my last day!!
I have only packed my diving gear at the mo, still haven't packed anything to wear.By the sounds of Freedom Ryder's luggage, if i forget anything, it sounds like there will be plenty of spares to go round!! Is anyone taking an iron?
I have to be up at 2.30am, drive to Bellagio's house, approx 75 minute drive and then on to Manchester for our flight.
I guess it's finally time to go, seems really bizarre reading the first thread back on Page 1, when the original thought of a dive trip was posted, and 20 pages later we are finally here!!
Gambitt, JC, if all goes well, I will try and post a dive report before you guys leave on Saturday.
Really looking forward to meeting you all on your arrival. Have a great flight and see you in a couple of days!
-
Hope you all have a great time, and I am sure that Bellagio will have convinced the barmen to make Mojhito's (spelt wrong) for your arrival instead of Tequila slammers.
We are off to Egypt on 28/05, so sunshine for all of us. :ham:
-
Hope that you also have a great trip Huskypup - just enough to warm you up for Santa Maria later in the year.
I just hope Wossa doesn't overlay his alarm in the morning or else I will be at panic stations.
He is phoning me when he leaves home, so hopefully I'll find time to come online to let you all know that we are underway.
Watch out for a further report around 4.00 am UK time (11pm EST)
My ticker now shows less than 24 hours to go!!!!!! Just can't wait.
I have a travel steam iron. I could pack it if you want, but where's the ironing board?
-
Travel steam iron, that would be great, I'm sure I can find a flat surface somwehere to use as an iron board.
Don't worry Mr B, I have three alarms set, probably wont sleep anyway and try and crash on the plane. (perhaps not quite the right term to use in this scenario).
I will call you when I leave my house, about 3.15 - 3.20.
Gotta nip out and get some dollars at lunch!
-
I am sooo jealous... Wish I was getting ready to leave instead of getting ready for work.
Heck, I've even got all my clothes to take laid out on the pool table.. Just have to throw them in my case, and I could be ready to leave in 20 min.
See you soon !
-
Thanks for the reminder about the dollars. I ordered mine online on Sunday so they should be ready for collection now - hopefully!!!!!
Travel iron is in the case - thank goodness for 30 kilos allowance!!!!
Just to cheer Gambitt up - have just mowed the back lawn, now off to mow the front lawn which is covered in blossom from my neighbour's tree.
-
Jee thanks!
I still have to do that before I go too...
ps.. post your flight details, so we can track you!
-
First Choice Airways:
Flight No. FCA096
From: Manchester (MAN)
To: Cozumel
Date: 17th May 2006
Departure time: 1000
-
Ken, can you nip over here and cut my grass, Ive lost the huskypups in it.
and yes Egypt will ease me in slowly for Cayo Santa Maria in Oct, gotta get through Sharm Airport first though, apparently its manic.
-
gotta get through Sharm Airport first though, apparently its manic.
Manic.....it's a bloody madhouse.....good luck!
Enjoy your trip, you'll love it.
-
Originally posted by huskypup:
Ken, can you nip over here and cut my grass, Ive lost the huskypups in it.
No chance Nancy - just finished vacuuming the house, now it's time for lunch then off to the bank to get the dollars plus I need to go to Asda for a few last minute things.
-
I hope your cutting the grass and vacuuming the house for my arrival Mr B.....no, I did'nt think so.
Got my dollars from Thomas Cook, probably paid way over the odds for them but thats what you get for leaving everything last minute.
-
Have a safe trip and we will see you both in a few day :D
And my tickers is down to 4 days :D
-
Originally posted by Wossa:
I hope your cutting the grass and vacuuming the house for my arrival Mr B.....no, I did'nt think so.
Got my dollars from Thomas Cook, probably paid way over the odds for them but thats what you get for leaving everything last minute.
I'm cutting my lawns 'last minute' so to speak in the hope that they won't have grown too much on my return - slim chance I have to admit because they had sure grown whilst I was away in Cuba.
I got 1.7960 exchange rate £ to the $ - which is a lot higher than it has been recently. (that's provided they are there when I go to the bank)
That's also why the exchange rate against the Cuban convertible peso is nearly 1.70CUC at the moment.
-
OKAY Bellagio, I will warm them up and you can cool them off :D
Bulldog :D :s:
-
That's more like it Bulldog :s: .
Signing off now to go to the bank and the shops.
-
Thats about my working day over, still got a million and one things to do.....such as pack some clothes!!
Anyway I'm going to sign off, my next post will be from Coz.
See you all soon.
-
Have a great time one and all, wish I was going to!
Looking forward to hearing all about it!
Debbie
-
What you divers will see...
http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/baskgll/album?.dir=584dre2&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/baskgll/my_photos%3furlhint=actn,del%253as,1%253af,0 (http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/baskgll/album?.dir=584dre2&.src=ph&store=&prodid=&.done=http%3a//pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/baskgll/my_photos%3furlhint=actn,del%253as,1%253af,0)
-
Bellagio you may want to see this short video beofre you leave...
http://www.iberostar-board.com/Cozumel.asf (http://www.iberostar-board.com/Cozumel.asf)
-
Another review, but it's a good one :D
http://bloorstreetwest.com/cozumel2006/ (http://bloorstreetwest.com/cozumel2006/)
-
3 more day, and only 2 works day :D
(3 sleeps) :D
Bulldog :s:
-
Well I'm off to my last day of work ( half day ) as of 2 pm I will be on Vacation, then 48 hours later we will be at the Airport waiting to fly to Cozumel :D :D :D :D :D :D :D
2 more sleep !!! :D
-
:1: :1:
-
They are all going to love it here. 7 am in the morning and Wossa and I are both posting `live``from the resort, before breakfast.
-
Mr B.
you're killing me here! :D
I so desparately want these next two days to be over so that we can get down there to join you guys. *sigh*
so what's on the menu for today?
-
:7: Wow: did you realize that many Travel sites have trip reports, pictorial reports but 7 Days has...... LIVE REPORTS! That has to be the next best thing to "being there".
-
Maybe Milli - but being here is sooooooo much better as six Canadians will find out on Sunday.
-
Milli,
I promise I'll report "live" from cozumel once I get there!!!
I'll even ask if we can set up a webcam so that you can see us. It all depends on the manager.
Does everybody have yahoo? that's the only thing I can think of for a web cam feed unless somebody has another idea?
-
Orientation over. 100 Brits on our flight all at this hotel!!!!!
Off to enjoy the day now. Hopefully Warren will report back tonight on hthe diving.
Speak to you all later tonight.
-
Wow, lots of Brits!!! We should be having a great time, the brits are always good fun to party with....right Wendy? ;)
-
Originally posted by flopnfly:
Wow, lots of Brits!!! We should be having a great time, the brits are always good fun to party with....right Wendy? :(
Heather you know how much I love partying with the Brits :D
I guess you will have to do all the meet and greets alone, since I can't be there when a busload of "fresh blood" comes in :rof: :rof:
-
Wendy, not to worry I'll take care of it. :D
I won't let the team down, not one Brit will go unwelcomed. ;)
-
Just got out of the bottomless pitt of He**.. (work)... One more time, and it's Freedom!
Heck I even "offered" to swear at my boss, so he could suspend me for tomorrow, but no such luck!
Tomorrow is going to be the longest day in history!
Glad to hear everyone is having a good time.. Can't wait to join you..
Hey, I know where there are some Concord SST's that aren't being used!!! We could be there by about 5pm!
-
Just came in again to escape the heat!!!!
Warren came back at midday from his first two dives and went for his next two at 1pm.
He was well impressed, hopefully he will be online tonight to tell you guys all about it.
This is a great place - you are going to love it. Buffet is poor though, apart from awesome breakfast. Better lunch at the restaurant by the pool.
Not booked any a la cartes - waiting for you guys to arrive. Please, once again, HURRY - they are running out of Tequila. lol!!!!!!!
-
Well guys the diving here is simply awesome. Either I have been very lucky on my first day, or Coz is just fantastic.
I wont go on but just to give you a couple of my hilights of today. Would you believe it that I have just deleted a load of great pictures off my didgital camera of turtles feeding on the reef just because I have swam with 7 of them over the course of the 4 dives.
Gambitt I have swam with two sharks today, one of which was 5 to 5 and a half foot long, I just laid next to it on the white sandy bottom and took some pictures. I then watched it swim off into the blue.
I photographed an eagle ray swim so majestically beneath me, 5 foot wing span and a 3 foot, whip like tail cutting through the water.
The biggest grouper I have ever seen, car size, slighty out of reach to photograph, but immense in size.
There is so much here, I have managed to get some fantastic pictures (well they look ok on the camera screen), but the diving here is magnificent, much better than Thailand!!
Can`t wait for you guys to come out and enjoy it with me.
-
OKAY it ended up not being a half day, but a long day :(
But as of 1 hour ago I am done with work and on Vacation, and in 48 hours will be in Cozumel :D
Bulldog ;)
-
Hey Wossa
That sounds absolutely fantastic!!!!!!
one more day of hell here before we can escape!
I"ve been diving since '91 and never got to see a turtle, now it sounds like I'll be making up some time. :D
and sharks too? Gambitt will be in heaven, hopefully not literally. :p
how was the water temp?
Thanx for the update Wossa.
:1:
-
Mr. B.
You'd better tell them to get some more tequila for our arrival! :D
how's the corona stocks, are you depleting them too? :6: :6:
-
Well almost, need to get last minute things tomorrow :D
:D
-
I"m about half way there... :D
I'm already at the lobby bar in spirit though. :p
:rof: :rof:
-
JC
Water temp is 28c.........warm as bath water!
Warren
-
I'm almost in tears here...
Gambitt I have swam with two sharks today, one of which was 5 to 5 and a half foot long, I just laid next to it on the white sandy bottom and took some pictures. I then watched it swim off into the blue.
I wanna go tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-
Originally posted by Wossa:
JC
Water temp is 28c.........warm as bath water!
Warren
*sigh*
ok, I'm calling in sick tomorrow, i don't think I can deal with people until I get on that plane on Saturday!
:rof:
I'll have to dive with my shorty open in water that warm!
-
hmmm.. just re read that.... and for those of you whose minds are flowing down the gutter, I mean my WETSUIT!
:p
-
WOW 1 more day folks :D
:D :D :s: :s: :s:
-
Loads of bacon, 2 eggs, 4 sausages, toast, coffee and orange juice.
I'm set up for the day!!!
Wossa has gone back to room to get ready for his dives - another 4 today!!!
He'll need another holiday to recover from this one.
Lobby bar ran out of Wassells last night, looks like they only had one bottle!!! - fortunately there is another bar by the stage and they had some.
Noticed last night that the lobby bar does not have a large 'range' of drinks - unlike Cuba.
Wearher will be 30C again today - evenings are pleasant though, not sticky as I expected.
Not long to go before you arrive. Buffet restaurant is adjacent to lobby so if we are dining on Saturday when you arrive we will see you. You get a small welcome drink on arrival anyway, but I`ll try to organise 4 tequila sunrises, 1 Wassells and I Vodka and OJ for you also.
-
Hola
I am home now and I have just done the unthinkable.
I unlocked my suitcases and tried to stuff more things into them.
I got in 2 more pairs of shoes and 1 pair of water shoes.
I have a little bit of over flow from my suitcase that will have to go into the second carry on bag for Bulldog.
Unfortunately the over flow consists of bras and thongs so Bulldog, I hope you don't get pulled over at Customs.
You will have a lot of explaining to do about the contents of the bag, jejejeje.
Freedom Ryder :7: ..............
-
I really feel sorry for Bulldog. Hope when you both press the light at customs it goes 'green'. Mine did, but Wossa got a 'red' light.
Fortunately all they did then was scan his three bags, not unpack them like they do in Cuba.
Enough posting for now - 8.15am and off to the beach!!!!
-
PLEASE be GREEN :(
:rof:
-
OMG Bulldog!!! You poor thing. How are you going to explain all of those thongs? :rof: :rof:
I'm dreading having to push the button, I will get checked for sure.
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
PLEASE be GREEN :(
:confused:
If it's "Green" you "Win". :6:
If it's "Red" you "Lose". :7: ............
-
Just to let you all know, we landed at 2.35pm and it was 2.45pm by the time we disembarked from the plane.
Althouigh there were only 4 immigration points they were very swift.
You then get organised into courtesy transport (about 12 to a taxi type van) and whisked away to the Iberostar.
You go through San Miguel and it takes about 30 minutes maximum. We were here at 4pm so that was only 1 hour 15 minutes after stepping off the plane.
We will be waiting!!!!!!
Green for go but RED for Bulldog!!!!!!
-
Well maybe I'll spend the week is Customs then :D
who will join me ?
:rof:
-
I think I'll be joining you Bulldog. I always get stopped by customs. It must be the look on my face. :dan: :dan:
Just a few last minutes things to do, and then we just wait for our departure tomorrow.
:6: :6: :6: :6:
-
The excitment is building for all I bet :)
(http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_27.gif) (http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_35.gif) (http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_27.gif)
-
Originally posted by Bulldog:
The excitment is building for all I bet :)
:D
-
Hi Guys
Another wonderful day diving, managed to see 3 eagle rays today, I think these are becoming my favourite thing to see, just fantastic.
Eric, we dove in a small group this afternoon (4) and we sat and watched an adult nurse shark swim round the group trying to shake off a grouper that was shadowing it. It stayed with us for 5 mins before we left.
The marine life is in abundance, lost count of the turtles, they are on every dive all but one so far.
Dressels are very good, cant recommend them highly enough. Each dive has been a minimum of 45 mins and the majority have been an hour.
-
When is your first dives with Jonh & Eric ?
:s:
-
I think we are lining up for Monday morning, but if things work out Sunday afternoon, then who knows?
-
That sounds great Wossa!!!!
I can't wait to get there and "get wet" ! :D
I'm thinking I'll have to go out before heading out tomorrow and grab another memory card for the digital camera! :rof:
-
Speaking of Dive gear...
John, do you have a dive compass? The new computer came with one, so I have a spare, if you don't...
-
I have one on my console
-
I also picked up a few glow sticks for us for the night dive. :D
-
I can't wait to get there and "get wet" !
Really looking forward to seeing you and Eric tomorrow night.
Mr B and I are just chillin`in the lounge having a few beers tonight. Just waiting for the candian party animals to arrive to shake the place up!
-
Wossa is drinking the beers, I'm drinking the Wassalls.
We are both posting side by side in the internet room.
-
Well at least Wossa isn't drinking the Wossals. :D
-
well guys, I'm having some Corona's wishing for the next 24 hours to pass by quick so we can join you.
:1:
-
Off the net now - have a great flight and see you tomorrow.
-
0 days left :) :)
Bulldog :s:
-
Bulldog...
Since we've never met real life, Just look for long blond hair and this shirt!
(http://www.oimages.co.uk/graphics/small/ao/black_white.jpg)
(http://www.oimages.co.uk/graphics/small/ao/222.jpg)
-
It's PARTY TIME!!!!
:6: :6:
-
Just finished breakfast. Wossa has gone back to the room to get his gear sorted out for 8am when he will be off on the first of his 4 dives.
I'll just be killing time lazing around the beach until it's time to check on your flight.
Party time tonight - just hope you are not too tired!!!
Warren and I have been exhausted every night so far and have been in bed by 10.30 at the latest.
That has to change as from tonight.
-
It's finally here!!!!
I got almost no sleep last night, I was too excited with anticipation. I felt like a little kid waiting for Santa to arrive. :D
Mr B, order some sunshine for tomorrow for us I want to feel the sun. It's been cold and rainy here all week.
-
Just had my shower and all I need to do is put all the things in my bags....
Leaving Barrie at around 11am...
Now it's time to catch the excitement train :D
-
Weather has been lovely so far, so hopefully it will stay the same.
I'm just as excited as you about your arrival. Just hope the flight is on time. I'm off now so I'll see you all in 12 hours time.
Have a safe flight.
-
Lauren is just getting out of the shower. Cases & Dive gear are in the car...
Throw in the carry-on's and we are outta here!!!
Hopefully leaving here around 10'ish.
-
Flopnfly will have left for the airport now. Little does she know that our rooms have interconnecting doors so we can definitely all party in one room whilst the others crash out in the next door room.
This is going to be some party!!!!
-
This is live from the airport. Everyone is checked in, and heading for security...
Just don't ask Johnny about his case.
-
Johnny should have known not to put his dive knife and bang stick in his carry-on!! :D
Have a great week!
:1: ......F&T
-
:OMG: :OMG: :OMG:
-
hola
We just finished a wonderful dinner, and now we are going for drinks and the show. the staff have promised us a party in the disco tonight.
looks like lots more dancing for gambitt and me. :D
-
Well it's about time we saw a live post from Heather :)
Oh and btw, the weather here sucks so we're all jealous (at least in Ontario, the west seems to be in the middle of a heat wave) :(
-
Weather here yesterday (Sunday) was not too good.
Rained early afternoon but cleared up later. The gang had some fun around the pool bar and we all dined in the buffet at 7.15pm - after waiting 30 minutes for FR to get ready.
Did some dancing with animacion staff before the show and then stayed on in the disco until around 12.30 ish.
Heather and I were dancing to YMCA and John has taken some embarrassing shots which I am currently offering him $50 not to put on line.
Weather looks promising today. Warren is off on the first of his 4 dives and John and Eric are diving at 1pm.
Catch you all later.
-
well Bellagio, I'm sitting here shivering in 6 degree weather in Toronto, F&T had to snowshoe to see Millybess and Messybill yesterday :6:
-
Sounds like you guy's are having a blast :6:
Are you guy's planning on renting a car and driving around to the wild side of the Island, it is a must do, we did it and it was one of the best day's we had, stop at all the beach bars for a drink , be sure to drop in at Coconuts for a drink the view is breathtaking ....
Heather get the bartender to take a nice picture of you there , they take pictures of woman only and put them in there albums for display :rof:
-
We´re renting a car on Wed to tour the island.
We will visit the orphange and drop off our suitcases, we got everything through customs with no questions. The poor man didn´t have the heart to ask us to push the button after seeing me and Freedom Ryder trying to drag our big bags. not sure what happened to bulldog, he was supposed to carry them. :eek: So no red light or green light for us, we just sailed through. :dan: :rof: :rof:
We toasted everybody tonight, several times.
Missing all of our absent friends.
-
Originally posted by flopnfly:
We will visit the orphange and drop off our suitcases
After we drop off the suitcases, we are going to tour the island and yes we will stop at coconuts if it´s opened again.
Heather, that's a wonderful idea !!!! They will love you !!! :)
I did not think of that when we went , it was only my second trip down south ,I plan on going back to Cozumel some day, you will have to give me the address for the orphange.
Don't forget to get the bartender at Coconuts to take a nice picture of you for there album :D
You will love the other side of the Island, stop at as many bars as you can, we did them all.
-
Don't forget to get the bartender at Coconuts to take a nice picture of you for there album :D
You will love the other side of the Island, stop at as many bars as you can, we did them all. [/QB]
Zombie, we did all the bars on the other side of the island, and yes Coconuts was great. ;)
-
(http://www.7daysinparadise.com/albums/Cozumel-Dive-Trip-2006/DSC00171.sized.jpg)
from the left:
Lauren (Mrs Gambitt), Bulldog, flopnfly, Gambitt, Bellagio, johnnycastaway, freedomryder, and Wossa.
-
As some people might have heard, ;) ;) I did see a shark in Cozumel!
We were diving on the C-53 wreck just off San Miguel, and as I drifted over the side of the ship, there he was...
(http://www.gambitt.com/shark2.JPG)
(http://www.gambitt.com/shark1.JPG)
-
I asked John what he thougt of diving in Cozumel and this is his reply:
(http://www.gambitt.com/johnnycastaway.JPG)
-
Well you folks, today has been the hottest day so far.
I walked along the beach with a young couple from San Francisco who are in Bulldog's room to the spot where FR, Heather and myself were in the ocean.
It was that hot that even I walked straight in up to my shoulders. In fact it was so hot on the shore that we had to stay in the ocean to prevent ourselves burning.
Late afternoon I won the darts tournament - certificate tonight!!! Went into the pool via the step ladder - warmest I have ever known it. Had a couple of tequila sunrises, then one of those tri coloured shots, then a Wassels .
Warren is back from his cave diving and has a couple of dives booked for the morning and that will be his lot. I'll let him tell you all about his diving today when he has time.
We are dining with our San Francisco friends tonight so I will have to dash back to shower and change.
Such a pity for you about the weather. This has been the warmest day so far, probably too warm as most people are saying, even the staff.
-
Just a brief morning report.
Weather is again glorious 32C again with unlimited sunshine.
Second day running there are no sausages at breakfast!!!!! I think flopnfly ate them all last week.
Warrren is just doing two dives this morning and that will be his lot. He has done 40 dives in all these past two weeks.
I`m back to the room to plaster myself with suncream and face the hot sun.
Have fun all you folks back home.
-
Speaking of Diving, there are 128 more pictures in the Cozumel Diving photo Gallery.
-
By the way Eric, I checked with the new occupants of your room and there were no sunglasses there when they arrived.
-
I'm sure they went to a good home.
Sounds and looks like you guys had a great trip. Going to check out the pics tomorrow at work. I don't have high speed at home. I'll be there early enough tomorrow to look before I start work.
-
Thanks for trying Ken. I appreciate it!
:rs:
-
Well this is it, the final 'live' posting from Cozumel.
Just finished breakfast and back off to the room to start packing.
I really don't know where I am going to put everything.
Freedom Ryder gave me three carry ons full of clothes, electrical goods, jewelry, etc, etc to take to Cuba so I will be well overweight when I check in later today.
Once again it is a sorcher. We are being picked up at 1245 so will not have long to wait after our midday checkout.
LATE NEWS:
Warren has just walked in with Gambitt's sunglasses!!!!!
He didn't come to breakfast and has just received a call from the front desk. Apparently Eric you left them in the taxi that took you to the airport.
I`ll take them home with me and then we sort out what to do with them after that.
Bye from Cozumel!!!!
-
Great news about the sunglasses!!!!
Hope you guys have a great flight home, and we'll be tracking you.
-
OH WOW!!
THANKS SO MUCH, TO BOTH YOU AND WARREN!!!
I really never figured I'd see them again!
:dan: :dan: :dan:
-
Just added to the Gallery, for those who don't dive, Underwater Video!
http://www.7daysinparadise.com/albums/album89/PIC_0139.avi (http://www.7daysinparadise.com/albums/album89/PIC_0139.avi)
-
excellent video Gambitt!!!
I had everybody at work watching it, but they kept looking for the shark that you saw. :p
-
Unfortunately, I didn't see any more sharks, after I figured out how to work the video!
-
Gambitt, I thought for sure the video would be of your "buddy" :rof:
Great diving pics. Thanks to you and JC for posting them. They were amazing *sigh*
-
Wendy,
it's time that you and I got certified so that we can post our own pics next trip. :D
-
I agree Heather. We have to take the course and then we'll get to see all that beautiful marine life first hand instead of through someone else's eyes :)
Shark? Who's afraid of a little shark :rof:
-
Did you hear that Gambitt saw a shark? :D
Wendy, lets look into the courses, I really don't want to do it in Ontario waters but doing the course on vacation takes up the whole week.
-
You can count on me to go with you and keep the "logs" dry. :rof:
-
millybess, you can be the official log keeper, and oh you also have to watch out for the sharks and warn us accordingly!!!! :rof:
-
heather, sounds like a plan
sure it would be great to take the course in the warm caribbean, but like you said, it takes your whole week. This way we would be certified already and could dive and party :)
-
I agree with you guys about certifying in Ontario. IMO, it will give you more confidence when you finally do dive in the Caribbean. Plus, the point about wasting a week in the Caribbean certifying is a good one.
Regarding "shark watch", are you sure you guys will be able to hear me screaming from that far away? (http://bestsmileys.com/scared/8.gif)
-
Let's face it... We are just going to have to go back to Cozumel.
I've been diving for many years now, and you will never find better Dive Masters anywhere!
Rob and Olivier, are some very special people and I'd reccomend them to Anyone!
-
What kind of shark was that Gambitt?...looked kind of wide.
-
Flygt, it was a Nurse shark I believe, about 5 feet long. Unfortunately, i wasn't able to get as good a picture as Gambitt did.
-
Originally posted by johnnycastaway:
Flygt, it was a Nurse shark I believe, about 5 feet long. Unfortunately, i wasn't able to get as good a picture as Gambitt did.
That's because Gambitt was STALKING the shark :)
Though he was soooo excited that I'm surprised it turned out at all. Those are usually the pics that never turn out :(
-
well, if you look at my pic, there's a burst of bubbles right beside me, I think that's Gambitt shouting "HOLY SH&*!~!"
:D
(http://www.7daysinparadise.com/albums/Cozumel-May-2006/DSC00149.sized.jpg)
-
Probably a NURSE shark looking to take care of you boy's!! :D :D :D :rof:
-
Originally posted by FredTracie:
Probably a NURSE shark looking to take care of you boy's!! :D :D :D :rof:
:rof: :rof: :rof:
Good one F&T!!!
-
WoW
JC just found a new tool for Photoshop that makes even My pictures look better...
Here are the old, and improved pictures of the shark.. Quite the difference!
(http://www.gambitt.com/shark2.JPG)
(http://www.gambitt.com/shark3.jpg) (http://www.gambitt.com/shark1.JPG)
(http://www.gambitt.com/shark4.jpg)
-
Well that looks GREAT, I was wondering why your and JC pic's looks so blue..
Bulldog :s:
(http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid207/p9e28e03297f35499a5b9f2188746d7db/eeac159f.jpg)