Need a tropical vacation, but the bank statement is saying it's just not going to happen? Don't be discouraged! You can take a one week vacation in Cozumel, Mexico, eating and drinking just about anything you want while enjoying the beaches and endless water sport activities for under $1000 per person thanks to the strength of the US dollar against the Mexican peso!

Cozumel, Mexico is an exquisite island located approximately 12 miles off the Mexican cost in the Western Caribbean. Made famous by its gorgeous coral reefs, Cozumel has become known for its snorkeling and scuba diving but this is not all it has to offer. With remarkable, golden beaches stretching along the coast, fun in the sun is never in short supply. Sun bathers can bask in the sun, while others enjoy water sports such as kayaking, para-sailing and wind surfing. If you need a break from the sun, the island has plenty of other things to offer including exotic restaurants and clubs, typical festivals, Mayan ruins to explore and unbelievable shopping bargains. The best part about Cozumel however is it is one of the least expensive Caribbean destinations there is. Their local currency is the peso and even though it is referred to by $ sign, it is not by any means equal to the same as a dollar. Prices may seem above average at first glance, but find the price marked USD and a smile will spread across your face.

There are several resorts and hotels that offer all inclusive packages to their guest's for reasonable prices. All inclusive is definitely the way to go when trying to keep costs down given that food and drink are included therefore there is no way you will get carried away once you get in "vacation mode." These all inclusive packages range from $ 500-$650 USD for a seven day, six night package depending on the resort and the type of room. All of these packages include beach and pool access, water sports, nightly entertainment as well as all your food and beverage needs. Depending on the resort, snorkeling and dive lessons may be included as well. Most of these resorts and hotels offer complimentary service to and from the airport which depending on your location within the United States and the airline, will cost you somewhere between $200- $400 USD to arrive at. If complimentary service is not offered, it usually can be requested for an additional $20-$50 USD.

In terms of weather, there really isn't a bad time to visit Cozumel. The summer months get really warm staying at around 90ºF and the water temperatures around 80ºF or even warmer. In the winter time both the air and water temperature cool down a bit, but not by more than ten or fifteen degrees. The only month that it seems to rain an abnormally large amount is June, but other than that it is beautiful there most of the time.

So pack the bags and book your flights because there are locals awaiting you on the island. Tourists are welcome with open arms in Cozumel, and in most cases treated like royalty!