
Island of women. this name was given the island in 1517 by Francisco Hernández de Córdoba, who at the time was leading a Spanish expedition in search of labourers for the gold mines of Cuba. So much is attested by the Bishop Diego de Landa in his famous historical tract Relaciónes de las Cosas de Yucatán, written in 1566. Córdoba was apparently inspired by the many statues representing the female figure that were found in the Mayan temples of the island, the majority of which were certainly erected in homage to Ix-Chel, the goddess of the moon and the fertility. It seems that the Maya never actually inhabited the island, that it served solely as the destination of pilgrimages.
Both easily accessible by fast, inexpensive ferries, the more northerly is Isla Mujeres, accessed from Cancun. It's a tiny island - only 5 miles long by one half mile wide. New on the island is Garrafon. Developed by the Xcaret builders, Garrafon is an eco-playland with snorkeling, sea-trekking, kayaking, trails, and maya remains. The price of $49 will include everything except sea-trekking, but includes the ferry boat over, food, drinks, snorkel gear, lockers, towels and more. Catch the ferry at El Embarcadero at the northern tip of Cancun. Call 011-998-849-4950 or please visit: Garrafon Park
We do book hotels on Isla Mujeres (island of women) most of them are 1 or 2 star. The island has a few good restaurants, but no all inclusive properties. There is not much to do, but some people may like that. There is access to the mainland via ferry. Diving and snorkeling are excellent
Ferries:
The Caribbean Express and the Caribbean Miss (tel. 987/70254 or 987/70253), both air-conditioned cruisers with bar service, make several 30-minute crossings daily from Puerto Juárez, just north of Cancún, to Isla Mujeres
Boats run from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM at approximately 30-minute intervals
There are also boats to Isla Mujeres from Playa Linda pier.
Destination Information & Travel Store* Special Note:We direct travelers to our
travel insurance provider, and point out that U.S. insurance plans seldom cover health costs outside the U.S., nor do Medicare and Medicaid.
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