A Blood Bank for Cozumel, Sports Fishing in Cozumel, Cozumel Fishing Tournaments, Sale of Shells & Starfish Prohibited in Cozumel, Cozumel’s Buccanos at Night extends Schedule, Shopping in Cozumel, and Why You Should Retire in Mexico. In Aurita’s Cozumel Corner: Cozumel Worships Services in English, The Sun Garage Sale, Cozumel Ladies’ Breakfast, Cozumel Carnaval 2017 Schedules..
A Blood Bank for Cozumel
The federal health authorities have finally realized the urgent necessity of having a Blood Bank in Cozumel. A planning meeting was held last Friday to discuss the establishment of a blood bank in Cozumel.
It is estimated that it will cost between five hundred thousand to one million pesos, to convert the current blood donation center into a Blood Bank.
The Director General of the National Center for Blood Transfusions of the Federal Health Secretariat, the Head of the Ministry of Health and the General Director of the State Health Services in Quintana Roo traveled to Cozumel to meet with representatives of public and private health institutions among others.
It was agreed to train medical personnel and strengthen the infrastructure of the donor station on the island in order to achieve comprehensive transfusion services. The first steps of the plan will begin in about three months.
Quintana Roo has a regional center in Cancun, Blood Banks in Playa del Carmen and Chetumal, and Donor Stations in municipalities such as Felipe Carrillo Puerto and Cozumel.
Cozumel began operating the Donor station officially in 2003, when the island’s population was about 60,000 inhabitants. There was a population of 79, 537 inhabitants according to the 2010 census, a figure that has increased greatly in the past six years.
The need for a blood bank is evident on a daily basis on the island. Relatives of accident victims and patients in need of transfusions posts desperate pleas for donors in the social media. It is heartbreaking for those of us unable to donate due to age restrictions or medical conditions. If you can afford to pay for blood, private insurance and private hospitals you have access to the blood bank in Playa del Carmen.
Private Hospitals on the island have some blood on hand and will send a fast boat to Playa del Carmen’s blood bank at cost. Still, transportation and personnel are scares during the holidays and sometimes the port is closed due to weather conditions.
Unfortunately, the majority of the local population either has no insurance or is at the mercy of the three public hospitals that have very little resources. They rely on friends, relatives, and the generosity of the public. This does not fare well for those without family in a time of crisis.
Sports Fishing in Cozumel
Cozumel has a large sport fishing industry that takes place outside of the protected areas, which contain the world famous Cozumel reefs. Sport Fishing excursions are available on the island and the majority of the diving operators offer them.
Most operators offer fishing packages for both excursions: full or half day. The operator supplies everything from bottled water, drinks, fruit, light snacks, beers, and lunch, depending on the package you purchase and the duration of the trip. All the necessary fishing equipment is normally included, but we do invite you to bring along your own equipment if you so choose. Best of all, your catch is yours to eat!
The sport fishing zone in Cozumel mainly uses a technique called trawling. There are many factors which play into having a successful sport fishing excursion. It is a near guarantee, however, that an operator with a captain and a good crew, made up of seasoned guides and expert fishermen, will make for a successful trip; most of these men were born and raised on the island and know where the best fishing is to be had.
Cozumel Fishing Tournaments
There are fishing tournaments in Cozumel every year; some have become an island tradition. The main fishing event is: The Mexican Boat Rodeo, and the Torneo de pesca internacional, they take place during the month of May. The number of participants continues to grow each year and has made these fishing tournament one of the most prestigious in the Caribbean.
The Mexican Boat Rodeo is an annual sport fishing tournament that brings together competitors from Mexico and around the world to fish for Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Wahoo, Dorado, Tuna, Barracuda and other game fish. More than a 100 boats participate in the event each year. Open to the general public, all are invited to take part in the tournament and participants simply need to register their boats in México. www.rodeodelanchasmexicanas.com
Sale of Shells and starfish Prohibited in Cozumel
Did you know that the sale of shells and starfish is prohibited? A year ago federal authorities and the City Council of Cozumel announced operations to ban the sale of shells and starfish.
Street vendors in Benito Juárez Park offer these products to domestic and foreign tourists without any authority restricting them. At least three of the 16 stalls of street vendors installed in the park have these items on sale, as well as some of the handicraft shops in town square.
The municipality has no power to take actions or sanction the sale of these marine products that end up as adornments in domestic and foreign tourists’ homes.
Inspections of the vendors was scheduled to start in January of 2016 by Conapesca personnel, but to date, no action has been taken.
Cozumel’s Buccanos at Night Extends Schedule!
It is Christmas once again for Buccanos at Night Fans! The Barbachano family announced that Buccanos at Night will open five evenings a week, Wednesday thru Sunday, with an extended upstairs Seaview terrace and an air-conditioned dining room as of February 15, 2017.
“Thank you for giving us the platform to be able to do what we love.”
The Barbachano Family
Buccanos at night is a multi-ethnic, multi-sensory dining experience where flavors clash on purpose. They offer contemporary seafood, fresh fish & premium quality ingredients that change with the season. There is an Ocean view dining terrace with a panoramic view of the mainland skyline enhanced by torches & candlelight. A more relaxed and social approach to dining awaits you at Buccanos at Night.
Shopping in Cozumel
The island of Cozumel offers a great variety of Mexican handicrafts from different regions of the country. Simply walking down Rafael E. Melgar Avenue, you can discover our stores which carry brand name perfumes and casual clothes from around the world. You can also find a wide variety of fine watches with prices free of taxes. It is not recommended to buy silver from the street vendors. By buying articles in prestigious stores, you will find the best quality in their collection. They will also guarantee this metal, including the precious stones and other gems or diamonds.
Cozumel is a port free of taxes, and for this reason, the city has bargain prices on different products: from French perfumes to Swiss watches…from Mexican art to handcrafts made out of the sea. You can also find a large number of stores specializing in informal beach clothing. Black coral is the most famous product on the island, but you will also find beautiful designs in silver, turquoise, gold, and other precious stones. The most prestigious stores are found on the main street, close to the ocean and near the main plaza.
If you are in Cozumel to stay, or like me, want to see where the locals shop, ask a cab driver to take you to the Mercado. You will find EVERYTHING. Prepared foods, freshly caught fish, meats, vegetables, fruits, clothing, shoes, accessories, etc. sold by the locals to the locals.
Why You Should Retire in Mexico
By Jenny Holt, Freelance Health and Nature Writer
If you are looking forward to spending your retirement in a warmer climate, then Mexico is a great option. In fact, International Living in its survey, ‘The World’s Best Places to Retire in 2017’ named Mexico as the best place to retire as it offers low-cost living, friendly locals, fantastic weather, wonderful culture and lots of expats.
Highly recommended on the list of great places to retire in Mexico is the province of Quintana Roo with 11 municipalities to choose from including the island of Cozumel. INEGI statistics indicate that the number of foreigners living in the province increased by 27.5% in the last 5 years.
Low Cost of Living
Cozumel has a relatively cheaper cost of living compared to the US or Canada. The devaluing peso means that you can get more out of your dollar here. Groceries are well-stocked with fresh fruits and vegetables at prices comparable to what you would pay for in smaller US cities. Restaurant prices vary depending on what you are looking for, but if you just want simple fare, $7 can buy you an entire meal composed of a soup and a main dish. It is not expensive to hire plumbers or housekeepers to look after your home. Real estate is affordable and for US$160,000 (point2homes.com), you can find a decent place to live. Property taxes are also inexpensive compared to the US.
Weather
Cozumel enjoys a tropical savanna climate with a wet and dry season. The dry months can be hot and humid. October-January and April-July are considered rainy seasons. Temperatures are above 18°C and the coldest average temperature is 22.9 ° C. The island receives a total of 2,510.8 hours of sunshine in a year (Colegio de Postgraduados, Climate Data).
Friendly Locals
Loneliness and isolation are major factors that seniors face when living on their own. However, if you retire in Cozumel, you are constantly surrounded by people whether shopping or strolling on the beach. The locals are incredibly friendly and always smiling; it is hard not to join in the conversation or participate in activities.
Healthcare
Understandably, seniors who move to unfamiliar territory are worried about the quality of healthcare they are going to receive. Overall, Mexico is staffed with world-class doctors and appropriate facilities. Medical tourism is also a growing trend for affordable healthcare. A lot of the physicians that patients visit, were even educated and trained in the US or Europe. Cozumel has good medical care on the island, but for complicated surgeries, you can fly to Cancun which is a 20-minute journey or Merida, an hour’s flight away. Many US and Canadian insurance providers also cover medical care in Mexico which is already an advantage. Plus, if you are planning dental work, Cozumel is a bargain.
México: 987-800-8676
U.S.: 949-459-3802 Taz
Aura at 386-445-8702
https://cozumeltoursbycab.com/
auraholguin@thecozumelsun.com
WE SPEAK ENGLISH!
Aurita’s Cozumel Corner
Welcome once again to The Cozumel Sun! I want to thank this week’s article contributor Jenny Holt, Freelance Health and nature writer. I want to take the opportunity to remind my readers that they are welcome to contribute articles. This publication is weekly, with daily news and information posted in our Facebook Page and Facebook Group of the same name.
Yes, this is a picture of me in my pijamas surrounded by eight members of the mariachi band that awakened me at 12:01 on my birthday, February 1st. I want to thank all my family and friends for all the love that I was blessed to receive this week. You made my sixty seventh birthday very special!
This Week’s Fruit for Thought:
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
—Martin Niemöller
Liquid Motion Academy
School of Cinematography & Film
http://www.liquidmotionacademy.com/
https://www.facebook.com/LiquidMotionAcademy
info@liquidmotionacademy.com
(+52) 987 878 9690
High-end photography, film & media Institute.
Specializing in underwater imaging.
Over 30 years’ accreditation awards and acclaim.
Specials for local Residents are available
Cozumel Worship Services in English
I need reader input on additional church services. Bad news for our Catholic readers, the Priest that spoke English at San Miguel got transferred. I will make some inquiries as to how to get another English speaking Priest on the island, but in the meantime, no Mass in English.
Most of us that live here have the information important to us at our fingertips, it is very important to share with those that do not have access to the information. but visitors really need our help. Please help us help them!
Ebenezer Presbyterian Church
30th Ave. at 10th Street North
Services in English every Sundays at 9 a.m.
Jesus es Rey Bible Church
Corner of Ave. 95 y Calle 39.
Services in English will be at 10 a.m.
CHABAD of Cozumel
5th Avenue between Juarez and first
Second Floor PLAZA DEL SOL close to the San Miguel Pier
US Phone +1 (305) 432-2406 or +1 (770) 666-5428
Mexico Cell Phone: +521 (987) 111-9715 or +521 (987) 117-9518
Kabbalat Shabbat Friday night: Sunset
Is your place of worship not listed? Please contact me with the information!
The Sun Garage Sale
The Sun Garage Sale, formerly known as “The On-Going Garage Sale” was started as a means to collect gently used clothing and goods to be donated to the poor and/or sold at low cost to raise funds for our many projects in Las Fincas and our immediate neighborhood.
We have donated or sold the majority of the second hand clothing and articles we collected in 2016. Our garage sales will resume again next month, and need your donations. Please consider dropping off the items you no longer use or need at our home/store #1081 35 Avenida between Calles 17 & 15 Bis. You can also call at 987-118-4453 or 987-120-5902 to arrange a pick up at your home. All Clothing, Housewares, Furniture, Appliances, etc. will be greatly appreciated. Your donations or proceeds from your donations are guaranteed to go towards a family in need or to a good cause.
Papeleria Mama Lilly
School and Office supplies, copies, printing, laminating,
scanning, and binding. Gifts and Novelty Items. Computer Access,
Calls to Mexico, U.S, and Canada. We provide Facturas, and
deliver to your home, business, or office.
AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE!
We Speak English!
Telephone: 987-120-5903
EMAIL: mapapeleria@outlook.com
06:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday
08:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Saturday
08:00 a.m. – 09:30 a.m. Sunday
11:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m. Sunday
https://www.facebook.com/papeleriamamalilly/
35 Avenida Sur Entre Calles 17 y 15 Bis
Colonia Independencia (Near the Independencia Sports Center)
Cozumel Ladies Breakfast
For the next 3 weeks (Feb 8, 15 & 22) we will be at a new place for this group…. Casa Cuzamil on Av 5 Sur between Salas and Calle 3. See photo of menu and of the front of the restaurant. Please note that we are at the tables located upstairs.
The Manager is offering us a great special for only $70 pesos. Check out the attached photo. The picture shows bacon but you can have sausage instead. They are the link kind like Jimmy Dean sausages.
Parking is a bit of a challenge. There is some street parking on Av 5 but it is very limited. There is a parking lot on Calle 3 between 10 and 5 and another one on Calle 5 next to the hospital between Av 5 & Melgar.
Our group meets every Wednesday. In addition to meeting wonderful Ladies from all over the world, the breakfast club is an excellent source of information gathering and networking. Breakfasts are informative and FUN! All Women are welcome to join us, even if you are just visiting our beautiful Island.
If you wish to be placed on the mailing list, contact: Betty Li at cozumel.ladies.breakfast@gmail.com
Cozumel Emergency Numbers
Emergency 911
24 Hour Doctor 872-0103
Dentist 872-0808
Hyperbaric Chamber 872-0103
Hyperbaric Chamber 872-3070
Police 872-0092
Red Cross 872-1058
Taxi Cab 872-0236
Taxi Cab 872-0041
U.S. Consulate 872-4574
U.S Consulate 872-6152
U.S. Consulate 044- 987-121-0323
Please send me your Consulate’s Number if other than US!
Corrections? Additions? Please Let Me Know so I can share!
(+52) 987-989-6414 OR (+52) 987-112-3376 U.S.
Direct Line to Mexico (817) 231-0690
Cozumel Carnival 2017 Schedules
