OK. One of the first things to remember is that the list on the planning site represents all possible shore-ex but not all entries may be available on a given cruise. Pick more than one per port and prioritize. Unless you are Platinum (and sometimes even if you are), some of the events can fill up fast. Secondarily, pick at least one day and stay on the boat in port. It's a great experience, moreso at some ports than others (dependent on port popularity), especially at the pools.
Also important.
YMMV. What you like is a very personal thing to you and not all shore-ex appeals to all types. They are definitely not all created equal. More $$ does not always mean a better experience. And if you are really into shopping, pay attention to the shopping lectures. I really can't recommend anythings associated with Diamonds International but they'll have other info per port that will allow you to plan a little on the fly if you want to spend money.
Cabo - We're too early for whale watching. Salsa & Salsa is VERY popular and fills up fast. There are several dolphin and beach adventures but remember this is the Pacific in November and the water will be pretty cool. I've talked to friends who've done the inland trips (canyons and camels) and they've had lots of fun. DW and I use Cabo for our our shopping. There are lots of place right on the water and one block back that allows us to kill some time and get in a good walk.
PV - Unless you really want some Clamato juice or a Bimbo cake from
Walmart, don't go there. Amend-maybe if you need adult beverages. Depending on which dock we use, it can be a walk (and it's just a silly Walmart). Again, dolphins are a big thing. And there's usually a couple other wildlife-style adventures.
Warning: You may be VERY unhappy with some of the conditions for the animals at these locations (see existing trip reports). But the 4x4 adventure is fun. And those with kids really like the pirate cruise. However, I will say something unpopular on this board. PV is where we have collected more bad experience stories than most other ports. There's a reason the State Dept lists Jalisco as a Level 3 warning.
Cartagena - I honestly don't have too much info on this. Every time we have hit here, it's been bloomin' hot with humidity to match. Pool time. Maybe November this time will be cooler. Have heard the fortress tour is a good one if you feel like recreating Romancing the Stone. For any of the guided tours, be prepared for a lot of real hard sell pitches.
Georgetown - Water. Clear water. Some of the best snorkeling around. Lots of dolphin and stingray stuff. No real shopping in walking distance. Altho there is a Burger King and a Subway close<G>. But not much else (at least close to the tender dock). Most of the close beach area is for water-based businesses (snorkeling, diving, sub). Don't blink or you'll miss the fort.
Cozumel - Good swimming/beach adventures. We definitely like the shopping here, very walkable. The dune buggies are gone but they have a 4x4/snorkeling thing that's fun. Dolphins again (meh). Not a real fan of the water parks like Xel-Ha (I was very unhappy with the soldiers in camo with automatic weapons in the underbrush guarding the parking lot our last trip there).
