CMATT: According to the book I have, things aren't necessarily cheap in Cozumel. A single roll of film was $9 at the International Pier, if that tells you anything.
"You can walk from the pier at Muelle Fiscal to the best shops in San Miguel. Because of the influx of cruise ship passengers, prices are reletively high here, but you can and should bargain."
It goes on to say that Silver jewelry is big business there, "... but again, don't expect to pay peanuts for it."
"Casablanca, Avendida Rafael Melgar 33 (located in front of the International Pier), has a fine selection of Mexican jewelry and loose stones, plus a well-chosen collection of Mexican crafts."
One shop they do suggest for souveniers is Viva Mexico in San Miguel.
From a web site (
A Site on Shopping in Cozumel):
The best shops in Cozumel are located in San Miguel's waterfront area and on the Malecon (seaside promenade). This area contains a vast selection of items, everything from upscale crystal and resort wear stores to quality Mexican goods. In addition to the shops along the waterfront, make sure you explore the side streets to find the unique independent stores. At the main square, you'll find Plaza del Sol, a public market. Nearby are two mini-malls, also.
By shopping carefully, jewelry fashioned with Mexican silver and turquoise can be good buys. When buying sterling silver, always make sure you see "925" stamped on the item. Gold items should be stamped with a set of two numbers and two letters (in any combination). This ensures the highest quality of metal.
There is one thing you should be aware of when shopping in Cozumel: although the island is famous for its beautiful black coral carvings and jewelry, it is banned in the United States because harvesting coral is extremely detrimental to the reefs. It takes hundreds of years to build coral reefs like the ones you'll see if you go scuba diving. If you buy any in Cozumel, it will be confiscated at customs when you come back to the States and you may be fined.
From yet another site (
Yet Another Site Shopping in Cozumel):
Most of the places on the waterfront won't bargain, however, and because waterfront rents are so high, that's going to be reflected in the prices. For the best deals stroll down the side streets and up as far as around Avenida 15 and look for the same type items you liked on the waterfront. You're likely to find them here at much more reasonable prices. What's more, the shopkeepers will be more willing to bargain--especially if it's a family-owned establishment.
Hope this helps!
- Jim
. I was thinking of hitting Downtown Disney, but not sure what to do with the bags - will they let us check them that early?
took a 3 hour tour ended up on Gilligans Island 
ha ha 
