Insect Repellant on Western?

[wendyk]

Hi Everyone:

Do we need insect repellant for our Western cruise? We will be leaving in 2 weeks.

Thanks,
Wendy

 

[Lloyd Dobler]

I guess it depends on what you plan to do in port. In my experience, if you stay near the beaches, you probably will not. However, if you plan to visit the ruins in Mexico, you'll definitely need it.

 

[jiminyC_fan]

Definitely bring it to the beach. DD got bit so bad that her legs turned into welts.

 

[pdarrah]

It really depends on what you are planning to do on shore. We were on the Western in October and DEFINITELY used repellent when we went to some Mayan ruins (Due to hurricane Ivan, we were at Costa Maya). If you plan to stay right in town at Key West and Cozumel, you probably don't need any. In tropical areas, if you are going into a more "natural" area, it is probably a good idea.

pdarrah

 

[wendyk]

Sandy:

Which beach were you at?

We are planning going to 7 mile beach in GC and Paradise Beach on Coz. No ruins tour. Does CC have bugs this time of year?

Thanks,
Wendy

 

[Lloyd Dobler]

I've never had a problem with bugs at Castaway Cay at any time of year. I'm told that after the sun goes down, they are a problem.

I guess I should have added to my original post that the need for bug spray probably depends a lot on the person. Some people just attract bugs for some reason and probably need it in most places. "Off" makes a combination sunscreen and bug repellant, which might be an option. I'd say to err on the side of caution and bring it, especially if you tend to be a "bug person."

I personally had no problems with bugs at 7 Mile Beach. I've never been to Paradise Beach while in Cozumel.

 

[spotdog]

If you go to Chankanaab on Cozumel you definately want some sort of mosquitoe protection. The park was interesting and pretty, but the mosquitoes were fierce.

I also got a jellyfish sting while snorkeling there. It hurt like a mild bee sting and I swam ashore and found a lifegaurd immediately, since I am allergic to bee stings. The lifequard reassured me that not many people are allergic and sprayed vinegar on it. I sat in front of the gaurd station for a while and I was fine and snorkeling again in about twenty minutes.

I have heard rumors that there is something that repels jellyfish and sea lice. Does this repel mosquitoes, too?