Triathlon Cozumel - sports destination in the Mexican Caribbean!

Triathlon Cozumel - Sports destination in the Caribbean!

Since Ironman arrived in Cozumel in 2009, the transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. It's been a few years, and the impact on our island community has been undeniably positive.

Today, you can spot local athletes diligently training year-round, a stark contrast to the past when our beautiful sports complexes were eerily quiet. Even when there are no major sports events scheduled, dedicated athletes still flock to our island for training.

What's driving this enthusiasm? It's the sheer beauty of Cozumel. The opportunity to pedal alongside stunning sunsets and the mesmerizing turquoise waters on the other side of the island is a draw for many. Triathletes, in particular, can't resist the allure of swimming in our crystal-clear ocean waters.

My husband was among those inspired by this new athletic energy. Having already completed four Ironman events and a couple of half Ironmans, he encouraged me to take up swimming. Ten years ago, I couldn't even swim a mere 25 meters across a pool. But today, open water swimming has become my passion, and I've even secured a few podium finishes.

Our 13-year-old son, Lucas, is no stranger to the world of triathlons either. He has been participating in a couple of Iron Kid events – a testament to the way these athletic pursuits have taken root in our family.

Cozumel now hosts a series of high-profile triathlon events, including Oceanman and the meticulously organized Grand Fondo Cozumel this coming weekend. The island also welcomes international competitions like the Cozumel ITU Triathlon World Cup, Ironman 70.3, and Ironman 140.6. In fact, my husband is gearing up to participate in his fifth full Ironman in the upcoming event in November 2023.
He is dedicating each kilometer he participates in to support a noble cause: helping 5-year-old Archangel in his journey to recovery from encephalitis. If you'd like to learn more and potentially become a sponsor, please don't hesitate to reach out for additional information.

Secure your vacation rental for you and your family

What's interesting is that my involvement in the triathlete community has evolved in an unexpected way. I've become something of a vacation rental mother for triathletes. Over the years, athletes from all over Mexico and the world have reached out to me to find the best properties for their visits – properties that would help them create lasting memories with their families.

I've become an expert in assessing the practicality of rental accommodations for triathletes.
- Is your rental convenient for your family to watch you Swim/Bike/Run?
- What are the logistics on event day?
- Where can you grab a quick meal or get a last-minute bike fix?
- What about the currents in specific areas for swimming?

If you're in need of accommodations for your event, rest assured, I've got you covered. I have a wealth of options that cater to the needs of triathletes and their families. And If you happen to spot me in the swim, I always carry spare goggles – just in case.

For those considering living and training in Cozumel, you might want to take a look at Casa Hacienda. It's conveniently located near two prominent sports facilities and just a three-minute bike ride (or less, depending on the traffic lights) from the municipal pool.

Move to Cozumel

Move to Cozumel - What You Need to Know When Moving to Cozumel

Moving to Cozumel is bound to bring feelings of excitement and anticipation. Your new home is a tropical paradise surrounded by the warm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean, teeming with colorful life. A place where you’ll find adventure and beauty, delicious food, and a friendly community.

But what do you need to know as you make the transition? Here are some key things to keep in mind.

Before you move

Before you pack your bags to move to Cozumel, what should you do?

Visa or no visa?

If you are not a Mexican citizen and want to stay in the country for longer than 180 days without leaving, you’ll need to apply for a temporary or permanent residency visa. In most cases, you will need to submit your application from outside of Mexico at a Mexican consulate.
Additionally, if you plan to work in Mexico, you will also have to gain permission to do so along with your residency. It’s a good idea to submit your application at least a month in advance.
Learn more about Mexico Visa and Residency Information

Many of our clients come in and out on a tourist Visa as well, so just choose what is best for your personal situation.

Where will you live?

Cozumel has a wide variety of housing from modern oceanfront condos and homes to beautiful traditional homes in the heart of the city.
Some families may want to start out their stay at one of Cozumel’s many hotels or AirBnbs and from there you can you can start your search for a rent long-term or buy. Just keep in mind that during high season monthly rentals tend to be hard to find.
You can start your search online for a monthly rental. Check the different real estate pages and Facebook rental pages if you are looking for that rental.

If you want to learn more about the island’s neighborhoods and homes, contact our team ahead of your move.
With over 18 years of experience in Cozumel, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for you.

Bring vs. buy

Next, what will you bring with you when you move to the island? Cozumel and the neighboring cities of Cancun and Playa del Carmen have a wide range of stores to purchase pretty much anything you need from furniture and vehicles to sporting equipment. The question is, what can’t you part with from your home? Make a list of your must-haves. If you decide to keep more than you can bring via your mode of transportation to Cozumel, you will have to consider the shipping process and costs for your items. If you have any questions about the availability of products or services in the area, don’t hesitate to ask!

Brush up on your Spanish

While many people speak English in Cozumel, Spanish is the language of the island. You will be better able to get to know people, do business, and enjoy the depth of the community with the ability to speak at least some Spanish.
Plus, you’ll have a lot more fun once you can partake in the local humor.

Plan how to get here

Cozumel has an international airport so you can fly directly to the island. However, flights into Cancun, are often less expensive.

If you choose to fly to Cancun, you can then catch a puddle-jumper flight to Cozumel or you can do what many call the “bag drag,” The bag drag is where you drive, taxi, or hire a private transfer to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (1-hour drive) and then take a ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel.
You can opt for the 35-or-so-minute ride on the passenger ferry or, if you have a vehicle, the hour-long ride on the car ferry.

Moving day to Cozumel

The big day!

Moving day can be hectic between travel, immigration, customs, and adjusting to new surroundings. Multiply that if children are in tow.

One thing to remember when you arrive in Mexico and go through immigration is to make sure that you are admitted according to your proper status. If you are entering on a tourist visa, you’ll fill out the visitor’s permit (FMM) and get a stamp. However, if you have been preapproved for residency and have a resident visa stamp, you will show that to the immigration officer. Ensure they tick “canje” on your FMM form and not “visitante.’

After that, you’ll go through customs and then will be on your way.

Once you arrive on the island and unload all of your luggage into your home, be sure to unwind after the long day. A cocktail at sunset usually does the trick! Luckily, in Cozumel, you will be greeted with many restaurants serving delicious dishes and cold cervezas, or whatever your refreshment of choice may be.

Settling in

Most who arrive feel excited to finally be in Cozumel for good and will want to get acquainted or re-acquainted with their new home. We encourage you to take a drive around the island to take in both the city and the wild side. Enjoy a few meals out, go for a swim, and meet some people around town. Once you’ve given the island a proper greeting, it’s time to start settling into daily life. Here are some of the top-of-list necessities.

Legal status

If you are going to stay in Mexico on a temporary or permanent residency visa (aka you are not a Mexican citizen and are not staying in Mexico on a 180-day tourist visa), you’ll need to establish your legal status in the country. Once here, you’ll need to visit the immigration office on the island (Instituto Nacional de Migración or INM) within 30 days to complete the process, exchanging your temporary visa passport stamp for your resident permit (a plastic card). It’s on the corner of Calle 5 Sur and 15a Avenida Sur.

**Tip: Local discounts: Once you have your resident card, you can use it to get discounts around town.

Head over to the Fundacion De Parques Y Museos De Cozumel (FPMC) and you can get a local discount card that gets you free entrances into Chankanaab, Punta Sur Eco Park, San Gervasio Archeological Site, and the Island’s Museum.

Show your card when eating at many restaurants to get a local discount.

Visit the office of the ferry company of your choice and apply for the local discount plan (e.g.Ultramar. Winjet)

Transportation

While Cozumel is a small island (about 30 miles long and 10 miles wide), it’s not that small. You’ll likely prefer having transportation of some sort.

You can get a bicycle which can be a great mode of transportation around town. A ride to the “other side” is at least 9 miles so that can be a trek if you aren’t looking for a workout. But it can be a great way to run to the store or meet a friend. Bikes are sold at full-service local bike shops like Ciclismo Sport as well as at most large grocery stores. You can also find many for sale by locals in the Facebook Marketplace.

Mopeds and motorcycles are other popular options, you could opt for an off-road vehicle, or, of course, you can buy a full-size vehicle from a private owner or from a dealer. Cozumel has Nissan, Chevrolet, and Volkswagen dealerships, and you cross over to Playa del Carmen for a wider selection. If you aren’t ready to buy, you can also rent from various local companies.

Additionally, there is public transportation in Cozumel via bus (Uniper), taxis, and the “colectivos” (a system of vans that follow routes each day transporting people to and from stops).

Groceries

Ready to load up your new fridge? You will have many grocery stores to choose from. The largest stores are Mega by Soriana, the Chedrauis, Aurora Bodega, and Sam’s Club. However, there are many smaller markets around town. In time, you’ll likely find the one you like best.

If you are looking for more imported items, your best bets are the stores closest to the cruise ports, Chedraui and Mega on Melgar. Sam’s Club also has many imported items and sells in bulk. All your normal produce, meats, and pantry staples are available at all the stores. You’ll also often see fresh ripe fruits along the roadside such as papayas, mangoes, pineapples, and watermelons.

Activities and people

Cozumel has a very active community with events going on year-round. Almost any night of the week, you can find a restaurant hosting live music or a park full of food vendors and attractions. You will also find groups of locals who plan meetups regularly from women’s and men’s breakfasts to plant-based cooking circles to groups meeting for cocktails and dinners.

Then there are large annual events. Carnavale brings weeks of fun capped off by the three-night parade down Melgar in February-March (dates vary each year). Independence Day, Day of the Dead, and Christmas bring more community celebrations. Further, there are annual fishing tournaments throughout the year, and the must-see turtle nesting and hatching happens each year on the east side.

The island is also home to a variety of programs where you can learn anything from scuba diving and surfing to robotics and karate. Stay up to date with the latest happenings on local Facebook groups.

Unwind

Next, as you settle in, allow yourself to adjust to the slower pace of island life. Take the time to say hello, to have a chat, and to share a meal. Go for a swim in the ocean,

take a nap in a hammock, and pick up a new hobby. People aren’t as wound up or in a rush here as in many parts of the world, and it can be rejuvenating.

Finding a forever home in Cozumel

Lastly, many islanders first move to the island and rent, giving them time to learn about the island and where they would like to live permanently. If you fall in love with Cozumel and decide you want to make it your forever home, our team can help you find a beautiful property that meets all your needs and wants.

We look forward to welcoming you to Cozumel!

Congratulations on your decision to move to Cozumel!
It is the beginning of a grand adventure, I can promise you that. Cozumel is a place where you can live a life of adventure, close to nature, that awakens the spirit and inspires health and happiness.

Karen Bloemhoff of Karen Cozumel Real Estate made the move to Cozumel over 15 years ago and never looked back.
She has been helping the community to buy and sell their homes for over a decade and knows the island inside and out.
If you have any questions or concerns during your moving process, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Drop us a line today!

Have a look at all our listings for sale and for rent

Hope to see you in Paradise soon!

Article written by Jessica Walrack

Retire in Cozumel Mexico

Top 10 Reasons to Retire in Cozumel

Cozumel, Mexico is on many people’s radar when they are considering where to retire, and for good reason!
It’s a beautiful Caribbean island just 12 miles off the shore of Playa del Carmen and an hour South of Cancun by car. While being so close to these bigger cities, Cozumel and its population of about 100,000 people feels worlds away.

retire in Cozumel

As soon as you walk along the Malecon, have a bite to eat, and chat with a few locals, I challenge you not to fall in love! We call it the “Cozumel fever” and it makes you never want to leave.
Why is this place so appealing?
While there are many reasons, I have narrowed it down to these top 10:

1 - The Weather

Dreaming of a place you can wear shorts and a t-shirt all year? Cozumel is it! January is the coldest month with an average low of 66.9°F and an average high of 83.5°F. The hottest month is August when the low is 74.3°F and the high is 91.4°F. So temperatures stay pleasant and comfortable!

We do have a rainy season from May to October (precipitation levels range from 4 to 10 inches per month), which keeps the island green and lively.
But even when it rains, it’s still warm!

weather in Cozumel

Source: The National Climatic Data Center

2 - Affordable Living

You can stretch your income further here than in many cities in the U.S. and Canada. While it is a town that thrives on tourism and has tourist prices for some things, you can quickly learn how and where to get local prices. Plus, local cards are available so you can get discounts on the ferry, at several parks, and at some beach clubs and restaurants.

When it comes to the cost to rent or buy a home, we can help you to find the perfect fit that matches your preferences and budget.
Further, property taxes are very low which helps to cut costs (i.e., a 3-bedroom home would have approx. $400 per year in property taxes). And services like water, gas, and electricty (if you do NOT use your air conditioner 24/7) are very affordable.

3 - Good Healthcare

The island is also home to great English-speaking hospitals, medical specialists, and dental care. Many tourists come here specifically for the affordable medical services as they can offer a comparable quality of care at a fraction of the cost.

retire cozumel healthcare

courtesy of Costamed

4 - Lots of Restaurants

Cozumel is a foodie’s dream destination!! It’s hard to believe how many great restaurants are tucked into this ten by 30-mile piece of land, with most of them in the main town of San Miguel.

Expat entrepreneurs come from all over the world (Greece, India, the U.S., Italy, Indonesia, Argentina, and more) and they bring their cooking styles and flavors with them.

retire cozumel food at buccanos

picture courtesy of Buccanos

And then, of course, there’s the irresistible local Mexican food! From taco carts to fine dining, it’s all good in its own right and can suit any budget. Pick up an empanada, churro, or torta while driving through town, or stop in a restaurant for a hearty plate of nachos, tacos with an array of salsas, lobster tail, or chicken mole.

restaurants cozumel

Is your mouth-watering yet? It will take you years to try all of the restaurant on the island, and the journey will be a tasty one! Oh, and there are delivery services so any dish you want can be brought to your doorstep.

5 - Friendly Community

How about the people? Cozumel is a very warm and friendly place where English is commonly spoken. Uncharacteristic of a tourist hotspot, it still has a small town charm to it. A large part of that comes from the locals who are very family-oriented. Further, many of the expats make lifelong friends that become like family. And everyone comes together for community events such as the IronMan triathlon, Day of the Dead, and Carnaval.
There’s a feeling of looking out for each other that you don’t get in many bigger cities.

retire in Cozumel

6 - Easy Access for Family Visits

Next, Cozumel isn’t far from the U.S. or Canada, which makes family visits more convenient. That’s a good thing too because the island is great for entertaining guests! After they come once, they’ll want to come again and again. It’s also in a good location for traveling to other countries.

Note: There is an international airport on the island, small planes go between the Cancun and Cozumel airports, and a ferry goes between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen after which you can take ground transportation to the Cancun airport.

7 - Beautiful Beaches

Looking for a place to put your feet in the sand? There are many beautiful beaches to choose from!

On the West side, you’ll find a number of beach clubs where you can spend the day lounging in a chair, snorkeling, and ordering food and drinks. (See Buccanos, Mr. Sanchos or Paradise for example).
Or, if you prefer open public beaches, you can pack up your towels, snacks, drinks, and chairs and head to the East side. Be sure to check out Chen Rio and San Martin.

8 - Interesting Culture

The local culture is a mix of traditional ancient Mayan, modern Mexican, and modern Caribbean with influences from the island’s millions of yearly visitors.
You’ll experience it when tasting the local food, living amongst local families, partaking in holiday celebrations, visiting island attractions (such as the San Gervasio ruins and Kun Che park), and shopping for souvenirs (stone carvings, painted wooden masks, handmade leather bags, pottery, terracotta figurines, hammocks). Have fun learning about a different and beautiful way of life!

reviews

9 - The Arts

Something about being near the ocean seems to bring out the artistic side in people, and Cozumel is no exception. The island and its surrounding areas are home to many very talented artists; notably musicians and painters.
As you roam the streets of the island, you will come across eye-catching murals painted on the sides of walls and buildings. mural cozumel

There are also many amazing local artists I have featured here on my blog which you can hire to create pieces for your home such as Peter Terrin, Pedro Fonseco, and Carina Barbachano.
And keep an eye out for art exhibitions as we have those regularly! art mexico

As for the music lovers out there, you can find live music throughout town every night of the week, whether it’s at a restaurant, at a bar, or in the city square.

10 - Recreational and Sporting Activities

Lastly, how can you spend your free time here? Many people are attracted to the beautiful turquoise water surrounding the island.

retire in Cozumel

With water temperatures ranging from 79°F (26°C ) to 84°F (29°C), you can comfortably swim year round. And, Cozumel’s Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the second largest coral reef in the world, so snorkeling and scuba diving are a big deal around here! retire in Cozumel golf

Picture courtesy of Benny Campos

Additionally, many locals enjoy cycling, golf, tennis, cooking classes, dance classes, yoga, paddleboarding, fishing, surfing, sailing, triathlons and much more.

thriathlon in Cozumel

sports Cozumel

Enjoy Retirement in Cozumel; You Deserve It!

It’s no wonder why so many people are choosing Cozumel as their retirement landing spot. It has everything you need and more, from the must-haves like a good infrastructure, affordability, healthcare, and safety, to the fun stuff like an interesting culture, a wide range of restaurants, friendly people from all over the world, and lots to do.

retire Cozumel

Throughout all these years selling real estate here, I’ve watched a vibrant retirement community blossom; one where people are active in TONS of activities that keep them young and happy. The island is a place to truly make the most of your life and I personally hope my future retirement in Cozumel looks like what I see around me daily of the retirees already here!

To learn more about how to make this dream a reality, reach out to Karen or to our team.

We help people join the Cozumel community every day, and I have gone through the process of buying and building myself!
I will help to answer any questions you have and can also get started on the process of finding your perfect home.

Drop me a line today to get started!

Have you felt the magic Cozumel has to offer? Share your favorite thing about the island below!

Pictures Cozumel Courtesy of Mik n Drik Photograpy