Which port is best for the 5-nights?

[Kesali]

A friend & I can choose either Dominican Daze (Puerto Plata) or Mayan Sol (Costa Maya) and we are trying to figure out which would be best to visit.  There is also a slim chance we may be able to take the last Riviera Maya (Cozumel) in June.  We have not been to any of these places before.  Is one safer than the either?  Cozumel seems to show more to do.  Which would you recommend?

[sid_9169]

Of all the ports in the Caribbean, Cozumel is one of my favorites. I've been there more than a dozen times, and I always look forward to going back...

[SC_GAY_Cruiser]

Also remember if you go to Coz, there is always the option of a ferry to Playa del Carmen and spend the day there with lots of fine places to get authentic mexican food and margaritas.

 

[rbt001]

Costa Maya is my favorite.  But understand that to enjoy Costa Maya, you need to leave the Carnival Corp "complex" at the port to get to the "real" locals.  It's a $2 cab ride that does require pax to exit the Carnival Compound to get a taxi; there's a wide walking path outside the guard gate for the block-long walk to where the taxi's are.  

 

It's a 5 to 7 minute ride over to the  Mahajual Fishing Village with a beautiful beach where there's sandy beaches with plenty of loungers, umbrellas, etc.  Most are free, as long as you eat/drink, wait staff bring it right to you.  There's also plenty of opportunities to get a massage right on the beach.  Best thing to do is ask several how much they charge, then haggle.  There are plenty of vendors peddling their trinkets, as well as shops, restaurants and bars.  I'd suggest walking the whole length to take it in and find what appeals to you first.  Everything is very inexpensive, and they are happy to take US currency.  Some take credit cards, but it's best to have the cash.

 

When you're ready to go back, there are plenty of taxi's for the $2 ride back.  It's a flat per person fee, so they may place you with others.  And for the return, they are permitted to enter the complex, just have your cruise card handy to show the guard.