Forget about your GPA and pack a bag, buy a plane ticket, and spend this spring break in Cozumel – with wild waves, adventure around every corner, and loud parties. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime surrounded with your best friends, as I (21-year-old that has done most of these activities in the past, therefore can confidently recommend them) list some of the essentials of a Cozumel spring break escapade. Let me break it down for you- what to do, where to go to, what you need!!!

Before we make plans at the island, let’s start off by making sure we have everything we need:

1. Passport and Documentation:

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
• Make photocopies of important documents, including your passport, in case of loss.

2. Health Precautions:

• Purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. It’s fun to travel, but let’s also stay safe.

3. Packing Tips:

• Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as Cozumel has a tropical climate.
• Bring swimwear, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen for days spent outside.
• Include comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.
   

What to do?

Now let’s start making plans, starting off with the ocean. It's not just there for Instagram photo ops; it's the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers. Snorkeling (In a party boat with cool drinks that visit some of the best stops)? Check. Surfing lessons? Double-check. Remember, the ocean is your friend until you realize you’re sunburnt, in which case embrace the tan and remember that protecting the reefs by not using sunscreen IS what cool people do!
 

My personal opinion is; when it comes to snorkeling, anything goes. I highly recommend snorkeling by pangas because they’re smaller and the vibes are cooler, plus they’re faster, which means more time spent at El Cielito (Meaning, more drinks). Another cool option could be the Aquadream Catamarán, it’s huge, there’s plenty of space for dancing, and you get access to Playa Mía Beach Club afterwards (with a yummy lunch). This are both perfect options if you’re coming from Playa del Carmen or Cancun, but it’s important to remember that drinking should only be done AFTER snorkeling.

If you aren’t interest in swimming and want to remain on land, perhaps the tour “Buggy Adventure to Punta Sur” will be the best choice. It has that edge, you get to blast music while riding across the island, plus you get to have fun at Uvas Beach Club after (It has a cool pool, tasty drinks, perfect vibes).

Some other activities that are a little bit out there but might be just perfect for adventurous souls would be parasailing, I haven’t done it yet because heights terrify me, but I can see it being exciting for those that aren’t scaredy cats. Another option would be booking a spot for the Atlantis Submarine, this I've done in the past and I highly recommend if you aren't afraid of small spaces, especially since they currently have an amazing deal for spring breakers!!!

Where to go to? Party Party Party

If you and your people are more so looking for Cozumel's vibrant nightlife, I’d recommend heading to The Money Bar Beach Club for an unforgettable blend of lively music, drinks, and an amazing atmosphere with direct access to the crystal-clear waters of Cozumel. Another great options could be Hemmingway, Señor Frog’s, Thirsty Cougar, Buccanos, or the extremely selective and well-hidden Asteria Nightclub (That is if you find its location).

You can also have an amazing time at any Beach Club or Beach Hotel (El Cid la Ceiba, Tortugas Beach Club, Barracuda Hotel, Playa Uvas Beach Club, Mr. Sancho’s, Paradise Beach, Park Royal Hotel, etc.). Most of this will offer some activities, they have open bars, and you can purchase an all-inclusive ticket for some of these.

What to Bring? Sunscreen – No, seriously: You might think your SPF-2 tanning oil is a great idea until you resemble a lobster desperately searching for aloe vera. Bring SPF that's higher than your expectations for a burn-free holiday. REMEMBER though, sunscreen can’t be worn when going into the ocean because it’s terrible for the reefs. Cash: Even though multiple places in Cozumel accept cards, smaller stores or many tour providers will only accept cash. I recommend having some Mexican pesos with you, but US dollars will be perfect as well. Driver’s License: This is important for those awarded the title of designated drivers, if you’re planning on renting a vehicle or participate in an activity with them, you must carry your driver’s license. An ID: Maybe you aren’t the designated driver, and you’re visiting Mexico for its known party culture, if that is the case, this is something you don’t want to leave at home. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old, but it won’t be confirmed by simply checking you out, so don’t ruin your spring break plans and come well prepared.

Pack your sense of adventure, spend all your hard-earned money that your parents will tell you should go towards a savings account (And they’re probably right but, who can afford a house nowadays anyway?), leave your inhibitions at the airport, and dive headfirst into the wild world of a spring break at Cozumel. Go on and make questionable life choices in a tropical paradise (All in accordance to the law, please bring your ID’s!!!)- You have my blessing.

Bee Díaz