It's not a question of when to visit Cozumel, it's just a matter of what you want to do when you get here. The weather can make a difference. Winter, December through March, is the most popular time. It rarely rains and averages a gorgeous 85 degrees during the day and 70 at night.

August to September is warmer, about 95 degrees during the day and low 80s at night. But when the temperature goes up, rates go down - for airfare, hotels and more. And divers say the visibility is the best in the summer.

September through November is the rainy season. You can expect high humidity and a shower almost every day. But they don't last. There's plenty of sun to soak up.

Make friends on the island, of course. When the sun goes down, locals come out to shop, dine and socialize. You'll find a warm smile around every corner. Shops stay open until around 9 pm and there are plenty of restaurants open for a late meal or a nightcap. You can also catch live entertainment at some of the hotels.

Dollars are accepted everywhere, but the prices of things will be converted to pesos by rounding up to the nearest peso amount. The exchange rate changes a little each day. There are a few ATMs in town. When you pay for something with dollars, your change will probably be in pesos. Towards the end of the day the business may have collected enough dollars to give change in dollars if you ask for it.

Most of the restaurants and larger stores will accept VISA, Mastercard or American Express. The smaller restaurants and shops might only accept cash (pesos or dollars).

Nothing heavy. It's a tropical climate in every sense so cool and comfortable are key. And if you forget the essentials, like sunscreen, coolers or a great pair of shades, don't worry. Most of it can be bought locally.

Most hotels have it and there are places all over downtown with prices ranging from $1-$5/hour.

We have the same plugs as the US. So if you've got to lug down that hairdryer, you can crank it right up wherever you are on the island.

You don't need a car to get around town. Most places you'll stay are close to the downtown area so it's easy to walk. Taxis are everywhere and inexpensive and the rates are pre-set. If you'd like to rent a car, they're readily available. And relax, driving on the island is easy.

Internet cafes are the most inexpensive option, with rates starting at around 49c/minute. Cell phone service varies and you should check with your provider about roaming charges before you visit.

All air and sea passengers will need a current passport. This requirement applies to all US citizens and includes children and infants. If you are traveling with children and both parents are not traveling together, you'll need a signed and notarized letter from the parent who is not traveling with the child.

Please check the United States State Dept. web page

If you're not sure about your documents, ask your airline or call the Mexican embassy or consulate before you go. On your flight to Mexico, the stewardess will give you an immigration form to fill out. When you get there and go through customs and immigration, the immigration official will stamp your form and give it back to you. Keep it - you will have to turn it in at the airport on your way out.

On average, the island stays around a blissful 80 degrees. The summers are slightly warmer, ranging in the mid 80s to 90s and the winters cool to the mid 70s. It's always a beach day in Cozumel, as the water ranges from a warm 77 to 82 degrees throughout the year.

You can fly directly into Cozumel's International airport. Or, you can fly into Cancun and either take a 15-minute air shuttle to the island or a bus and ferry to Cozumel. It's a short, 45-minute bus ride to Playa del Carmen and a scenic 45-minute ferry ride to Cozumel.