Escaping to the island of women

By Matthew Bossons [travel bureau chief]

Isla Mujeres, or the Island of Women in English, is a small island a half-hour ferry ride from Cancun. The island is tiny, but that is what makes it a prime destination for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of Cancun and enjoy a far more laid back style of life.

With a population of only 11,147, according to the 2005 Mexican Census, this remains a place for people who long to experience quiet beaches and sample what locals refer to as the ‘island vibe.’

Guests to Isla Mujeres can expect a variety of activities other then sunbathing to be available, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep sea fishing. You can also swim with dolphins or visit the sea turtle sanctuary where injured turtles are rehabilitated.

A favourite way to explore the island is by golf-cart. Since the island is so small, (only seven kilometres) long, golf-carts are by-far the most commonly used vehicle on the island. It maybe a bit more expensive then walking, but split the rental costs between a few people and it becomes a great way to quickly see the island.

I used my cart to drive the length of the island, going down the west side of the island and back up the east side; stopping at beaches, bars and restaurants along the way.

The beaches on the west side are sandy, sheltered and calm because they face away from the open ocean. In contrast the beaches on the east side of the island  consistently see large waves rolling in over jagged rocks and limestone. Large cliffs also line the east side of the island creating some of the most breathtaking landscapes in all the Yucatan.

The downtown centre of Isla Mujeres, located at the north end of the island, is full of activity. Because the ferry docks are located there, it is the port virtually all traffic on the island goes through. This is also where the majority of the shops, bars, clubs, restaurants, hostels and hotels are located. A variety of beachfront seafood joints line the town’s waterfront, offering great deals on fresh seafood.

Although most tourists come to Isla Mujeres as a day trip from their all-inclusive holidays in Cancun, I highly recommend hanging around for a night or two to experience the nightlife. The island offers a surprising number of nightclubs and bars for such a small place. It’s home to seven clubs and bars. My personal favourite is Nitrox, a club located about a ten minute walk from the main ferry docks.

There are a few large resorts popping up on Isla Mujeres, but there is no better place on the island for the adventurous soul then Poc-Na.

Poc-Na is a backpackers hostel with a fantastic international crowd. It is beachfront, with two bars, one inside the building and the other located on the beach. The hostel also has a simple restaurant, single rooms, dorms, and a small campground on the beach.

Regardless of whether you stay on Isla Mujeres for a day, a week or a month, all will agree that this island fits well with the definition of paradise. The islands variety of beautiful beaches, cheap restaurants and accommodation and the laid back attitude that comes with it are all attractions worth seeing.