Western Carribean...Carnival Glory.

[dbug]

We are sailing out on Sept 22, 2007 on the Carnival Glory. We want to go snorkeling. Which port would be the best for first time snorkeling and which has the best shopping? Belize, Cozumel, or Costa Maya? Which Mayan ruins would be the best to visit?

[penny3333]

Xel-ha is a great place to snorkel. Tulum ruins are really interesting and it is a beautiful setting. What would you be shopping for? Mexico has good prices for pottery, silver, and alcohol. Haven't been to Belize, so not sure about the prices there. Most of the posts seem to enjoy cave tubing in Belize. Have a wonderful cruise!

[Jim C.]

I agree with penny that Cozumel is best for snorkling and for the ruins.. wait for Belize. The "good" ruins in Cozumel require you to go the the mainland which causes the excursion to fill your whole day. Belize has good snorkeling but you never get into port (they pick you up from the ship). So I would recommend doing the snorkeling in Cozumel so you have time to see the city after.

[swimmersonboard]

I agree with Jim. We went snorkeling in Belize on our last trip because the kids weren't old enough to go Cave Tubing. It was great and beautiful but we did not have time to go into town like he said. We are going again in March and I can't wait to actually go into the city because everyone says its so pretty.

[dbug]

Thank you all for your advice. From what I hvae seen of the cave tubing in Belize, it seems they are long trips. We want to be able to see some of the sights and do some shopping also. Any advice on Costa Maya?