Cozumel Ironman & $$$

Triathlon Forum
1

O.K Flights & hotels are all booked for my first ever trip to the USA & then Mexico.

1 week Cozumel & then 2 weeks in Cancun before heading to LA & Vegas.

I was just wondering if I should take US dollars & change them over once in Mexico.

Other Ironman races I have done (Australia) the price of offical clothing is around $60 to $90 a shirt is it the same in Mexico?

I was also wondering how much I will need to budget for spending money in Mexico? Is it really as cheap as people say.

Any other tips for Mexico - travelling with with & 7 year old daughter & my wife.

2

Also wondering about getting Co2 cartridges on the Island

& Did anyone use the VIP tent for supporters on race day?

3

I have been to Cozumel several times and have never seen a Peso. Everything on the island is priced in Dollars. Cancun will be the same way.

4

Also wondering about getting Co2 cartridges on the Island

& Did anyone use the VIP tent for supporters on race day?

  1. The clothes were very expensive, I did not buy any
  2. CO2 were easily available at the expo, do not remember the pricing, maybe about 2 bucks each (I bought 2), nothing insane
5

I live in mexico and while the dollar used to be very accepted business owners are put into difficulty changing them at the banks (due to money laundering controls) and are limited on how much they can change/month. It is VERY easy to use pesos here. Just go to the ATM and withdraw them. I have all my money in a US bank account and we’ve been living here for 4 years using the ATM to get money. Do not use credit cards here. I would not bring US dollars down at all - there will be an ATM at the airport or you can wait until you get to town (I think the airport ATM charges a hefty fee). We also have ATMs at all grocery stores. Dunno about prices of official clothing. Budget depends on whether you are spendy and want “American” stuff or are frugal.

6

Why would you not use a CC? Normally you get the best exchange rate from a CC.

Can’t wait to come home to Cozumel…

7

Why would you not use a CC? Normally you get the best exchange rate from a CC.

Can’t wait to come home to Cozumel…

Is that a joke? My credit card charges crazy fees by bumping up the FX rate.

8

Well, they don’t like Canadian dollars. So either bring US$ or Pesos. I normally bring $100 in US$ and some pesos as well, getting them at the bank here. Then I use my debit card in a hotel to replenish my supply. Depending upon how much I am spending per day, I will get up to a week’s supply of money at a time. That way only paying exchange and ATM fees once a week.

T-Shrts are 3 for $10. At the more touristy places you will pay $20 for the 3. I haven’t been there during IM but I imagine that you will pay the usual IM prices for stuff.

When shopping, you need to remember that the price is what the would like, the will always negotiate. You can get stuff for 30% of their first quote sometimes. Other times they won’t go as low.

Cervasas are inexpensive. Food prices depend upon where you go with the trendier places charging more.

Remember to relax. The concept of time is not quite the same in Mexico. Do not know where you are staying in Cozumel but expect to so some walking. If you want to get around to see things, rent a scooter.

Have fun.

9

“rent a scooter” or a car for that matter is not sound…My family and I have been going to Coz for about 20 years now. Driving anything is at your own risk. If you get into an accident you better speak fluilent spanish or you’ll be blind sided…and could find yourself in jail. Mexican Law is a little different…trust me, take a cab, walk or ride your bike.