Catherine Ridings of Richboro for The Philadelphia Inquirer October 29th 2006 Just over a year ago, my family and I were looking forward to a vacation at the El Cozumeleno in Cozumel, Mexico. We had never been there, but Cozumel was a top travel destination. I relied heavily on other travelers' reports on tripadvisor.com. Then, on Oct. 21, 2005, category 4 Hurricane Wilma parked herself on top of Cozumel and pounded it for more than 24 hours. In the words of one native, "Not one speck of green was left on a tree or plant anywhere." Reports of damage were very bad. Talk on the Internet was of rebooking to other destinations, flight cancellations, and travel agents steering clients away from Cozumel. Our resort was closed, with a reopening date of Jan. 27. Cozumel was not ready for visitors. My travel agent priced several alternatives. We couldn't change our dates, and trying to book six people, two rooms and a direct flight was producing quotes near $10,000 for the week - definitely not in our budget. I went back to tripadvisor.com and Antonio, an enterprising Cozumeleno who had worked at our resort but lost his job after Wilma. He posted on the Cozumel forum, updating travelers about the resort conditions, downtown, and even specific people or places that anyone asked about. Antonio traveled around the island, taking more than 1,400 pictures and posting them on antonioscozumel.com in "The Wilma Album," showing both the destruction and incredible restoration. I felt better seeing Antonio's pictures of our resort, which was swarming with workers in November. Cozumel was getting ready. We kept our reservations. The resort opened the first week of February, a month before our trip. Our vacation turned out to be fabulous. Although the resort grounds and setting were beautiful, there was hurricane damage still evident around the island.The best part of the vacation was seeing the spirit of the Cozumelenos. Always with a smile and a hola, the resort workers were unbelievably friendly. I could hardly finish my food without having my plate taken away, making room for another dish from the buffet. The waiters brought us drinks on the beach as we lounged in hammocks and chairs. There was not an empty cup to be found at the bar or pool. On my second day, the pool bartender asked in very understandable English, "Where's my friend Andrew?" "How do you know Andrew?" I said. The reply, with a huge smile, was, "Oh, I know Andrew!" Andrew is my 7-year-old son, who was in heaven all week ordering nonalcoholic Miami Vices from his favorite bartender, Santiago. Everywhere we went in the resort, the workers were ready for tourists - ready to give us food and drinks, to clean our rooms, to entertain us. Even better, Antonio was hired back as the dive shop manager. The resort was not crowded, surely a consequence of Wilma. One evening, my husband and I were alone in the lobby bar, and we struck up a conversation with the bartender. "When will the North Tower of rooms be restored?" we asked. "It is ready now," he answered. "We are just waiting for the people to come." Very proudly, very confidently, he added, "We are ready." http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/living/travel/15846447.htm
cathy hays 03 Apr '06 19:45 I just wanted to thank you for the pictures of Cozumel. I have been visiting Cozumel for about 10 years now and my husband and I were married there last June 28th at Nachi cocom. I was sorry to see they have not opened that up again as of yet. We stayed at the El Coz. the last 5 times we have been there and are going to be there June 12th this year for our 1 year anniversary. It is my understanding that you work at the El. Coz is that right? I will stop by to say hi when we arrive. I am so glad your beautiful Island has come such a long way And that your family are safe. What a great job you are doing. See you in June!! viva La Cozumel! -Cathy
Gary Garland 01 Apr '06 01:56 Antonio, The photo album of the timeline of Wilma is incredible.I feel like Ive already visited.Sometimes I have thoughts that the Internet takes away from the adventure of the unknown,however it is reassuring to know that things seem to be taking shape.The fact that a major hurricane recently hit this area just makes it more intriguing for myself. Looking forward to assisting in supporting the local economy a little bit.(and maybe a beer or 2 as well.) My wife,myself and 6 year old daughter are coming down april 8 to Iberostar and it looks great. 3rd trip to Mexico but first to Cozumel. Thank you very much. Gary Garland Toronto, Canada
june212 Sat Apr 01 2006, 05:24am PT antonio, are the last group of photos from Coz Palace reopening? sure looks like the facade I remember. Great progress by the way. and of course great photos.
phillipjohnpassiton Fri Mar 31 2006, 09:27am PT Just back from a fabulous time at the Melia and while I was there I went down to the Dive Shop at El coz and told Antonio he was single handedly responsible for the majority of returning tourists to Cozumel. Without the Wilma Album many people such as myself probably would not have ventured back to the island considering the destruction of Emily and Wilma. The resorts that were open were full and the town was jumping. Yes there is still quite a bit of damage but the work is progressing at a rapid pace. I incourage anyone who is going to Cozumel to take the time to meet and thank Antonio for his unbelieveable dedication to inform everyone of the progress being made. Antonio had three comments to me as I left, the first was thanks for taking the time to talk with him, the second was the Wilma Album is not finished and will not be until the island is back to 100%, and the last was "They should give me a medal" I couldn't agree more. I'm totally impressed and humbled by this man.
evokc Thu Mar 23 2006, 01:40pm PT fantastic photos thanks
acepazz Sat Mar 18 2006, 03:59pm PT Antonio - Thank you so much for the work you have done! We have been checking back regularly and will be there in 2 weeks! Can't wait for cervesas y coco locos en la playa!!! Muchos Gracias!
mickey Thu Mar 16 2006, 04:03pm PT Your pictures are great!! I check back often for the next set of pictures. I will be there in May and was wondering what the beaches are like. You haven't had any pictures of them in a while. Especially Palancar, Dzul Ha and Uva beach club. Thanks again for the wonderful pictures of such a gorgeous place!
blanepumphrey Tue Mar 14 2006, 08:51am PT Wow, what a great documentary of the destruction of Wilma and the recovery! Awesome photos. They tell the story better than any words could. Loved your comments with the photos too. I am glad to see Cozumel is doing so well and the El Coz where we stayed last April.
joannemof3 Tue Mar 14 2006, 07:29am PT Hi Antonio, We just returned from a glorious vacation at El Coz. We have 3 kids ages 4, 5 and 7 for who are making a video presentation to show their classes. I wanted to include some of the hurricane damage pix and wondered if you would give permission for us to download them. We would only need 2 or 3 (not 20). We live in Canada so the contrast in climate is pretty dramatic. We have severe weather here too but it usually just means a day off school to play in the snow. We flew into Minneapolis and then drove 8 hours north to get home. Just after (within an hour) we left the airport a big snowstorm hit Minnesota and dumped 13 inches of snow. We were happy to escape before it became a problem for driving. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience - the hotel and staff were excellent and we would love to return again someday!
andycapps Sun Mar 05 2006, 09:09am PT Brilliant!!!!!!!
ayman 05 Mar '06 02:11 We can't thank you enough for the new pics. We really appreciate it. We've heard so many things about Iberostar Cozumel. The pics just made our day. We will be in Cozumel April 14-23. Hope to run into you.Thanks again.
Jim Coker 23 Feb '06 16:44 I am a big fan of Cozumel and have been there many times. We are staying at the Melia in March and I hope it looks as good as the pictures indicated. I am bringing some friends and we are going to do our best to put some cash into the economy in Cozumel. I am coming back in May for two weeks and plan on doing my part to get the economy going as well. Thank You so much for the website and pictures. Good luck and Thank You! Jim
Jean Faust 24 Feb '06 21:07 I'm so glad I found your website! We will be staying at the Melia March 1-8, I was glad to see it looks fully functional. Can't wait to return to Cozumel! We love it there and all the people! Jean Faust
Mark Pennington 25 Feb '06 12:49 Thank you so very much for posting these pictures. We go to Cozumel quite often and had been there right before the hurricane. We have been searching for photos to see how the island faired and you provided that. Wonderful and thank you again.
Joelle Ruth 25 Feb '06 16:34 Hi Antonio, I just wanted to drop you an email to say thank you! I ordered some of your items from CafePress and I am pleased to say that they look even better than they did online! Thank you for your store and the Wilma Album - it's wonderful to be able to view pictures of Cozumel to hold me over until I am visiting again at the end of March. Thank you again for all of your efforts, Joelle
Karen Ellis 28 Feb '06 05:21 Thank you for taking and posting the pictures of El Cozumeleno. Last year my family, along with other families and friends (16 people), planned a vacation to Cozumel. When hurricane Emily hit the island, we were forced to cancel our trip (huge disappointment). This group of people had never planned a trip together before. But, because of your encouragement, have rebooked our trip to El Cozumeleno. We are three families and friends who have children that are the same age. Five of these kids have been friends since kindergarden and will be seniors in high school at Gladewater, Texas next year. As children grow up, families and friends move apart. Without your encouragement, this trip would have been only a dream. Now I am excited that it will become a memory for 16 people to cherish forever. I look forward to meeting you in Cozumel July 15-22!
mollysee Mon Feb 27 2006, 08:25pm PT Thank you so much for all the pictures...I knew Coz was recovering, but could not really feel sure without your great shots! We look forward to returning to our beloved Cozumel in August for our daughter's wedding. texas molly
jfeliciano77 Fri Feb 24 2006, 09:29pm PT Antonio, you are AWESOME! Thank you for posting the El Coz pics. After seeing your pictures, I finally was able to contact the hotel. The trip has been planned and purchased and the Feliciano family will be coming in March. Now is the hard part, waiting! It was nice seeing all the familiar faces in the pictures, like Enrique! We can't wait to see our friends in Cozumel and introduce them all to our newest addition to our family! Thanks again ~ The Felicianio Family
shirmart Thu Feb 23 2006, 02:39pm PT Well, you've done it again. What beautiful sunsets. And El Coz does look enticing. The Lighthouse Lady
radmanilh Thu Feb 23 2006, 12:48pm PT We are impressed with the work you have done. Providing photos to the public on the improvement of Cozumel. Do you have any current pictures of the Caribe Blu? We are planning our first trip to Cozumel in July and can't wait to see the island after all the repairs. So far it looks pretty amazing. Thanks Billie and Mark
Brian Babcock 02 Feb '06 23:55 Antonio, I have been coming down from Vancouver Canada to Cozumel for over 20 years now. The last time I was there was 3 years ago and I must admit, I longed for the old days when the island was quieter and seemed more charming. With more cruise ships, all inclusives and American chains, Cozumel just didn't seem the same. I stumbled across your picture album and my wife and I were glued to the screen for hours! Fantastic work! You probably have no idea what sort of impact you're having for tourism on your island. It was after viewing your album that my wife and I decided to come there again. It seems quieter, maybe more like the old days. I know the merchants want the ships back like before, but if I can enjoy a week of solitude in Cozumel, I'm going for it! We'll be there this Tuesday. I can't wait for a pitcher of sangria at Pizza Rolandi (never did get used to the new name) while staring at the clear blue sea. Thanks again, Antonio. Your work is appreciated by us wet (29 days of rain in January) Vancouverites!
Christine @ Discover Your World Travel 03 Feb '06 00:00 Hello Antonio, As you can see from my email signature I am a travel agent. I’ve confidently booked 10 couples to Cozumel on the hunch that the few positive stories that I’ve heard are really true. I know personally that the people of Cozumel are charming and I believed in my gut that they were working hard to put the island back together. However, I’ve had a terrible time getting good information from suppliers or online. Sometimes I get hedgy comments from stateside hotel reps about the nature of repairs or discouraging reports. Most reports are just altogether unhelpful. I’ve been searching the web for good information and finally found your site. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your website and your Wilma album. It’s sad to see the devastation of such a beautiful island but I truly admire the people of Cozumel to see how well it is rebuilding. You’ve given me even more confidence to sell the area and push my clients to what I knew was a great destination. Thank you so very much for your hard work and dedication in providing such a terrific amount of information for me! I can’t wait to get back to Cozumel myself! Warm wishes, Christine Whitaker Discover Your World Travel Virginia Beach, VA
Jane Song 04 Feb '06 21:33 Dear Antonio, You tell a beautiful story with your pictures. It is amazing to see efforts in Cozumel. My husband, daughter and I were going to go there for the first time this year since we are part of Cozumel Palace. We were excited about the scuba diving before I saw your site, but now I'm excited to meet the people (especially if they are like you)! You are blessed with a sharp eye for capturing beautiful things. Jane Gee, Redondo Beach, CA
michele kitzman 14 Feb '06 16:37 Antonio, I just had to say Thank you for the wonderful pictures you have taken of Cozumel. We were a little worried about our vacation to the Allegro this Feb. but after seeing your pictures I can relax and get VERY excited about seeing your wonderful Island!! Once again Thank you for the updated album Michele
robin shuler 21 Feb '06 19:29 --I have been viewing your pictures since Wilma whipped through! They are wonderful......I will be flying into Cozumel Fri. for Carnaval and hopefully will be sitting at Mezcalitos drinking a Margarita before sundown!!!!! I am writing to ask you if you have a shop on the island and if so where???? Thanks for a job WELL DONE!!!!!
Cockerton, Maureen 22 Feb '06 17:25 Antonio: I was referred to your site to see updates to your island. My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Cozumel 18 years ago and fell in love with the island. We wanted to come back before we left. But 2 children and a home later we were not able to afford a return visit. Now we are ready and your album helped us make the decision to come back. The travel agents in Canada are recommending that we do not visit Cozumel as the beaches are ruined and the town is a mess. I was so disappointed to hear that. I dug deeper and found your site. Thank you so much. The pictures of Occidental and Allegro helped a lot. We are planning our visit the first week of April. Thanks again
Queenswan Mon Feb 20 2006, 08:41pm PT BEAUTIFUL JUST PERFECTLY BEAUTIFUL ANNE
cozbobby Mon Feb 20 2006, 12:53pm PT Wow, 60,000 hits! Where are the sponsors? Antonio, your name has become synonymous with Cozumel. The way you and Cozumel have bounced back from two hurricanes is an inspiration to all of us.
BellaCaterina Sun Feb 19 2006, 08:16am PT Antonio, Your pictures have changed the way I view Mexico and your Island. I was so impressed with your photographs that it left me totally breathless. Cozumel is a beautiful, breathtaking, wonderful Island and I hope one day I will visit. Once again wonderful job on your website.
Justa1More Wed Feb 15 2006, 01:27pm PT Antonio, great pictures, as usual. I haven't checked out the pictures lately and saw the ones from Sol Melia. It looks Great. My wife and I have stayed there the last three years in a row and have loved it. We were there last year two weeks after Emily blew through and was amazed at how quick things were back in order. (Damage was no where near as severe as wilma but we sure saw the spirit of the Cozumelenos then. Also there year before when Ivan came through. Think we will change out date this year to non hurricane season. NOT!!!
Melsch Tue Feb 14 2006, 08:44pm PT Antonio---you have done a WONDERFUL job! You are the best PR person that Cozumel has..IMHO. Just looking at your recent pictures of El Coz makes me want to be back there right now! It looks like they have done some things to make it better than before. The hammocks look very inviting and I can picture myself laying in the sun by the pool. Oh my...better make my reservations soon!! Thanks again for all the pictures....I have watched you add them over the last several months and seeing them is like being there (but not quite!). It was good to see Enrique back at the bar....and I agree with you, Rosa is a jewel. Hope to see you this summer. Mel--one of the Okie Chicks
MikeCothran Sun Feb 12 2006, 01:09pm PT Antonio - as a lover of Cozumel, me and my family want to thank you for this site - for 20 years we have visited Cozumel and keep coming back - my brother and I are avid divers and I don't have to tell you why we come to Cozumel - yes we have tried other places but always come back - and you know why - my daughter did her first open water in Cozumel - it makes us sad when we see the devistation but happy at the resiliency of the Cozmel people - actually we spent a week in between Emily and Wilma - we were scheduled to leave on the Friday that Rita hit Houston (which is our home base) so we had to stay until Monday - we were upset for about 5 minutes and then went diving to make ourselves feel better - LOL - Cozumel is our paradise largely because the people of Cozumel are as good and nice as they are!
rlewter Fri Feb 10 2006, 10:17pm PT Fabulous!! you are doing a great job... I am getting on the cruise ship to come there tomorrow (well really today, it is just after midnight) We are getting married on the beach at Melia - your pictures on this website have really helped calm my fears -- I just want to say thank you for all your hard work and great documentation!! lots of work goes into this... thanks again!!
Mathesoncl@aol.co Thu Feb 09 2006, 07:51pm PT Antonio, thanks so much for the pictures of the El Coz and the rest of the island. I'll be there with a group of 14 from Minnesota on Feb. 25 for our 3rd trip to Cozumel, and I'm so glad the reconstruction is going well. Looking forward to visiting your beautiful country and the friendly people that live there.
tannin86 Thu Feb 09 2006, 11:53am PT GREAT PICTURES!!! Glad to see things are still beautiful. Any reports on the Allegro Occidental???? Coming in a month and a half and thinking I may have to stay at Playa if nobody has updates. I'm just uncertain since it will be our first time to Cozumel. Any help? Kari from Minnesota
jfeliciano77 Wed Feb 08 2006, 09:30am PT Antonio, just wondering how the progress is coming along for the El Cozumeleno resort. I have tried reaching the hotel, and can't get through. I want to book my trip for march or april but don't want to do so until I know the hotel is open for sure. Thanks again for the pictures, they are wonderful! Jessica
june212 Wed Feb 08 2006, 07:51am PT Antonio, just found your beautiful photos. Makes me happy that we booked the Coz for Nov this year. I'm sure that the island will be back to its beautiful self by then. Bless you for keep all of us up to date on the work being done. June
barblmeador Tue Feb 07 2006, 03:07pm PT BRAVO, to all the hard work the people of Cozumel have done. Antonio, Mike and I will hunt you up in August.
IrishHubby Tue Feb 07 2006, 01:55pm PT Antonio, Thank you so much for these photos. It is so difficult to get a straight answer from anyone here in the states. We are planning a trip for June of this year and your site has helped us confirm our decision to come to Cozumel. We would love to meet you for a cold beer in June. Gracias.
tannin86 Mon Feb 06 2006, 09:10am PT This album is so helpful for us future visitors of Cozumel. It's really neat to see the before and after from the destruction of Wilma. Everyone is doing a great job in getting the island back up and running. I can't wait to see more updated photos - especially the Allegro Cozumel, which is where we are going to be staying with our children. Thanks for letting me look! Kari - from Minnesota
sandymN05 Sun Feb 05 2006, 10:34am PT Thank You so much for these photo's. We have been going to Cozumel for the past 6 years and have had so much fun we hated the idea of having to find a new location to go to. The Melia looks great. We will get the word out on Cozumel. Brian & Sandy Minnesota USA
maryelen01 Sat Feb 04 2006, 06:38am PT How wonderful to finally get info on my favorite place. I have wonderful memories of Cozumel going back to 1990. We fell in love with the people of Cozumel as we watched them rebuild their homes and the whole island after being struck by 2 major hurricanes which came in back to back. The Mayans just kept on smiling and rebuilt their island. Thanks so much for all the photos. We will be back to visit in June, 2006 and will be bringing our children and grandchildren. We will all be in town Sunday to mingle with all the people living on Cozumel and to smile and laugh with them.
amymackay Fri Feb 03 2006, 09:45pm PT Antonio... what a loving documentary you've given the rest of us who have not made it back to Cozumel yet! Thank you so much for your efforts! Please send any news of the Sol Cabañas... I hope the rumors of it being sold and turned into an AI are not true! We will be at Playa Azul in May!
cinders8686 Fri Feb 03 2006, 07:39pm PT Thanks Antonio!! It's wonderful to see Coz up and running. We're coming next year! So nice to hear from you that everything is going well despite all the nasty rumors saying otherwise. Keep us posted and as always, let us know if you need anything. We're always glad to help. Come to freezing Chicago too-our door is always open for you!
sirena19881 Fri Feb 03 2006, 08:12am PT Hi Tony. The album is great, the pictures near the end are beautiful, and your captions are funny! I saw my chair waiting for me on the beach! It will only be 55 more days until we come back to Coz, (wearing, of course, wilma shirts!). You've done a great thing here, helping all of us who are suffering from withdrawal from Coz---thank you! See you soon! Sirena
arlfnp Fri Feb 03 2006, 06:05am PT Hola Antonio, More great pics. We'll be there soon! Jerry and Arlene Libbert
shirmart Thu Feb 02 2006, 09:25am PT Again, a fantastic job of presenting your home. Thanks for all the lovely sights and enticing photos to get us excited about coming back to Cozumel. The Lighthouse Lady
sugarmagnolia01 Thu Feb 02 2006, 08:25am PT Awesome pictures!! Can't wait to see Coz for myself next week. Any pics of Elcoz?
priscilla96 Wed Feb 01 2006, 01:26pm PT Antonio, I love the energy you have put into this album. We are on our way for Carnival and our annual trip this year. Having the ability to see Coz thru it all has been devasting to us but also comforting to know the spirit of Cozumel is so strong. We can't wait to get there!! Pam in San Diego
mimitroh Wed Feb 01 2006, 10:56am PT Thanks so much for the pictures of the Melia. Our family was scheduled to come on Nov 6th. We'll be back as soon as we can arrange school schedules.
sharpei327 Tue Jan 31 2006, 03:33pm PT We stay at the Fiesta Americana every year around Easter. Have been in contact with the hotel but finally have been able to see pictures. These are great. Thanks so much for your efforts.
cgin58 Tue Jan 31 2006, 10:42am PT Tremendous work. I would be interested to know how some of the southern hotels/timeshares fared El Cid La Ceiba in perticular.
grotfarm Sun Jan 29 2006, 06:54am PT We have stayed at La Ceibe 5 times. It breaks my heart to see tha damage and devastation Cozumel has endured during the hurricane season. I can't wait to see the new and exciting Cozumel next year.
minimaniac2 Fri Jan 27 2006, 10:25am PT Antonio, My wife and I and friends have been coming to Cozumel for 10 years, now. We are really happy to see the quick cleanup and refurbishment of so many of our favorite places. We will be arriving tomorrow, the 28th and staying for a week. Unfortunately, our time share at Cozumel Palace will be unavailable to us this year. All the same we are looking forward to a great time. We want to thank you for the great collection of pictures of the storm and its aftermath. The rebuilding has been impressive. Our favorite bar Coconuts looks as inviting as ever. Cuco, our Astoria tee shirt is on the way!! Bryan and Nora
akarenzie Fri Jan 27 2006, 10:10am PT Thank you for the updates Antonio. Will be visiting from Jan 29th to Feb 6th so it was really nice to see the beach club pictures so we know where to go! and how it looks. Will be seeing it all soon with our own eyes. First time to Cozumel. Thank you so much! Sherry
samboo01 Thu Jan 26 2006, 10:53am PT This is the best cozumel album I have seen. I really miss cozumel. But I will be back. fyi: El Presidente - new opening date - Sept 1 - confirmed with their manager Javier Rosenberg.
leprechaun1129 Tue Jan 24 2006, 12:58pm PT Antonio, these officials may deserve medals, but you, with all these photos and effort, should be the Tourism Emmesary for Cozumel. It must have taken you hours and hours to assemble these pictures. Congratulations on job well done. My wife and I met you last time we were at El Coz.... The Leprechaun and Jamie. We'll be back to see you, soon, I hope.
lola1967 Tue Jan 24 2006, 12:02pm PT ANTONIO,ANTONIO,ANTONIO AFTER SEEING YOUR PICTURES, 10 OF US FROM MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN CHANGED OUR VACATION PLANS TO REVISIT OUR BELOVED COZUMEL IN APRIL. WE COULDN'T STAY AWAY AND ARE CONTINUALLY AWESTRUCK AT THE RESURRECTION.KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.I KNOW THAT COZUMEL IS PROUD OF YOU. DENISE P.S IT'S ONLY 10 DEGREES IN MINNESOTA TODAY!YUCK
naze69 Tue Jan 24 2006, 08:15am PT Hey Antonio , Thanks ! We had to change our trip this year unfortunately , and ended up going to Punta Cana . All I can say is BOY DO I MISS COZUMEL !! There is NO comparison to the people there . The pix are great and I'm happy to see the island coming back ! We are already planning on our trip back to Coz next year and the pix make me wish I was there now !! I'm looking forward to further updates . Thanks Again !!
wndbg68 Mon Jan 23 2006, 11:32am PT Today is January 23rd'06. We just got back home (Minnesota) yesterday.Cozumel is absolutely amazing and beautiful! Thank you for posting these pictures. They are wonderful to see (think we may have spotted ourselves in one of the Paradise Beach shots! ha ha ) See you next year!!
trim140 Wed Jan 18 2006, 02:56pm PT My husband and I are taking a cruise Feb 4-10 and are in the process of choosing shore excursions. I was so happy to find your album here to give me an idea of the condition of Cozumel. I found your comments about shore snorkeling interesting. Which is better right now, shore snorkeling or drift snorkeling? Thanks for sharing this glimpse of Cozumel!
jfeliciano77 Fri Jan 13 2006, 12:07am PT Antonio, it's almost 3am here in Connecticut and I couldn't pull myself away from the computer after finding your pictures. How terrific to see Cozumel rebounding so triumphantly. My husband and I recently got married there last year, and we are planning our 3rd trip to Coz in March or April and had no idea of the status of the hotels and San Miguel, and after seeing your photos I am more excited than ever about returning to beautiful Cozumel. We prayed for everyone there during the Hurricanes, and until now, we had no record of the condition. We always stay at the el cozumelenos, and I'm so glad the hotel coming back strong. Hope our friends at Kelly's faired well. Thank you for the piece of mind Antonio. JFeliciano
fresh21 Wed Jan 11 2006, 03:59pm PT Antonio, this is awesome!!! Thank you for sharing your precious pictures with the world. You did a wonderful job showing us all ends of Cozumel. Again thank you and God Bless. Look forward to our next trip down there.
pmaltese Sun Jan 08 2006, 09:37am PT Thank you so much for the pictures. Just found your site through a dive magazine and was so happy to see the pictures. We love Cozumel and will be back in March 2006. Especially glad to see the Coral Princess photos as that's where we stay. Thank you again for making these available to all of us who love and will return to Cozumel.
lerckert Fri Jan 06 2006, 06:49am PT Antonio, Thank you for the views of Cozumel after Wilma! My husband and I were there with you for the hurricane. It was an experience we will never forget! (You are right about Florida needing to look to Cozumel for building tips) The people of your island were so helpful and wonderful to us while they were cleaning up and getting their homes and lives back. We thank you all! We were guests at the Reef Club and had not seen any pictures of the resort after the hurricane until we saw yours. We will be back to visit again in 2007. Cozumel is beautiful and we are glad to see the island recovering so quickly! God Bless -
justmestace Wed Jan 04 2006, 10:27pm PT Thank you, Antonio. I have been following your album since the beginning and we were in Cozumel on December 26th and were so pleased with the progress that is being made. I can't wait to come back again in May and see how far along the work is! I am sure it will be beautiful.
awcongo Wed Jan 04 2006, 06:53am PT Mayor!!!!! Thank you so much for the information. You know we love this island and people as family. It is truly a blessing that all are safe and the "Island of the Moon" spirit continues. Peace and Love, Congo, Anelle & Billy
prettygirl26 Sat Dec 31 2005, 12:24am PT Antonio, por favor... Can you tell me anything about a waiter named "Lupe" here? My family has stayed at El Coz, and we got to know his family. His son is the same age as my son, and we spent time with his family and visited his son's school. We have been praying for them, any info would be appreciated. muchissimas gracias!
Barta Fri Dec 30 2005, 07:08pm PT Antonio, thank you for sharing such precious pictures of yours. I've never been in Cozumel but have booked a cruise for June that will call Cozumel and can't wait to shake Cozumelenos hands for the great job everybody have done to recover such beautiful place. It's amazing how everybody did a little to make it happen. God Bless you.
ladydi201 Thu Dec 29 2005, 12:03pm PT Antonio, The album was amazing and sad all at the same time. It was with such detail that I was able to see some of our favorite spots and to truley understand the devestation and determination the good people of Cozumel have had to deal with. Thanks again, long live Cozumel!
garfieldsyl Thu Dec 29 2005, 11:03am PT It is so wonderful to see Cozumel alive once more. Your spirit and determination is so awesome. Would like to see some shots of a dining place called Casablanca where my family and I have enjoyed many meals. Thanx for the great photos in this album and hope to see things greater in 2006.
shirmart Thu Dec 29 2005, 09:39am PT You are a blessing to those of us who have visited Cozumel and will come again. Hope your year is abundant with good joys and your new adventures are extremely successful. The Lighthouse Lady
rooney201 Thu Dec 29 2005, 06:14am PT Antonio, this is awesome! We will be in our favorite vacation spot for Festival. Can't wait. (By the way, that is Cozumel) We in Louisiana could take lessons.
cindy196601 Wed Dec 28 2005, 02:20pm PT Antonio, I wanted to say thank you for all the wonderful photos, i am coming down 0218-0225. I was worried when wilma decided to set up home on the island. You have calmed my fears and i look forward to much fun/beer in the sun on the east side. merry christmas and happy new year to you and your family. cindylouwho- fridley, mn
lrzpwz Fri Dec 23 2005, 10:43pm PT Thank you Antonio for sharing all of these photos with those of us who aren't close enough to keep up with the amazing things that you who live on Cozumel have done since Wilma. I have cried, but I have felt amazement and been inspired too. I know that I have some presents from your Online Store under the tree and I can't wait to open them. We will be in Cozumel in January and I can barely wait, counting the days. Have a Blessed Christmas and a Joyous New Year, Pam and Larry (LRZPWZ)
dirtroad Fri Dec 23 2005, 05:57am PT Antonio, Have not looked at your album in awhile. Sure great to see that the green is coming back. Hope to be there soon. Dirtroad
klove06 Thu Dec 22 2005, 04:43pm PT Antonio thanks for the great pics. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I am getting married there in February and there is no place else I would rather be. See you in 7 weeks.
FNorton Mon Dec 19 2005, 10:14am PT Thanks for sharing these pictures. We have been coming to Cozumel for over 20 years, diving and having lots of fun, and have many friends there that we worried about during the hurricane. We love this island like our own home! Glad to see that Coconuts is open-Cuco and Kathy are great friends of ours. Please tell them we are coming back soon! Faye & Ken Norton
nrsbek Wed Dec 14 2005, 10:13pm PT These pix are amazing. Thanks for sharing. Becky
weeza02 Wed Dec 14 2005, 10:00am PT Absolutely awesome pictures! Topeka Kansas divers will be there Feb 22-Mar 1, 2005! Yo soy Cozumel! Y estoy de Pie!
bayoubabies Tue Dec 13 2005, 12:32pm PT Wonderful photo, I have enjoyed looking at them. Even though the first ones were very sad, it is nice to see there is so much work being done. We have had a lot of fun in Cozumel and hope to come again soon. Thanks for all the hard work you have done on this album
ruielu Thu Dec 01 2005, 03:59pm PT
Great Job! So appreciate being able to see what is happening on the island we love so much!!! Thank you!
cagail Wed Nov 30 2005, 04:33pm PT
Tony, what a fantastic job of keeping all us Coz crazies up to date. I really enjoy all the photos. Could you see how the Melia is doing repairwise? The pics you took look awful and I wondered if they had replaced the sand or structures yet. Thanks, cagail
Hansing Wed Nov 30 2005, 09:44am PT
Thank you Antonio for a great job. We are sad about our Cozumel but can see that it will be back and we will be back. Our prayers are with you. Hope to meet you some day. Dave & Bernie Bourbonnais, IL USA
BeccaLove Tue Nov 29 2005, 06:39pm PT
Thank you for sharing your photos with us. The island took a beating but everyone worked hard to clean everything up and rebuild. I will be in Cozumel next week and I am looking forward to it.
ehend4392 Mon Nov 28 2005, 07:16am PT Thank You for providing these fantastic pictures. I have been looking and looking to see if I could find some pictures from Hurrincane Wilma hitting Cozumel. I could not find anything until I just happened to stumbled accross yours. We have been going to Cozumel every year now for about 10 years. My husband and I talk about retireing in Cozumel in about 15 years. Its is a beautil Island and freindly people. our prayers were with eveyone during this devistation hurricane. The Lord heard our prayers and helped Cozumel bounce back. See you all in August. Evelyn Henderson, Missouri City, Tex. (suburbs of Houston).
czmrocks Sun Nov 27 2005, 04:36pm PT Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful album,Antonio!I will be in Cozumel Dec.15th-22nd.It would be great to thank you in person!I'm bringing my stepdaughter,and 2 friends,so they can see for themselves why I love and respect Cozumelenos so much.What incredible spirit! I've loved the people on this beautiful little island all my life,and this is why.My thoughts and prayers are with you all.See ya soon! Debra in Killeen,Tx.
hmv-alp Sun Nov 27 2005, 01:15pm PT Cozumelenos are incredible!! I will see you all soon!
rrobo21 Sun Nov 27 2005, 04:33am PT This is the most thorough and comprehensive photo journal of the hurricane's damage to AND progress in cleanup of Cozumel.
rando07 Fri Nov 25 2005, 05:29am PT AWESOME album. Our family of 4 took our 1st trip to Coz in june of 2005, 10 days, too short, loved the people, food and snorkle. THANKS for the album, I check back every few weeks, and read cozumelmycozumel.com for good news of the truth. I keep praying for you all. God bless you all, rando07
terry376 Thu Nov 24 2005, 05:49pm PT Thank you Antonio for documenting the recovery thru your lense. The pics were wonderful and warmed our hearts with fond memories. We of North Myrtle Beach S.C. thank you and WE WILL BE BACK. TJ
DanHope Mon Nov 21 2005, 06:47pm PT Thanks for sharing your photos. We have a condo at the Coral Princess and your picture was the only one I have been able to see. Any idea how Pepe's SCUBA fared?
ronaldpoff Sun Nov 20 2005, 08:38pm PT Your chronical of Cozumel rebuilding is fantastic. I hope some day you will show the area south of town near La Ceiba; we've had no word on rebuilding in that area. Hopefully we'll be there in February. Thanks for sharing.
gregory001 Sun Nov 20 2005, 08:01pm PT Fantastic photographic diary of the desctruction and rebulding by all the Cozumeleno's. Thanks for sharing my friend. We will return to Cozumel soon.
shirmart Sun Nov 20 2005, 02:43pm PT Oh, my Antonio! What a great project you have taken on and completed so successfully. I have a couple of friends who are coming to Cozumel for the first time and intend to share this journal with them. My pictures enticed them, but yours show such concern. I notice the "little red lighthouse" at El Coz is still standing. I hope to see the one at Punta Sur perhaps in your next set of photos. Thanks for all you have given us to remind us of Cozumel. The Lighthouse Lady
br3mariajindra Sun Nov 20 2005, 09:02am PT Thanks for the pics Antonio! All of us from the USA applaud all the cozumelos and their fantistic Quintana Roo! Hurray for Cozumel Viva Cozumel
JEgeler Sat Nov 19 2005, 11:16am PT
Thank You Antonio... My family had you all in our prayers through this ordeal! We hope to visit again, this time with our newly adoped daughter! God Bless, Jim Danbury, CT
mkaloia6698 Thu Nov 17 2005, 02:51pm PT
That was absolutely AMAZING!!! Thank you for taking the time to put this together. It is really appreciated!!!
tpalacky Thu Nov 17 2005, 08:27am PT
Tony -- It is so good to hear from you considering what you all have been through. I am completely amazed at how much progress has been made. It truly shows the dedication everyone has for the island and it is wonderful to see it first hand. I was suppose to go to Cozumel again about the time of Wlima, but we decided to go somewhere else instead. I guess it was a good decision since we got stuck there with you 3 years ago. Dont think my boss would ever let me go on vacation again if that happened. I am hoping to get there soon to see the beautiful island, people, and scuba diving. Will definately get in touch with you when we plan to return. Viva Cozumel! Tami Palacky of Springfield, VA
wayer01 Thu Nov 17 2005, 07:18am PT
I've been going to Cozumel diving since 1964. I go regularly and have been through a couple of hurricanes there. I'm very glad to see that someone was there to document this for the great people of Cozumel and show that they are ready to get the show going. Thank you!! You've done a great job and a great service!! Wayne Ayer - Austin, Texas
StacyZ Thu Nov 17 2005, 05:02am PT
Antonio, So glad to hear from you and love the site. Fantastic picture and you posted some great pics regarding the hurricane. It was very hard to find info on Cozumel. You know how much we love Cozumel, one of our favorite places and glad to hear things are getting back to normal or at least people have been able to move on and recover. Our best wishes to you and everyone, Cozumel is a fantasstic place. God bless. Zatopeks
james.reilly4 Thu Nov 17 2005, 04:27am PT
Wonderful! Thanks. Again, I am impressed with the industry of the Mexican people. Look at how Cozumel recovered and compare that to New Orleans - no comparison! Great job. Also is it possible to publish photos of Reef Club and Fiesta etc on the southern part of the island.
smokinokin Sun Nov 13 2005, 08:35am PT
Thank you soooo much for these photos!! The spirit and perseverance of everyone on the island fills my heart. THIS is what makes Cozumel the most special place on earth. Please continue to add more photos. Your photos are well thought out and all from the heart. Thank you!!! Laurie Dubrick Chicago, Illinois
koot63 Sun Nov 13 2005, 07:13am PT
Great updates, Antonio! I've been checking every couple of days. Any chance you could show the south hotels ie. Occidental Grand Cozumel, or at least let us know how they fared? I am patiently waiting for reopening so I can continue my trip! Salud!
mmarmole Thu Nov 10 2005, 10:29pm PT
Antonio. Buen trabajo, gran documento. Viva Cozumel. Manuel
sleeson Thu Nov 10 2005, 07:00pm PT
It is truly wonderful to see the hard work and progress. These are encouraging. Cozumel is coming back, and we are coming down in January.
cheryl158 Thu Nov 10 2005, 06:30pm PT
Dear sweet Antonio, thank you for sharing your photo's with us. We have reservations for 1/28 - 2/4/06 and CANNOT wait to return to the island of Cozumel. God Bless you and your family!
aki_coz Thu Nov 10 2005, 04:51pm PT
We are coming in Dec. We are looking forward to seeing Coz people!
Wcdapro Thu Nov 10 2005, 03:21pm PT
Coming in December...can't wait all four of us
sslockb Thu Nov 10 2005, 02:50pm PT
Yikes! We are booked here in January (14 through 21). Doesn't look like the hotel can possibly open by then. :-(
dlkala Thu Nov 10 2005, 08:57am PT
Thank you for the wonderful images of Cozumel! We intend to go down on the 30th and it is nice to see the progress!! Bless you!
bellydancer1 Thu Nov 10 2005, 07:44am PT
Thanks for the pics Antonio...great job showing everyone the progress of the cleanup.
billyincoz Thu Nov 10 2005, 05:08am PT
God Bless the people of Cozumel! We will be down in May as planned.
tuberiders2002 Wed Nov 09 2005, 06:57pm PT
Antonio, thank you so much for taking the time to share these images with us, It is great to see how everyone is pulling together to restore the island. My prayers go out to the people of Cozumel. We booked a trip to Cozumel for March, and were worried the island would not be back up and running, but thanks to your photos, we will still be coming. Drew, New Jersey
CMoneypenny Wed Nov 09 2005, 06:18pm PT
Antonio, you are simply awesome. The entire album tells a story that we simply cannot get anywhere else. If not for you and the posts on CozumelMyCozumel, we would not know the extent of the damage and the awesome recovery efforts. I only wish we could get down there before April. Our hearts go out to you and every Cozumel resident. El Cozumeleno will just not be the same if you aren't there in April mi amigo. Chuck Colorado Springs
marykay17 Wed Nov 09 2005, 05:13pm PT
Antonio thank you thank you thank you for this info. Yes, the Mayan people are amazing and deserve our applause. You to are to be commended for getting the word "in pictures" out there that Cozumel will be beautiful as ever. Mary Kay
arlfnp Wed Nov 09 2005, 05:12pm PT
What a guy!
laker403 Wed Nov 09 2005, 03:41pm PT
Thanks so much, Antonio. We're finally able to see the Playa Azul and know that at least the shell is still there. We can't wait to be back - hopefully in Feb. - and by then the beach will be ready for me to lounge on, and Felipe will be mixing our drinks on the beach. We'll see you at Carnivale!
griswaller Mon Nov 07 2005, 03:35am PT
Thank you for the pics. We are planning a trip there in February (our hotel is due to re-open the end of Dec). The pics helped put a face on Wilma. We are still looking forward to our trip, and know that Cozumel will overcome this disaster.
prljr Sun Nov 06 2005, 12:16pm PT
It is very depressing to see the destruction of our little Island. We spend 1 week a year there but it still seems like our Mexican second home. It is a pleasure to see the cleanup is moving along quickly. We will be making our yearly visit in April and can hardly wait. The best to you and your family. Paul,Rochester,NY Please keep the pictures coming if possible.
koot63 Sun Nov 06 2005, 08:58am PT
Antonio...thank you for putting a human face on Hurricane Wilma. All you hear on the news are statistics, but you never hear about the people. A fantastic job on the album. I will be checking for more updates as they come! PS I was one of the lucky tourists that left Cozumel on Wednesday, October 19/05.
justbcoz Sat Nov 05 2005, 08:24am PT
Antonio, Thank you so much amigo for keeping everyone updated on the progress in Cozumel. We are scheduled to arrive in June and can't wait to spend our gringo $$ to help restore the economy there. Coz truly is the most wonderful island... a testament to the amazing people who live there!
wendyandres Fri Nov 04 2005, 07:21pm PT
Best pictures I've seen of the destruction of Cozumel. Glad you and your family are safe. We are planning a trip to the island the first week of Feb. 06 if clean up efforts are far enough along. Good luck. you are in our prayers.
fbanuelos Fri Nov 04 2005, 07:15pm PT
Impresionante
javier116 Fri Nov 04 2005, 07:13pm PT
Thank you for all the pertinent info about Cozumel
Tommybuoy Fri Nov 04 2005, 02:20pm PT
You, your family and all on your beautiful island are in my prayers.
mattlela Fri Nov 04 2005, 01:00pm PT
Thanks so much for sharing these photos. I'm astounded by the destruction, but I'm equally astounded by the amount of clean-up that is evident in the second batch of photos! Again, thank you very, very much. My best from Atlanta, GA! matt elliott
tinalamb Thu Nov 03 2005, 10:24am PT
These are great photos. Thank you for sharing these. I have been to Cozumel twice, and loved the people and there town. I am saddened by the destruction of their beautiful town. They are strong people, and I know they will have it back soon and most likely even better.
Noillid2 Wed Nov 02 2005, 09:37pm PT
Cozumel is still and will always be one of my favorite ports! The destruction by hurricane Wilma is very sad, but the reconstruction shown in your photos is very impressive! I look forward to my next visit! Thank you very much for sharing your photos!!! Tom...
laurie225 Wed Nov 02 2005, 03:20pm PT
Thank you for documenting this historic event. We have visited Cozumel the last two years and recognized many of the picture locations. Very sad to think of the devestation and loss but it looks like the amazing people of Cozumel have done an awesome job already in cleaning up their island. look forward to more updates!
steve1025 Wed Nov 02 2005, 11:09am PT
Antonio, Thanks!!
pugofstardock Wed Nov 02 2005, 10:54am PT
thanks for the Coz pics! how did the eastern beaches fare? any pics? thanks again!
Galveston_Gal Wed Nov 02 2005, 10:46am PT
Thanks for the pictures, Antonio. I know you have a lot on your mind with the cleanup and all, but you still take the time to keep us all informed. Good luck! Galveston Gal
sleeson Tue Nov 01 2005, 08:03pm PT
We were both thrilled and saddened to see these pictures. The devastation is sad, but the clean-up and repair is good to see. We will be returning to Cozumel in mid-January and will be watching your album to see the progress. Keep up the great work recording the comeback from this horrible storm.
tdcurtis Tue Nov 01 2005, 08:00pm PT
I'm awestruck. My heart and prays go out to each and every person on the Island. Tut
2preston108 Tue Nov 01 2005, 07:43am PT
what about the diver statue?
ronaldpoff Tue Nov 01 2005, 07:35am PT
Your pictures are the first I've seen. Keep your spirits high. Lots of work ahead and the people of Cozumel are hard at it. Thank you so much for sharing these with us. Ronald
MarkRohde Mon Oct 31 2005, 10:09pm PT
This is the best collection of pix showing the impact of Wilma. Great job. The people of Cozumel are amazing and it appears that the Mexican government is working to restore normalcy in a much more cohesive manner that the US government did in New Orleans. Mark
nrsbek Mon Oct 31 2005, 08:46pm PT
Wow Antonio. Great pix. The cleanup is looking good. Can't wait to get back down. Thanks for sharing. Becky
txadmin Mon Oct 31 2005, 07:35pm PT
Thanks so much for the update.
lorna2003 Mon Oct 31 2005, 06:19pm PT
I really appreciate your photos. It looks really bad, but I know the great people of Cozumel will bounce back. Can you tell how the intown H. Aguilar made out?
mfunder Mon Oct 31 2005, 11:58am PT
Hey Antonio - we are glad to here you are well! Jerry and I were there in September and met you and have been thinking of everyone at El Coz and Cozumel in general--- thanks for posting the pics CNN /the news in general havent shown us much except Cancun...grrrr hugs and much love to all!!
baligurl2002 Mon Oct 31 2005, 07:35am PT
Amazing photos! Thanks for sharing!
ladymargarita Sun Oct 30 2005, 07:48pm PT
thank you for sharing your pics. we'll be down in febuary and i know the island will be well on its way back - better than ever. we love cozumel and are grateful that no lives were lost. things can be rebuilt or replaced - people can't
patricia293 Sun Oct 30 2005, 12:55pm PT
I SAT HERE AND CRIED. THANK YOU FOR SHARING. I KNOWCOZUMEL WILL REBUILD BUT IT BREAKS MY HEART. PATRICIA
cjrc Sun Oct 30 2005, 10:52am PT
Thanks for the humorous quotes, I needed the laugh. I've been crying too much since Wilma hit. Cj
ISLABONITA Sun Oct 30 2005, 06:07am PT
So sorry to see this destruction on such a beautiful island. Hope to visit again in February, God willing and God Bless,
darryl934 Sun Oct 30 2005, 04:35am PT
Antonio Thank you for the pictures. Could you tell us how El Coz weathered the hurricane? Could you post some pictures of it? We're supposed to be there on the 17th but that looks doubtful now. dpeach1934
DomesticengineerAZ Sat Oct 29 2005, 10:26pm PT
Thanks so much for the pictures. We have only been to Cozumel once but feel a connection with the Island & the poeple. We keep every one affected by Wilma in our daily thoughts & prayers! We look forward to our next trip! GOD BLESS
lovzyanni Sat Oct 29 2005, 09:39pm PT
Great photography. Thank you so much for such a close-up view of the devastation. God bless you for showing the Embassy and Tony too!!! so much easier to see the damage than to imagine it. Thanks again, and may God bless you in your own home clean-up. Alayne
smokin66 Sat Oct 29 2005, 04:47pm PT
Oh my God.....I am crying from these photos. From the devestation and from the love, power, and stamina of the people to work together and keep it alive. Thank you for sharing. I will be there as soon as possible to help.
talisnam70 Sat Oct 29 2005, 12:25pm PT
Gracias por las fotos Antonio , el espiritu de progreso y de bienestar de los Cozumelenos los habra de sacar adelante ; tengo familiares en CZM asi que Dios mediante estare por alla en Abril 06 para poner mi granito de arena con el turismo . Ojala puedas tomar fotos de como avanza la reconstruccion . Saludos desde Saltillo y una vez mas mi admiracion y solidaridad con ustedes . Jose
ciscole Sat Oct 29 2005, 11:06am PT
We have a time share at the Reef Club. We were planning on coming down in Feburary. We are happy that your family is safe! I love your kitty. It is great the the telephones and ferry was free to all people! We have close friends that was stuck in Cancun. We are very greatful to the brave and kind people of Mexico for taking care of All people. We are proud of all of you. Kim and David Francisco Algonac, Michigan USA
WARAMSEY Sat Oct 29 2005, 10:45am PT
MY SON COMES HERE OFTEN TO SCUBA. HE IS A PHOTOGRAPHER. I'LL LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING HIS TAKE ON THE STORM RESULTS ON HIS NEXT TRIP. THE PHOTOS WERE GREAT. WARAMSEY
mziebell2000 Sat Oct 29 2005, 09:05am PT
My wife and I have been to Cozumel three times, once being our honeymoon. These pictures are truly heartbreaking! Mick and Mel
wndbg68 Sat Oct 29 2005, 09:00am PT
We were supposed to come on Nov 7th. Our hearts and prayers are with you all!!! The Krause Family Duluth, Minnesota USA
blatherbeard Sat Oct 29 2005, 07:52am PT
Thank you for the photos Antonio. Im glad you and your family are safe. Blatherbeard (john)
jennat99 Sat Oct 29 2005, 07:06am PT
Thanks for sharing these pictures. I'm glad you and your family are alive and well. I hope things get back to normal as quickly as possible for you. Jennifer
Dijoone Sat Oct 29 2005, 04:27am PT
Great album Antonio. DiJo
Catherine Ridings of Richboro for
The Philadelphia Inquirer October 29th 2006
Just over a year ago, my family and I were looking forward to a vacation at the El Cozumeleno in Cozumel, Mexico. We had never been there, but Cozumel was a top travel destination. I relied heavily on other travelers' reports on tripadvisor.com.
Then, on Oct. 21, 2005, category 4 Hurricane Wilma parked herself on top of Cozumel and pounded it for more than 24 hours. In the words of one native, "Not one speck of green was left on a tree or plant anywhere." Reports of damage were very bad. Talk on the Internet was of rebooking to other destinations, flight cancellations, and travel agents steering clients away from Cozumel. Our resort was closed, with a reopening date of Jan. 27. Cozumel was not ready for visitors.
My travel agent priced several alternatives. We couldn't change our dates, and trying to book six people, two rooms and a direct flight was producing quotes near $10,000 for the week - definitely not in our budget. I went back to tripadvisor.com and Antonio, an enterprising Cozumeleno who had worked at our resort but lost his job after Wilma. He posted on the Cozumel forum, updating travelers about the resort conditions, downtown, and even specific people or places that anyone asked about. Antonio traveled around the island, taking more than 1,400 pictures and posting them on antonioscozumel.com in "The Wilma Album," showing both the destruction and incredible restoration. I felt better seeing Antonio's pictures of our resort, which was swarming with workers in November. Cozumel was getting ready. We kept our reservations. The resort opened the first week of February, a month before our trip.
Our vacation turned out to be fabulous. Although the resort grounds and setting were beautiful, there was hurricane damage still evident around the island.The best part of the vacation was seeing the spirit of the Cozumelenos. Always with a smile and a hola, the resort workers were unbelievably friendly. I could hardly finish my food without having my plate taken away, making room for another dish from the buffet. The waiters brought us drinks on the beach as we lounged in hammocks and chairs. There was not an empty cup to be found at the bar or pool. On my second day, the pool bartender asked in very understandable English, "Where's my friend Andrew?" "How do you know Andrew?" I said. The reply, with a huge smile, was, "Oh, I know Andrew!" Andrew is my 7-year-old son, who was in heaven all week ordering nonalcoholic Miami Vices from his favorite bartender, Santiago. Everywhere we went in the resort, the workers were ready for tourists - ready to give us food and drinks, to clean our rooms, to entertain us. Even better, Antonio was hired back as the dive shop manager. The resort was not crowded, surely a consequence of Wilma. One evening, my husband and I were alone in the lobby bar, and we struck up a conversation with the bartender. "When will the North Tower of rooms be restored?" we asked. "It is ready now," he answered. "We are just waiting for the people to come." Very proudly, very confidently, he added, "We are ready." http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/living/travel/15846447.htm
cathy hays 03 Apr '06 19:45
I just wanted to thank you for the pictures of Cozumel. I have been visiting Cozumel for about 10 years now and my husband and I were married there last June 28th at Nachi cocom. I was sorry to see they have not opened that up again as of yet. We stayed at the El Coz. the last 5 times we have been there and are going to be there June 12th this year for our 1 year anniversary. It is my understanding that you work at the El. Coz is that right? I will stop by to say hi when we arrive. I am so glad your beautiful Island has come such a long way And that your family are safe. What a great job you are doing. See you in June!! viva La Cozumel! -Cathy
Gary Garland 01 Apr '06 01:56
Antonio, The photo album of the timeline of Wilma is incredible.I feel like Ive already visited.Sometimes I have thoughts that the Internet takes away from the adventure of the unknown,however it is reassuring to know that things seem to be taking shape.The fact that a major hurricane recently hit this area just makes it more intriguing for myself. Looking forward to assisting in supporting the local economy a little bit.(and maybe a beer or 2 as well.) My wife,myself and 6 year old daughter are coming down april 8 to Iberostar and it looks great. 3rd trip to Mexico but first to Cozumel. Thank you very much. Gary Garland Toronto, Canada
june212 Sat Apr 01 2006, 05:24am PT
antonio, are the last group of photos from Coz Palace reopening? sure looks like the facade I remember. Great progress by the way. and of course great photos.
phillipjohnpassiton Fri Mar 31 2006, 09:27am PT
Just back from a fabulous time at the Melia and while I was there I went down to the Dive Shop at El coz and told Antonio he was single handedly responsible for the majority of returning tourists to Cozumel. Without the Wilma Album many people such as myself probably would not have ventured back to the island considering the destruction of Emily and Wilma. The resorts that were open were full and the town was jumping. Yes there is still quite a bit of damage but the work is progressing at a rapid pace. I incourage anyone who is going to Cozumel to take the time to meet and thank Antonio for his unbelieveable dedication to inform everyone of the progress being made. Antonio had three comments to me as I left, the first was thanks for taking the time to talk with him, the second was the Wilma Album is not finished and will not be until the island is back to 100%, and the last was "They should give me a medal" I couldn't agree more. I'm totally impressed and humbled by this man.
evokc Thu Mar 23 2006, 01:40pm PT
fantastic photos thanks
acepazz Sat Mar 18 2006, 03:59pm PT
Antonio - Thank you so much for the work you have done! We have been checking back regularly and will be there in 2 weeks! Can't wait for cervesas y coco locos en la playa!!! Muchos Gracias!
mickey Thu Mar 16 2006, 04:03pm PT
Your pictures are great!! I check back often for the next set of pictures. I will be there in May and was wondering what the beaches are like. You haven't had any pictures of them in a while. Especially Palancar, Dzul Ha and Uva beach club. Thanks again for the wonderful pictures of such a gorgeous place!
blanepumphrey Tue Mar 14 2006, 08:51am PT
Wow, what a great documentary of the destruction of Wilma and the recovery! Awesome photos. They tell the story better than any words could. Loved your comments with the photos too. I am glad to see Cozumel is doing so well and the El Coz where we stayed last April.
joannemof3 Tue Mar 14 2006, 07:29am PT
Hi Antonio, We just returned from a glorious vacation at El Coz. We have 3 kids ages 4, 5 and 7 for who are making a video presentation to show their classes. I wanted to include some of the hurricane damage pix and wondered if you would give permission for us to download them. We would only need 2 or 3 (not 20). We live in Canada so the contrast in climate is pretty dramatic. We have severe weather here too but it usually just means a day off school to play in the snow. We flew into Minneapolis and then drove 8 hours north to get home. Just after (within an hour) we left the airport a big snowstorm hit Minnesota and dumped 13 inches of snow. We were happy to escape before it became a problem for driving. Thank you so much for the wonderful experience - the hotel and staff were excellent and we would love to return again someday!
andycapps Sun Mar 05 2006, 09:09am PT
Brilliant!!!!!!!
ayman 05 Mar '06 02:11
We can't thank you enough for the new pics. We really appreciate it. We've heard so many things about Iberostar Cozumel. The pics just made our day. We will be in Cozumel April 14-23. Hope to run into you.Thanks again.
Jim Coker 23 Feb '06 16:44
I am a big fan of Cozumel and have been there many times. We are staying at the Melia in March and I hope it looks as good as the pictures indicated. I am bringing some friends and we are going to do our best to put some cash into the economy in Cozumel. I am coming back in May for two weeks and plan on doing my part to get the economy going as well. Thank You so much for the website and pictures. Good luck and Thank You! Jim
Jean Faust 24 Feb '06 21:07
I'm so glad I found your website! We will be staying at the Melia March 1-8, I was glad to see it looks fully functional. Can't wait to return to Cozumel! We love it there and all the people! Jean Faust
Mark Pennington 25 Feb '06 12:49
Thank you so very much for posting these pictures. We go to Cozumel quite often and had been there right before the hurricane. We have been searching for photos to see how the island faired and you provided that. Wonderful and thank you again.
Joelle Ruth 25 Feb '06 16:34
Hi Antonio, I just wanted to drop you an email to say thank you! I ordered some of your items from CafePress and I am pleased to say that they look even better than they did online! Thank you for your store and the Wilma Album - it's wonderful to be able to view pictures of Cozumel to hold me over until I am visiting again at the end of March. Thank you again for all of your efforts, Joelle
Karen Ellis 28 Feb '06 05:21
Thank you for taking and posting the pictures of El Cozumeleno. Last year my family, along with other families and friends (16 people), planned a vacation to Cozumel. When hurricane Emily hit the island, we were forced to cancel our trip (huge disappointment). This group of people had never planned a trip together before. But, because of your encouragement, have rebooked our trip to El Cozumeleno. We are three families and friends who have children that are the same age. Five of these kids have been friends since kindergarden and will be seniors in high school at Gladewater, Texas next year. As children grow up, families and friends move apart. Without your encouragement, this trip would have been only a dream. Now I am excited that it will become a memory for 16 people to cherish forever. I look forward to meeting you in Cozumel July 15-22!
mollysee Mon Feb 27 2006, 08:25pm PT
Thank you so much for all the pictures...I knew Coz was recovering, but could not really feel sure without your great shots! We look forward to returning to our beloved Cozumel in August for our daughter's wedding. texas molly
jfeliciano77 Fri Feb 24 2006, 09:29pm PT
Antonio, you are AWESOME! Thank you for posting the El Coz pics. After seeing your pictures, I finally was able to contact the hotel. The trip has been planned and purchased and the Feliciano family will be coming in March. Now is the hard part, waiting! It was nice seeing all the familiar faces in the pictures, like Enrique! We can't wait to see our friends in Cozumel and introduce them all to our newest addition to our family! Thanks again ~ The Felicianio Family
shirmart Thu Feb 23 2006, 02:39pm PT
Well, you've done it again. What beautiful sunsets. And El Coz does look enticing. The Lighthouse Lady
radmanilh Thu Feb 23 2006, 12:48pm PT
We are impressed with the work you have done. Providing photos to the public on the improvement of Cozumel. Do you have any current pictures of the Caribe Blu? We are planning our first trip to Cozumel in July and can't wait to see the island after all the repairs. So far it looks pretty amazing. Thanks Billie and Mark
Brian Babcock 02 Feb '06 23:55
Antonio, I have been coming down from Vancouver Canada to Cozumel for over 20 years now. The last time I was there was 3 years ago and I must admit, I longed for the old days when the island was quieter and seemed more charming. With more cruise ships, all inclusives and American chains, Cozumel just didn't seem the same. I stumbled across your picture album and my wife and I were glued to the screen for hours! Fantastic work! You probably have no idea what sort of impact you're having for tourism on your island. It was after viewing your album that my wife and I decided to come there again. It seems quieter, maybe more like the old days. I know the merchants want the ships back like before, but if I can enjoy a week of solitude in Cozumel, I'm going for it! We'll be there this Tuesday. I can't wait for a pitcher of sangria at Pizza Rolandi (never did get used to the new name) while staring at the clear blue sea. Thanks again, Antonio. Your work is appreciated by us wet (29 days of rain in January) Vancouverites!
Christine @ Discover Your World Travel 03 Feb '06 00:00
Hello Antonio, As you can see from my email signature I am a travel agent. I’ve confidently booked 10 couples to Cozumel on the hunch that the few positive stories that I’ve heard are really true. I know personally that the people of Cozumel are charming and I believed in my gut that they were working hard to put the island back together. However, I’ve had a terrible time getting good information from suppliers or online. Sometimes I get hedgy comments from stateside hotel reps about the nature of repairs or discouraging reports. Most reports are just altogether unhelpful. I’ve been searching the web for good information and finally found your site. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your website and your Wilma album. It’s sad to see the devastation of such a beautiful island but I truly admire the people of Cozumel to see how well it is rebuilding. You’ve given me even more confidence to sell the area and push my clients to what I knew was a great destination. Thank you so very much for your hard work and dedication in providing such a terrific amount of information for me! I can’t wait to get back to Cozumel myself! Warm wishes, Christine Whitaker Discover Your World Travel Virginia Beach, VA
Jane Song 04 Feb '06 21:33
Dear Antonio, You tell a beautiful story with your pictures. It is amazing to see efforts in Cozumel. My husband, daughter and I were going to go there for the first time this year since we are part of Cozumel Palace. We were excited about the scuba diving before I saw your site, but now I'm excited to meet the people (especially if they are like you)! You are blessed with a sharp eye for capturing beautiful things. Jane Gee, Redondo Beach, CA
michele kitzman 14 Feb '06 16:37
Antonio, I just had to say Thank you for the wonderful pictures you have taken of Cozumel. We were a little worried about our vacation to the Allegro this Feb. but after seeing your pictures I can relax and get VERY excited about seeing your wonderful Island!! Once again Thank you for the updated album Michele
robin shuler 21 Feb '06 19:29
--I have been viewing your pictures since Wilma whipped through! They are wonderful......I will be flying into Cozumel Fri. for Carnaval and hopefully will be sitting at Mezcalitos drinking a Margarita before sundown!!!!! I am writing to ask you if you have a shop on the island and if so where???? Thanks for a job WELL DONE!!!!!
Cockerton, Maureen 22 Feb '06 17:25
Antonio: I was referred to your site to see updates to your island. My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Cozumel 18 years ago and fell in love with the island. We wanted to come back before we left. But 2 children and a home later we were not able to afford a return visit. Now we are ready and your album helped us make the decision to come back. The travel agents in Canada are recommending that we do not visit Cozumel as the beaches are ruined and the town is a mess. I was so disappointed to hear that. I dug deeper and found your site. Thank you so much. The pictures of Occidental and Allegro helped a lot. We are planning our visit the first week of April. Thanks again
Queenswan Mon Feb 20 2006, 08:41pm PT
BEAUTIFUL JUST PERFECTLY BEAUTIFUL ANNE
cozbobby Mon Feb 20 2006, 12:53pm PT
Wow, 60,000 hits! Where are the sponsors? Antonio, your name has become synonymous with Cozumel. The way you and Cozumel have bounced back from two hurricanes is an inspiration to all of us.
BellaCaterina Sun Feb 19 2006, 08:16am PT
Antonio, Your pictures have changed the way I view Mexico and your Island. I was so impressed with your photographs that it left me totally breathless. Cozumel is a beautiful, breathtaking, wonderful Island and I hope one day I will visit. Once again wonderful job on your website.
Justa1More Wed Feb 15 2006, 01:27pm PT
Antonio, great pictures, as usual. I haven't checked out the pictures lately and saw the ones from Sol Melia. It looks Great. My wife and I have stayed there the last three years in a row and have loved it. We were there last year two weeks after Emily blew through and was amazed at how quick things were back in order. (Damage was no where near as severe as wilma but we sure saw the spirit of the Cozumelenos then. Also there year before when Ivan came through. Think we will change out date this year to non hurricane season. NOT!!!
Melsch Tue Feb 14 2006, 08:44pm PT
Antonio---you have done a WONDERFUL job! You are the best PR person that Cozumel has..IMHO. Just looking at your recent pictures of El Coz makes me want to be back there right now! It looks like they have done some things to make it better than before. The hammocks look very inviting and I can picture myself laying in the sun by the pool. Oh my...better make my reservations soon!! Thanks again for all the pictures....I have watched you add them over the last several months and seeing them is like being there (but not quite!). It was good to see Enrique back at the bar....and I agree with you, Rosa is a jewel. Hope to see you this summer. Mel--one of the Okie Chicks
MikeCothran Sun Feb 12 2006, 01:09pm PT
Antonio - as a lover of Cozumel, me and my family want to thank you for this site - for 20 years we have visited Cozumel and keep coming back - my brother and I are avid divers and I don't have to tell you why we come to Cozumel - yes we have tried other places but always come back - and you know why - my daughter did her first open water in Cozumel - it makes us sad when we see the devistation but happy at the resiliency of the Cozmel people - actually we spent a week in between Emily and Wilma - we were scheduled to leave on the Friday that Rita hit Houston (which is our home base) so we had to stay until Monday - we were upset for about 5 minutes and then went diving to make ourselves feel better - LOL - Cozumel is our paradise largely because the people of Cozumel are as good and nice as they are!
rlewter Fri Feb 10 2006, 10:17pm PT
Fabulous!! you are doing a great job... I am getting on the cruise ship to come there tomorrow (well really today, it is just after midnight) We are getting married on the beach at Melia - your pictures on this website have really helped calm my fears -- I just want to say thank you for all your hard work and great documentation!! lots of work goes into this... thanks again!!
Mathesoncl@aol.co Thu Feb 09 2006, 07:51pm PT
Antonio, thanks so much for the pictures of the El Coz and the rest of the island. I'll be there with a group of 14 from Minnesota on Feb. 25 for our 3rd trip to Cozumel, and I'm so glad the reconstruction is going well. Looking forward to visiting your beautiful country and the friendly people that live there.
tannin86 Thu Feb 09 2006, 11:53am PT
GREAT PICTURES!!! Glad to see things are still beautiful. Any reports on the Allegro Occidental???? Coming in a month and a half and thinking I may have to stay at Playa if nobody has updates. I'm just uncertain since it will be our first time to Cozumel. Any help? Kari from Minnesota
jfeliciano77 Wed Feb 08 2006, 09:30am PT
Antonio, just wondering how the progress is coming along for the El Cozumeleno resort. I have tried reaching the hotel, and can't get through. I want to book my trip for march or april but don't want to do so until I know the hotel is open for sure. Thanks again for the pictures, they are wonderful! Jessica
june212 Wed Feb 08 2006, 07:51am PT
Antonio, just found your beautiful photos. Makes me happy that we booked the Coz for Nov this year. I'm sure that the island will be back to its beautiful self by then. Bless you for keep all of us up to date on the work being done. June
barblmeador Tue Feb 07 2006, 03:07pm PT
BRAVO, to all the hard work the people of Cozumel have done. Antonio, Mike and I will hunt you up in August.
IrishHubby Tue Feb 07 2006, 01:55pm PT
Antonio, Thank you so much for these photos. It is so difficult to get a straight answer from anyone here in the states. We are planning a trip for June of this year and your site has helped us confirm our decision to come to Cozumel. We would love to meet you for a cold beer in June. Gracias.
tannin86 Mon Feb 06 2006, 09:10am PT
This album is so helpful for us future visitors of Cozumel. It's really neat to see the before and after from the destruction of Wilma. Everyone is doing a great job in getting the island back up and running. I can't wait to see more updated photos - especially the Allegro Cozumel, which is where we are going to be staying with our children. Thanks for letting me look! Kari - from Minnesota
sandymN05 Sun Feb 05 2006, 10:34am PT
Thank You so much for these photo's. We have been going to Cozumel for the past 6 years and have had so much fun we hated the idea of having to find a new location to go to. The Melia looks great. We will get the word out on Cozumel. Brian & Sandy Minnesota USA
maryelen01 Sat Feb 04 2006, 06:38am PT
How wonderful to finally get info on my favorite place. I have wonderful memories of Cozumel going back to 1990. We fell in love with the people of Cozumel as we watched them rebuild their homes and the whole island after being struck by 2 major hurricanes which came in back to back. The Mayans just kept on smiling and rebuilt their island. Thanks so much for all the photos. We will be back to visit in June, 2006 and will be bringing our children and grandchildren. We will all be in town Sunday to mingle with all the people living on Cozumel and to smile and laugh with them.
amymackay Fri Feb 03 2006, 09:45pm PT
Antonio... what a loving documentary you've given the rest of us who have not made it back to Cozumel yet! Thank you so much for your efforts! Please send any news of the Sol Cabañas... I hope the rumors of it being sold and turned into an AI are not true! We will be at Playa Azul in May!
cinders8686 Fri Feb 03 2006, 07:39pm PT
Thanks Antonio!! It's wonderful to see Coz up and running. We're coming next year! So nice to hear from you that everything is going well despite all the nasty rumors saying otherwise. Keep us posted and as always, let us know if you need anything. We're always glad to help. Come to freezing Chicago too-our door is always open for you!
sirena19881 Fri Feb 03 2006, 08:12am PT
Hi Tony. The album is great, the pictures near the end are beautiful, and your captions are funny! I saw my chair waiting for me on the beach! It will only be 55 more days until we come back to Coz, (wearing, of course, wilma shirts!). You've done a great thing here, helping all of us who are suffering from withdrawal from Coz---thank you! See you soon! Sirena
arlfnp Fri Feb 03 2006, 06:05am PT
Hola Antonio, More great pics. We'll be there soon! Jerry and Arlene Libbert
shirmart Thu Feb 02 2006, 09:25am PT
Again, a fantastic job of presenting your home. Thanks for all the lovely sights and enticing photos to get us excited about coming back to Cozumel. The Lighthouse Lady
sugarmagnolia01 Thu Feb 02 2006, 08:25am PT
Awesome pictures!! Can't wait to see Coz for myself next week. Any pics of Elcoz?
priscilla96 Wed Feb 01 2006, 01:26pm PT
Antonio, I love the energy you have put into this album. We are on our way for Carnival and our annual trip this year. Having the ability to see Coz thru it all has been devasting to us but also comforting to know the spirit of Cozumel is so strong. We can't wait to get there!! Pam in San Diego
mimitroh Wed Feb 01 2006, 10:56am PT
Thanks so much for the pictures of the Melia. Our family was scheduled to come on Nov 6th. We'll be back as soon as we can arrange school schedules.
sharpei327 Tue Jan 31 2006, 03:33pm PT
We stay at the Fiesta Americana every year around Easter. Have been in contact with the hotel but finally have been able to see pictures. These are great. Thanks so much for your efforts.
cgin58 Tue Jan 31 2006, 10:42am PT
Tremendous work. I would be interested to know how some of the southern hotels/timeshares fared El Cid La Ceiba in perticular.
grotfarm Sun Jan 29 2006, 06:54am PT
We have stayed at La Ceibe 5 times. It breaks my heart to see tha damage and devastation Cozumel has endured during the hurricane season. I can't wait to see the new and exciting Cozumel next year.
minimaniac2 Fri Jan 27 2006, 10:25am PT
Antonio, My wife and I and friends have been coming to Cozumel for 10 years, now. We are really happy to see the quick cleanup and refurbishment of so many of our favorite places. We will be arriving tomorrow, the 28th and staying for a week. Unfortunately, our time share at Cozumel Palace will be unavailable to us this year. All the same we are looking forward to a great time. We want to thank you for the great collection of pictures of the storm and its aftermath. The rebuilding has been impressive. Our favorite bar Coconuts looks as inviting as ever. Cuco, our Astoria tee shirt is on the way!! Bryan and Nora
akarenzie Fri Jan 27 2006, 10:10am PT
Thank you for the updates Antonio. Will be visiting from Jan 29th to Feb 6th so it was really nice to see the beach club pictures so we know where to go! and how it looks. Will be seeing it all soon with our own eyes. First time to Cozumel. Thank you so much! Sherry
samboo01 Thu Jan 26 2006, 10:53am PT
This is the best cozumel album I have seen. I really miss cozumel. But I will be back. fyi: El Presidente - new opening date - Sept 1 - confirmed with their manager Javier Rosenberg.
leprechaun1129 Tue Jan 24 2006, 12:58pm PT
Antonio, these officials may deserve medals, but you, with all these photos and effort, should be the Tourism Emmesary for Cozumel. It must have taken you hours and hours to assemble these pictures. Congratulations on job well done. My wife and I met you last time we were at El Coz.... The Leprechaun and Jamie. We'll be back to see you, soon, I hope.
lola1967 Tue Jan 24 2006, 12:02pm PT
ANTONIO,ANTONIO,ANTONIO AFTER SEEING YOUR PICTURES, 10 OF US FROM MINNESOTA AND WISCONSIN CHANGED OUR VACATION PLANS TO REVISIT OUR BELOVED COZUMEL IN APRIL. WE COULDN'T STAY AWAY AND ARE CONTINUALLY AWESTRUCK AT THE RESURRECTION.KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.I KNOW THAT COZUMEL IS PROUD OF YOU. DENISE P.S IT'S ONLY 10 DEGREES IN MINNESOTA TODAY!YUCK
naze69 Tue Jan 24 2006, 08:15am PT
Hey Antonio , Thanks ! We had to change our trip this year unfortunately , and ended up going to Punta Cana . All I can say is BOY DO I MISS COZUMEL !! There is NO comparison to the people there . The pix are great and I'm happy to see the island coming back ! We are already planning on our trip back to Coz next year and the pix make me wish I was there now !! I'm looking forward to further updates . Thanks Again !!
wndbg68 Mon Jan 23 2006, 11:32am PT
Today is January 23rd'06. We just got back home (Minnesota) yesterday.Cozumel is absolutely amazing and beautiful! Thank you for posting these pictures. They are wonderful to see (think we may have spotted ourselves in one of the Paradise Beach shots! ha ha ) See you next year!!
trim140 Wed Jan 18 2006, 02:56pm PT
My husband and I are taking a cruise Feb 4-10 and are in the process of choosing shore excursions. I was so happy to find your album here to give me an idea of the condition of Cozumel. I found your comments about shore snorkeling interesting. Which is better right now, shore snorkeling or drift snorkeling? Thanks for sharing this glimpse of Cozumel!
jfeliciano77 Fri Jan 13 2006, 12:07am PT
Antonio, it's almost 3am here in Connecticut and I couldn't pull myself away from the computer after finding your pictures. How terrific to see Cozumel rebounding so triumphantly. My husband and I recently got married there last year, and we are planning our 3rd trip to Coz in March or April and had no idea of the status of the hotels and San Miguel, and after seeing your photos I am more excited than ever about returning to beautiful Cozumel. We prayed for everyone there during the Hurricanes, and until now, we had no record of the condition. We always stay at the el cozumelenos, and I'm so glad the hotel coming back strong. Hope our friends at Kelly's faired well. Thank you for the piece of mind Antonio. JFeliciano
fresh21 Wed Jan 11 2006, 03:59pm PT
Antonio, this is awesome!!! Thank you for sharing your precious pictures with the world. You did a wonderful job showing us all ends of Cozumel. Again thank you and God Bless. Look forward to our next trip down there.
pmaltese Sun Jan 08 2006, 09:37am PT
Thank you so much for the pictures. Just found your site through a dive magazine and was so happy to see the pictures. We love Cozumel and will be back in March 2006. Especially glad to see the Coral Princess photos as that's where we stay. Thank you again for making these available to all of us who love and will return to Cozumel.
lerckert Fri Jan 06 2006, 06:49am PT
Antonio, Thank you for the views of Cozumel after Wilma! My husband and I were there with you for the hurricane. It was an experience we will never forget! (You are right about Florida needing to look to Cozumel for building tips) The people of your island were so helpful and wonderful to us while they were cleaning up and getting their homes and lives back. We thank you all! We were guests at the Reef Club and had not seen any pictures of the resort after the hurricane until we saw yours. We will be back to visit again in 2007. Cozumel is beautiful and we are glad to see the island recovering so quickly! God Bless -
justmestace Wed Jan 04 2006, 10:27pm PT
Thank you, Antonio. I have been following your album since the beginning and we were in Cozumel on December 26th and were so pleased with the progress that is being made. I can't wait to come back again in May and see how far along the work is! I am sure it will be beautiful.
awcongo Wed Jan 04 2006, 06:53am PT
Mayor!!!!! Thank you so much for the information. You know we love this island and people as family. It is truly a blessing that all are safe and the "Island of the Moon" spirit continues. Peace and Love, Congo, Anelle & Billy
prettygirl26 Sat Dec 31 2005, 12:24am PT
Antonio, por favor... Can you tell me anything about a waiter named "Lupe" here? My family has stayed at El Coz, and we got to know his family. His son is the same age as my son, and we spent time with his family and visited his son's school. We have been praying for them, any info would be appreciated. muchissimas gracias!
Barta Fri Dec 30 2005, 07:08pm PT
Antonio, thank you for sharing such precious pictures of yours. I've never been in Cozumel but have booked a cruise for June that will call Cozumel and can't wait to shake Cozumelenos hands for the great job everybody have done to recover such beautiful place. It's amazing how everybody did a little to make it happen. God Bless you.
ladydi201 Thu Dec 29 2005, 12:03pm PT
Antonio, The album was amazing and sad all at the same time. It was with such detail that I was able to see some of our favorite spots and to truley understand the devestation and determination the good people of Cozumel have had to deal with. Thanks again, long live Cozumel!
garfieldsyl Thu Dec 29 2005, 11:03am PT
It is so wonderful to see Cozumel alive once more. Your spirit and determination is so awesome. Would like to see some shots of a dining place called Casablanca where my family and I have enjoyed many meals. Thanx for the great photos in this album and hope to see things greater in 2006.
shirmart Thu Dec 29 2005, 09:39am PT
You are a blessing to those of us who have visited Cozumel and will come again. Hope your year is abundant with good joys and your new adventures are extremely successful. The Lighthouse Lady
rooney201 Thu Dec 29 2005, 06:14am PT
Antonio, this is awesome! We will be in our favorite vacation spot for Festival. Can't wait. (By the way, that is Cozumel) We in Louisiana could take lessons.
cindy196601 Wed Dec 28 2005, 02:20pm PT
Antonio, I wanted to say thank you for all the wonderful photos, i am coming down 0218-0225. I was worried when wilma decided to set up home on the island. You have calmed my fears and i look forward to much fun/beer in the sun on the east side. merry christmas and happy new year to you and your family. cindylouwho- fridley, mn
lrzpwz Fri Dec 23 2005, 10:43pm PT
Thank you Antonio for sharing all of these photos with those of us who aren't close enough to keep up with the amazing things that you who live on Cozumel have done since Wilma. I have cried, but I have felt amazement and been inspired too. I know that I have some presents from your Online Store under the tree and I can't wait to open them. We will be in Cozumel in January and I can barely wait, counting the days. Have a Blessed Christmas and a Joyous New Year, Pam and Larry (LRZPWZ)
dirtroad Fri Dec 23 2005, 05:57am PT
Antonio, Have not looked at your album in awhile. Sure great to see that the green is coming back. Hope to be there soon. Dirtroad
klove06 Thu Dec 22 2005, 04:43pm PT
Antonio thanks for the great pics. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I am getting married there in February and there is no place else I would rather be. See you in 7 weeks.
FNorton Mon Dec 19 2005, 10:14am PT
Thanks for sharing these pictures. We have been coming to Cozumel for over 20 years, diving and having lots of fun, and have many friends there that we worried about during the hurricane. We love this island like our own home! Glad to see that Coconuts is open-Cuco and Kathy are great friends of ours. Please tell them we are coming back soon! Faye & Ken Norton
nrsbek Wed Dec 14 2005, 10:13pm PT
These pix are amazing. Thanks for sharing. Becky
weeza02 Wed Dec 14 2005, 10:00am PT
Absolutely awesome pictures! Topeka Kansas divers will be there Feb 22-Mar 1, 2005! Yo soy Cozumel! Y estoy de Pie!
bayoubabies Tue Dec 13 2005, 12:32pm PT
Wonderful photo, I have enjoyed looking at them. Even though the first ones were very sad, it is nice to see there is so much work being done. We have had a lot of fun in Cozumel and hope to come again soon. Thanks for all the hard work you have done on this album
ruielu Thu Dec 01 2005, 03:59pm PT
Great Job! So appreciate being able to see what is happening on the island we love so much!!! Thank you!
cagail Wed Nov 30 2005, 04:33pm PT
Tony, what a fantastic job of keeping all us Coz crazies up to date. I really enjoy all the photos. Could you see how the Melia is doing repairwise? The pics you took look awful and I wondered if they had replaced the sand or structures yet. Thanks, cagail
Hansing Wed Nov 30 2005, 09:44am PT
Thank you Antonio for a great job. We are sad about our Cozumel but can see that it will be back and we will be back. Our prayers are with you. Hope to meet you some day. Dave & Bernie Bourbonnais, IL USA
BeccaLove Tue Nov 29 2005, 06:39pm PT
Thank you for sharing your photos with us. The island took a beating but everyone worked hard to clean everything up and rebuild. I will be in Cozumel next week and I am looking forward to it.
ehend4392 Mon Nov 28 2005, 07:16am PT
Thank You for providing these fantastic pictures. I have been looking and looking to see if I could find some pictures from Hurrincane Wilma hitting Cozumel. I could not find anything until I just happened to stumbled accross yours. We have been going to Cozumel every year now for about 10 years. My husband and I talk about retireing in Cozumel in about 15 years. Its is a beautil Island and freindly people. our prayers were with eveyone during this devistation hurricane. The Lord heard our prayers and helped Cozumel bounce back. See you all in August. Evelyn Henderson, Missouri City, Tex. (suburbs of Houston).
czmrocks Sun Nov 27 2005, 04:36pm PT
Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful album,Antonio!I will be in Cozumel Dec.15th-22nd.It would be great to thank you in person!I'm bringing my stepdaughter,and 2 friends,so they can see for themselves why I love and respect Cozumelenos so much.What incredible spirit! I've loved the people on this beautiful little island all my life,and this is why.My thoughts and prayers are with you all.See ya soon! Debra in Killeen,Tx.
hmv-alp Sun Nov 27 2005, 01:15pm PT
Cozumelenos are incredible!! I will see you all soon!
rrobo21 Sun Nov 27 2005, 04:33am PT
This is the most thorough and comprehensive photo journal of the hurricane's damage to AND progress in cleanup of Cozumel.
rando07 Fri Nov 25 2005, 05:29am PT
AWESOME album. Our family of 4 took our 1st trip to Coz in june of 2005, 10 days, too short, loved the people, food and snorkle. THANKS for the album, I check back every few weeks, and read cozumelmycozumel.com for good news of the truth. I keep praying for you all. God bless you all, rando07
terry376 Thu Nov 24 2005, 05:49pm PT
Thank you Antonio for documenting the recovery thru your lense. The pics were wonderful and warmed our hearts with fond memories. We of North Myrtle Beach S.C. thank you and WE WILL BE BACK. TJ
DanHope Mon Nov 21 2005, 06:47pm PT
Thanks for sharing your photos. We have a condo at the Coral Princess and your picture was the only one I have been able to see. Any idea how Pepe's SCUBA fared?
ronaldpoff Sun Nov 20 2005, 08:38pm PT
Your chronical of Cozumel rebuilding is fantastic. I hope some day you will show the area south of town near La Ceiba; we've had no word on rebuilding in that area. Hopefully we'll be there in February. Thanks for sharing.
gregory001 Sun Nov 20 2005, 08:01pm PT
Fantastic photographic diary of the desctruction and rebulding by all the Cozumeleno's. Thanks for sharing my friend. We will return to Cozumel soon.
shirmart Sun Nov 20 2005, 02:43pm PT
Oh, my Antonio! What a great project you have taken on and completed so successfully. I have a couple of friends who are coming to Cozumel for the first time and intend to share this journal with them. My pictures enticed them, but yours show such concern. I notice the "little red lighthouse" at El Coz is still standing. I hope to see the one at Punta Sur perhaps in your next set of photos. Thanks for all you have given us to remind us of Cozumel. The Lighthouse Lady
br3mariajindra Sun Nov 20 2005, 09:02am PT
Thanks for the pics Antonio! All of us from the USA applaud all the cozumelos and their fantistic Quintana Roo! Hurray for Cozumel Viva Cozumel
JEgeler Sat Nov 19 2005, 11:16am PT
Thank You Antonio... My family had you all in our prayers through this ordeal! We hope to visit again, this time with our newly adoped daughter! God Bless, Jim Danbury, CT
mkaloia6698 Thu Nov 17 2005, 02:51pm PT
That was absolutely AMAZING!!! Thank you for taking the time to put this together. It is really appreciated!!!
tpalacky Thu Nov 17 2005, 08:27am PT
Tony -- It is so good to hear from you considering what you all have been through. I am completely amazed at how much progress has been made. It truly shows the dedication everyone has for the island and it is wonderful to see it first hand. I was suppose to go to Cozumel again about the time of Wlima, but we decided to go somewhere else instead. I guess it was a good decision since we got stuck there with you 3 years ago. Dont think my boss would ever let me go on vacation again if that happened. I am hoping to get there soon to see the beautiful island, people, and scuba diving. Will definately get in touch with you when we plan to return. Viva Cozumel! Tami Palacky of Springfield, VA
wayer01 Thu Nov 17 2005, 07:18am PT
I've been going to Cozumel diving since 1964. I go regularly and have been through a couple of hurricanes there. I'm very glad to see that someone was there to document this for the great people of Cozumel and show that they are ready to get the show going. Thank you!! You've done a great job and a great service!! Wayne Ayer - Austin, Texas
StacyZ Thu Nov 17 2005, 05:02am PT
Antonio, So glad to hear from you and love the site. Fantastic picture and you posted some great pics regarding the hurricane. It was very hard to find info on Cozumel. You know how much we love Cozumel, one of our favorite places and glad to hear things are getting back to normal or at least people have been able to move on and recover. Our best wishes to you and everyone, Cozumel is a fantasstic place. God bless. Zatopeks
james.reilly4 Thu Nov 17 2005, 04:27am PT
Wonderful! Thanks. Again, I am impressed with the industry of the Mexican people. Look at how Cozumel recovered and compare that to New Orleans - no comparison! Great job. Also is it possible to publish photos of Reef Club and Fiesta etc on the southern part of the island.
smokinokin Sun Nov 13 2005, 08:35am PT
Thank you soooo much for these photos!! The spirit and perseverance of everyone on the island fills my heart. THIS is what makes Cozumel the most special place on earth. Please continue to add more photos. Your photos are well thought out and all from the heart. Thank you!!! Laurie Dubrick Chicago, Illinois
koot63 Sun Nov 13 2005, 07:13am PT
Great updates, Antonio! I've been checking every couple of days. Any chance you could show the south hotels ie. Occidental Grand Cozumel, or at least let us know how they fared? I am patiently waiting for reopening so I can continue my trip! Salud!
mmarmole Thu Nov 10 2005, 10:29pm PT
Antonio. Buen trabajo, gran documento. Viva Cozumel. Manuel
sleeson Thu Nov 10 2005, 07:00pm PT
It is truly wonderful to see the hard work and progress. These are encouraging. Cozumel is coming back, and we are coming down in January.
cheryl158 Thu Nov 10 2005, 06:30pm PT
Dear sweet Antonio, thank you for sharing your photo's with us. We have reservations for 1/28 - 2/4/06 and CANNOT wait to return to the island of Cozumel. God Bless you and your family!
aki_coz Thu Nov 10 2005, 04:51pm PT
We are coming in Dec. We are looking forward to seeing Coz people!
Wcdapro Thu Nov 10 2005, 03:21pm PT
Coming in December...can't wait all four of us
sslockb Thu Nov 10 2005, 02:50pm PT
Yikes! We are booked here in January (14 through 21). Doesn't look like the hotel can possibly open by then. :-(
dlkala Thu Nov 10 2005, 08:57am PT
Thank you for the wonderful images of Cozumel! We intend to go down on the 30th and it is nice to see the progress!! Bless you!
bellydancer1 Thu Nov 10 2005, 07:44am PT
Thanks for the pics Antonio...great job showing everyone the progress of the cleanup.
billyincoz Thu Nov 10 2005, 05:08am PT
God Bless the people of Cozumel! We will be down in May as planned.
tuberiders2002 Wed Nov 09 2005, 06:57pm PT
Antonio, thank you so much for taking the time to share these images with us, It is great to see how everyone is pulling together to restore the island. My prayers go out to the people of Cozumel. We booked a trip to Cozumel for March, and were worried the island would not be back up and running, but thanks to your photos, we will still be coming. Drew, New Jersey
CMoneypenny Wed Nov 09 2005, 06:18pm PT
Antonio, you are simply awesome. The entire album tells a story that we simply cannot get anywhere else. If not for you and the posts on CozumelMyCozumel, we would not know the extent of the damage and the awesome recovery efforts. I only wish we could get down there before April. Our hearts go out to you and every Cozumel resident. El Cozumeleno will just not be the same if you aren't there in April mi amigo. Chuck Colorado Springs
marykay17 Wed Nov 09 2005, 05:13pm PT
Antonio thank you thank you thank you for this info. Yes, the Mayan people are amazing and deserve our applause. You to are to be commended for getting the word "in pictures" out there that Cozumel will be beautiful as ever. Mary Kay
arlfnp Wed Nov 09 2005, 05:12pm PT
What a guy!
laker403 Wed Nov 09 2005, 03:41pm PT
Thanks so much, Antonio. We're finally able to see the Playa Azul and know that at least the shell is still there. We can't wait to be back - hopefully in Feb. - and by then the beach will be ready for me to lounge on, and Felipe will be mixing our drinks on the beach. We'll see you at Carnivale!
griswaller Mon Nov 07 2005, 03:35am PT
Thank you for the pics. We are planning a trip there in February (our hotel is due to re-open the end of Dec). The pics helped put a face on Wilma. We are still looking forward to our trip, and know that Cozumel will overcome this disaster.
prljr Sun Nov 06 2005, 12:16pm PT
It is very depressing to see the destruction of our little Island. We spend 1 week a year there but it still seems like our Mexican second home. It is a pleasure to see the cleanup is moving along quickly. We will be making our yearly visit in April and can hardly wait. The best to you and your family. Paul,Rochester,NY Please keep the pictures coming if possible.
koot63 Sun Nov 06 2005, 08:58am PT
Antonio...thank you for putting a human face on Hurricane Wilma. All you hear on the news are statistics, but you never hear about the people. A fantastic job on the album. I will be checking for more updates as they come! PS I was one of the lucky tourists that left Cozumel on Wednesday, October 19/05.
justbcoz Sat Nov 05 2005, 08:24am PT
Antonio, Thank you so much amigo for keeping everyone updated on the progress in Cozumel. We are scheduled to arrive in June and can't wait to spend our gringo $$ to help restore the economy there. Coz truly is the most wonderful island... a testament to the amazing people who live there!
wendyandres Fri Nov 04 2005, 07:21pm PT
Best pictures I've seen of the destruction of Cozumel. Glad you and your family are safe. We are planning a trip to the island the first week of Feb. 06 if clean up efforts are far enough along. Good luck. you are in our prayers.
fbanuelos Fri Nov 04 2005, 07:15pm PT
Impresionante
javier116 Fri Nov 04 2005, 07:13pm PT
Thank you for all the pertinent info about Cozumel
Tommybuoy Fri Nov 04 2005, 02:20pm PT
You, your family and all on your beautiful island are in my prayers.
mattlela Fri Nov 04 2005, 01:00pm PT
Thanks so much for sharing these photos. I'm astounded by the destruction, but I'm equally astounded by the amount of clean-up that is evident in the second batch of photos! Again, thank you very, very much. My best from Atlanta, GA! matt elliott
tinalamb Thu Nov 03 2005, 10:24am PT
These are great photos. Thank you for sharing these. I have been to Cozumel twice, and loved the people and there town. I am saddened by the destruction of their beautiful town. They are strong people, and I know they will have it back soon and most likely even better.
Noillid2 Wed Nov 02 2005, 09:37pm PT
Cozumel is still and will always be one of my favorite ports! The destruction by hurricane Wilma is very sad, but the reconstruction shown in your photos is very impressive! I look forward to my next visit! Thank you very much for sharing your photos!!! Tom...
laurie225 Wed Nov 02 2005, 03:20pm PT
Thank you for documenting this historic event. We have visited Cozumel the last two years and recognized many of the picture locations. Very sad to think of the devestation and loss but it looks like the amazing people of Cozumel have done an awesome job already in cleaning up their island. look forward to more updates!
steve1025 Wed Nov 02 2005, 11:09am PT
Antonio, Thanks!!
pugofstardock Wed Nov 02 2005, 10:54am PT
thanks for the Coz pics! how did the eastern beaches fare? any pics? thanks again!
Galveston_Gal Wed Nov 02 2005, 10:46am PT
Thanks for the pictures, Antonio. I know you have a lot on your mind with the cleanup and all, but you still take the time to keep us all informed. Good luck! Galveston Gal
sleeson Tue Nov 01 2005, 08:03pm PT
We were both thrilled and saddened to see these pictures. The devastation is sad, but the clean-up and repair is good to see. We will be returning to Cozumel in mid-January and will be watching your album to see the progress. Keep up the great work recording the comeback from this horrible storm.
tdcurtis Tue Nov 01 2005, 08:00pm PT
I'm awestruck. My heart and prays go out to each and every person on the Island. Tut
2preston108 Tue Nov 01 2005, 07:43am PT
what about the diver statue?
ronaldpoff Tue Nov 01 2005, 07:35am PT
Your pictures are the first I've seen. Keep your spirits high. Lots of work ahead and the people of Cozumel are hard at it. Thank you so much for sharing these with us. Ronald
MarkRohde Mon Oct 31 2005, 10:09pm PT
This is the best collection of pix showing the impact of Wilma. Great job. The people of Cozumel are amazing and it appears that the Mexican government is working to restore normalcy in a much more cohesive manner that the US government did in New Orleans. Mark
nrsbek Mon Oct 31 2005, 08:46pm PT
Wow Antonio. Great pix. The cleanup is looking good. Can't wait to get back down. Thanks for sharing. Becky
txadmin Mon Oct 31 2005, 07:35pm PT
Thanks so much for the update.
lorna2003 Mon Oct 31 2005, 06:19pm PT
I really appreciate your photos. It looks really bad, but I know the great people of Cozumel will bounce back. Can you tell how the intown H. Aguilar made out?
mfunder Mon Oct 31 2005, 11:58am PT
Hey Antonio - we are glad to here you are well! Jerry and I were there in September and met you and have been thinking of everyone at El Coz and Cozumel in general--- thanks for posting the pics CNN /the news in general havent shown us much except Cancun...grrrr hugs and much love to all!!
baligurl2002 Mon Oct 31 2005, 07:35am PT
Amazing photos! Thanks for sharing!
ladymargarita Sun Oct 30 2005, 07:48pm PT
thank you for sharing your pics. we'll be down in febuary and i know the island will be well on its way back - better than ever. we love cozumel and are grateful that no lives were lost. things can be rebuilt or replaced - people can't
patricia293 Sun Oct 30 2005, 12:55pm PT
I SAT HERE AND CRIED. THANK YOU FOR SHARING. I KNOWCOZUMEL WILL REBUILD BUT IT BREAKS MY HEART. PATRICIA
cjrc Sun Oct 30 2005, 10:52am PT
Thanks for the humorous quotes, I needed the laugh. I've been crying too much since Wilma hit. Cj
ISLABONITA Sun Oct 30 2005, 06:07am PT
So sorry to see this destruction on such a beautiful island. Hope to visit again in February, God willing and God Bless,
darryl934 Sun Oct 30 2005, 04:35am PT
Antonio Thank you for the pictures. Could you tell us how El Coz weathered the hurricane? Could you post some pictures of it? We're supposed to be there on the 17th but that looks doubtful now. dpeach1934
DomesticengineerAZ Sat Oct 29 2005, 10:26pm PT
Thanks so much for the pictures. We have only been to Cozumel once but feel a connection with the Island & the poeple. We keep every one affected by Wilma in our daily thoughts & prayers! We look forward to our next trip! GOD BLESS
lovzyanni Sat Oct 29 2005, 09:39pm PT
Great photography. Thank you so much for such a close-up view of the devastation. God bless you for showing the Embassy and Tony too!!! so much easier to see the damage than to imagine it. Thanks again, and may God bless you in your own home clean-up. Alayne
smokin66 Sat Oct 29 2005, 04:47pm PT
Oh my God.....I am crying from these photos. From the devestation and from the love, power, and stamina of the people to work together and keep it alive. Thank you for sharing. I will be there as soon as possible to help.
talisnam70 Sat Oct 29 2005, 12:25pm PT
Gracias por las fotos Antonio , el espiritu de progreso y de bienestar de los Cozumelenos los habra de sacar adelante ; tengo familiares en CZM asi que Dios mediante estare por alla en Abril 06 para poner mi granito de arena con el turismo . Ojala puedas tomar fotos de como avanza la reconstruccion . Saludos desde Saltillo y una vez mas mi admiracion y solidaridad con ustedes . Jose
ciscole Sat Oct 29 2005, 11:06am PT
We have a time share at the Reef Club. We were planning on coming down in Feburary. We are happy that your family is safe! I love your kitty. It is great the the telephones and ferry was free to all people! We have close friends that was stuck in Cancun. We are very greatful to the brave and kind people of Mexico for taking care of All people. We are proud of all of you. Kim and David Francisco Algonac, Michigan USA
WARAMSEY Sat Oct 29 2005, 10:45am PT
MY SON COMES HERE OFTEN TO SCUBA. HE IS A PHOTOGRAPHER. I'LL LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING HIS TAKE ON THE STORM RESULTS ON HIS NEXT TRIP. THE PHOTOS WERE GREAT. WARAMSEY
mziebell2000 Sat Oct 29 2005, 09:05am PT
My wife and I have been to Cozumel three times, once being our honeymoon. These pictures are truly heartbreaking! Mick and Mel
wndbg68 Sat Oct 29 2005, 09:00am PT
We were supposed to come on Nov 7th. Our hearts and prayers are with you all!!! The Krause Family Duluth, Minnesota USA
blatherbeard Sat Oct 29 2005, 07:52am PT
Thank you for the photos Antonio. Im glad you and your family are safe. Blatherbeard (john)
jennat99 Sat Oct 29 2005, 07:06am PT
Thanks for sharing these pictures. I'm glad you and your family are alive and well. I hope things get back to normal as quickly as possible for you. Jennifer
Dijoone Sat Oct 29 2005, 04:27am PT
Great album Antonio. DiJo