A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Roswell, New Mexico. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a idyllic, relaxing, and laid back island. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a mysterious, infamous, and quirky town. And you can't forget about the food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres than Roswell, New Mexico, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Isla Mujeres is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Roswell, New Mexico is more popular for its museums and attractions. Isla Mujeres is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Also, Isla Mujeres is famous for the Underwater Museum of Art. Roswell, New Mexico is well known for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Roswell, New Mexico and Isla Mujeres. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Roswell, New Mexico offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.


Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Isla Mujeres has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Isla Mujeres for its luxury resorts. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Isla Mujeres. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is very popular for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Isla Mujeres offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Isla Mujeres. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.


Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is very family-friendly. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Roswell, New Mexico. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Isla Mujeres is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.


Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.

Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Isla Mujeres has some public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is generally limited in Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.

Is Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres
Roswell, New Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable island. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable island. The historic district is compact and walkable.


For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. In our opinion, Isla Mujeres has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Roswell, New Mexico. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Roswell, New Mexico. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Isla Mujeres, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Roswell, New Mexico. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Isla Mujeres that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Roswell, New Mexico if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Isla Mujeres.


  • How many days in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isla Mujeres 1-2 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Isla Mujeres, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Roswell, New Mexico, many people enjoy the museums and food that this infamous town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Isla Mujeres for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isla Mujeres, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Roswell, New Mexico is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Isla Mujeres offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and food around the infamous destination of Roswell, New Mexico. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Isla Mujeres. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Isla Mujeres?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Isla Mujeres Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Isla Mujeres $164
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Isla Mujeres is $164, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $148. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Isla Mujeres and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isla Mujeres $71
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isla Mujeres $142
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Isla Mujeres


Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $32
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $135
  • Punta Sam / Isla Blanca to Cancún Airport (CUN)- Departure Private Transfer: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Isla Mujeres change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Isla Mujeres $72
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $19
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Scuba Diving Adventure WITHOUT CERTIFICATION! Try it today!: $160
  • 3 Hours VIP Semiprivate Tour Isla Mujeres Full Snorkeling Experience : $84
  • ATV Mangrove Adventure: $65
  • Adventure and Snorkel with the Whale Shark From Playa del Carmen: $230
  • Adventure and Snorkel with the Whale Shark departing from Cancun: $200
  • Chill at -18°C Isla Mujeres Ice Bar (tickets): $25
  • Contoy Island Tour from Cancun and Isla Mujeres with Snorkeling: $145
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $39
  • Isla Contoy Snorkeling Experience with Buffet: $166
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $52
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour: $84
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure: $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isla Mujeres $23
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29


When comparing the travel costs between Isla Mujeres and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Isla Mujeres Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Roswell, New Mexico, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

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