Cozumel is still very safe. I've been going there since 1996 and have never had any problems...and I DO get off the beaten path away from the "tourist" areas quite often.
Yes, there is Sam's Club & the New Mega (similar to wal-mart,) but as far as I'm concerned, it doesn't take any of the charm away from the island or it's people...besides I'm there mostly for the reef, that is what originally brought me there and they haven't figured out a way to put a Wal-Mart on it yet.
What determines your qualifications for a 'good place to go"? Don't let the hype get to you? Sure it's a little more touristy then it used to be, more cruise ships, but what do you expect? the island never to grow and develop?
The simple fact is, the standard for living on the island is better than it ever has been, the quality of food product is hands over fist better than a dozen years ago, the "tourist police" and triffice cops still don't cary weapons and the diving is still AMAZING!
Sure, there is stil poverty and that breeds crime, but overall, you are safer here than most major cities or tourist areas in the U.S.
One can't expect a place that is so popular to stay stagnent (sp?). The growth on the island has been benificial to both the local and the tourist...if you haven't been here in a while, come on down and see for yourself, don't let public opinion sway you.
I know, I should be on the Chamber of Commerce.