In the past they were called “The Islands That Time Forgot.” However, as one of the “hotspots” in the Caribbean, the Cayman islands are now remembered for being clean, relatively crime-free, prosperous, politically-stable and absolutely charming! The Caymanian people are also genuinely warm and welcoming.
Located just 480 miles due south of Miami, this island trio comprises Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman – each with a beauty and personality of its own. These islands are British colonies and as such are English-speaking.
Of the three, Grand Cayman is the largest and most populated island and is the fifth largest financial center in the world. They are the registered home to more than 500 banks and are the world’s second largest domicile (after Bermuda) for captive insurance companies. Not surprisingly, Caymanians enjoy the highest standard of living in the Caribbean.
Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach is incontestably one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The warm cobalt waters of the Caribbean Sea are perfect for snorkeling, diving, fishing and other water sports. They are also well known for duty-free shopping, golf – and, most of all, relaxation! As one can expect from such a charming island, the average year-round temperature in this tropical paradise is 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Although it’s reasonable for not wanting to leave the warm sandy beaches, you really should explore Cayman’s rich past by visiting the Cayman Islands National Museum, Fort St. James as well as attractions such as the Cayman Turtle Farm and Hell. Or better yet, go shopping! There are great duty-free prices to be found on such items as jewelry, cameras, and perfumes, among others.
Dining and Cuisine
With well over 150 places to eat, the choice of restaurants, fast-food outlets and small snack bars offers visitors a selection ranging from elegant fine dining to budget fast food and take out.
Traditional Caymanian cuisine has been enlivened by a strong Jamaican influence of jerk, curry and other exciting seasonings. Our traditional dishes feature conch, lobster and other local seafood, cooked in a variety of ways. Local dishes are often complimented by coconut, plantain, breadfruit, yams, cassava, rice and peas and other West Indian side dishes.
Additionally, you’ll find plenty of recognizable fast-food chains, like Pizza Hut, Dominos, Subway, Burger King, Wendy’s and KFC.
Accommodations in Cayman
There is no shortage of choice when it comes to finding accommodation in the Cayman Islands. A wide range of hotels, condos, villas, and cottages are there to choose from.
Rates in the Cayman Islands will vary depending on whether you intend to stay in Cayman during the high or low season. The high season in Cayman begins mid December and usually runs through until mid April. During this period you should expect to pay about up to 50% more for a room in the Cayman Islands.
Entertainment & Nightlife
The Cayman Islands offer an enjoyable variety of nightlife and entertainment. Bars, clubs and dance halls must close by 3:00am on weekdays and midnight on Saturdays. There are no nightclubs open on Sunday.
Offerings include:
Night Life: The Next Level, The Matrix, and Chameleon are just a few of the many lively nightclubs in Grand Cayman.
Local Flavour: Top local bands appear regularly at most nightclubs and major hotels. Popular local bands include Coco Red, Exit, 45 C.I., Lammie, Heat, Gone Country, Hi-Tide, and Mainstream.
On the Water: There is a wide variety of sunset and dinner cruises offered by local water sports operators.
On Cayman Brac: There are occasional weekend dances where local bands perform.
Getting Married
Visitors to the Cayman Islands can get married the same day they arrive. This includes passengers arriving on cruise ships, who may be legally married during their day in port in Grand Cayman.
A special license will be granted by the Governor for non-resident couples. The application for this license can be obtained from:
Chief Secretary’s Office,
4th Floor, Government Administration Building
George Town, Grand Cayman
Phone: (345) 244-2403
The fee for this license is CI$150 plus a CI$10 stamp duty (CI$160 or US$200 total). It is possible to obtain the special license on the day of the marriage, however, visitors are advised to make arrangements in advance to expedite paperwork and all required details.
Couples must arrange for a Cayman Islands Marriage Officer before applying for the license. A list of officers is available from the Chief Secretary’s office and can be sent in advance of arrival.
Little islands they may be, but the Cayman Islands are full of bounties and attractions that interest every tourist. Located in the blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, they are made up of three main islands. The largest and most developed of which is the Grand Cayman.
A popular tourist destination is the Seven Mile Beach. It is a beautiful stretch of white sand that curls around the West of the island. The water is ideal for swimming and snorkelling because the water is calm and clear. It is the most populated beach resort, but despite the numerous tourists who enjoy soaking up the sun, it is large enough to accommodate everybody who visits here. From the name itself, it is a seven mile beach ready to embrace thousands of tourists.
The Stingray City and Sand Bar is another beach attraction in the Cayman Islands. It is a snorkelling site located in the North Sound. It is promoted as a mandatory must see for water sport enthusiasts. The clear shallow waters are commonly occupied by friendly stingray. Boat tours take snorkellers and divers to swim with and feed the stingrays with bits of squid. The most amazing thing is that these stingrays allow swimmers and divers to actually touch them.
The Cayman Islands is also famous because of its Turtle Farm. This is suitable for tourists who are fond of turtles or even those who just appreciate wildlife. According to legend, there were so many turtles that the islands looked like they were covered with rocks. It is home to 16, 000 turtles ranging in size from six ounces to 600 pound each. The farms main priority is to maintain an ideal breeding environment. It promotes the preservation of turtles that come to the Cayman Islands.
Another place to see that is popular amongst tourist is Pedro St. James Castle. It is the islands oldest surviving building. The house is touted as the islands birthplace of democracy. It is quarried from native stone and coral stone. It has been restored as a historic site. It has pineapples, bananas and other provision surrounding the castle. The adjacent acres are covered with luxuriant tropical plants, palm lined walkways and a splendid manicured great lawn giving a fantastic view over the Caribbean.
The Cayman Islands are mainly famous for their beaches and sea life, however The Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Park is one exception. For botanists or those wanting a peaceful walk, then this Park is the answer. It is a well-marked mile-long trail winds through lush, easy terrain, featuring almost 300 native species. It has the variety of rose, hibiscus and orchids. These appear most beautiful during late May and early June. The blue iguana, bird life that includes parrots, herons, coots and the rare West Indian Whistling are among the main attractions in the park.
