Why Vacation in the Cayman Islands?
With a world-class reputation for scuba diving and year-round balmy temperatures these two reasons alone are a great reason to visit the Cayman Islands. People come from all over the world to experience the wonders of the underwater world, but there are so many more reasons to visit.
Location
This tiny group of islands, located in the balmy Caribbean Sea, is about an hour’s flight from Florida. They are famed for scuba diving and with the crystal clear waters lapping the golden sandy shores of Seven Mile Beach it is hard to imagine a more idyllic place to vacation.
There are three islands that comprise the nation known as ‘The Cayman Islands’; Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman; the closest land neighbours are Jamaica and Cuba.
Airlines & Flights
Getting to the Cayman Islands is a simple, direct flight. The national carrier, Cayman Airways, has direct flights to Grand Cayman from: Miami, Tampa, Orlando, New York, and Chicago as well as direct flights to Havana, Kingston and Montego Bay. Cayman Airways also has regular airline service to the ‘sister islands’ of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, a scenic forty minute flight to either one. Many other carriers also offer direct flights to Grand Cayman.
Weather
The Cayman Islands bask in tropical warmth year-round. While much of the Western Hemisphere is blanketed by snow, grey clouds or persistent rain the islands are bathed in warm sunshine and cooling breeze. There are two seasons; the ‘wet’ (June-November) and the ‘dry’ (December – May).
Language
The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Commonwealth and the three islands operate in English. While the local dialect can be somewhat harder to understand it is inarguably sweet on the ears; many other languages are spoken by the many ‘expat’ workers that swell the local population by almost double.
Duty Free Shopping
Many people associate the Cayman Islands with tax-free megabucks. While this is true the tax exemption benefits the whole population (there are no taxes on salaries) and visitors alike. George Town is awash with duty free stores and perfumeries filled with everything from t-shirts, mugs and fridge magnets to the highest quality jewellery, table wear and collectibles. If you are in the market for a top-of-the-range watch, a new dinner service or something wonderfully sparkly, have a look at the prices at home, then come and buy here.
Hospitality
It could be that the sun shines on the islands for about 340 days a year, but you will be hard pressed to find a more hospitable place to visit than the Cayman Islands. Leave home with a smile, courtesy and a desire to have a good time and you will rewarded. Tourism plays a key role in the Cayman Islands, and tourists are certainly well looked after. You will discover that the staff in the hotels, resorts and condos are friendly, professional and knowledgeable. There are seemingly endless restaurants and eateries catering to every taste and price range; try delicious ‘jerk’ from one of the open-air barbeques or treat yourself to a five-star meal with a world class chef in luxurious surroundings. Gourmet food and international favourites are all catered for. Food plays such an important role on the islands that there is an annual fine dining exposition where you can sample signature dishes from many of the restaurants and bars.
Scenic Treats
These small islands are teeming with abundant flora and fauna, some of it endemic to the islands and much of it is endangered. Take advantage of some of the amazing trips and tours on offer and discover for yourself the paradise that is Cayman.
Safety
Unlike some other Caribbean nations, there is very little crime in the Cayman Islands and its’ people enjoy a high standard of living. Nevertheless, it's a good idea to take sensible precautions with your belongings and make sure you lock doors and windows when you go out. |
