The Cayman Islands, part of an underwater mountain range running between Cuba and Belize, lie 480 miles south of Miami, just 150 miles south of Cuba and 189 miles north-west of Jamaica. With average year-round temperature range of about 75° F in winter to about 85°F in the summer, the Caymans boasts some of the finest tropical weather in the world. All three islands (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac & Little Cayman) are coral outcrops surrounded by healthy coral reefs and dramatic walls close to shore, creating ideal conditions for the best diving and snorkeling found in the Caribbean. With a world-class reputation for scuba diving and year-round balmy temperatures these two reasons alone are a great reason to visit . People come from all over the world to experience the wonders of the underwater world, but there are so many more reasons to visit.
Why Visit the Cayman Islands?
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 economy, 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 luxury 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 pubs.
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.
Airlines & Flights
Getting here 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 major airlines also offer direct flights to Grand Cayman.
Weather
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 year round. 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 delightful 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 Caymans 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 jewelery, designer watches, fine china and collectibles. If you are in the market for a top-of-the-line watch, a new dinner set or something wonderfully sparkly, have a look at the prices at home, then come and buy here.
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 this unique Caribbean vacation paradise.
Safety
Unlike some other Caribbean nations, crime is relatively low and residents enjoy a high standard of living. The Police conduct regular patrols in the busy areas of George Town and maintains a visible presence around the island to reassure people that the authorities are always nearby. 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.
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