Grand Cayman

The British colony consists of Grand Cayman, smaller Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, but almost all of the Cayman Islands' population of 32,000 live on Grand Cayman. The Caymans are located 180 miles northwest of Jamaica and 480 miles due south of Miami. Cayman's beaches are considered to be among the best in the world. The favourite is Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman. The abundance of fish, marine life and spectacular coral reefs, which can be found in the surrounding waters, make the Cayman Islands ideal for diving enthusiasts.

The gingerbread-style buildings lining George Town's harbour front are prime examples of traditional island architecture. Grand Cayman is only 22 miles long and 8 miles across at its widest point.

From any point in the resort area of Grand Cayman, it is easy enough for most to walk or bike to the shopping centres, restaurants, and entertainment spots along West Bay Road. George Town is small enough to explore on foot. If you plan to explore Grand Cayman by car, there is a well-maintained road that circles the island. To get around Cayman Brac or Little Cayman, it is best to rent a car or a moped. Most resorts rent bicycles for local sightseeing.

Cayman Brac, northeast of Grand Cayman, is about 12 miles long and 1 mile wide. This area is dotted with fascinating caves and dozens of wrecks for divers to explore. It reputedly provided the basis for Robert Louis Stevenson's famous novel Treasure Island.

Seven miles southeast of Cayman Brac, the tiny island of Little Cayman is best known as a sanctuary for wild birds and iguanas. It is also one of the Cayman Islands prime game fishing locations and one of the Caribbean’s prime sites for bone fishing.

English is the official language of the islands, although it often sounds as though the speaker is combining an American southern drawl with a lilting Welsh accent.

The Cayman Turtle Farm, one of Grand Cayman's main tourist attractions, sets an example for environmental conservation and preservation of the species. The 65-acre Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is a national treasure. The National Trust's Mastic Trail is a 2 mile footpath through unspoiled woodlands on the North Side.

The Cayman Islands does not have a reputation for wild and raucous nightlife but does have a number of well patronised bars and nightclubs, which sometimes feature international entertainment. Succulent seafood specialties abound in the local restaurants.

Write your own travel review >>