Grand Cayman, (pronounced K-mun) the largest of the Cayman islands,
has become a premier tourist destination in recent years. With more
than 500 banks, its capital, George Town, is the offshore banking
center of the Caribbean. Retirees are drawn to the peace and
tranquility of this British Crown Colony, site of a major
condominium development.
The Caribbean climate is pleasantly constant. The average year
round temperatures for the region are 78°F-88°F. Island life focuses
on the sea. Snorkelers will find a paradise; beach lovers will
marvel at the powdery sands of Seven Mile Beach Downtown shopping
areas will of course be uncomfortably hot at midday at any time of
the year, but air-conditioning provides welcome relief. Visitors
travel to the Caymans to slow down and relax in a setting of comfort
and beauty. The best strategy seems to be to stay near the beaches
most of the day, where water and trade winds provide just the right
temperature for enjoyment. Shopping is recommended for early or late
in the day.
Even the rains cooperate in maintaining the atmosphere of perfectly
designed weather. The rainy season consists mostly of brief showers
interspersed with sunshine. You can watch the clouds come over, feel
the rain, and have the sun to dry you off, all while remaining in
your lounge chair.
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
favorite 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 harbor 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 to
walk or bike to the shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment
spots along West Bay Road. George Town is small enough to see on
foot. If you are exploring 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. Many
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 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 the primary site 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 have a number of nightclubs, which sometimes
feature international entertainment. Succulent seafood specialties
abound in the local restaurants
Spectacular natural beauty, a wealth of activities and points of
interest, and all the modern conveniences to make your stay as
comfortable as possible can be found on Grand Cayman. For the best
in Carribean water sports, sightseeing, dancing and shopping, Grand
Cayman is the place to start.
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