OFFICIAL IN-ROOM PUBLICATION OF THE CAYMAN ISLANDS TOURISM ASSOCIATION
ENDORSED BY THE CAYMAN ISLANDS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
2018
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2018 EDITION Published for the Cayman Islands Tourism Association
PRESIDENT Theresa Leacock-Broderick EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Tiffany Dixon-Ebanks EDITORIAL BOARD Gaetan Babin • Nasaria Budal • Rita Estevanovich • Ruth Myles • Katie O’Neill PUBLISHED BY
PRESIDENT Peter D. Savill
PUBLISHER Paul Lewis
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Rebecca Junck
ART DIRECTOR Chelsea Vaccaro
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Kathryn Willman
SALES Cindy Oostvogels
ACCOUNTS Conor Jameson, Debra Jackson, Roisin Smith
ADVERTISING SERVICES Meg Nissen
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joy Basdeo, JoAnne Brown, Paul Byles, Cayman Brac & Little Cayman: yours to explore, Giles Charlton-Jones, Rita Estevanovich, JS de Jager, Rebecca Junck, Heidi Kiss, Paul Lewis, Stellerie Noyons RD, Olivia Shanks, Jan Tomkins Special thanks to Suzy Soto and Mike Flowers PHOTOGRAPHY Rebecca Davidson, Elizabeth Riley CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Azure Realty, Beach Bubbles, Bliss Living + Yoga, Will Burrard-Lucas, Camana Bay, Cayman Brac Beach Resort, Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, Cayman Islands Tourism Association, Deep Blue Images, Dive Pirates, Dolphin Discovery, Jay Easterbrook - Divetech, Engel & Volkers, Walter Hodges, iStock, Rebecca Junck, Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa, Kirk Freeport, Little Cayman Beach Resort, Luxe+Well, Juan Jose Marroquin - Red Bull Cayman Islands, Don McDougall, Geri Murphy, Red Sail Sports, Reef Divers, The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, Sean Smith, Soto and Bergstrom families, Southern Cross Club, Chelsea Vaccaro, The Westin Grand Cayman, Lawson Wood Visit Cayman Islands is distributed in the Cayman Islands by Luis Rivers. NSN (CAYMAN) LTD. P.O. Box 133, Grand Cayman, KY1-1101, Cayman Islands Tel: (345) 949-6017, Email: cayman@northsouthnet.com Copyright © 2018 by NSN (Cayman) Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction by permission only. U.S. REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE
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where life blossoms
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Welcome Message
FROM THE GOVERNOR
On behalf of the Cayman Islands, I would like to welcome you to our wonderful shores. Whether you are visiting Grand Cayman, Little Cayman or Cayman Brac, I hope that your visit here will be one to remember. One of the main attractions for visitors to the Cayman Islands is the promise of relaxing and unwinding on our beautiful beaches, which are among the best in the world. These exquisite white sand beaches are perfect for getting away from it all, complemented by the stunning view of our pristine turquoise sea. This beautiful clear water is home to a multitude of coral canyons, tropical fish and many dive sites, which provide perfect conditions for divers, and is the reason why the Cayman Islands continues to attract diving enthusiasts from around the world. You will also find other exciting watersports and activities such as parasailing, sailing, swimming with dolphins and stingrays, and snorkelling. Cayman has a strong cultural history which you can explore at our museums and art galleries. Learn about Caymanian history by visiting the elegant Pedro St. James, Cayman’s premier historic site with authentic relics from past generations, as well as a 4D theatre. Cayman’s National Gallery is an inclusive gathering place where you can embrace the diverse cultures and traditions of the arts. The National Museum was once used to house the police, library, customs, a school as well as the prison! The Museum now contains an interesting collection of local artefacts, artwork and information. For an unforgettable experience of our flora and fauna, the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park exhibits a number of plant and animal species, including the endangered indigenous Blue Iguana who can be found enjoying the sun in its protected surroundings. During your stay, please be sure to sample our excellent cuisine prepared by some of the best chefs in the region. I hope your visit will be one that you will treasure and that you will join our many visitors who decide to return to Cayman, time and time again.
Helen Kilpatrick, CB
Governor of the Cayman Islands
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Discover Our
ISLAND PARADISE On behalf of the people of the Cayman Islands, I am delighted to extend the warmest ‘Caymankind’ welcome to my island home. We are honoured that you have chosen to discover the breathtaking beauty and magnificent underwater environment that is to be found only in the Cayman Islands. From the picturesque landscape and awe inspiring bluff on Cayman Brac, to the tranquil, crystal clear sea lapping the beaches of our award winning Seven Mile Beach, the Cayman Islands offers a feast for the senses. With our wide variety of accommodations ranging from luxury Hotels and condominiums to exquisite villas, we are sure that while vacationing with us, your home away from home will provide you with every comfort and pleasure. Whether your interests lie in soaking up the sun, diving to the depths of our seas, duty-free shopping or visiting our attractions and historical sites, these trio of islands are bound to meet your every need. Among our most appealing qualities, are some of the finest dining to be found anywhere in the Caribbean. With more than 200 restaurants ranging from internationally acclaimed signature restaurants, to casual beachside and small, local diners serving delicious local and international cuisine, the Cayman Islands are now known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. With all of this and more waiting for you to discover and some of the friendliest people on earth looking forward to enhancing your stay, we are happy to share our Island paradise with you. Welcome to our Cayman Islands, where your only disappointment will be leaving!
Mrs. Rosa Harris
Director of Tourism, The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism
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TO BREAK THE RULES, YOU MUST FIRST MASTER THEM. THE VALLÉE DE JOUX. FOR MILLENNIA A HARSH, UNYIELDING ENVIRONMENT; AND SINCE 1875 THE HOME OF AUDEMARS PIGUET, IN THE VILLAGE OF LE BRASSUS. THE EARLY WATCHMAKERS WERE SHAPED HERE, IN AWE OF THE FORCE OF NATURE YET DRIVEN TO MASTER ITS MYSTERIES THROUGH THE COMPLEX MECHANICS OF THEIR CRAFT. STILL TODAY THIS PIONEERING SPIRIT INSPIRES US TO CONSTANTLY CHALLENGE THE CONVENTIONS OF
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A Message
FROM CITA With so much to do here in paradise, you are sure to have an adventure! The Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA) welcomes you to our beautiful islands and is pleased to share our third issue of “Visit Cayman Islands”. We hope to help you take the first step in making your stay with us just perfect. CITA, as a non-profit tourism association, represents over 200 private business members including hotels, condos/villas, water sports, restaurants, transportation, attractions, cruise and allied (other businesses associated with our tourism product). We invite you to visit the CITA website at www.cita.ky to check out fun, relaxing and exciting things to do and enjoy at our member businesses. Grand Cayman is frequently dubbed the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. The variety of local and international cuisines will be sure to leave your appetites satiated. For those of you traveling in January, try experiencing our annual Taste of Cayman Food and Drink Festival. This is a great opportunity for one to delve into an array of dishes created by some of the best chefs on island, enjoy wine and cocktails, and be entertained with live music and a spectacular fireworks display. This extraordinary event takes place every year on the last Saturday in January (27th January 2018). The diversity of our islands does not stop at the food but also extends to the people and attractions. Botanical Gardens and the Mastic Trail are great opportunities for nature lovers to thread in the ambiance of nature. If you like the water, we have more than enough water sports activities for you to participate in. See starfish in kneedeep-water at Starfish Point in Northside and visit our local stingrays at Stingray City and find out how you can get 7 years of good luck. Dive into our underwater wrecks such as the Kittiwake, known for her most memorable and novel experiences, traverse the corridors of Cayman’s many unique caves, especially in Cayman Brac – on the Bluff. If you are still unsure of what to do, come into our Visitor Centre located at 1320 West Bay Road/Seven Mile Beach, which is a picturesque little Caymanian cottage. Feel free to pop in and say hello, ask for directions and recommendations on what to do during your stay. Safe travels… We hope to see you again soon.
Tiffany Dixon-Ebanks Executive Director, CITA
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Š KABANA. All designs protected by copyright laws. All rights reserved. Reproduction/Duplication prohibited.
Cast a glow on everything around you.
8 North Church Street, George Town, Grand Cayman Tel: 345-949-3688 www.DiamondsInternational.com
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Contents CAMANA BAY
WELCOME
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SEVEN MILE BEACH
112 WELCOME TO THE CAYMAN ISLANDS Find your Caymankind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
ARTS, CULTURE & EVENTS Taste Of Cayman And Other Events . . . . . . . . 58
EXPLORING LITTLE CAYMAN An Island Getaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
DIVING Celebrating 60 years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
EXPLORING CAYMAN BRAC An Adventurer’s Dream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
ON THE WATER The Best Things To Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
EXPLORING GRAND CAYMAN Something for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
ON LAND Sightseeing and The Best Things To Do Ashore . . . . 86
BEACHES A Guide To The Top Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
SHOPPING Locally Crafted And Duty-Free . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
CONNECT WITH NATURE Cayman’s Secret Caves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
CAMANA BAY Where Life Blossoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
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140
AVALON
120
KAIBO
DINING & NIGHTLIFE The Caribbean’s Culinary Capital . . . . . . . . . . 120 WEDDINGS & WELLNESS The Latest Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 BEACH WEDDING
REAL ESTATE Own A Piece Of Paradise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 BUSINESS & FINANCE Cayman & The International Economy . . . . . . . 151 USEFUL INFORMATION What You Need To Know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153 DIRECTORY OF CITA MEMBERS Cayman Islands Tourism Association Member Listings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Shopping, Dining And Activities . . . . . . . . . . . 158 KEY DATES IN HISTORY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
FROM THE PUBLISHERS OF
CAYMAN
Dining Guide 2018
2018
DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO THE TOP 20 RESTAURANTS IN CAYMAN
MAPS INSIDE GRAND CAYMAN / WEST BAY / SEVEN MILE BEACH / GEORGE TOWN DISTRICT / GEORGE TOWN / CAMANA BAY / EASTERN DISTRICTS / CAYMAN BRAC / LITTLE CAYMAN SHOPPING MALLS OF GRAND CAYMAN GOVERNOR’S SQUARE / CAYMAN FALLS / TROPIC CENTRE / GALLERIA PLAZA / QUEEN’S COURT / SEVEN MILE SHOPS / BAYSHORE MALL
THE OFFICIAL MAPS OF THE CAYMAN ISLANDS TOURISM ASSOCIATION 00_Cvr_MapsOfCayman.indd 2
10/1/17 4:17 PM
MAPS OF THE CAYMAN ISLANDS
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PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY TODAY!
Contributors GILES CHARLTON-JONES Giles is the owner/operator of Wall to Wall Diving and co-owner of The Lobster Pot Dive Center. Giles has been guiding dives around Grand Cayman for over 20 years. His dive operations offer a full range of boat diving, scuba instruction and shore diving with an experienced crew of 10 dive instructors.
RITA ESTEVANOVICH Rita Estevanovich is currently employed in the tourism sector at Plantana Condominiums, having spent the past 10 years producing and promoting performing arts and cultural programmes for the National Cultural Foundation. A graduate of the University of Central Florida and New York Film Academy, Rita chairs the CI Film Control Board and is an active member of the arts community. Along with stage and voice work, she finds joy in cooking and raising her son, Elijah.
REBECCA DAVIDSON Rebecca Davidson has been a photographer in the Cayman Islands for the past 20 years. Photographing families, children and specializing in weddings…. Her love for her craft is easily seen in her images displayed on her website and published throughout the Cayman Islands and Internationally.
PAUL BYLES Paul Byles is owner and Director of FTS, which provided regulatory, economic and management consulting services. An experienced economist and finance professional with 25 years experience in the financial services industry, he is also a former Head of Policy at the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority and former chairman of the financial services council, the advisory body to the Cayman Islands Government. He is currently President-Elect of the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce.
JOY BASDEO MBE JP HEIDI KISS Heidi Kiss is the Broker at ENGEL & VÖLKERS and has more than 18 years of success in the real estate industry. A Canadian/ Caymanian citizen, Heidi has been involved in commercial real estate, condo development and sales, and she manages a great team of 12 Full-time advisors.
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Joy Basdeo MBE, JP is a well-known personality in the Cayman Islands where she is a Civil Registrar, Marriage Officer, Justice of the Peace, and Notary Public. Since opening Simply Weddings in 2008, she has officiated more than 2,000 weddings for visitors as well as residents. She and her husband Sam, operate a fullservice wedding company on the George Town waterfront. The company also offers Wedding Vow renewals and Wedding Blessings.
M E N T I O N T H I S A D AT E F F Y TO R EC E I V E A F R E E P E N DA N T 19 T H FO RT ST R E E T, JAC K & J I L L B L D G. G EO RG E TOW N , G R A N D CAY M A N
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WELCOME to the Cayman Islands
2016 Caribbean Journal Readers’ Choice Awards
• #1 Best beach in the Caribbean: Seven Mile Beach • Caribbean Hotel of the Year: Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman
Condé Nast Traveler’s 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards • The Best Islands in the World - The Cayman Islands (#13)
2017 TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards • Best Destination, Caribbean: Cayman Islands Ranking: #3 • Best Destination, World: Cayman Islands Ranking: #22
WELCOME
SOUTH SOUND DOCK FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET
CAYMAN SHOE TREE
BATABANO CARNIVAL MISS LASSIE’S HOUSE
PIRATES WEEK
GRAPE TREE CAFE
RUM BARRELS
HERITAGE KITCHEN
WELCOME
BLUE IGUANA
SHAVING BUSH TREE
QUEEN ANGEL
SAND CRAB MORAY EEL
POD FROM FISH POISON TREE
SOUTHERN STINGRAY
PELICAN APPLE BANANAS
STARFISH POINT
IBIS
GREEN SEA TURTLE CONCH
SOUTHERN CROSS CLUB
Exploring
LITTLE CAYMAN AN ISLAND GETAWAY
OWEN ISLAND
Caribbean Journal: 2016 Best Dive Resorts
• #1 – Little Cayman Beach Resort - The Caribbean’s most complete dive resort, also a place that would be just as comfortable for someone who didn’t ever leave the beach. This is the best dive resort in the Caribbean.
EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
L
ittle Cayman holds a special place in the region as the least developed island with unspoilt flora and fauna. Little Cayman, (or simply Little as it’s referred to by the locals), is the smallest of the Cayman triad with a larger population of Sister Islands Rock Iguanas than humans. It’s a sleepy little island filled with pristine nature, amazing wildlife and some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. This tiny outcrop in the Caribbean has many tropical forests, saltwater ponds and a plethora of amazing wildlife – from the rare Sister Islands Rock Iguanas to the thousands of birds that call this island home or stop in for a visit. The waters around the island are known as some of the best diving in the world with 100’ visibility, pristine corals and a dizzying array of marine life. There are 57 dive sites, from shallow 20-foot dives to the breathtaking 6,000-foot drop of Bloody Bay Wall. The island’s ecologically minded residents are working to safeguard the island’s unspoilt environment
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SISTER ISLAND ROCK IGUANA
EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
for the future through a variety of conservation efforts. The Central Caribbean Marine Institute is dedicated to sustaining marine biodiversity through innovative programs such as the coral nurseries. They’re also working with the island’s divemasters to eradicate the invasive and nonindigenous Red Lionfish from the waters to protect the fragile coral reef ecosystem. The speed limit on the roads is 25 MPH to keep the population of critically endangered Sister Islands Rock Iguanas safe, which are frequently seen sunbathing on the roadside or museum grounds. And the recently created Green Iguana B’Gonna program aims to keep the island free of the invasive Green Iguana, preventing the destruction of habitat for birds and the Rock Iguanas. Little Cayman is the place to get away from the hustle bustle of life, share moments with friends and family and live on island time even just for a little while. Go for the day or a few with Cayman Airways. There are multiple daily flights and it’s only 35 minutes away.
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REEF DIVERS
EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
Things To Do Whether ashore or in the water, Little Cayman offers a broad array of sights, activities and relaxation opportunities.
THINGS TO DO ON LAND BOOBY POND RESERVE The Booby Pond Nature Reserve is a protected wetland that is home to over 20,000 Red-Footed Booby Birds, 350 Frigate birds and many other migratory birds. The land-locked saltwater lagoon is fringed by mangroves, old growth dry forest and a multitude of native plants. There is a 2-tiered viewing platform with telescopes overlooking the reserve at The Gladys B. Howard Little Cayman District National Trust Visitors Centre. THE GLADYS B. HOWARD LITTLE CAYMAN DISTRICT NATIONAL TRUST VISITORS CENTRE Located on the shore of the Booby Pond Reserve, the Visitors Centre has displays of the
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endemic reptiles and animals as well as the plethora of birds that visit the island. A great way to learn more about the island’s rich natural environment.
N Tibbetts O.B.E. to preserve the island’s rich history, the museum has many artefacts and exhibits from days gone by, such as hand built cat boats, photos and possessions of early settlers and more.
HIRE A SCOOTER Hit the road and see Little Cayman from the seat of a scooter. Easy and fun to drive, you’ll be able to see everything the island has to offer, from Point O’ Sand Beach to the lighthouses and nature trails, in no time. Just remember that the speed limit is 25 miles per hour and the iguanas have the right of way. Call Scooten Scooters [916-4971 or 926-4971] to arrange your ride.
PRESTON BAY BOARDWALK This National Trust Site is regarded as the island’s main communal nesting site for Sister Islands Rock Iguanas, with the boardwalk elevated above the terrain. Along the walk are signs explaining the importance of the flora to early settlers and at the end is a beach with great beachcombing and snorkelling.
LITTLE CAYMAN MUSEUM The newly refurbished Little Cayman Museum showcases the long and storied history of the island and its residents. Built by Linton
SALT ROCK NATURE TRAIL Historically a footpath from the docks to Blossom Village dating from the 1840s, the Salt Rock Nature Trail is a rustic
EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
LITTLE CAYMAN EVENTS CALENDAR NOVEMBER 2017-2018
NOVEMBER 2017
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: POINT-O-SAND; LITTLE CAYMAN BEACH RESORT; LITTLE CAYMAN MUSEUM.
nature trail filled with magnificent flora and fauna. View Sister Islands Rock Iguanas, orchids, butterflies, ancient forests, tropical plants and more in their natural habitat.
TOUR CCMI The Central Caribbean Marine Institute [948-1094] is dedicated to protecting the future of coral reefs through education, conservation and research. Stop by for their Friday tours to see their research and
November 17th – 19th Pirates Week Little Cayman Weekend educational facilities and learn more about their innovative projects such as the coral nurseries and Reefs-Go-Live.
RELAX There is no better place than Little Cayman to escape the hectic world. Find a spot on the beach, relax and let the waves, sunshine and tranquillity wash over you. If you are staying overnight, consider Pirates Point Resort [948-1010] set on 7 acres of fine, white sandy beach. They offer allinclusive packages with gourmet food, open bar, bicycle use and also dive trips. Plus, of course, the beach hammocks!
THINGS TO DO ON THE WATER DIVE BELOW THE SURFACE Consistently ranked as one of the top diving destinations in the world because of the excellent visibility and pristine marine environment, the waters of Little Cayman are on many divers bucket lists. The iconic and most famous of the islands 57 dive sites is Bloody Bay Wall, often regarded as the most breathtaking drop-off in the Caribbean
DECEMBER 2017 December 8th Little Cayman District of the National Trust Christmas
MARCH 2018 March 31st The Little Cayman District for the National Trust Annual Easter Auctions March (date tbc) Little Cayman Agricultural Show
NOVEMBER 2018 November 2nd – 4th Pirates Week Little Cayman Weekend
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EXPLORING
and whose 6,000-foot wall is covered with a rainbow of sponges and diverse marine life.
L I T T L E C AY M A N
ENJOY THE BLUE You don’t need to be a diver to enjoy the bathtub-warm waters of the Caribbean. Grab a snorkel and see all the marine life that lies just below the surface. Or simply splash around to cool off and enjoy the water. GO FISH The waters of Little Cayman are known for the rich and diverse marine life within them. There’s offshore fishing for Mahi-Mahi, Wahoo and Marlin and flats fishing for Jacks, Permit and Bonefish. Or you can catch and release Tarpon in the land-locked Tarpon Pond. Southern Cross Club [948-1099] has the only full-service fishing facility on the island, with experienced and professional guides and an extensive range of rental equipment. PLAY CASTAWAY Grab a paddleboard or kayak and head out to Owen Island. This tiny, uninhabited island in South Hole Sound is only a 15-minute kayak trip. With no buildings or development, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
BOOBY POND RESERVE
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RIDE THE WIND The warm winds off the Caribbean Sea and the shallow waters of South Hole Sound make for the perfect place to ride the wind on a kiteboard. Enjoy the freedom of flying above the island and sea.
EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
Linton N. Tibbetts, O.B.E.
FROM LEFT: LINTON TIBBETTS AND GRANDSON MICHAEL; LINTON TIBBETTS IN HIS OFFICE
Serial Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
B
orn and raised in Cayman Brac, Linton N Tibbetts O.B.E. grew up watching his father build sailing ships. At the age of 9, he survived the Great Storm of ‘32, a category 4 hurricane that took the lives of many Brackers, including Linton’s sister, infant brother, and grandmother. As a young man, Linton worked in Jamaica and Panama before heading to Florida with $16 in his pocket. Once there he began building houses and developing property in the St. Petersburg area and within a year purchased a half interest in Cox Lumber Supply Company (later becoming Cox Lumber Co.). He later bought out his business partner, grew the business, and in 2006 sold his 26 lumber stores and hardware outlets to Home Depot. This serial entrepreneur was known as a humble and ambitious
man, who never forgot his Caymanian roots. In the 1970’s he built the Brac Reef Resort, and in 1989, he brought Cox Lumber to Grand Cayman. He also developed several projects throughout the country, including the Little Cayman Beach Resort, Tibbetts Square, Village Square, Little Cayman Museum, Cayman Brac Museum, and the Little Cayman Marine Museum. His Caymanian heritage was a great source of pride and passion, his lineage can be traced back to the founding settlers in the 1700s, and he wanted to ensure that the stories and histories of the people from the sister islands lived on. The two museums showcase many of the artefacts Linton and his wife Polly acquired over the years, sharing experiences and history with the next generation. Although based in Florida for most of his life, Linton referred to the Cayman Islands as his heaven on earth, visiting every 2 or 3 weeks. He especially relished the time he spent
with his wife at their seaside cottage in Little Cayman fishing the same waters for over 40 years. Never retiring, Linton continued his ambitious business and development plans until shortly before he passed away at the age of 88. An icon of the country and a symbol of its development, his hard work and vision have left a legacy for generations to come and ensure all can learn about the rich history of the sister islands.
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EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
PETER’S OVERLOOK
Exploring
CAYMAN BRAC
AN ADVENTURER’S DREAM
LONG BEACH, BELOW THE BLUFF, CAYMAN BRAC
Condé Nast Traveler’s 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards
• The Best 50 Resorts in the World: Le Soleil d’Or (#34) • Top Resorts in the Caribbean: Le Soleil d’Or (#2)
EXPLORING
BRAC LIGHTHOUSE
C AY M A N B R A C
BANANAQUIT
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BROWN BOOBY
ayman Brac is the most easterly of the three Cayman Islands and in the middle of the pack when it comes to size at 14 square miles. The landscape is dominated by the majestic limestone bluff (or brac in Gaelic) which rises through the middle of the island, ending at 140’ in the east. The island isn’t as busy or cosmopolitan as it’s big sister Grand Cayman but is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travellers wishing to experience its unique natural environment. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island make it a world class diving destination, which the Brac is known for. For the non-divers, there’s great
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snorkelling and game fishing. On land, the bluff offers a plethora of activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, spelunking, bird watching, flora, and fauna. The history aficionados can learn more about this rugged island and the people who have called it home at the Cayman Brac Museum and the Cayman Brac Heritage House Throughout the island are wetlands, ponds, and ancient forests where you can spot over 200 species of migrating and resident birds, including the endangered Cayman Brac Parrot and Brown Boobies, as well as the endangered Sister Islands Rock Iguanas. If you prefer to relax and rejuvenate on your holiday, find a spot on the beach to work on your tan and watch the sea or book into a spa for some pampering.
EXPLORING C AY M A N B R A C
THE BLUFF
BAT CAVE
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EXPLORING
AERIAL VIEW OF CAYMAN BRAC
C AY M A N B R A C
Things To Do Walkers, climbers, nature lovers and explorers will revel in the rugged beauty of this beautiful island.
BEST THINGS TO SEE
CAYMAN BRAC MUSEUM The oldest museum in the country, the Cayman Brac Museum offers visitors great insight into the island’s past and its residents. Learn more about the island’s history through artefacts such as a bible from 1870 and the building itself, which was originally the government administration building. There’s also an exhibit dedicated to the Great Storm of 1932. CHRISTOPER COLUMBUS GARDENS Opened in 2003 on the 500-year anniversary of the discovery of the sister islands, the Christopher Columbus Gardens are a memorial to the explorer as well as 500 notable residents who have helped develop and build the islands. There are also delightful gardens filled with local plants and trees to walk through. LIGHTHOUSE Perched on the eastern end of the bluff, the lighthouse is the highest point on the island and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the island and sea below. There are walking trails on either side to see native flora, birds, and perhaps a few Sister Islands Rock Iguanas. Be careful near the edges as there are no guard rails.
BEST THINGS TO DO ON LAND
EXPLORE THE BLUFF The rugged terrain of the limestone ironshore on Long Beach makes for a satisfying expedition
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EXPLORING
LIGHTHOUSE FOOTPATH
C AY M A N B R A C
CAYMAN BRAC EVENTS CALENDAR NOVEMBER 2017-2018
NOVEMBER 2017
November 3rd – 5th Pirates Week Cayman Brac Weekend
DECEMBER 2017
December 4th Rotary Club of Cayman Brac Tree Lighting Ceremony
MARCH 2018
for those with sturdy footwear and a keen eye for nature. Look out for the rare brown booby and frigate birds that nest here whilst enjoying uninterrupted views of the ocean. After reaching the end of Long Beach head up to the lighthouse at the top of the bluff for breath-taking cliff-top views.
HIKING There are hiking trails throughout the island for every level of hiker. Ranging from easy to advanced, the hiking trails are a great way to get some exercise
and experience the island’s flora and fauna up close. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, and bring water, mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
PARROT RESERVE Located on top of the bluff, the 280-acre reserve is home to the endangered and rare Cayman Brac Parrot. There’s a short nature trail through the ancient forest allowing you to see native trees and plants as well as the Cayman Brac Parrot and other migratory birds. The best time to hear and see the parrots is at dusk and dawn. SHOPPING Take home a piece of the island as a reminder of your great holiday. There are great local artisans specialising in painting, jewellery making, silver thatch weaving, sculpting, and more. Check out NIM Things, Solomon Studio, and the weekly craft markets at the Heritage House and Cayman Brac Reef Resort to see all the keepsakes. SPELUNKING The bluff is a spelunker’s dream with caves on both sides of the bluff, and even on the top. From the breath-taking views
March (date tbc) Rotary Club of Cayman Brac Annual Bike-a-Thon March 24th Annual Cayman Brac Agricultural Show
MAY 2018
May 18th – 20th Brac Jackpot Fishing Tournament May 18th – 21st Braccanal: Cayman Brac Carnival
JUNE 2018
June (date tbc) The Brac Escape June 18th Cayman Brac Committee for the National Trust presents: 6th Annual Queen’s Birthday Tea Party Fundraiser
SEPTEMBER 2018
September (date tbc) SITA Brac Bash and Cook-off
NOVEMBER 2018
November 16th – 18th Pirates Week Cayman Brac Weekend
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level, including Reef Divers and Brac Scuba Shack.
CAYMAN BRAC BEACH RESORT
Licensed taxi/tour operators can escort you around the island, stopping at great points of interest. Nature Cayman offers free nature tours that can be customised to your interests and preferences.
BEST THINGS TO DO ON WATER
CAYMAN BRAC BEACH RESORT
of Peter’s Cave to the ground level Bat Cave, there’s something for every level of fitness. They are easily identifiable by road signs and are listed on most maps.
TAKE A TOUR Exploring the island with a knowledgeable guide can give you a great understanding of the historical sites and natural environment on the island.
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FISHING The waters around the island are home to a host of fish such as Tuna, Mahi-mahi, and Blue Marlin and beckon even the most novice of fisherman to test their skill. You can book a private charter or head down to the shore with a rod and reel, but please check the marine laws to find out where you can fish and which species are protected. DIVING The Cayman Islands are known to divers around the world for its pristine and diverse marine environment. There are 40 (and counting) great dive sites around the Brac, from wreck diving at the MV Keith Tibbetts to the stunning swim-throughs at Anchor Wall. And there are dive operators to suit every
WATERSPORTS AND KAYAKING Take a break from the nature trails, sightseeing, and caves to enjoy the crystal clear Caribbean Sea. Most resorts and guest homes will have snorkel equipment, kayaks, or paddleboards for you to use. You’ll be able to see the rich marine life just below the surface, including fish and corals, and perhaps a turtle. BEACHES Public Beach is a tranquil spot where you can laze away the day. The sandy beach is long enough for a walk or beachcombing, and there are cabanas, bathrooms, and the warm Caribbean Sea for snorkelling and swimming. The beach at the Cayman Brac Beach Resort is open to the public, with hammocks and cabanas at the ready. There’s even a great beach bar for drinks and snacks. Beach Soleil is a members-only club, with day passes available for purchase for the public. In addition to the beach chairs, hammocks, bar and restaurant, Spa Soleil is also on site if you’d like to get a massage in a private cabana on the beach. Go for the day or a few with Cayman Airways. They have multiple daily flights, and it’s only 40 minutes away.
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Gordon Solomon Spots of Light on the Brac
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here’s a new art studio on the west end of Cayman Brac for one of Cayman’s most popular artists. Adding to the island’s small but strong artistic community, Gordon Solomon recently returned to the Brac with his family to reconnect with familial roots and help guide the next generation. Growing up in George Town, Gordon poured his energy and passion into art to keep out of the trouble that tends to find most youth. In 1999, his hard work and talent brought him to his first exhibition with the Caymanian art collective Native Sons. Since then his incredible artistic ability and desire to extend Caymanian art and culture internationally have taken him to global hubs such as London and New York City. Drawing on his surroundings, heritage, and family, Gordon’s paintings strike a chord in all those who view them. The vibrant colours and interpretive subject matter grab the viewer, captivating them to stay for more than a mere glance and enticing them to feel and understand the painting. Well-known for using the pointillism painting technique
‘spots of light,’ Gordon is also a published author and avid musician. In 2015, he released ‘Dr. Moody’, a book of poetry and illustrations inspired by conversations that left him to question what we all have in common – being moody. Gordon held his first solo art exhibition ‘True Colours’ in 2005 and has since won a multitude of awards, i nclud i ng t he C ay ma n Isla nd s Cu lt u ra l Foundation’s Artistic Endeavour Award, the Silver Star Medal for Creativity in the Arts, and a certificate of appreciation from the American Visionary Art Museum. After returning to Cayman Brac in 2016, Gordon has continued to impart his knowledge, style, and skill, now with students at the both Spot Bay Primary and West End Primary as well as through public and private lessons. He’s also continuing his artistic journey and holding exhibitions at his new studio to showcase past exhibitions and new works. The recent exhibition, ‘This is Us’, is a collaboration with his poet wife, Alta. Paint meets poetry as her words come to life on his oil canvas. To view and buy Gordon’s work, please visit Solomon Studio on Cayman Brac, The Ritz-Carlton Art Gallery on Seven Mile Beach, or Pure Art in South Sound.
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PEDRO ST JAMES
Exploring
GRAND CAYMAN SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
EXPLORING L I T T L E C AY M A N
WRECK OF THE TEN SAILS MONUMENT
TAMARIND BAY SEVEN MILE BEACH
BEACHES GRAND CAYMAN’S TOP BEACHES
KIMPTON LOUNGER SEVEN MILE BEACH
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
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he beaches on Grand Cayman exemplify what tropical dreams are made of: crystal clear turquoise water, soft white sand and plenty of sunshine to warm your skin and soul. Whether you’re looking for a place to party, snorkel, relax or hang out with the kids, Grand Cayman has a beach for you.
SMITH BARCADERE A popular spot for locals and visitors alike, Smith Barcadere (also known as Smith Cove) in Sound South is a smaller sandy beach with wide expanses of coral and limestone on either side. The beach is a popular snorkelling spot with deep waters close to shore and a wide variety of marine life to be seen.
WEST BAY PUBLIC BEACH West Bay Public Beach is a wide expanse of soft sand perfect for catching some rays, having a beach BBQ and watching the parasailing off Seven Mile Beach and cruise ships docked in George Town. While it’s usually quiet on weekdays, the beach is a popular spot for resident gettogethers on the weekends.
SPOTTS PUBLIC BEACH Located on the south shore, Spotts Public Beach is encircled by iron shore cliffs with plenty of white sand for beach walks. A great beach to get away from the crowds of SMB complete with cabanas, BBQs and magnificent views. There are big waves and strong currents here, but adventurous snorkellers and strong swimmers are occasionally rewarded with sights of turtles near the shore.
SEVEN MILE BEACH Technically only 5.5 miles (shhh! don’t tell anyone!) Seven Mile Beach has everything you could want or need – from secluded spots to water sports, snorkel spots, cabanas and beach bars. Located on the west coast of Grand Cayman, SMB contains various beaches within, including Public Beach, Royal Palms Beach, Cemetery Beach and Governors Beach. See why it’s continually a contender for the top beach in the world.
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RUM POINT Location: North Side Amenities: Bathrooms, restaurant, bar, water sports, beach sports, hammocks, gift shop, ferry service Best for: Swimming, beachside dining, snorkelling, water sports, family outings
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COLLIERS BEACH Colliers Beach (also known as East End Public Beach) is the perfect spot if you’re looking to get away from the crowds, as it’s on the quieter side of the island and most days the only other visitors are the chickens and iguanas. Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks, set yourself up in one of the cabanas and relax, recharge and watch the waves.
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SPOTTS BEACH Location: Spotts Newlands Amenities: BBQs, cabanas, picnic tables Best for: Picnics, quiet time
COLLIERS BEACH Location: East End Amenities: Cabanas, bathrooms Best for: Picnics, solitude, relaxing
WEST BAY PUBLIC BEACH Location: West Bay Amenities: Bathrooms, cabanas, BBQs Best for: Swimming, picnics, relaxing
WATER CAY PUBLIC BEACH Location: North Side Amenities: Bathrooms, cabanas, BBQs, children’s playground Best for: BBQs, snorkelling, family outings, relaxing
SEVEN MILE BEACH Location: West coast of Grand Cayman – from George Town to West Bay Amenities: Everything Best for: Everything
SMITH BARCADERE Location: South Sound Amenities: Bathrooms, picnic tables Best for: Swimming, picnics, snorkelling
COE WOOD BEACH Location: Bodden Town Amenities: Children’s play area, cabanas, bathrooms Best for: Beachcombing, people-watching
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RUM POINT Located in the district of North Side, Rum Point is a white sand beach with calm, shallow waters and a full complement of amenities. You can relax in a hammock, snorkel in the North Sound, rent a wave runner to explore, or grab a drink and a bite from the beachside grill. A popular spot on weekends with residents and visitors alike, the beach is accessible by boat, car and ferry from Camana Bay. WATER CAY PUBLIC BEACH At the tip of Cayman Kai, Water Cay is the perfect spot for a family day at the beach. The beach has all the amenities your family will need, including the calm, shallow waters of the North Sound that are perfect for splashing around and cooling off. Both Kaibo and Rum Point are close by if you’ve forgotten anything. COE WOOD BEACH Located on Bodden Town’s south shore, Coe Wood Beach is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the country’s first capital. There is a restaurant nearby for food and drinks, a gas station for provisions, great beachcombing if you head west and a fish fry on Sundays.
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BEACH Bars No need to leave the beach when you need to cool off! Here are some of the best beach bars.
KAIBO YACHT CLUB
CALICO JACKS
PUBLIC BEACH Calico Jacks is one of the most popular beach bars on the island. Hang out under the covered bar, grab a picnic table for lunch, watch some beach volleyball, take a swim or rent a paddle board from the water sports company on site. If you want to work on your tan, grab a drink and towel and head for the wide expanse of white sand. SEVEN MILE BEACH With a twist on tradition, the recently relaunched Hemingway’s Restaurant and Beach Bar offers a fresh take on Asian cuisine. There’s also a pool if the sea is too rough and an indoor restaurant for those needing a break from the sun. It’s a popular spot for families so arrive early to stake your beach claim for the day. Royal Palms Beach Club is another popular beach bar in the midst of Seven Mile Beach. There is
a large covered bar, restaurant and adult-only pool as well as a huge beach, beach loungers and on-site water sports company if you want to get on the water. Many locals end their weekends here so if you want to meet people, Sunday is the best day here.
BODDEN TOWN The White House is a beach club with opulence from a bygone era. They have water sports, a restaurant and beach bar, hammocks and loungers for relaxing, all set on an extended beach perfect for sports and sand castles. NORTH SIDE Kaibo Beach Bar is tucked away in North Side, facing the calm waters of Little Sound. This laid-back, remote bar has plenty of picnic tables on which to laze away the day, sand and shallow waters for the kids and great food not normally associated with beach bars. If you’re worried about
the long drive, the ferry service from Camana Bay can deliver you from dock to dock.
OTHER OPTIONS Want to stay close to your room? The island’s hotels and resorts have fabulous bars and lounges by the water, letting you forgo traveling and charge to your room. From the Beach Bar at the Wyndham to the Vista Bar at the Marriott and the brand new Coccoloba at the Kimpton Seafire. If you don’t need sand between your toes, there are many bars with gorgeous sea views but rocky shorelines. Check out Macabuca in West Bay, Rackams in George Town, and South Coast Bar in Breakers for great views of the sea.
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BOTANIC PARK
Connect With
NATURE CAYMAN’S SECRET CAVES
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
CRYSTAL CAVES
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
Caves and the Cayman Islands
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WRITTEN BY: CAYMAN BRAC & LITTLE CAYMAN: YOURS TO EXPLORE
idden in the cracks and crevices of the limestone formations that form the geological makeup of the Cayman Islands are thousands of caves that have been an integral part of Caymanian history. These caves have served as shelters in times of catastrophic events, kept secret the location of pirate treasure, been a perfect source of phosphate, become a site to marvel at the beauty of the Caymanian gemstone Caymanite and in more recent decades been home to some of the best spelunking around. Caves of all forms and sizes can be found on all three islands. These holes in the walls of the limestone base hold much intrigue for those adventurous enough to enter in. The cold and damp openings have many chambers and
passageways that not only spark the interest of human explorers but are home to several animal species.
HISTORY OF CAYMAN CAVES Once under the sea, these island outcrops rose to their current location. During their slow ascension, the forceful movement of the ocean aided in the carving of cavities in the stone, forming the openings we know today. Caves throughout the Cayman Islands are filled with flowstone; rock formations that are formed by the slow passage of water through the cave walls leaving a deposit of calcite behind. These formations are beautiful and delicate pieces of work comprising the natural beauty of earthly elements. As the water flowed through, some of the water droplets became the catalyst for the growth of stalagmites growing from the cave floor and stalactites protruding from the cave ceiling. Caves have stood the test of time and are now home to treasure, not only from pirates who plundered the land but to scientists looking to unearth the secrets of how the islands came to be. Scientists from around the world have come to research the likelihood that many species thought to be extinct could still be alive today, just hidden securely in the respite of these caverns. THE TREASURES THEY HOLD Considered to be exclusive to the Cayman Islands, Caymanite can be found within the walls of the limestone rocks and caves. It is composed of narrow layers of various colours and varying degrees of hardness. Usually found between layers of white limestone, you will only find Caymanite in its natural state in the Cayman Islands. The array of hues results from metallic compounds typically found in the stone. Manganese dominates in black layers, iron produces red shades and other metal ingredients including nickel, cobalt and copper can also be found. These crystalline dolostone rocks come in beautiful hues of pinks, reds, whites, greys and blacks, this stone has been carved and crafted in a variety of different items from rings, pendants, necklaces, paperweights and many other things. These items have been sought after by collectors and those looking for souvenirs and unique gifts. CAVES ON THE BRAC In Cayman Brac, caves are dotted throughout the tallest point in the Cayman Islands, the Bluff. On Little Cayman, sinkhole
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FAR LEFT: BAT CAVE, CAYMAN BRAC. LEFT AND BELOW: CRYSTAL CAVES; GRAND CAYMAN.
caves are found mostly in the eastern half of the land. On Grand Cayman, the more popular caves are found in Bodden Town and North Side. Today, caves on Cayman Brac are primarily the site of tourist attractions. Having been outfitted with accessible stairways and entrances, local tour guides share with visitors and locals alike the evolution of these openings, pointing out the importance of the cave to the ecosystem of the island and the natural home for owls, bats, birds and insects. The caves are also a great rendezvous point for rock climbers and geocache enthusiasts. The island boasts some of the most challenging climbing routes in the world. A unique piece of Cayman Brac history and its caves date back to 1932, during the catastrophic ’32 Storm that claimed the lives of 108 people. The family of the late Rebecca Bodden traversed the jagged limestone rocks from the north to the south side of the island to seek refuge in a cave that has come to be known as Rebecca’s Cave. Little Rebecca, unfortunately, succumbed to the wrath of the storm and her body was laid to rest in a grave located inside the main chamber of the cave. Another cave, Peter’s Cave in Spot Bay, at over 100 feet above sea level, protected the lives of many people during a tidal wave that swept the island during the same storm.
CAVES ON GRAND CAYMAN In the district of Bodden Town on Grand Cayman, the Pirate Caves have been found to be the preferred hideout of pirates who sailed the Caribbean Sea protecting their loot. It is believed that some of the valuables of these Brethren of the Sea
were left behind in these caves, with the hopes that they would never be found. The site has now become a tourist attraction, appealing to visitors of the island wishing to hear the folklore stories. Travel on to North Side and one will be marvelled by the newly opened Cayman Crystal Caves. This attraction has rejuvenated the love for nature and appreciation for the evolution of creation. The network of caves showcases the vast beauty of stone, minerals, lush vegetation and water.
CAVES ON LITTLE CAYMAN On Little Cayman, sink holes are spread throughout the undeveloped parcels of land located in the eastern half. These caves have some of the most diverse ecosystems found on the islands and some are filled with crystal clear water that has been filtered through the limestone rocks.
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BOTANIC PARK
GRAND CAYMAN PARROT
CAYMAN TURTLE CENTRE
Cayman’s Natural ATTRACTIONS The beauty of the Cayman Islands comes in many forms, including its people, rich history, diverse culture and amazing natural wonders. Below are some of the natural attractions on the three islands where you can learn about and experience the wonder of Caymanian nature. WEST BAY Cayman Turtle Centre: Island Wildlife Encounter – learn more about and swim with Green Sea Turtles, hand feed exotic birds and view nurse and sandbar sharks along with hundreds of tropical fish in the salt water lagoon. Hell – limestone formations named by early settlers for their likeness to Hell; there is also a post office and souvenir store. Dolphin Discovery and Dolphin Cove – located on either side of West Bay, both locations let you swim with, watch and learn more about dolphins. GEORGE TOWN Atlantis Submarine Tours – dive 100 feet below the water surface and get an
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up close view of the marine life and coral in the waters off Grand Cayman. Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment – led by expert naturalists, learn more about and experience the natural beauty and rich culture of Grand Cayman both on land and in the water.
BODDEN TOWN Governor Michael Gore Bird Sanctuary – a 2.25-acre site including a pond and boardwalk that is visited by over 60 species of birds throughout the year. Gardens at Pedro’s St. James – surrounding the historic building is a natural tropical park that includes native trees and plants as well as traditional medicinal and vegetable gardens.
NORTH SIDE Bioluminescence Tours – visit the Bio Bay during the new moon and watch the waters glow from the comfort of a boat or kayak. Mastic Reserve and Trail – a two-mile trail formerly used by early settlers that pass through a 2-million-year-old woodland area. Starfish Point – a small beach where you can watch starfish in their natural environment. Be careful not to remove them from the water. Stingray City and The Sandbar– snorkel or dive with friendly Southern Stingrays in the North Sound. Crystal Caves – three spectacular caves formed over millions of years featuring stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures. EAST END Blow Holes – stand back and watch as the mighty sea comes spraying up through the natural limestone shelf overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park – 65 acres of indigenous plants, gardens, trails,
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
and local wildlife, including the endemic Blue Iguanas who roam the grounds of the park. Blue Iguana Safari – a 90-minute guided tour of the Blue Iguana captive breeding facility and gentle safari through the woodland trails of the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Colliers Wilderness Trail – a short, easy trail through a natural forest with interpretive signage of the plants and trees.
CAYMAN BRAC The Bluff – the tall limestone bluff that runs the length of Cayman Brac gradually rises to 140 feet andboasts hundreds of caves for exploring, trails for hiking and rock climbing, and unique flora and fauna. Brac Parrot Reserve – the reserve ishome to the Cayman Brac Parrot and dominated by pristine ancient dry forest including a variety of native trees as well as other forest birds. LITTLE CAYMAN Booby Pond Nature Reserve – a land-locked saltwater lagoon edged with mangroves and old growth dry forest that provides a habitat for many types of wetland and shore birds including the resident colony of red-footed boobies. THE CARIBBEAN SEA The crystal blue waters that surround the islands are great places to experience marine life in its natural setting while snorkelling, diving, boating or swimming. RESTAURANTS Many restaurants throughout the islands have nightly events where the patrons can feed tarpon in the sea and frigates in the air. Casanova by the Sea, The Wharf and Rackham’s in George Town all have nightly tarpon feedings, and Tukka in East End has a nightly frigate feeding – watch for the majestic birds swirling about in the sky waiting for dinner time. PINEAPPLE PLANT
BLUE IGUANA
Protecting the Future of Cayman’s Heritage The National Trust for the Cayman Islands celebrated its 30th Anniversary in 2017. Created in 1987 to preserve the biodiversity and history of the country, the National Trust is a non-profit organization that strives to protect environmentally sensitive and historically significant sites on the three islands. The beginning years for any country are often the most important and profound in their history. The National Trust owns and maintains 12 sites dating from as far back as the 1700s that show life during that era. Historical sites that played a major role in the development of the country include Fort George in George Town (the Trust’s first property) and The Eldemire House in Cayman Brac. The Cayman Islands are known for their pristine natural beauty, from the clear blue waters to ancient growth forests. The National Trust protects nine nature reserves covering more than 3,300 acres of mangrove wetlands and dry forest. Sites such as the Booby Pond Nature Reserve in Little Cayman and the Brac Parrot Reserve in Cayman Brac pay vital roles in the safeguarding and propagating of species. The Mastic Trail and Reserve, Salina Reserve and Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, all in Grand Cayman, protect and preserve endemic plants and trees from the development currently
happening on the island. The Cayman Sea Sense project serves as an education tool to bring awareness to the public about how food choices impact the oceans. Working with local restaurants, Cayman Sea Sense aims to reduce the number of non-sustainable seafood items restaurants are serving. With over 200 restaurants on Grand Cayman alone, the project hopes to reduce the impact on the world’s fragile oceans. Created in 1990 by the National Trust, the Blue Iguana Recovery Programme’s goal is to restore the population of wild Blue Iguanas, which were on the brink of extinction in 2002. These endangered iguanas are found only on Grand Cayman and through the efforts of the programme and their partners, the species has grown from a dozen to over 800. As the National Trust plans for the future of the Cayman Islands, education has become an integral part of their work. They’ve become involved in the new national curriculums for science and social studies established by the Cayman Islands Department of Education. Looking for more information about the National Trust or to donate? Visit nationaltrust.org.ky or stop by their Visitor Centre and Eco Shop on South Church Street.
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FLOWERS SEA SWIM
ARTS, CULTURE & Events TASTE OF CAYMAN AND OTHER EVENTS
TASTE OF CAYMAN 2017 BEST BOOTH BY JACQUES SCOTT
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
30th Taste of Cayman Festival
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rand Cayman in the 1980s was a far cry from the way it is today. The island was less developed, with only a few restaurants and hotels dotting the landscape and less than 25,000 permanent residents. In 1986, several members of the Cayman Islands Restaurant Association founded the Taste of Cayman festival (initially called the “Chili Cook-Off�) as an annual fundraiser for the association. Mike Flowers, Suzy Soto, Cissy Delapenha, Clemens Guettler, among others worked together to create the first event with 15 vendors in the empty lot adjacent to what is now the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman. It was held on the July long weekend, with a chilli cook-off on the holiday Monday. The event was a smashing success with both locals and visitors who loved the opportunity to sample some of the great cuisine available on island all in one place, plus being able to get together with friends and family.
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FROM LEFT: TASTE OF CAYMAN ENTERTAINMENT IN 2002; EL MER CAT BOOTH 2017.
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COCOLOBA BOOTH 2017; BILLY BONES BOOTH 2002; 2017 BEST DRINK – JACQUES SCOTT.
numerous tourism associations within Cayman, and in 2001, the various associations joined forces and created the Cayman Islands Tourism Association (CITA). The new non-profit organisation brought together all the sectors of the tourism industry (allied, attractions, condos & villas, hotels, restaurants, transportation, water sports/diving, arts & entertainment, and international) to work together towards the common goal of increasing the number of visitors to the country and optimizing their experiences while here. Changing with the times and keeping pace with the evolution of the culinary and beverage industries, the Taste of Cayman Festival has incorporated many events and technologies throughout the years. As it showcases the variety of cultures and flavours in Cayman, the festival is one of the highlights of the social calendar for many residents. It’s also grown into the largest fundraiser for the Cayman Islands Tourism Association and helps to give back to the community through a charity raffle.
THROUGHOUT THE YEARS Over the years, as the island developed and tourism boomed, more restaurants and bars opened their doors. With more restaurants, the culinary festival grew not only in size but in popularity, soon outpacing its original location next to the RitzCarlton Grand Cayman and moving on to bigger areas. Organisers tried to keep it accessible to both locals and visitors by holding the annual event in high-traffic areas such as several locations along Seven Mile Beach, the Turtle Centre, Camana Bay Town Centre, and the Festival Green at Camana Bay, where it remains today. At the beginning of the new century, there were
THE EVENTS WITHIN THE EVENT In the beginning, the fundraising festival was a simple affair, but as the island grew the festival grew too. CITA added more events to appeal to the wide audience that was coming through the gates and to showcase the great variety of traditional and new culinary delights we have on the island. The festival was originally held on the long weekend in July. However, the organisers moved it to January to avoid the summer storms that sometimes rained out the event. Somewhere through the years, the Chili Cook-Off went its own way, and Taste of Cayman became its own one-day event. The 2017 Taste of Cayman Food & Drink Festival was the busiest and biggest event to date, with over 5,000 hungry attendees and 45 restaurants, bars, and vendors dishing out delicious samples.
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In addition to the plethora of individually decorated booths providing fare, there were also live performances by local and international musicians, culinary demonstrations by top local chefs, an amateur chef cook-off, mixology challenges with top local and international mixologists, family activities, fireworks and the super-popular heavy cake competition. Heavy cake has been a staple of the Caymanian diet for generations. The delectable dessert was born of early Caymanian cook’s resourcefulness and imagination using the few ingredients they had on hand. The remoteness of the islands meant many ingredients normally used in cakes (such as eggs, flour, and white sugar) were either not available or expensive luxuries. By utilising the ingredients they had, such as cassava, spices, and coconut milk, the inventive cooks created the unofficial dessert of Cayman – a dense, insanely sweet cake. Each year, cooks from across the Cayman Islands vie for the top honours in the Heavy Cake Competition, and festival goers get to sample the country’s traditional dessert.
AND THE WINNER IS… Each year festival attendees also have the chance to vote for their favourite restaurant by simply giving their wooden voting token to their choice for “Cayman’s Favourite Restaurant”. The winners for the 29th Annual Taste of Cayman Food and Drink Festival in 2017 were: • Cayman’s Favourite Restaurant: Seven at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman • Best Food: Andiamo at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman: Shrimp and Leek Ravioli • Best Drink: Jacques Scott: ‘Don’t Go Bacon My Heart’ • Best Dessert: Seven at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman: ‘C4 Sundae’ • Best Booth: Jacques Scott •Taste of Cayman Mixologist of the Year: Sabrina Kudic, Trench Bar, Chicago • Heavy Cake 1st Place: Tara Creary • Amateur Chef Cook-Off Winners: Minister Joey Hew and Chef Maureen Cubbon
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TASTE OF CAYMAN 2017; 2017 DAVID BOWIE TRIBUTE; 2017 CROWDS.
30TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2018 Working together from the start, organisers and restaurateurs have helped build the festival into a world-class event and the Cayman Islands into the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean. The success of the event was (and still is) reliant on all vendors, bars, and restaurants working together, which also helps to make many individual businesses and the entire hospitality industry more successful overall. As the country grows, the population that calls the islands home continues to diversify. There are more than 130 nationalities that make up the Cayman mosaic, with each nationality bringing their own flavours to these tiny outcrops in the Caribbean. The result is a full smorgasbord of delicious food and drinks with something for every palate from carnivore to vegan. The 30th Taste of Cayman Festival in 2018 promises to be even bigger, with more delectable culinary delights and libations, more events, and more camaraderie of all who attend. The 2018 festival will include a chili cook off as a homage to the origins of the festival. Find out more and get your tickets at www. tasteofcayman.org - See you at Camana Bay on January 27th! The publishers wish to extend their thanks to Mike Flowers and Suzy Soto for their invaluable contributions to this article.
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
MARLENA ANGLIN
P
A true Caymankind ambassador. WRITTEN BY RITA ESTEVANOVICH
assionate about all things Caymanian, Ms Hilridge Marlena Rivers Anglin is a beloved cultural icon who hails from the district of West Bay. Whether sewing fancy dresses and traditional costumes, plaiting Silver Thatch strands to make durable ground baskets and attractive wide-brimmed hats, cooking up mouthwatering dishes like ‘fry fish and flittas’, rich conch stew and sticky sweet heavy cakes, Ms Marlena always has her hands in something exciting. A cool 84 years of age (though looking some 20 years younger), Ms Marlena developed a strong work ethic early on. She had not yet celebrated her 10th birthday when her father, whom she loved dearly, passed away. Around the same time, her mother passed on the skill of thatch plaiting as a means of helping the family survive the challenging times. A bittersweet memory, she recalls purchasing her very first pair of shoes using the little money she’d saved from selling her handiwork to a South Sound resident. “My first pair [of] shoes that I wore…I plait[ed] and made baskets and sold them at the age of 13 years old; you know how I had it even measured? It took five yards of plaiting to make a little basket. And you know how much [he] used to pay us? Three shillings.” As Grand Cayman awoke from its dreamy slumber as ‘the Islands time forgot’, Ms Marlena continued to sew and do craftwork but was always determined to do more. She tried her hand in the hospitality industry, waitressing at the Royal Palms, Holiday Inn, and
private events while raising two daughters. After the passing of her mother, Ms Marlena entered new territory, cooking for the public at Kirkconnell’s Market and then at Republic’s store in West Bay. Today, you can find her at national events, heritage days, and the Camana Bay Farmers and Artisans Market, surrounded by eager locals and visitors alike. Always keen to impart her knowledge of Caymanian traditions, Ms Marlena interacts with students of all ages, often demonstrating the process and stages of creating Silver Thatch masterpieces while sharing a bounty of fascinating true stories about the days of yore. At the 2017 ‘Pioneers in Tourism’ Heroes Day Awards, as well as at the cultural heritage-themed Heroes Day Awards celebrations in 2014, Ms Marlena was recognised for long service in both fields. She’s accumulated many other awards for her creations, appeared in the local cult classic ‘The Cayman Triangle’ and more recently, starred as herself in a local Home Gas campaign. Ms Marlena is a member MARLENA ANGLIN of the Cayman Islands Traditional Art Council (CITAC) and has craftwork featured in the permanent collection of the National Gallery. And yet, when asked why she had become a household name, surprisingly, her answer had little to do with the honours bestowed upon her for excellence in her cultural pursuits; instead, “my heart” was the short answer. Sewing, crafting, cooking, teaching, and even acting, have made her known, but sharing with others is Ms Marlena’s greatest joy – a true Caymankind ambassador.
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CALENDAR of EVENTS
NEW YEAR’S EVE AT CAMANA BAY
2018 VERSION For Little Cayman events, please see page 29 and for Cayman Brac events, please see page 39.
December 2017
DECEMBER 2ND PARADE OF LIGHTS Watch as boat owners November 2017 decorate their vessels with gorgeous light displays and NOVEMBER 24TH – sail around the harbour DECEMBER 3RD in Camana Bay. Prizes are GIMISTORY awarded for best displays The annual Cayman Islands and afterwards, you can International Storytelling shop in the Christmas Festival, also known as Market, enjoy the live music Gimistory, celebrates the while having a late snack and national pastime of storytelling. watch the fireworks. Since 1998 the festival has been bringing storytellers DECEMBER 3RD from across North America to CAYMAN THANKSGIVING entertain young and old alike. Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for what you have The festival takes place across and celebrate your friends the island on beaches, in parks and family. Celebrated on the and even in private homes. first Sunday of December, Admission is free.
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residents celebrate Cayman Thanksgiving with big traditional Caymanian-style meals and get-togethers. Visitors can take part by visiting a local restaurant and enjoying some delicious Caymanian cuisine such as stewed beef and cracked conch. DECEMBER 3RD CAYMAN ISLANDS MARATHON Take a run through some of the most picturesque neighborhoods on the island while competing in the Cayman Islands Marathon. A fast, flat, IAAF-sanctioned course, there is a race for everyone with full and half marathons, a 4-person relay and a Kids Fun Run.
CHRISTMAS LIGHT TOUR Be bedazzled by millions of Christmas lights and fantastic holiday displays as private homes around Grand Cayman get into the spirit. Many private and commercial buildings will decorate for the holidays but the long time favorites with the largest displays are along South Church Street (Bodden residence) and Shamrock Road (Crighton and Tomlinson residences). They even allow you to walk around the grounds to see the displays up close.
January 2018 JANUARY 11TH – 14TH CAYMAN COOKOUT Now in its 10th year, Cayman
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
Cookout features Chef Eric Ripert and a list of renowned chefs and wine & spirits experts from Cayman and around the world. It’s one of the most personal and interactive culinary events on the planet celebrating food, wine and spirits in true Caribbean style. The event lasts for four days and includes demonstrations, tastings and meals by some of the top chefs and libation experts. JANUARY 19TH - 22ND MUZAIC FESTIVAL The Muzaic Festival is a celebration of Cayman’s musical heritage with concerts, performances and an awards ceremony on the Heroes Day long weekend. Experience and learn more about Caymanian performers, musicians and singers at the numerous events held around Grand Cayman. Recent performers
at the festival include Bona Fide, Little Magic and Local Motion. JANUARY 27TH TASTE OF CAYMAN FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL The 30th Taste of Cayman Food & Drink Festival showcases a bit of its ChiliCook-Off roots in 2018. The Festival features the very best of Cayman’s food and drink with up to 50 of the island’s top chefs, mixologists and distributors combined with plenty of other entertainment along the way. See our feature on page 58.
February 2018 FEBRUARY 1ST – 10TH CAYMAN ARTS FESTIVAL One of the largest and most influential performing arts events in the country, the Cayman Arts Festival is held every two years and features
AGRICULTURE SHOW
CAYMAN ARTS FESTIVAL
both international and local performers. Their mission is to inspire, entertain and educate Caymanian youth, with every visiting artist conducting classes, demonstrations or workshops. This year’s event will feature Andrei Ionita (cellist), Christopher Gould (pianist), Geraldine McGreevy (soprano) and Vox Fortura (Classical Crossover group). FEBRUARY 9T LEGENDS AT CAMANA BAY Sit back and enjoy a great night of exhibition tennis by some of the top players of the game. Legends at Camana Bay is an annual must-attend event where you can watch tennis legends, former #1 players and Grand Slam Champions under the stars. Recent appearances include John McEnroe, Chris Evert, Jim Courier and Andy Roddick.
FEBRUARY 10TH COCOFEST CocoFest showcases the importance of coconuts in Caymanian culture as well as all the different uses of this versatile nut – from cooking to crafts and beauty products. The festival is held on the grounds of Pedro St James and has a multitude of kiosks, food tents and activities for the kids. FEBRUARY 12TH – 14TH CAYMAN MARDI GRAS Celebrate Fat Tuesday with the Cayman Mardi Gras festival. The 2018 event will be the Valentine’s edition and feature an international lineup of performers and musicians at numerous concerts, street fetes and events. Keep the party rolling into Electro-DanceMusic Ash Wednesday and Valentines. FEBRUARY 14TH AGRICULTURAL SHOW The Agricultural Show is a fun-filled day where you
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can learn more about the agricultural history of Grand Cayman. You’ll also have a chance to sample traditional dishes from each of the islands districts, check out the rodeo, peruse the craft market for local products, enjoy local entertainment and watch the ever popular Children’s Cook-off.
MARCH (DATE TBC) POINCIANA FESTIVAL The Poinciana Festival is a celebration of local musicians, artists and filmmakers, both up-andcoming and well-known. The festival includes numerous art exhibits, film and documentary screenings, concerts and an awards gala.
March 2018
April 2018
MARCH 2ND & 3RD CAYFEST Cayfest celebrates the arts and culture of the Cayman Islands and includes Dress for Culture Day, a fundraiser that celebrates the diversity of the countries residents; and the popular Red Sky at Night festival, held under the stars with live performances as well as local crafts and food.
APRIL 26TH – 29TH CAYMAN ISLANDS INTERNATIONAL FISHING TOURNAMENT This four-day tournament brings experienced anglers from around the world to compete for the heaviest wahoo, mahi mahi, blue marlin, and yellowfin tuna. If you’re not fishing in the tournament, head to the marina to watch as the
CAYFEST
CAYMAS CARNIVAL
boats come in with their catch to try to catch a piece of the estimated US$100,000 jackpot. APRIL 27T & 28 CARNIVAL JUNIOR BATABANO Watch as the kids get into the Carnival spirit and celebrate with face painting, games, music and mask decorations before taking to the street with the Carnival Junior Batabano Road Parade. The festival is a great and safe way for the kids to enjoy Carnival. H
TH
May 2018 MAY 2ND – 6TH CARNIVAL BATABANO Carnival Batabano is an island-wide celebration with concerts, street parties and the iconic costumed road parade - where thousands of residents and visitors dress up in vibrant Carnival costumes and dance their way along
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West Bay Road complete with live music, DJs, and decked-out floats. MAY 17 TH - 21ST CAYMAS CARNIVAL Into its second year, CayMAS Carnival is a new Carnival experience in Cayman, complete with 5 days of music, celebrations and the carnival parade along West Bay Road.
June 2018 JUNE 16TH FLOWERS SEA SWIM The Flowers Sea Swim attracts swimmers from across the globe, including Olympians and is one of the world’s top open water swims. The races are held on in the world-famous waters off Seven Mile Beach and include distances of 1 mile, 5Km and 10Km. All registration proceeds go to the Cayman Islands Cancer Society.
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
individual and team races. A great test of endurance and strength as locals and visitors bike, run and swim around the island.
CAYFILM FESTIVAL DIRECTOR TONY MARK AND WIFE JENN WITH STORMTROOPERS
October 2018
November 2018 NOVEMBER 4TH CAYMAN ISLANDS TRIATHLON Grand Cayman’s environment and climate is the perfect spot for a triathlon. The Cayman Islands Triathlon has been going strong for over 20 years and has over 200 athletes taking part in both the
September 2018
OCTOBER 1ST – 31ST CAYMAN RESTAURANT MONTH Indulge all month long at some of the island’s top restaurants for great value and exquisite cuisine. Participating restaurants will be offering delicious, specially crafted 2-course and 3-course Prix Fixe meals. Special pricing and menu options are usually shared online at restaurantmonthcayman.com.
INTERNATIONAL SCUBA DIVING HALL OF FAME The International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame pays tribute to the pioneers of the sport, including those who have contributed to dive travel, development education, and equipment design. The annual induction ceremony and dinner recognize the efforts of those who have made SCUBA what it is today. Past recipients include Bob Soto, Zale Parry and Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
OCTOBER 26TH – NOVEMBER 2ND CAYMAN COCKTAIL WEEK Celebrate the art of mixology with Cayman Cocktail Week. Seven days of cocktail events, dinners and classes with some of the island’s best mixologists and establishments. Learn how to master your favorite cocktail, learn about new libations or try some of the finest and unique rum the Caribbean has to offer.
JUNE 28TH - JULY 2ND CAYFILM FESTIVAL CayFilm is a multi-day event featuring film screenings, workshops, exclusive premiers, awards, Q & A sessions with industry professionals and a celebrity gala. The Cayman Islands International Film Festival is held alongside the Cayman Underwater Film Festival and showcases the international underwater film industry.
NOVEMBER 8TH – 12TH PIRATES WEEK Every November the islands are overrun with pirates. Pirates Week Festival celebrates the country’s heritage and its pirate connections. The festival was started in 1976 and features a mock pirate invasion in Grand Cayman and a celebration of the heritage of all the districts on all three islands. Everyone gets into character to enjoy the costume competitions, live concerts, street games, food festivals and awesome fireworks. Please note that our Events Calendar begins and ends on the US Thanksgiving Holiday and that all dates listed above were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change.
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DIVING CELEBRATING 60 YEARS
Scuba Diving Magazine 2016 Readers Choice Awards Caribbean/Atlantic
• #1 Best overall destinations • #1 Best underwater photography • #1 Best marine environment • #1 Best wall diving • #1 Best visibility • #1 Best advanced diving • #2 Best Overall diving • #2 Best macro diving • #2 Best cave/cavern/grotto diving • #2 Best wreck diving
EXPLORING
HOLIDAY DIVER (PHOTO: GERI MURPHY)
G R A N D C AY M A N
60 Years of Recreational Scuba Diving in the Caribbean Diving was for the adventurous, many that society thought were very bold and a little crazy. In 1957, a brazen former US Navy Coastguard and salvage diver turned his love for underwater exploration into the first legitimate dive shop in the Caribbean, Bob Soto’s Diving. The sport hadn’t taken hold anywhere in the world yet, much less the tiny island of Grand Cayman. The first recreational divers were the wild bunch, adventurous seekers who enjoyed taking the risk of diving beneath the waters to explore. Equipment? It was nearly non-existent. HOW IT ALL STARTED Relying on his experience of working with the US Navy, Bob Soto fashioned his equipment by using fire extinguishers for air tanks, backpacks made from plywood and scrap metal and melting down batteries to harvest lead for weights. Even his dive helmet was hand-made. There were no standards or certifying agencies
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when he first started, so he used the dive tables and skills he had learned in the Navy and certified his students himself. Based on the George Town waterfront, Soto would find his customers at the few hotels on the island at that time. While many may have been cautious about such a risky sport, once they saw the abundant marine life and pristine corals underwater they were hooked.
HAND MADE DIVE HELMET
In the 1960’s Bob introduced ‘night diving’ to his shop’s services. A far cry from today’s night diving, Bob would waterproof regular flashlights and floodlights and head out to the Wreck of the Balboa in George Town harbour with his group of divers. By the 1970’s the sport was becoming more popular and mainstream around the world and especially in Cayman. Equipment was still rustic and lacking, especially by today’s standards. There were no dive computers or buoyancy compensators, and dive boats such as the hand-built Holiday Diver (pictured) were simple affairs, not the luxurious liveaboards seen today in dive destinations.
SCUBA TAKES HOLD The 1980’s were a busy decade both in the diving industry and in the Cayman Islands. In 1980, the granddaddy of Cayman diving sold his dive shop, Bob Soto’s Diving, to Ron Kipp, a former IBM Executive cum dive continued…
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: BOB SOTO & SON KRIS; RON KIPP & BOB SOTO; HOLIDAY DIVER (1972).
...continued instructor. After adjusting to Caribbean living, Ron set about modernising and promoting not only his new business but also the country. Also in 1980, the Cayman Islands Watersports Operators Association was created by the local dive operators as well as the government. The association set about to create a set of standards for diving safety, diving guides, and boat operation. Up until then, dive masters had their own set of rules and regulations, and there wasn’t anything official on the books. In 1981, the first ever Scubabowl was held, an event specifically designed to teach dive-trade professionals how to sell the first-class dive programs in the Cayman Islands successfully. What better way to learn how to sell something than to experience it. The dive professionals would descend on Grand Cayman to experience world class diving, local hospitality, and everything else Cayman has to offer. It was three days of diving, seminars, and socialising put on by the entire tourism industry – from the national airline down to the individual dive operators. In 1986, the Cayman Islands government initiated one of the most impactful decisions for the country – the establishment of marine parks in the waters of all three islands. Realising the importance of the marine environment for the economy, and the quality of health and the environment, the Marine Parks Regulations created three types of protected area zone designations: replenishment zones, marine parks, and environmental zones.
ADVANCES IN DIVING Diving has come a long way since 1957. Equipment has developed exponentially in the past 60 years, making it easier for people to learn to dive and making the costs more affordable. Dive tourism has grown into an continued…
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DIVE INTO BIG ADVENTURES AND SMALL GROUPS
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CAYMANDIVING.COM | CALL +345 916 8487
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
...continued industry on its own, as divers seek out far away waterfront destinations to explore. Equipment has made the sport safer, more affordable, and more accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities. In its infancy diving was a tough sport, with only minimal equipment available for breathing and manoeuvring underwater safely. But as the equipment options have expanded and advanced, more and more disabled people are able to get into the water to explore. Adaptive diving has grown in popularity in recent years, as more and more people with disabilities experience the weightlessness and wonder of diving. There are many organisations that train disabled divers and a growing number of dive operators being trained to provide adaptive diving, including several in Cayman.
DIVING IN 2017 These days recreational scuba diving is more popular than ever all around the world. The original desire for underwater exploration is growing, and the advances in technology are allowing more people, not just the brazen risk takers, to take up the sport and head out to explore the far reaches of the world both on land and underwater. In present day Cayman, tourism is a pillar of the economy, with millions of people visiting the three islands each year. While many come for tropical relaxation, the BOB SOTO M.B.E. multitude of diving options and 100 foot plus visibility makes diving a key component of the tourism industry. Cruise ship passengers can get in on the action during their short visit with the availability of fantastic diving right in George Town. The efforts and determination of Cayman’s early dive pioneers have made recreational scuba diving a vital part of the country’s tourism industry today. RECOGNISING THE TRAIL BLAZERS Established in 2000, the International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame recognises and honours the pioneers, divers, protectors, and promoters of the marine environment. The hard work, dedication, and determination of the inductees have helped the industry grow into the successful sport it is today, and opened the sport to people from all walks of life around the world. Past inductees into the Hall of Fame include Cayman’s own Bob Soto (honoured by Queen Elizabeth II with the Member of the British Empire award in 1997), Jacques-Yves Cousteau, John Cronin and Ralph Erickson (founders of PADI), and Cathy Church (underwater photography). In addition to the inductees, the International Scuba Hall of Fame also awards those who serve the local Caymanian diving community. The list of past honourees includes Rodney McDowall, Nancy Easterbrook, and Stuart Freeman. The Early Pioneers are the trailblazers who created technologies that enabled divers to go deeper than ever before. Previous inductees include Ted Eldred, Maurice Fenzy, and Max Gene Nohl. The names above are just a sample of the innovative and daring divers who have blazed the trail and help create the sport of recreational diving. To see the entire list and for more information visit www.scubahalloffame.com The publishers wish to extend their thanks to Suzy Soto for her invaluable contribution to this article.
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KITTIWAKE
G R A N D C AY M A N
Cayman Islands Wreck Diving BY GILES CHARLTON-JONES
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ost scuba divers will get mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness when wreck dives are mentioned. Excitement at the thrill of exploring a ship which is really not supposed to be underwater in the first place and nervousness of the unknown dangers that this exploration may entail! Fear not though as in the Cayman Islands we have many wrecks which are easily accessible even without a specialist wreck diver certification. Some can even be explored by uncertified divers as part of a PADI Discover Scuba Diving course! Wreck diving can provide many different experiences. There is no feeling quite like swimming weightless through the rooms and corridors of a large wreck. In addition to which wrecks become magnets for all kinds of sea life as they
provide excellent habitats for many fish, corals and crustaceans. Most of the diveable wrecks in the Cayman Islands have been sunk specifically to provide these amazing dive experiences but there are a few genuine shipwrecks whose history adds interest. If you are diving from a boat then your dive-masters will certainly give you a detailed briefing, including some history of the wreck you are diving. It is always recommended to go diving with a guide who can show the best and most interesting parts of the wrecks. .
GRAND CAYMAN
EX-USS KITTIWAKE This is the most recent and undoubtedly the most popular wreck dive in Grand Cayman. This
ex-US Navy submarine rescue and resupply vessel is 251ft long and has five decks. After 50 years of active service it was purchased by the Cayman Islands Government and was sunk in January 2011 as an artificial reef. Sitting in 65ft of water the majority of the wreck is actually at 40ft or shallower. Before sinking the ship was prepared specifically with divers in mind enabling them to easily access nearly all of of the ship from engine rooms to the crew quarters, bathrooms to the mess room. You can even swim into either of the two recompression chambers which still sit inside the vessel. Despite having only been sunk 7 years ago you can see the beginnings of coral and sponge growth all over the wreck and many fish have started to call the wreck home. You will need to visit this wreck with a licensed boat diving
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operator and a guide is compulsory. Note: Boat dive only; a park fee is payable to your dive operator.
DOC POULSON This 70ft long wreck was an old cable laying ship sunk as an artificial reef in 1981 in around 60ft of water. After 36 years underwater this wreck is a treasure trove of fish and coral life and is a photographer’s dream. Despite being a relatively small ship there is plenty to see and it is possible to swim the length of the vessel through its holds. The local reef fish come to the many cleaning stations all over the wreck. Stingrays and Eagle rays are frequent visitors in the sand around the wreck along with lots of Queen Conch and garden eels. Note: Boat dive only. ORO VERDE This 131ft freighter was sunk intact as an artificial reef in 1980 but since then many storms have smashed it apart and spread it over a wide area. This has created a great habitat for fish, most notably eels who are often found peering out from under the twisted metal plates. The only intact section of the ship now is the bow which is festooned with coral growth. With a maximum depth of 50ft this dive is a not to be missed combination of reef and wreck. Note: Boat dive only. CALI The Cali is one the few genuinely wrecked ships which are diveable. It sank
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MV CAPT. KEITH TIBBETTS
in Georgetown harbour in the 1940’s due to a leaky hull and a cargo of rice! The ship was dynamited to allow harbour access and so is spread over a large area in depths of 20 to 30ft. This wreck is accessible from shore and due to its’ shallow depth can be explored even by un-certified divers and snorkelers. Note: Shore dive.
BALBOA Another genuine shipwreck, the 175ft freighter Balboa sank in Georgetown harbour during the great storm of 1932. This ship was also detonated to prevent shipping hazards and is spread over a large area. Being right in the middle of shipping lanes means that this wreck can only be dived with permission from the Port Authority at times when there are no cruise ships or freighters in port. This restricts dives to the weekends mostly but it is well worth the effort! Ask your dive operator about making a special trip to see the incredible life on this very old wreck. Note: Boat dive recommended. LCM DAVID NICOLSON This 50ft WW2 landing craft that sits in 60ft of water off the Southwest corner of the
island is more of a nice addition to a great reef dive than a stand-alone wreck dive! There is plenty of good coral growth on the wreck which is surrounded by a nice reef. Note: Shore dive.
CAYMAN BRAC MV CAPT. KEITH TIBBETTS The only diveable Russian warship in the western hemisphere, the 330ft frigate was sunk in 1996. It sits between 110 and 40ft of water on a sloping sand flat and is a must do if you are diving in either Cayman Brac or Little Cayman. Stare down the barrels of its guns whilst schools of horse-eye jacks pass you by.Note: Boat or shore dive.
LITTLE CAYMAN SOTO TRADER The Soto Trader was a cargo barge that sank off the south coast of Little Cayman in 1976. As a break from diving the famous Bloody Bay wall this shallow wreck is an interesting dive with plenty of coral growth and sea life. Note: Boat dive.
EXPLORING G R A N D C AY M A N
DIVE PIRATES FOUNDATION
S
Living the Pirate Code
CUBA diving gives you the freedom of floating weightlessly in the waters while watching the incredible variety of marine life all around you. Unfortunately, it is not as accessible for people with disabilities to take up diving, but there are many organizations and dive operators around the world that are determined to change that. Created in 2004 by the SCUBA Houston chapter, the Dive Pirates Foundation aims to create a community of disabled divers who can overcome obstacles and physical limitations to dive into the mainstream world of SCUBA and experience the freedom of diving. In 2005, they held their first fundraiser, spreading awareness of their mission and receiving enough donations
to train four adaptive divers and their dive buddies, and taking them to dive in the waters of Cayman Brac. Since then public awareness of the Foundation and their fundraising efforts have continued to grow, allowing the Pirates to increase the number of trips and participants taken every year. Participants are chosen on a first come first served basis; after applying and being accepted, a trip is agreed upon, and the divers have an adaptive trainer assigned at the closest dive center for the academic and pool training as well as fundraising efforts. The program is open to all medically qualified physically disabled people. However, the focus of the Dive Pirates is disabled military, law enforcement, and first responder veterans who have sustained injuries in the line of duty. By training the veterans in adaptive diving, they aim to
restore a sense of adventure, community and hope for these wounded warriors. In addition to their yearly trek to Cayman Brac, they have also visited Cozumel, Hawaii, Honduras, and Grand Cayman. However, they say the accessibility and hospitality of Cayman Brac Beach Resort, Reef Divers, and Cayman Airways as well as the warmth and kindness of the Brac community, brings them back year after year; and their members are happy to continue returning as well for the incredible diversity of diving. As for the Brac, many residents look forward to the annual trip, including many long-time employees at the resort who have been there since the beginning. They love that the divers are such a fun group with positive energy, and look forward to catching up with the divers who keep coming back.
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CAYMAN ISLANDS SAILING CLUB
On The
WATER THE BEST THINGS TO DO
PADDLEBOARDING
STINGRAY CITY • STARFISH POINT SUNSET SAIL • PRIVATE CHARTERS
926-3662 ALLURACATAMARAN.COM
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: GO SNORKEL!; JET-SKI; CAT BOAT; PADDLEBOARD.
10 Things To Do On The Water CATAMARAN TRIP Sail Cayman’s waters on a safe and stable Catamaran. The Allura Catamaran [926-3662] can take you on a trip to Stingray City where you can interact with and feed the gentle Southern Stingrays while standing in knee-deep water under the supervision of their experienced crew. The crew of Allura can also tailor a private charter to meet your every need so why not consider a sunset sail along the Seven Mile beach coastline? ATLANTIS SUBMARINES Get up close to our renowned reefs and marine life from air-conditioned comfort with Atlantis Submarines. They offer both day and night dives on the submarine, which can dive up to 100’ under the surface while maintaining sea level pressure. Sit back and relax as you view huge sponges, tropical fish, corals, and maybe even a stingray through your porthole. Call 949-7700 for reservations and more information.
GO DIVING Grand Cayman is fortunate to have world renowned diving and the standard of dive operators is every bit as good as the dive experience itself. All abilities are catered for - from snorkelling and introductory SCUBA resort courses for the newcomer to wreck, wall and night dives for the more experienced diver – and most operators offer a full range of excursions to a variety of different dive locations. Divers Down [945-1611] specialize in offering trips for small groups to maximise the attention each diver receives. They have multiple locations on-island, as do Red Sail Sports (see Water Sports below). Many of the dive operators are centred around George Town for ease of access to wreck, shallow, reef and wall dives. Located in George Town, Don Foster’s Dive Cayman [949-5679] is well established in Cayman, having first opened in 1982. They have a fleet continued… V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S
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FROM LEFT: KAYAKING TOUR; DOLPHIN DISCOVERY.
leave later than others so you can avoid those early mornings. Whoever you choose to dive with, you are assured some breath-taking underwater sights. See our feature on page 73 which highlights some of the best wreck diving available in Cayman.
...continued of 6 boats offering every type of diving as well as boat piloting courses. Slightly north of George Town with their dock just a few fin kicks from Cheeseburger Reef are Lobster Pot Divers [946-8685]. Like most operators, they offer free transfers to and from your accommodation and can provide all the equipment you need. Cayman Diving [916-8487] pride themselves on their flexibility and understand that your priority on vacation is to relax. Their trips often
SWIM WITH DOLPHINS Get up close and personal with a one-on-one encounter with a dolphin. Learn more about these amazing marine mammals, including how they communicate with each other and their habits at Dolphin Discovery and Dolphin Cove. You’ll also get to choose an interactive program where you can share a kiss, get a hug, and hear them sing! No prior swimming or dive experience required. Call 769-7946 for reservations and more information. DEEP SEA FISHING Cayman’s deep waters are the perfect place to fish for big game, such as Yellowfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, Wahoo, and Mahi Mahi. You can stay clsoe to shore, or head 10 miles offshore to our outer banks to try your hand at reeling in the big catch. Blue Water Excursions [925-8738] offers half and full day customizable fishing charters, making your day at sea a memorable one. continued…
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Your one-stop shop for all your watersports needs! Red Sail Sports is always close by with locations on Seven Mile Beach, East End and at Rum Point. DIVE Cayman's wrecks and reefs, SAIL on a 65' luxury catamaran to Stingray City Sandbar, SHOP in one of our seven retail stores, or PLAY on the water with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, waverunners and more... redsailcayman.com | 345-623-5965 info@redsailcayman.com Connect with us!
Arrive in style with catamaran ferry service from Safehaven, SMB. Just US$5 per person. Call 354-623-5965 for reservations.
Welcome to Rum Point Club Home of the Mudslide! Spend the day relaxing in a hammock, drinking a mudslide, exploring on a waverunner or taking a trip to the Stingray Sandbar! At night, dine at award-winning Rum Point Club Restaurant, or chill at the beach BBQ (Mon). rumpointclub.com | 345-947-9412 info@rumpointclub.com
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FROM LEFT: RED SAIL SPORTS AT STINGRAY CITY; SOUTHERN STINGRAYS.
...continued
BIOLUMINESCENT TOUR See the ancient mangroves of Grand Cayman light up in a dazzling blue glow! Occurring only on the darkest nights of the month, Georges Watersports can take you out in your choice of boat or kayak to experience this natural phenomenon. Boaters have the chance to swim in the bioluminescent bay and watch as the waters light up beneath their hands. Georges’ offers free pick up from Seven Mile Beach hotels and condos. For reservations and information, call 345-923-7078. WATER SPORTS Jump in and enjoy the warm, crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea while paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing or windsurfing. Or take the opportunity to try waterbiking or wakeboarding. Red Sail Sports [623-5965] are the island’s largest watersports operator and offer all of this and more – including diving, snorkeling and sailing - from their locations at the Westin and Marriott hotels on Seven Mile Beach, at East End and Rum Point. They can even take you across to Rum Point on their ferry service which departs from Safehaven and costs only US$5 per person. Once at Rum Point, relax in a hammock with a mudslide, hire a wave-runner or enjoy the delicious food on offer. LUXURY YACHT CHARTER For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, Five Star Charters operate a 48’ Sea Ray Sundancer yacht for private charters from their dock in Camana Bay Harbour. They offer full service excursions and take care of everything for you. Just bring your bathing suit and sunglasses and be ready to live the high life. To find out more you can call them on 925-2101.
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On LAND SIGHTSEEING AND THE BEST THINGS TO DO ASHORE
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FORT GEORGE
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Seeing the Sights of Grand Cayman Although small by some standards, Grand Cayman has 76 square miles of unique and interesting places to see and experience. WEST BAY North of Seven Mile Beach, the district of West Bay is mostly residential with great beaches, diving, and lots of history. The community of Hell, so named because early settlers thought the limestone formations looked like Hell, is a small attraction with the limestone formations, a post office to send postcards from Hell, and souvenir stores. Barker’s Beach on the northern coast is a long, desolate beach that is great for beachcombing and kitesurfing. There are several horse-riding stables nearby that use the beach and nearby park for trail rides, but often you may be the only one there. South of the 4-way stop, the Old Homestead is an early Caymanian wattle and daub house that was built in 1912. Tours are available by booking beforehand. Otherwise, it’s a great quick stop on your way south. If you haven’t already, stop at any of the beach access points along West Bay Road to take in the breathtaking view of Seven Mile Beach’s lengthy expanse of white sand and clear blue waters. GEORGE TOWN Driving south on West Bay Road into George Town, you’ll see condos and resorts on the west side and stores, restaurants, and offices to the east. Plenty of opportunities to pick up souvenirs and taste the culinary delights the island is known for.
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FROM TOP: KAIBO; GEORGE TOWN LIBRARY.
Running parallel to West Bay Road, the Esterley Tibbetts Highway is a fast track to the southern and eastern areas as well as the town centre of Camana Bay. You’ll find one-of-a-kind stores, great restaurants, unique courtyards and gardens, a ferry service to Rum Point and Kaibo, the observation tower to get a bird’s eye view of Grand Cayman, and a movie theatre if you want to get out of the sun and catch a show. Further up the highway is the National Gallery, home of the National Art Collection and an outdoor garden filled with interesting sculptures, indigenous plants and trees, and plenty of shade to take a break from the road. As you make your way into the heart of George Town along North Church Street, you’ll see great historic buildings interspersed with gleaming modern structures. Along the waterfront is the always-popular fisherman’s market – a small tent, table, and many local fishers selling their daily catch. Find a spot to park and explore the historic town on foot. Fort George was built in the 1700’s to defend the island
from attacks by pirates and Spanish marauders. You can walk around the recently restored ruins on the corner of Harbour Drive and Fort Street to learn more about the fort’s history. Fort Street leads into the original town center. Here you’ll find the legislative assembly, Heroes’ Square, Centennial Square, Clock Tower, the continued…
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FROM TOP: HEROES SQUARE; MISS LASSIE’S HOUSE
...continued original library building, and the George Town Post Office, built in 1939 and still in use today. You can also see the wall of history detailing the milestones in the development of the Cayman Islands, and the Wall of Honour, which lists the names of 500 Caymanians who have made significant contributions to the transformation of the country. Back along the waterfront is the National Museum, home to the country’s artefact as well as several everchanging historical exhibits. There’s also Elmslie Church (built in the 1840’s), the Cayman Craft Market, and many one-of-a-kind stores where you can buy a variety of souvenirs ranging from Caymanite to pirate coins, plus of course a large selection of duty-free jewellery, watch, and fragrance stores. South of George Town along South Church Street, you can relax in the shade at Dart Family Park, stop for a swim at Smith Barcadere, and marvel at the visionary art of Miss Lassie’s house. Also, known as Mind’s Eye, this traditional 19th-century dwelling is a site
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of national historic interest and tours are offered by appointment twice a month.
SAVANNAH Just past the Old Savannah School House and Countryside Shopping Centre, Pedro St. James is a restored 1700’s plantation home that has been a courthouse, jail, family home, and government assembly over the centuries. However, the building is probably best known as the birthplace of democracy in the Cayman Islands, as it was here in 1831 where the decision was made to form the first elected parliament. If you’re planning to visit both Pedro St. James and the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, be sure to purchase a Discover East Adventure Card for discounted admissions to both sites. BODDEN TOWN Located on the edge of the district, the Governor Michael Gore Bird Sanctuary is a small but important area with over 60 species of birds being observed here over the years. At the entrance to the island’s
original capital Bodden Town, Guard House Park is a historic park with a small thatch building, informational signs about the history of the site and two cannons salvaged from the infamous Wreck of the Ten Sails. Past Coe-Wood Public Beach, Gun Square is the other historical defence point for Bodden Town and home to Mission House, a traditional
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: BLOW HOLES; HELL; MASTIC TRAIL.
Caymanian house previously used by the many missionaries who contributed to establishing the Presbyterian ministry and school in the town. The entrance to Gun Square and Mission House is marked with two 18th century cannons.
EAST END As you drive along Seaview Road into the district of East End, the view of the water and limestone shore can be mesmerising. The Blow Holes are a great place to stretch your legs and watch the waves crash through holes in the limestone shore, often spraying up to 15 feet into the air. As the road turns north, the Wreck of the Ten Sails monument stands as an homage to the courage of the residents who braved rough seas to rescue all but 8 of the ships’ crew and passengers after their ships crashed on the reefs in 1794. The Colliers Wilderness Reserve is a short easy trail through the original dry woodland and features many of Cayman’s indigenous plants. It’s also an ideal habitat for Blue Iguanas so don’t be surprised if you see one sharing the trail with you.
NORTH SIDE The north coast of the island is quite rural compared to the west coast. Located near the middle of the district is the Davinoff’s Concrete Sculpture Garden, home to numerous larger than life concrete statues, including a crab, iguana, and octopus. In the middle of the island and on the edge of the district is the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park. Within the park are numerous gardens, woodland trail, lake, traditional Caymanian cottages, and the Blue Iguana Habitat. In fact, the blue dragons can regularly be seen roaming the grounds of the park. The Mastic Trail cuts through a protected area of untouched, old growth forest and is home to a wide variety of plants and animals unique to the country. At the tip of North Side, Rum Point is a popular beach destination for relaxing, water sports, dining, and more. On the weekends, it’s busy with locals arriving by both boat and car. The perfect way to end any sightseeing tour is at Starfish Point. This small, rustic beach at the end of Cayman Kai is the natural home to dozens of starfish, which can be found in the shallow waters just offshore.
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: GOLF AT THE NORTH SOUND CLUB; TAKE A CYCLE TOUR; HORSE RIDING WITH PAMPERED PONIES; VISIT THE CAYMAN TURTLE CENTRE.
Best Things To Do On Land Here are our recommendations for the best things to do on land during your stay in Grand Cayman. CAYMAN TURTLE CENTRE The Cayman Turtle Centre [949-3894] is a wildlife park with something for everyone. You can hold yearling turtles, watch nurse sharks and barracuda, see exotic birds such as the Cayman Parrot, and learn more about Green Sea Turtles. Finish off your visit with a dip in Breakers Lagoon or a snack in Schooners. HORSEBACK RIDING – PAMPERED PONIES Pampered Ponies [916-2540] will take you on a trail ride through the breathtaking scenery of the northern beaches and Barkers National Park. Enjoy and explore the water and coastal areas on the gentle and well-trained horses, or if you dare, go swimming bareback in the warm Caribbean Sea!
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GOLF Work on your tan and your swing on one of our two world-class golf courses. Pick your favorite between a Greg Norman designed 9-hole championship course at the Ritz-Carlton with five long par fours or the island’s only 18-hole course at the North Sound Club [947-4653]. Enjoy fully stocked pro shops, club rentals, and more. Both courses will test your skills and abilities while treating you to spectacular island views. ISLAND TOUR Explore the island’s top attractions while someone else takes care of the driving. Majestic Tours [949-7773] offer transportation and tours to meet all your needs. Their Island Tours (West, East or Full) last between
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3-6 hours and are guided by knowledgeable locals who can provide insight into the history and culture of the island as well as background on all the attractions you’ll visit. They also offer custom tours to explore Grand Cayman’s Crystal Caves (see page 52).
TOUR THE ISLAND BY BICYCLE Break out of the tour bus and explore Grand Cayman on two wheels. West Bay Loop’s guided cycle tour takes you exploring through the country lanes of West Bay to see attractions such as Hell and Barker’s National Park. ECO Rides Cayman has a variety of tours throughout the islands tranquil east end, stopping at attractions like the Colliers Wilderness Reserve, Blowholes, and the Wreck of the Ten Sails. Prefer to explore on your own? Both companies rent bikes and helmets for all sizes and abilities. CAYMAN ISLANDS BREWERY TOUR See what happens behind the curtain and take a tour of the Cayman Islands Brewery [947-6699]. Available on weekdays, learn how they make their signature Ironshore Bock, White Tip Lager, Caybrew and Caybrew Light beers. From the first step to the sampling stage, it’s a great tour for anyone interested in brewing. continued…
PHOTO ABOVE: TAKE A BIKE RIDE OUT TO THE EAST END OF GRAND CAYMAN, PASSING LOVERS WALL ON YOUR WAY TO THE BLOW HOLES.
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AMBASSADORS OF THE ENVIRONMENT Founded by Jean-Michel Cousteau, the Ambassadors of the Environment program lets you learn and experience the natural environment and diverse ecosystem around you. People of all ages can experience unique eco-tours such as Night Snorkel, Seafloor Submarine Adventure, and Sunset Mangrove Kayak. All adventures start at the Heritage House, a traditional Caymanian cottage located at the Ritz-Carlton. CAYMAN ISLANDS NATIONAL MUSEUM In the heart of George Town lies the National Museum. Filled with artifacts from days gone by, the museum itself is a piece of history as it occupies the country’s oldest public building. There are five galleries, including two permanent exhibits and one for kids. Discover Cayman’s natural, economic and cultural roots on your own or with a guide. LET YOUR CREATIVE JUICES FLOW Take a break from the beach and sightseeing, and let your creative energy out. The Arts Nest has a variety of classes throughout the week, including Wheel and Wine Pottery Night and Canvas and Cocktails. If you prefer to stay outdoors, every Wednesday night is Open Canvas night at Karoo in Camana Bay. Watch as paintings come to life, or reserve your own easel and create your own.
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AMBASSADORS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: CAMANA BAY; STINGRAY CITY; SPOTFIN BUTTERFLYFISH; BOTANIC PARK.
A Weekend in Grand Cayman
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nfortunately, not many of us can spend endless weeks exploring the island. If you’re only able to squeeze in a weekend, or perhaps have only limited downtime during a business trip, below are suggestions for your 2 days in paradise. DAY 1 Head out early for a visit to Stingray City, one of the island’s top attractions. Many tour operators have half-day tours that let you swim with the gentle Southern Stingrays, stop for a snorkel on the reef, and be back on land by lunch. If you’re not too waterlogged, head to a beach bar to grab lunch, work on your tan, build sand castles, and take a
cool dip in the sea. Bring or rent snorkel gear to discover what’s happening below the water’s surface. Prefer to stay on dry land? Head into George Town where there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and historical sights to visit and experience. There’s even a museum where you can learn more about Cayman’s history. Afterwards, visit Camana Bay to stroll through shops, gardens, and more. Climb to the top of the observation tower to get a 360-degree view of the island, then head to one of the restaurants for dinner – from pizza to tapas and sushi there’s something for everyone. DAY 2 Before the day heats up, take a leisurely stroll down Seven Mile Beach to soak in
the beauty of the endless white sand and the calm azure water. After breakfast, grab a rental car and head east to see the rest of the island, stopping at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park to see indigenous plants and rare Blue Iguanas before making your way out to Rum Point for a mudslide (non-drivers only!), a swim, and some quiet time in a hammock. Not in the mood to drive? There’s a ferry service from Camana Bay that will take you across North Sound in no time and let you sit back and enjoy the views. Finish the weekend with a sunset cruise along Seven Mile Beach and a delicious dinner at any of the over 200 fabulous restaurants on the island, experiencing why Cayman is the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: HARRY MCCOY SR. PARK ; CAMANA BAY; DART FAMILY PARK.
5 Things To Do With Kids CAMANA BAY Camana Bay is great for kids and families. There are two water fountains to cool off and splash around in, five unique courtyards to explore and a palm tree lined island in the harbor with hammocks to relax. There are lots of family-friendly events happening throughout the year, including chalkfest, Imagination Playground, moonlit movies, story & craft time, and much more. Refer to the Camana Bay section of this book for further details. HARRY MCCOY SR. PARK Located on Gun Square Road in Bodden Town, this park contains a playground, BBQ and restrooms which opens up to an expanse of lush flora, fauna and fruit trees casting
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ample natural shade with picnic tables. Here sits Nurse Josie’s Senior Centre, a traditional Caymanian cottage fitted out with furniture and fixings from the times of old. Inside the house, visitors can view relics more than 100 years old and colourful artwork painted on the walls.
DART FAMILY PARK South of George Town, Dart Family Park features great shaded and private areas for picnics, a sandy playground, mini-beach, and secret pathways through the trees and bushes for kids to discover. The island’s largest public park is also home to the Cayman’s Nature Store where you can shop for eco-friendly products as well as from emerging local vendors.
MOTIONS UNLIMITED Motions Unlimited is the perfect place to let your toddler tumble around and get out of the sun. Toddler Play Days happen 3 days a week and give your budding gymnast complete use of their gymnastic facility. Ages 0-6 welcome. CAYMAN TURTLE CENTRE Cayman Turtle Centre [345-9493894] is an outdoor wildlife adventure with something for every kid in the family. You can pet and hold baby Green Sea Turtles, meet exotic Caribbean birds like the Cayman Parrot, watch nurse and sandbar sharks, and see Smiley the crocodile! There’s also a lagoon with two waterfalls so you can relax and cool off after your adventure.
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5 Things To Do Indoors
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NATIONAL GALLERY
NATIONAL GALLERY Home to the National Art Collection, the National Gallery also features a variety of everchanging exhibits as well as tours, workshops, monthly Family Days, free and paid art classes, and a host of special events including film screenings. It is a gathering place honouring the artistic heritage of Cayman. Visit nationalgallery.org.ky or call 9458111 for more information.
and buy their award-winning beers. Visit cib.ky or call 345947-6699 for more information.
SPA TIME Vacations are about relaxing, rejuvenating and recharging, and nothing helps you get back to your old self like being indulgently pampered. Whether it’s a massage, facial, manicure, or a new hairstyle, the island is home to a plentitude of spas which can help you to feel invigorated, refreshed, and ready to enjoy the rest of your welldeserved holiday. TAKE A TOUR Get a behind the scenes tour at our local Rum Distillery or Brewery. Cayman Spirits Company is Grand Cayman’s only distillery and produces authentic West Indian rums as well as vodka and liqueurs. The 40-minute tour ends in the tasting room, where you will sample fresh batches of their signature Seven Fathoms Rum among others. Cayman Islands Brewery produces and distributes four beers throughout the islands. Take a guided tour through the brewery to see the lifecycle of how to make beer – from the mashing to the bottling and warehouse. Tours end in the tasting room, where you can taste
BON VIVANT
CAYMAN MOTOR MUSEUM
COOKING CLASSES AND DEMONSTRATIONS Broaden your cooking skills or simply sit back and watch the pros whip up delectable meals. Bon Vivant in Camana Bay holds classes on everything from French cuisine to sushi in their demo kitchen. The Culinary Studio at the Ritz-Carlton offers ‘Immersion into the Blue’ which focuses on the dishes served in Blue by Eric Ripert and concludes with students enjoying a tasting menu from the restaurant. Also, other restaurants and hotels, including The Brasserie and Le Soleil d’Or offer regular demonstrations and classes where their culinary team shows you how to make incredible dishes to impress at your next dinner party. Some even include wine pairings and insider techniques. Vegan? Saucha Living offers private, semi-private, and group in-home classes on how to cook clean with vegan and organic foods. CAYMAN MOTOR MUSEUM Housing the private collection of businessman Andreas Ugland, the Cayman Motor Museum has 52 vintage and luxury cars, including a 1952 Jaguar XK120 and a 1905 Cadillac - the first car in the Cayman Islands. Amongst the collection is a display of Cayman license plates throughout the years and trophies won by the Ugland Offshore Powerboat Racing Team.
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NIM THINGS
SHOPPING LOCALLY CRAFTED AND DUTY-FREE
CAYMAN CRAFT MARKET
Exclusive Pink & Yellow Diamonds Collection
CERTIFIED DIAMONDS GIA EGL IGI
LARGE SELECTION OF LOOSE DIAMONDS & FINE JEWELRY WITH MOST REASONABLE PRICES IN THE CARIBBEAN
CAYMAN ISLANDS • Across Hardrock Cafe • Next to Cafe Del Sol • Cardinal Avenue • Morritts Resort, East End
DIAMONDS & FINE JEWELRY WITH
NEW YORK | CAYMAN ISLANDS
SHOPPING
DUTY-FREE SHOPPING, Cayman Style Saving on luxury goods can make a tropical holiday that much better. Duty-free shopping in Cayman can save shoppers up to 40% off the retail prices of luxury goods such as jewellery, watches, and perfumes when compared with pricing in the US and UK. Although a small island, many say that the jewellery and watch selection in Cayman is comparable with world-class shopping districts such as New York City with duty-free retailers stocking some of the best brands in the world, including many rare and limitededition pieces only to be found in Cayman.
WHAT CAN YOU BUY? Island retailers sell a wide variety of items, all with low duty-free pricing. Jewellery is a big attraction for shoppers, whether for special occasions or to take advantage of the low pricing, and you can find almost every brand on the island as well as custom made pieces. Indulge in the latest collections from Cartier, Marahlago, Mikimoto, Swarovski, Pandora and more. Watches are mementos that can last generations and you can select from great brands such as Ulysse Nardin, Patek Philippe, Movado, Rolex, Audemars Piguet and much more. Keep your eyes protected from the bright Caribbean sun with sunglasses from Ray Ban, Fossil, Maui Jim, Oakley, and more. Be sure to stock up on all your beauty products, lingerie and perfumes. From Victoria Secret to MAC and a number of
perfume stores featuring all the main brands you can even take home the scent of the island with Ted Green’s Banana Orchid, available at Kirk Freeport locations, Turtle Centre Gift Shop, Silhouette and The Ritz-Carlton.
WHERE TO SHOP? George Town is the main shopping area on the island with the cruise ships supplying a steady stream of customers throughout the weekdays. Interspersed among the office buildings and restaurants along the waterfront are great shopping centres such as Bayshore Mall and Island Plaza as well as many standalone stores like Rocky’s Diamond Gallery, Magnum Jewellers, Effy and Gems International. A short walk south from the Royal Watler Cruise Terminal down to Bayshore Mall via Fort Street and Cardinal Avenue should give you a sense of the variety of stores and products available. Many hotels and resorts have jewellery and clothing stores on property, including Kirk Freeport at both The Westin and The Ritz-Carlton, Island Jewellers at the Kimpton Seafire, and Red Sail Sports retail stores at The Marriott, Morritts Resort and The Westin. If you’re looking to get out and about, the stores at Governors Square sell everything from trendy clothing and accessories at Funky Monkey to one-of-akind jewellery at Balaclava. Camana Bay is chock full of duty-free products and local artisan crafts, including
clothing at Sand Angels and Silhouette, jewellery at Island Jewellers and a number of local artisan products at stores such as Books & Books, Bedside Manor and Celebrations. If you’re travelling further afield to Bodden Town don’t miss Beach Bubbles’ 100% Natural Cayman soaps, creams and lotions.
WHAT CAN YOU BRING BACK? US Citizens • Goods worth up to USD$800 • Up to 1 litre of alcohol • Up to 200 cigarettes and 100 cigars Canadian Citizens • Goods worth up to CAN$800 • Up to 1.5 litres of wine or 1.14 litres of alcoholic beverages or up to 8.5 litres of beer • Up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco and 200 tobacco sticks EU Citizens • Goods worth up to €430 • Up to 1 litre of alcohol of a strength exceeding 22% vol or 2 litres of alcohol of strength not exceeding 22% vol or 4 litres of still wine or 16 litres of beer • Up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 10 cigarillos or 250 grams of tobacco Please note these are only guidelines and subject to change, please check your respective government’s customs website for up-to-date restrictions. V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S
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#MadeinCayman Shopping The best mementos from traveling aren’t just souvenir t-shirts but items that truly reflect the destination and are made by the people who call the destination home. From Caymanite jewelry and artwork, to locally produced hot sauces, there’s a broad range of ‘Made in Cayman’ items you can take home as keepsakes while helping to support local artisans. WHERE TO SHOP
CAYMAN TURTLE CENTRE The Splash Gift Shop and Cayman Street at the Cayman Turtle Centre [949-3894] carry many locally made times, including handcrafted soaps, lionfish jewelry, silver thatch items, ceramics, and more. CAMANA BAY Every Wednesday, Camana Bay hosts the Farmers & Artisan Market, where you can buy everything from sea fan art to black coral jewelry, fresh produce, as well as specialty food items. If you’re not able to make the market, many shops at Camana Bay carry locally made products, including Bay Market, Bedside Manor, and Sand Angels. See www.camanabay.com for details.
CAMANA BAY FM Visit Cayman Ad Final_Ad 7/17/17 9:32 AM Page 1
THE MARKET AT THE CRICKET GROUNDS Open six days a week; The Market is a great place to buy locally harvested food, and specialty food items such as coconut oil and pepper jelly. Also available are local arts and crafts like jewelry, skincare, paintings, sculptures, and more. GEORGE TOWN CRAFT MARKET Located across from the waterfront, the George Town Craft Market is open weekdays and features locally made jewelry, food products, paintings, silver thatch, and more. CAYMAN NATURE STORE Shop local while helping the planet at the same time. The Cayman Nature Store is operated by the National Trust and features locally made eco-friendly products such as upcycled wood gifts and shopping bags, ceramics, organic candles, skincare, and much more. The store is open six days a week, and all proceeds go towards conservation efforts. PURE ART Pure Art is housed in a Caymanian cottage and filled to the rafters with locally made products, including jewelry, sculptures, paintings, prints, jewelry, food products, household items, silver thatch, soap and body lotions, and even Christmas ornaments. continued…
Cayman’s Hippest Apparel & Fun Wear Boutique From the beach to the street Funky Monkey has you covered from head to toe Phone: 345-943-8659 Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5:30 funkymonkeycayman.com Located at Governor’s Square
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SHOPPING
TORTUGA RUM
WYNDHAM REEF RESORT If you’re staying in East End or North Side, you can still shop local without the long trek to town. The Wyndham Reef Resort has a Sunday Morning Market in the parking lot with local vendors selling arts, crafts, fresh produce, jams, and more. If you’re visiting during a festival, you can enjoy the entertainment and pick up locally made souvenirs at the same time. Most festivals will have vendors selling their wares, from the broad range of coconut products at the CocoFest to delectable food products at the Agriculture Show. Also, many grocery, souvenir and liquor stores sell Made In Cayman products, including supermarkets, gift shops, and liquor stores. Kirk Market, just north of George Town, prides itself on its selection of artisan produce, both local and imported.
WHAT CAN I BUY?
Our islands have always been home to creative people, and many residents have home businesses creating everything from coconut flour to soaps, art and more. Below are just a sampling of the artisans and craftspeople on the island.
FOOD PRODUCTS
BACKYARD FARMER The Backyard Farmer is a family farm in Bodden Town where you can shop for locally grown produce and natural body products in their store. They even have a petting zoo for the kids. CAYMAN SEA SALT Cayman Sea Salt is a family business that hand produces 100% all natural sea salt using solar evaporation.
CAYMAN SEA SALT
PEPPER JELLY
In addition to gourmet sea salt, they also make BBQ rub and bath salts.
hand-crafted skin care products as well as jewelry, flour, and candles.
CAYMAN TREATS BY SHIRL’S Cayman Treats by Shirl’s are fresh, homemade jams, spreads, sweet treats, and sauces all made by Shirl using locally grown products.
ARTS, CRAFTS, AND JEWELLERY
HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES Using locally grown coconuts, Healthy Alternatives creates natural coconut products, including coconut oil, body scrubs, skin care, and treats. RUM CAKE No trip to the island is complete without rum cake, and Cayman is lucky to have two great rum cake bakeries, Tortuga and Blackbeard. Both are based in Cayman and offer a variety of flavors, including pineapple, coconut, and chocolate.
SKIN CARE
BEACH BUBBLES Using a variety of local natural products, Beach Bubbles [9265812] produce a wide range of artisan soaps, body butter, hair products, and even natural mosquito repellant. Located in Bodden Town they can custom make products just for you. Their beautiful products (right) are hand made on site using local ingredients.
There are a multitude of artists in Cayman who use a variety of mediums to express their creative visions. Using everything from the indigenous Caymanite to the traditional silver thatch, paint, and the coveted black coral, local artisans capture the culture and tropical feel in Cayman. While all the artists are too numerous to list, look around and see all the beautiful items you can take home, including: • Jewelry made with Caymanite, black coral, coconut, beads, conch shells, and so much more. • Sculptures made with Caymanite, black coral, repurposed wood, conch shells, and more. • Paintings, wall hangings, and prints using watercolors, repurposed wood, sea shells and coral, oil, and charcoals. • Silver Thatch hats, baskets, purses, placemats, and plaiting.
CAYMAN SCENTS Using locally sourced products, Cayman Scents makes bath and body products, including sugar scrubs, lotions, lip balms, body sprays, and more. They even make diffusers and candles. COUX COUX With locally grown coconuts, Coux Coux produces all natural, V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S
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CAMANA BAY FOUNTAINS
Camana Bay WHERE LIFE BLOSSOMS
CAMANA BAY HARBOUR
C A M A N A B AY
Camana Bay
A
WHERE LIFE BLOSSOMS
s one of Grand Cayman’s most diversely entertaining attractions, this family-friendly waterfront town and hot spot is a must-visit. Camana Bay dazzles all who drop by so be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to enjoy eating, drinking, shopping, playing and relaxing on a hammock. Only a short walk from Seven Mile Beach, this Caribbean gem is nestled among lush tropical landscaping and offers an idyllic respite from sizzling beach days. From a weekly Farmers & Artisans market to a popular live music series to mouth-watering farm-to-fork dining – it all happens here, day and night.
TASTY MOMENTS A true culinary scene, Camana Bay satisfies palates with global and local flavours and delightful menus that include Mediterranean, pan-Asian and Indian, Italian-American, appetizing fusion dishes and tantalizing
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indulgences. Sweet treats are on hand with authentic Italian gelato and freshly baked cakes and pastries at Gelato & Co [324-4359]. Healthy eating options are as abundant as the wine selections available at Cayman’s only self-serve tasting room with more than a dozen of wines on tap and dozens more on their Somm-approved list.
FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET Every Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., more than 30 of Cayman’s local farmers and artisans line The Paseo in Camana Bay to offer fresh produce and homemade edibles, crafts and keepsakes and fashionable trinkets. Pick up mementos to remember your vacation, from locally made soaps and ceramics to artwork and Caymanian thatch rope to coconut oil scrubs and the world’s best local pepper jelly. Stop by to learn about some of the local fruits and vegetables, continued…
C A M A N A B AY CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: THE CRESCENT; GREENS AT THE FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET; MATS & MIMOSAS YOGA; FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET; CAMANA BAY HARBOUR.
FUN FOR ALL AGES
Camana Bay has something for everyone. Here are some ways families can enjoy a break from the beach. • Babies can enjoy weekly Story Time at Regal Cinemas, with read-and-singalongs to weekly narrated stories on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. • Toddlers can be entertained by the team at Starfish Village during its daily Drop & Play sessions. • Kids aged 6-9 can beat the heat every day at The Crescent fountains or create foam sculptures at the Imagination Playground on Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. • Kids aged 10-13 can run, skip and play games such as catch and hide-and-seek throughout the Town, enjoy treats from Gelato & Co or Häagen-Dazs or catch a family flick. • Teens can catch the rays on one of many hammocks on Palm Island, while sipping a frappe from Café del Sol and flipping through a magazine from Books & Books. • Adults can enjoy a wine tasting at West Indies Wine Company before catching a film in Regal Cinemas’ new VIP theatre, with reserved seating, reclining leather armchairs and a fully licensed bar. • Families can boat out to Stingray City with Cayman Luxury Charters, or board one of Cayman Ferries’ several daily crossings to Kaibo and Rum Point for a day exploring the other side of the island. For all you need to know about Camana Bay including their 600+ annual events, visit camanabay.com and be sure to follow @CamanaBay on Twitter, @CamanaBay on Instagram and Camana Bay on Facebook.
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C A M A N A B AY
10 Facts to Celebrate 10 Years at Camana Bay
10 YEARS
since the first phase of Camana Bay opened, with a cinema, bookstore, its first office building and its first restaurant, Abacus
110,000 visitors who come to Camana Bay every month
650
250
plant species growing throughout the Town Center including 92 local varieties
acres that Camana Bay spans CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET; MATS & MIMOSAS YOGA; SANTA RUN.
360 degree
view of Grand Cayman from the top of the 75 foot Observation Tower
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people who work in Camana Bay
535,346 square feet of commercial space in Camana Bay
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boat slips in the Camana Bay Harbour, available for daily use
2,200 FEET
distance covered by the Camana Bay pedestrian footpath from the Town Centre to Seven Mile Beach events hosted at Camana Bay each year 1 16
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600
...continued and be sure to taste one you’ve never tried before!
THE FLAVOUR TOUR One of the most unique and progressive dining experiences is the popular Flavour Tour – a farm-to-table dine around prepared in the signature styles of four of Camana Bay’s restaurants. Take the tour any Wednesday night at 7 p.m. and please your taste buds with a different weekly menu using ingredients selected from that morning’s Farmers & Artisans Market. Chefs prepare delectable
small plates and pair them each with a unique craft cocktail or wine. Tickets must be purchased in advance online at camanabay.com/flavour-tour.
A PICTURE PERFECT SETTING Developed by Dart Real Estate – the same minds behind Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa and The Residences at Seafire – Camana Bay celebrated its 10th anniversary last year. Meticulously designed, this stunning town boasts remarkable features such as a 3,000-tile mosaic depicting an underwater scene, a
C A M A N A B AY 75-foot Observation Tower with panoramic views of Grand Cayman and several shady courtyards adorned with indigenous plants and flowering trees. Don’t miss Palm Island, a sandy isle featuring coconut trees planted with such precision that you can find a shady spot anytime from sunrise to sunset. The breezy design of the Town Centre makes it eminently walkable, and The Harbour offers passageway to Stingray City, Kaibo and Rum Point via luxury charter or a convenient and affordable water ferry.
WELLNESS ON TAP Staying fit while travelling has become a nonnegotiable for many and Camana Bay makes it easy for travellers with a CrossFit studio and Anytime Fitness gym – both offering global memberships – and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activity.
Try a run up the staircase of the 75foot Observation Tower, roll out a yoga mat on the many grassy lawns, or ride a bike through the town. When it comes to healthy bites, there are plenty of options with vegan and gluten-free choices on most restaurant menus and fresh smoothies readily available.
/ athleisure wear for the entire family. Silhouette [943-5223] is home to activewear, bridalwear and intimates from lines such as Betsey Johnson and Calvin Klein.
SHOPPING With over 35 locally owned shops and boutiques offering international brands including Lilly Pulitzer, POLO Ralph Lauren, Diane von Furstenberg and Stila, Camana Bay fulfils any shopping desires. Make sure to stop by Sand Angels [9457263] swimwear boutique for pieces by the world’s top designers in swimwear as well as creations by local designer Isy B, UV50+ sun protection apparel, beautiful resort wear and active
CAYMAN'S PREMIER INTIMATE APPAREL BOUTIQUE
MONDAY TO SATURDAY 10AM - 7PM
•
LOCATED IN CAMANA BAY
•
PH: 345-943-5223
//SILHOUETTECAYMAN
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Sand Angels • Camana Bay • Grand Cayman • Monday - Saturday 10am til Late • t. 345.945.SAND (7263) www.SandAngels.com
Visit our NEW stores: Little Angels and Activ Angels also located at Camana Bay
Sand Angels • Camana Bay • Grand Cayman • Monday - Saturday 10am til Late • t. 345.945.SAND (7263) www.SandAngels.com Visit our NEW stores: Little Angels and Activ Angels also located at Camana Bay
CAYMAN COOKOUT FESTIVAL 2017
DINING &
THE CARIBBEAN’S CULINARY CAPITAL
Nightlife
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
2016 Wine Spectator Awards: Best of Award of Excellence Ristorante Pappagallo, Grand Old House, Ragazzi, Agua Restaurant, Luca
Award of Excellence
Edoardo’s, The Brasserie, Beach House, Calypso Grill, Catch Restaurant
COCOLOBA AT KIMPTON SEAFIRE
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
CULINARY CAPITAL of the Caribbean GRAND OLD HOUSE
They say the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. While this might not be true for everyone, delicious food is always a welcome indulgence. The Cayman Islands are home to over 130 nationalities - a mosaic of cultures and culinary traditions on three small islands. Wherever you bring people together, food is sure to follow. And follow it did. Cayman is known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean with over 200 restaurants, multiple food festivals and more delectable creations than you can imagine. With delicious local food as well as international flavors, the hardest part will be trying to sample everything before you leave.
WESTIN BEACH HOUSE
CASANOVA’S BY THE SEA
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EAT LOCAL Cayman is traditionally a maritime nation and early settlers depended on the sea for their livelihood, everyday items and most importantly food. Many dishes from yesteryear - from turtle stew to heavy cake are still served today because the ingredients are at hand and the food is delicious. Most restaurants have some Caymanian flare on the menu, be it conch fritters or Cayman-style fish. But for a truly authentic experience ask the residents where they go out to eat local dishes. Popular places include: Vivine’s Kitchen (literally Vivine’s kitchen in her East End home, serving up conch, whelks and goat stew), Big Tree BBQ (family-owned restaurant serving BBQ ribs, jerk chicken and more), Gabriel’s Grill (food truck serving up cracked conch and all things jerk), and Grape Tree Café (beachside location serving up lots of fresh fish).
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
CULTURAL MOSAIC There are over 120 nationalities living on the islands and just as many flavors, no matter what cuisine you’re looking for there is something to satiate your palate. These are just a few of the flavors that can be found. The tastes of South East Asia can be found in restaurants such as Popo Jeb (Filipino), Bombay Chopsticks (Indian and Chinese) and Wok-n-Roll (pan-Asian). In the mood for Italian? Authentic Italian dishes can be found at Casanova’s, Eduardo’s, Ragazzi, Luca and many more. Finish the meal off with homemade gelato from Gelato & Co. Seafood dishes abound with the Caribbean Sea on our doorstep. You can find fresh fish and seafood prepared in a variety of ways at Catch, Seven, Guy Harvey’s among others. FROM CROCODILE FRITTERS TO OXTAIL PEROGIES Seeking a culinary creation out of the ordinary? Chefs are a creative bunch and when they’re exposed to an abundance of different culinary cultures as they are in Cayman amazing tastes are created. Fusion dishes such as Oxtail Ravioli (Catch), Conch & Crocodile Fritters (Tukka), Tandoori Caribbean Snapper (Beach House) and Oxtail Perogies (Deckers) are just a few of the great new flavors being served on the island.
Not interested in the typical dining experience? How about a Mad Hatter Tea Party at Anchor & Den? Or watching as chefs prepare your meal at the Chef ’s Counter in Avecita or the Teppanyaki Table at Mizu? Or even watching the sunset over the Caribbean while enjoying a 3-course meal on a Red Sail catamaran?
QUICKEST ROUTE Farm-to-Table and Sea-to-Table are more than just passing fads. Many chefs have embraced the movement as a means of supporting local farmers and fishermen, providing fresh and great tasting food and helping the planet at the same time. You’re sure to see a chef or two at any of the island’s farmer’s markets. In fact some establishments such as The Brasserie and Le Soleil d’Or have gone a step further and built their own farms to supply their restaurants with fresh local ingredients. VEGAN, VEGETARIAN AND GLUTEN-FREE Vacations to foreign lands can be a hardship for those with special diets, such as vegans, vegetarians and gluten-free. Thankfully there are plenty of options for the V, Veg and GF crowds such as Island Naturals (vegan/vegetarian/GF), Bread and Chocolate (vegan/GF), Vivo (vegan/vegetarian/GF) and Agua (vegan/vegetarian/GF).
CASANOVA’S BY THE SEA
GRAND CAYMAN’S FAVORITE ITALIAN TRATTORIA *
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AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE FRESH PASTA FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD PIZZA LI VE M USI C WI N E C ELLA R C HI LD R EN S M EN U C HEF ’S SP ECI A LS 65 NORTH CHURCH STREET GEORGE TOWN ON THE WATERFRONT WWW.CASANOVA.KY CASANOVA@CANDW.KY 345 -949-7633
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Cayman’s Finest
Waterfront Dining
World Class, Award Winning Chefs
dietary restriction menu options available
Close Proximity (10-15min) from All Major Hotels 5 Private Dining Rooms accomodating up to 80 people Full Time Event & Wedding Coordinator On-Site 5000 sq. ft. deck (400ppl) with 2000 sq. ft. tent (200ppl)
Extensive & Rare Wine Collection Armagnac & Cuban Cigar Roller on Site
Live Music & Happy Hour Nightly!
happy hour 5:30pm-7:30pm - cocktail & tapas specials
call us today 345 949 9333
info@grandoldhouse.com | www.grandoldhouse.com open lunch mon-fri 11:30am-2:30pm | dinner nightly 5:30pm-10pm daily specials, photos & more:
F grand.o.house
grandoldhouse_cayman
Cayman’s Finest
Waterfront Dining
World Class, Award Winning Chefs
dietary restriction menu options available
Immediate Proximity to All Major Hotels Indoor Dining Room up to 130 people, A/C, sound proofed Meeting Room state of the art equipped, up to 20 people Full Time Event & Wedding Coordinator Impressive Wine Collection Daily Tarpon Feed at 7pm & 9pm
345 949 2231 | info@wharf.ky | www.wharf.ky open for lunch 11:30am-4:30pm | closed for lunch on saturdays | dinner nightly 5:30pm-10pm daily specials, photos & more:
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thewharfrestaurantcaymanislands
thewharf_cayman
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
Restaurant Recommendations Here are our picks of some of the best places to eat in Cayman.
WEST BAY
CATCH RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Also overlooking Morgan’s Harbour, Catch Restaurant and Lounge [9494321] serves fresh, locally caught seafood fused with regional favourites as well as an a la carte Sunday brunch on their waterfront patio.
SEVEN MILE BEACH
AGUA RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Located in the heart of Seven Mile Beach, Agua Restaurant and Lounge [9492482] is inspired by the sea and serves a unique international menu drawn from the restaurant’s international team of staff as well as an extensive wine list. Vegan and gluten-free menus also offered. THE RITZ CARLTON With two fine dining restaurants, a sushi lounge and a bear bar on property, The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman [945-3800] offers something for everyone. Enquire about their culinary studio for the ultimate in
ONE VENUE CRUDO BAR
intimate and unique dining experiences.
THE WESTIN GRAND CAYMAN Located in the heart of Seven Mile Beach, The Westin Grand Cayman [945-3800] has four fantastic restaurants ranging from upscale to a toes-in-the-sand beach bar with live local entertainment. THE WHARF Located on the waterfront at the southernmost point of Seven Mile Beach, The Wharf [949-2231] offers waterfront dining, an award winning wine list, nightly Tarpon feeding at 7 & 9 pm and multiple night live entertainment.
GEORGE TOWN
CASANOVA’S BY THE SEA Overlooking the George Town waterfront, Casanova’s By The Sea [949-7633] serves authentic and delicious Italian cuisine along with fresh seafood and an extensive wine list, all with genuine Italian hospitality and a breathtaking view of the sea. Dine inside or out.
GRAND OLD HOUSE Originally built as the Petra Plantation House in South Sound in 1908, Grand Old House [949-9333] is one of the top fine dining restaurants on the island and is known for their spectacular oceanside location, award winning chefs, and incredible wine collection. GUY HARVEY’S ISLAND GRILL Overlooking George Town harbour, Guy Harvey’s Island Grill [946-9000] offers delightful seafood as well as French and West Indian cuisine while showcasing Guy Harvey’s renowned marine art; for something more casual visit their downstairs bar, Crudo for refreshments with a view and their cigar bar Stogies lets you kick back with a Cuban. For more information on the best places to eat in Cayman, pick up your free copy of the Cayman Dining Guide which features in-depth details, menu and wine highlights of the very best places to eat.
3 GREAT EXPERIENCES GUY HARVEY’S RESTAURANT
STOGIES CIGAR BAR
Beautiful Waterfront Dining • Selection of Fresh Seafood • West Indian and French Cuisine • Sushi, Sashimi, Nigiri • Award Winning Chefs Huge Collection of Caribbean Rum • Great Selection of Cuban Cigars • Happy Hour 5-7pm • Relaxing Atmosphere & Frendly Staff
George Town, Water Front, 55 South Church Street • 345-946-9000 • www.guyharveysgrill.com 126
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West Bay Road Tel: (345) 949-2482 www.agua.ky
LOOKING FOR THE ISLAND’S FRESHEST CATCH?
Morgan’s Harbour Tel: (345) 949 4321 www.catch.ky
CAYMAN COFFEE EX C H A N G E
DINING & NIGHTLIFE
CARIBBEAN
Beats Under the CAYMAN STARS MONDAY Beach Bar at The Wyndham Catboat Bar at The Westin Tortuga Beach Bar at The Westin TUESDAY Bar Jack at The Ritz-Carlton Beach Bar at The Wyndham Catboat Bar at The Westin Coccoloba at The Kimpton Grand Old House Kaibo Tortuga Beach Bar at The Westin WEDNESDAY Catboat Bar at The Westin Peppers Tortuga Beach Bar at The Westin Veranda Restaurant at The Marriott THURSDAY Anchor and Den at The Marriott Bar Jack at The Ritz-Carlton Camana Bay at The Crescent Catboat Bar at The Westin Coccoloba at The Kimpton Deckers Grand Old House Tides Restaurant at The Wyndham Tortuga Beach Bar at The Westin
TORTUGA BEACH GRILL & BAR
Stray away from the well-worn path and experience new sights and tastes. Cayman is known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean for a reason, away from the lights of Seven Mile Beach are a plethora of places that will excite your taste buds and let you experience all the flavours of Cayman.
FRIDAY Catboat Bar at The Westin Deckers Grand Old House Hemingway’s Peppers The Outpost at Pedro St. James Tortuga Beach Bar at The Westin Wharf XQS
CHESTER’S FISH FRY Caymanian and
Jamaican, Bodden Town
CHINA VILLAGE Cantonese and Szechuan,
FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH George Town Yacht Club SATURDAY Abacus Camana Bay at The Crescent Catboat Bar at The Westin Deckers Grand Old House Hemingway’s Peppers Royal Palms Silver Palm Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Tortuga Beach Bar at The Westin Vista Beach Bar at The Marriott Wharf
George Town
EASTERN STAR BAR & FISH FRY Fish Fry,
MANGO COCKTAILS
FULL MOON NIGHTS ONLY Catch *Please note that there is no live music on Sundays. All information included was correct at the time of writing.
OFF The Beaten Path
THE OUTPOST AT PEDRO ST. JAMES
East End
ITALIAN KITCHEN Italian, East End LIBERTY’S RESTAURANT Local Caribbean,
Rev. Blackman Road in West Bay MACABUCA Tiki Bar and Grill, West Bay OVER THE EDGE French-Inspired Caribbean and Seafood, Old Man Bay RANKINS JERK CENTRE Jerk and Caribbean, Shamrock Road outside Bodden Town SINGH’S ROTI SHOP Caribbean and Trinidadian, Shedden Road in George Town SWANKY STOP Smoothies and Fresh Local Produce, Food Truck by the Cricket Pitch in George Town THE THAI RESTAURANT Thai, George Town WEST BAY DINER Local Caribbean, West Bay V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S
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SUNSET YOGA
WEDDINGS & Wellness THE LATEST TRENDS
KIMPTON SEAFIRE WEDDING
WEDDINGS & WELLNESS
STINGRAY CITY WEDDING
WEDDING TRENDS
From Cayman to Thailand BY JOANNE BROWN, JVB DESIGN HOUSE & CELEBRATIONS LTD. AUTHOR OF CARIBBEAN WEDDING STYLE
on the waterfront
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WHERE TO SAY I DO One of the most prevalent of trends in Destination Weddings at the moment is the selection process of the destination itself. The millennial brides are looking to have their weddings somewhere they are either connected to personally or have always wanted to visit and are eager to grow a connection to. This results in brides selecting destinations which are less about the novelty perception of the destination and more about crafting a truly authentic experience around a country or region culturally unique in itself. We see this frequently in destinations such as Greece and Italy – the classically beautiful nations of
Europe. But we see it spill over now into countries you wouldn’t first guess to take a destination wedding to – such as Portugal, India, Brazil. This is the beauty of the millennial bride – taking a trend and making it their own. These brides want unique weddings, not the cookiecutter experience and certainly nothing their immediate peers have done. LOCAL TWIST: The Cayman Islands is in itself one of these unique destinations. While brides of the past might have flocked to Caribbean Islands such as Jamaica for a more cookie-cutter or all-inclusive wedding, we’re finding an increase in millennial brides arriving at
WEDDINGS & WELLNESS our shores to celebrate their special day on our beautiful islands in ways that are uniquely Caymanian. From the comfort of luxurious villa accommodations and five-star dining experiences to “Trash The Dress” sessions at Smith Cove, underwater weddings at Stingray City and romantically dramatic photo sessions at Cayman’s Crystal Caves.
INDOORS OR OUTDOORS? That being said, the follow up to this is the trend of breaking out of the ballrooms to make the most of your destination wedding. We’re seeing weddings spill out of ballrooms and onto the lawns of stunning estates, on a yacht or gorgeous villa overlooking the crystal-clear Cayman sea, the green fields of farm country, on skyrise rooftops above sparkling cityscapes, overlooking mountainous terrain or majestically undone on the desert sands of the Middle East. These experiences are gold to the millennial bride. For those brides preferring an indoor setting, the trends of breaking out of the norm are certainly not lost on them. We’re seeing an increase in brides experimenting with trends such as 3D Mapping or bringing the outdoors inside by converting ballrooms into the setting for a perfect forest fantasy – inserting life-size trees throughout the ballroom or even miniature ones as centrepieces. LOCAL TWIST: Cayman has something for everyone regarding finding the perfect wedding venue to suit your needs. The newest resort to open in the Cayman Islands, Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa, offers a modern twist on an island stay with a Presidential Suite that is simply to die for, while the newly renovated Westin Resort & Spa on Seven Mile Beach offers a relaxing beachfront option for a sunny I do. Grand Old House offers the charm of authentic Caribbean plantation life together with contemporary elegance while the Wharf offers a beachfront wedding location with waterfront deck and dining on site. There are also villas sprinkled throughout the islands
offering unforgettable and unique properties for weddings that are utterly luxurious and uniquely private.
ABOVE & BEYOND… Overhead décor is a unique way to make a strong statement and really get creative with your wedding aesthetic. With a growing trend in some couples asking for less on the table – for example, focusing on the romance of an array of ranging candle sizes perfectly set along the centre of a table - it’s no surprise that couples are making the most of their wedding spaces by looking up for inspiration. We’ve seen a desire for the glamour of additional chandeliers to an already sparkling space or beautifully crafted custom pieces of abundant floral or hanging greenery, leaving couples opting for less on the table, and looking up for inspiration. LOCAL TWIST: Using local greenery and incorporating lighting, consider a chandelier of greenery to provide a unique statement piece overhead as well as a romantic lighting option. The bride will be delighted, the guests wowed, and a touch of Cayman’s beauty can form the unique centerpiece to your wedding dinner.
THE GOLDEN TOUCH While we’ve seen gold make a comeback as the accenting metallic of choice, we’re seeing an increasing amount of weddings take advantage of metallic accents in the “family of gold” such as rose gold and copper tones. And for those brides who are still partial to silver, we’ve seen holographic textures make a splash in the wedding design scene. There’s something magical and quite unique about a sparkling silver with hints of pastel rainbow hues.
comeback in the wedding fashion world with bridal gowns in shades of silver/grey to dusty nudes and subtle pastels. • The overall look of destination weddings brought to the Caribbean are still popularly in the aesthetic of rustic/vintage but are beginning to incorporate more urban décor details such as Edison bulb lighting and geometric shapes. • Décor, centrepieces, and bouquets are incorporating more greenery, greenery, greenery! • Couples are now incorporating destination details in the food, such as miniature flags or cleverly named appetisers. Interactive food stations are also gaining popularity as ways to engage guests and have them talking about the experience for months! • There are many ways to make a photo wall uniquely yours. And while we’ve seen fun photo walls with props and witty signage, we also see walls on the opposite spectrum – elegant and luxurious by way of hundreds of flowers and an oversized monogram.
& waterfront venue
OTHER TRENDS ON THE RISE: • Brides are adding larger and more rustic floral accents to their centrepieces and bouquets – accents such as succulents or Protea flowers. • Bridal dresses with capes are becoming popular on the fashion scene and in bridal couture. Colour is also making a
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WEDDINGS & WELLNESS RITZ-CARLTON SEVEN MILE BEACH WEDDING CEREMONY
Top Tips for Your Destination Wedding in Cayman WRITTEN BY JOY BASDEO, MBE JP, SIMPLY WEDDINGS • DO get a Cayman Islands marriage officer who will take care of assessing your documentation and making sure you have everything needed to obtain your Special Marriage License so that you can be legally married. • DO make sure you check the papers you will be signing so that there are no mistakes. It’s both expensive and time consuming to correct mistakes once your marriage has been filed with the public records office (The General Registry). • DO make sure your wedding planner or marriage officer obtains your Registered Marriage Certificate once your marriage has taken place, and your register has been filed. You will need your RMC to change your name and for other legal matters when you return home. • DO ensure that you have whatever is needed for your marriage to be recognised once you return home. Some countries outside the USA, Canada, and the U.K. need an additional stamp called an Apostille. • DO make sure you understand the steps necessary if you plan to change your name. Getting married in another country is a process, which could be quite different from what you’re used to. Make sure you give yourself enough planning time, and that you have a marriage officer or wedding planner who is comfortable with answering your questions. • DON’T try and bring your own planner, or do everything yourself. There are many competent wedding planners in Cayman who will ensure your special day goes smoothly. • DON’T forget that wedding coordination is important. There should be someone who knows wedding protocol and wedding traditions which will add to your enjoyment of the day. • DON’T try and cut costs by cutting out the official photographer, you or your friends shouldn’t have to be worrying about getting good photos. • DON’T be late! Keeping everyone waiting, when it can be very hot in the sun, is tacky and bad manners. • DON’T forget to smile and have fun. You will be looking at your wedding photos for a very long time.
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WEDDINGS & WELLNESS IRONSHORE WEDDING
SUNSET BEACH WEDDING OVERHEAD CENTREPIECE UNDERWATER WEDDING
CAVE WEDDING
EVENING RECEPTION
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WEDDINGS & WELLNESS
WELLNESS & RETREATS in the Cayman Islands BY STELLERIE NOYONS, RD
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e’re in the golden age of healthy travel. Where once HIBISCUS SPA, WESTIN holidays were GRAND CAYMAN only planned with booze and buffets in mind, now there are a significant number of travellers you’re wrapped up in your robe and slippers, you will be who aim to maintain their healthy eating and exercise escorted to a relaxation lounge which offers healthy snacks routines while on vacation...…and it doesn’t end there. and infused water, while you wait for your pampering to In a time when constant connectivity can leave us begin. Whether your treatment involves a Swedish exhausted, mindfulness and emotional well-being have massage, a La Prairie Signature Facial, the perfect also become increasingly important when choosing a manicure or pedicure, or all of the above, you will find holiday destination. Welcome to the Cayman Islands! A utter indulgence and tranquillity. slice of paradise, which not only offers white sandy beaches and endless sunshine amidst crystal clear blue waters, but RESTORE - HIBISCUS SPA AT THE WESTIN GRAND an oasis for you to come back to yourself. An island where CAYMAN SEVEN MILE BEACH RESORT & SPA you will find something that speaks to your needs; be it From the moment you enter the Hibiscus Spa, you are adventure or rest, mindfulness or simply just being. It is surrounded by a team committed to seeing you leave in a the perfect backdrop for you to find restoration for your better state of both physical and mental wellness than body, mind and soul. when you arrived. This is not simply an in and out quick stop, but a spa that aims to provide you with a dreamRENEW - LA PRAIRIE SPA AT THE inspired experience. RITZ-CARLTON, GRAND CAYMAN Treatment options such as the Herbal Therapeutic Stepping into La Prairie Spa is like stepping into another Massage Ritual or the 7 Chakras Energy Balance Ritual, world; one, that is designed with only the purest use essential oils and herbs to help release stagnant energy ingredients in mind. It is otherworldly; a chance to escape and allow your body’s energy systems to flow. Once you reality and to begin a journey of renewal. Arrive a few have found your balance, you have the option of consulting hours before your treatment, and you will be ushered into with the spa’s personal wellness coach should you require a women’s or men’s sanctuary, where you may take time for any additional uplifting. Become one with nature as you yourself in either the steam room, sauna, or jacuzzi. Once realign your body and mind at the Hibiscus Spa.
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RETREAT - LUXE+WELL Need an escape? Struggling to find balance? Want to learn how to relax into what you want to achieve in life? Welcome to Luxe+Well; a luxury wellness retreat designed by real women, for real women. This 7-night retreat, which takes place in a luxury beachside villa on Grand Cayman, offers daily group workouts, paddle boarding, yoga classes, cooking classes, inspirational seminars, and one-on-one sessions with Nadine Dumas, international health and wellness expert. Not only does Luxe+Well introduce you to a holistic approach to health and wellness, but it also aims to take you on an island-wide adventure. Enjoy Caribbean food with a local food tour and even kiss a stingray on a trip to Stingray City! Above all else, Luxe+Well’s retreat is a safe space designed for you to build your confidence and fitness, learn new skills and make lifelong connections. Most importantly, it will leave you feeling strong enough to tackle any challenges that life may bring. RECONNECT - THRIVE FIT CAYMAN Located on a secluded white sand beach of Little Cayman, just a short flight from Grand Cayman, is an ideal location to reconnect with your true
essence and indulge in the luxury of simplicity. Thrive Fit Cayman offers a few whole-body health weekend getaways per year, all of them designed for you to refresh your body from the inside out. The weekend includes hands on vegan cooking classes, daily yoga practices, recipes and discussions for a whole food diet, natural body treatment workshops, as well as some adventure activities, such as snorkelling or diving thrown in. It doesn’t matter your age or where you’re coming from in the world, meeting like-minded people from across the globe is sometimes the best part of a journey; taking home friends for life.
REPLENISH – REVIV REVIV, Grand Cayman, a clinic which offers IV therapy and booster shots, is the first of its kind to arrive in the Caribbean. They offer five infusions, each one tailor-made to help you look and feel your best. For the athlete who needs to rehydrate and rebalance their body, or the hard-driving executive who is run down and jet lagged, to the woman who wants to stop time and look her best, REVIV’s signature IV infusions will help you achieve your goals. Bursting with vitamins, minerals and nutrients, they can help you replenish, rejuvenate, and REVIV.
FROM TOP: THE SPA AT SEAFIRE; LA PRARIE SPA RITZ-CARLTON; LUXE + WELL.
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WEDDINGS & WELLNESS BLISS LIVING + YOGA
Keeping Fit in Paradise BY OLIVIA SHANKS
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ith its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and flat landscape, Grand Cayman has the perfect environment for fitness pursuits. There are various activities to choose from, most of which are open to a range of ages and abilities, offering residents the chance to keep fit while socialising with other like-minded people in the local community.
EXERCISE CLASSES Residents who prefer working out in air-conditioned comfort keep fit at the many gyms or exercise classes offered on island. The latest addition to the Cayman fitness scene is F45 Training. There are CrossFit gyms, a spin studio, 24-hour gyms, and personal trainers. If you’re looking for a more tranquil workout, Bliss Yoga Studio offers classes seven days a week.
RUNNING, CYCLING, AND SWIMMING Running, cycling, and swimming are all extremely popular as individual activities and combined in the form of events such as triathlons. Almost every weekend will have 5K walk/run events as well as several notable running races throughout the year. Popular runs include the Cross-Island Relay, Off the Beaten Track (a 50km ultra-marathon) and the Cayman Islands Half-Marathon/ Marathon, which can also be run as a relay team. In the run up to June, there will be an increased number of swimmers in the ocean, all preparing for the legendary Flowers One Mile Sea Swim. The event attracts over one thousand swimmers, including Olympians who often come specifically for the event. Finally, the Cayman Islands Triathlon is held in November each year and offers a Sprint and Olympic event. Many residents sign up as the training is a great way to get in shape for the festive period.
TEAM SPORTS There are too many sports clubs and teams to list, but it’s fair to say that most residents are involved with at least one team. One of the most popular sports, and most accessible, is touch rugby. There are three leagues on the island, which cater for all ages and abilities, with matches held over the summer at the South Sound Rugby club. Another sport growing in popularity is Gaelic football. The games are held at Cayman International School field every other Sunday, and there’s often a waiting list for those wanting to play. Residents not looking to jump on board the next fitness trend stay fit through more leisurely pursuits such as beach walks or water-based activities like paddle boarding. As with the rest of the world, the Cayman Islands have become more focused on healthy living, and the fitness options available to residents continue to expand year after year.
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Relax & Rejuvenate For those of you who don’t have time for a lengthy retreat but still wish to devote an hour or two towards some personal indulgence, you are spoilt for choice in Grand Cayman. Here’s just a few of the leading pampering services on the island. MASSAGE
Harmony Aesthetics [929-8812] are Cayman’s ONLY Luxury Mobile Massage & Spa. Choose from a wide range of massages; Swedish, Aromatherapy, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone or a Couples massage. Relax and unwind in your hotel room, villa or location of your choice. Dedicated to providing you with an exceptional experience. VIP & Island wide services available. See www.harmonyaesthetics.net
FACIAL REJUVENATION
Aesthetics Cayman [943-7001], a trading name of the The Dental Centre, is located within a state-of-the-art dental clinic on the beautiful Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman. Their main procedures are anti-wrinkle injections (‘Botox’), dermal fillers and injectable facial rejuvenation treatments, all complemented by the very best skincare products. The Dental Centre also offers all areas of dentistry, including dental implants and orthodontics and caters to both emergency and walk-in patients. See www.thedentalcentrecayman.com
NAILS
Polished Nail Salon [949-6245] offers luxury nail services at affordable prices from their salon located on Seven Mile
Beach in Galleria Plaza. Offering manicures, pedicures, gel polish and acrylics. Four state of the art pedi chairs with massage and glass bowls. Open Tuesday to Friday 10-7, Saturdays 9-6, Sundays 10-5. Closed on Mondays. See www.polished.ky
HAIR
Located right next door to Polished in Galleria Plaza is The Salon [9434247]. Operating in Cayman for over 15 years, they offer everything you could possibly desire of a hair salon – highlights, colouring, cutting, styling, straightening and extensions, plus so much more. They are qualified specialists in Deva Curl and Brazilian Blow Out. See www.thesaloncayman.com
FOR HIM
Male grooming needs aren’t neglected in Cayman. Located in Galleria Plaza on Seven Mile Beach The Barbershop At Studio54 West [943-3722] is a full service, one-stop grooming shop. Whether it is a hot towel shave, new haircut or a deep clarifying black mask facial, all of your grooming needs are catered for. Let them make you feel great again! See www.facebook.com/
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KIMPTON SEAFIRE
REAL ESTATE & Finance OWN A PIECE OF PARADISE; CAYMAN AND THE INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY
R E A L EVISTA S T ADEL T EMAR, & SEVEN F I NMILE A NBEACH CE
R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E
Buying a Piece of Paradise WRITTEN BY HEIDI KISS, BROKER AT ENGEL & VÖLKERS
H
ow has Cayman changed over the years? Forty years ago, Seven Mile Beach was just as pretty and perfect as it is today, flights to and from Miami were US$59 and there were so many mosquitoes you couldn’t make it through a sunset without a rash of bites. You could explore the island on a rental bicycle for a dollar a day and stay in a beachfront room at the Coral Caymanian for a mere $10 a night. Fast forward to 2017, the cost of living has increased, but we’re happy the mosquitoes are under control and that we still have our pristine beaches and amazing coral reefs. Seven Mile Beach is now world-famous and has seen an increase in development including fantastic condo developments such as The Watercolours and Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa, ranging from three to ten storeys high. The real secret of the island is that there isn’t too much of any one thing. Grand Cayman is a small island with an even smaller buying pool, so properties tend to sit on the market longer than in big cities like Toronto or New York City. With only 60,000 full-time residents on the island, Cayman real estate is like the country’s historical namesake: the turtle - slow, steady and dependable. continued…
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FROM TOP: TAMARIND BAY; SOUTH SOUND.
345.946.2987 www.AzureRealtyCayman.com
MLS 406832-406835
For the ultimate in isalnd living, become a part of Rum Point Club Residences. Offering 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroom villas starting at US$1,130,000. For additional info please contact, Jan Tomkins - Broker: 345.926.2626 • cibroker@candw.ky CIREBA Member
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A boutique company specializing in high-end luxury real estate with a concierge real estate service TELEPHONE: (345) 946-2987 | WWW.AZUREREALTYCAYMAN.COM CIREBA Member
R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E MARGARITAVILLE
SEVEN MILE BEACH
...continued There are several important reasons why our real estate market is a gem:
1. We are a tax neutral jurisdiction, which means there is no Income, Property, Capital Gains or Inheritance Tax in Cayman. 2. There is a one-time stamp duty of 7.5 percent of the purchase price when you buy property on Grand Cayman or Little Cayman. On Cayman Brac, there is a stamp duty waiver until the end of 2020 as long as you build within two years. 3. In addition to being one the safest countries in the Western Hemisphere, the Cayman Islands enjoy a very high level of political, economic and judicial stability while also maintaining a high degree of autonomy. 4. Clean water is provided by the process of reverse osmosis, so the tap water is safe to drink. 5. The Cayman Government guarantees title of ownership and encourages foreign investment. House prices are rising; there are several new developments on both Cayman Brac
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and Grand Cayman, including new luxury resorts, and there is a sense of increased investor confidence. In early 2017 property values increased along Seven Mile Beach at a few properties that were previously undervalued. Locals and visitors to the island appreciated that and were able to purchase a piece of paradise on Seven Mile Beach. The overall market appears to be improving at a consistent, steady rate as there is something for everyone’s budget. The range of options available on all three islands is broad, from a small rental condo that earns a steady 6-8 percent ROI, to undeveloped land, to a vacation home for occasional use that can be rented out for short term holiday lets.
THE CURRENT MARKET AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS There are a few new developments in the works, and we’re excited to see how they will advance. Recently there has been an increase in the popularity of canal-front homes as they’re more affordable than ocean properties but still offer buyers outstanding views
and waterfront locations. Dart Real Estate continues to develop the ever-expanding Camana Bay and are revamping the former Hyatt Resort and Grand Cayman Beach Suites properties on Seven Mile Beach. The Residences at Seafire include everything from studios up to four-bedroom condos, with prices between US$725,000 and US$7,000,000. In the spring of 2017, a new project was announced and scheduled to be built next to The Wharf Restaurant. It will be a five-star luxury resort brand with four restaurants, a rooftop bar and grill, four pools and a fitness and spa facility. Residences are for sale, with onebedroom suites starting at US$545,000 and three-bedroom penthouses starting at US$4,995,000. Also expected in 2018 is The Grove, a vibrant, mixed-use development with restaurants, retail and one-bedroom and studio apartments, with prices expected to start at US$350,000.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT Both residents and visitors alike are looking forward to the completion of the Owen Roberts International Airport expansion in 2018. The infrastructure development doesn’t stop there as we are enjoying major improvements to the road as well. There is the construction of the two new underpasses on West Bay Road and the Esterley Tibbetts Highway as well as the expansion of the Esterley Tibbetts Highway to a four-lane highway from Camana Bay to the airport. Both are vital projects aimed at relieving traffic congestion for those travelling between George Town and West Bay.
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R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E
Quick Guide to Buying Real Estate in the Cayman Islands
OCEAN BREEZE
BY JAN TOMKINS, AZURE REALTY CAYMAN
B
uying real estate in the Cayman Islands is not just a dream or lifestyle purchase but a smart and sound real estate investment. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of property, which coupled with the absence of taxes (no annual property, school, or capital gains taxes) makes investing in real estate very attractive for overseas investors.
A QUICK GUIDE: • Choose a reputable, trustworthy, and well-educated real estate broker/agent that is a member of the Cayman Islands Real Estate Broker’s Association (CIREBA) to assist you in finding the perfect property. • Determine your budget and if you’ll need a pre-approval for a local mortgage. In the Cayman Islands mortgage rates and terms vary from bank to bank, and it’s recommended to meet with a loan officer to obtain some level of pre-approval for a local mortgage. If you’re purchasing a property as a resident of another country, it is possible to obtain a local mortgage, but a larger deposit is usually required, between 25-40%. Interest rates offered by local banks are between 1-3% plus prime. • Total costs for your purchase can vary, but a realistic estimate
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is 9-12% of the purchase price for closing costs depending on the property and area. Additional fees may include a property valuation by a Cayman Islands professional valuer, which start at US$480. Life insurance may be required for your loan and start at US$180. Legal fees for the mortgage and closing costs are generally 1% of your loan origination amount. • Stamp Duty is a one-time fee to the Cayman Islands Government on the real estate value of the purchase price (not including chattels/furniture), it’s currently 7.5% and the largest expense at closing. If you require a mortgage for your real estate purchase, there will be an additional duty of 1-1.5% of the monies advanced. • Once your realtor has assisted you in finding your dream property, their expertise becomes invaluable to you as you move into writing up your offer and the contract negotiations. • Once the contract is non-conditional, you’re ready for closing. While some purchasers prefer to be on the island for closing, others choose a law firm for legal representation. In a straight forward transaction, your real estate broker can assist you. • Congratulations on the purchase of your new Cayman property, now you can relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the island.
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COMMONWEALTH
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CASTAWAYS COVE
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345.623.1234 Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands PO Box 30567 Grand Cayman KY1-1203, Cayman Islands | info.cayman@sothebysrealty.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Member of CIREBA
SEVEN MILE BEACH RETAIL AND RESIDENTIAL FOR SALE CALL : 1-345-924.4800 EMAIL: SALES@CARIBBEANPC.COM WWW.THEGROVE.KY
R E A L E S TAT E & F I N A N C E
New State of International Finance WRITTEN BY PAUL BYLES RESILIENCE IS THE KEY “Brexit and a new US President may pose implications for financial centres like Cayman, but our resilience and stability bode well for the future.” writes Paul Byles. The newly elected president of the United States has been in office for almost a year now. The UK referendum result to exit from the EU has been formalised, and a process is now underway to finalise negotiations. Both political developments have implications for the Cayman Islands. THE IMPACT OF U.S. POLITICAL CHANGES For many years the Cayman Islands economy has continued its successful growth irrespective of the political climate in the United States. This success occurs despite political campaign rhetoric within the USA aimed at labelling jurisdictions such as the Cayman Islands as tax havens. In the past, there was a subtle distinction that Republicans favoured the corporate sector more and were likely to look more favourably on offshore financial centres like Cayman. But in recent years there seems to be less of a policy difference between the two main US political parties regarding the perception and treatment of jurisdictions like the Cayman Islands. Donald Trump’s election was a surprise to many, but to date, he hasn’t done anything that could be perceived as being harmful to International Financial Centres (IFCs). As long as the Cayman Islands continue to offer first class financial services and maintain a regulatory framework that adheres to global standards, we can expect more of the same which is impressive economic growth. Also, the Cayman Islands have helped to make international firms in the US more
CAMANA BAY
competitive, leading to more jobs in the US economy. Much of the investment that occurs via Cayman Islands-based vehicles gets invested directly back into the USA and other OECD-based economies. This is known by both the corporate and political community in the US, and therefore it’s unlikely that there will be any deliberate material changes within the US that negatively impacts the Cayman Islands financial services industry in short to medium term.
BREXIT The impending divorce between the UK and the EU brings a lot of uncertainty. But that doesn’t mean countries and service providers cannot assess the potential impact and make contingency plans. Where IFCs such as the Cayman Islands are concerned, Brexit’s potential impact focuses mostly on the services sectors and primarily the financial services industry. Whereas discussions on tariffs can affect the trade of goods, this isn’t relevant to financial services. Instead, the impact of Brexit on financial services will occur
primarily via the EU’s regulatory climate. Put simply; the EU will only allow other countries to sell services to their markets (i.e. gain access to EU clients) if the delivery of those services is regulated to EU standards. Generally speaking, when a jurisdiction meets these equivalency rules and is permitted to continue to access the EU market, this is known as ‘passporting’. The Cayman Islands have been working on securing this equivalency status for some time as a direct result of an earlier initiative referred to as the AIFMD, but this process is not yet completed. In the meantime, the potential impact of Brexit on Cayman-based financial services firms will depend broadly on several factors, namely: presence, partnerships, their percentage of EU clients, and their operational performance. Presence in the EU – Where a Cayman Islands financial service provider (bank, law firm, fund administrator, etc.) has a subsidiary or affiliate office based in the EU (for example Ireland or Luxembourg),
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BUSINESS CALENDAR NOVEMBER 2017 November 28 – 30 Insurance Managers Association of Cayman Captive Forum
FEBRUARY 2018 February 1 Cayman Economic Outlook Annual Conference
KIMPTON SEAFIRE BOARDROOM
that firm will be able to restructure its business to ensure continued access via their physical presence in the EU. Companies with a more global presence will make the transition more easily. Partnerships in the EU – Whether the Cayman-based firm has potential partners it can work with to help maintain delivery of services to the EU market is another key factor. Companies without a strong history of EU relationships will need to start cultivating some now. Percentage of EU Clients – Caymanbased firms with minimal exposure to EU customers will have less to be concerned about. But those with at least 10% EU clients will need to start putting contingency plans in place. This percentage may not tell the full story as it’s possible to derive a disproportionate percentage of revenue from a relatively small client base. A final area where Brexit potentially impacts Cayman-based firms is operational performance. Setting up new offices in the EU is one of the possible options for a company, and they will be considering the financial implications of that move as part of their contingency planning. If financial performance
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after the move looks bleak, then firms will likely decide to withdraw from the market entirely (cull those clients from their portfolio). But if setting up a new EU-based office and dealing with ongoing costs is worth it, the firm may expand over the medium to long term. Firms that invested in a global presence are more likely to withstand Brexit than those that have not. There are many truly globalised financial services companies operating from the Cayman Islands that may find themselves on the right side of the UK’s divorce from the EU. The Cayman Islands have done a good job of being resilient to external changes primarily because the jurisdiction has maintained its leadership position in adhering to international standards of regulation and cross-border cooperation. Over the past fifteen years or so the Cayman Islands has made significant changes to its regulatory framework. Despite those changes, the financial services sector continues to grow. The Cayman Islands are now the number one domicile for hedge funds, the top healthcare captive insurance jurisdiction, one of the world’s most highly regarded international banking centres, and a leader in structured financing. Now that’s resilient.
February 8 - 9 Cayman Alternative Investment Summit
APRIL 2018
April 22 - 25 Global Alternative
Investment Management Ops Cayman
OCTOBER 2018
October (date tbc) Annual Anti-Money Laundering / Compliance and Financial Crime Conference October 5 Mourant Ozannes’s International Trusts & Private Client Conference October 11 Chartered Financial Analysts’ Society Investment Forum
U S E F U L I N F O R M AT I O N
Useful Information ATTIRE Smart casual clothing is accepted at most, if not all establishments. Light jackets or cardigans may be required on cooler evenings. Swimwear should be worn only on the beach, at the hotel pool, or at beach bars. Public nudity, including topless sunbathing, is forbidden. BANKS Banking hours are commonly 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, with some branches also open Saturday mornings. ATMs are available throughout the islands with some giving out US dollars in addition to CI dollars. CURRENCY The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands Dollar (CI$). The exchange rate is fixed to the U.S. dollar: CI$1 is US$1.25 or US$1 is CI$0.80. U.S. currency is widely accepted, as are all major credit cards (which are charged in U.S. dollars). Your change will almost always be given in CI Dollars, even when paying in U.S. Dollars.
CUSTOMS All visitors should declare all gifts, foods, liquor, tobacco products, and any other items in their possession, besides their ordinary personal articles of apparel/adornment, and other personal effects/toiletries that are reasonable for the length of their intended visit to the Cayman Islands. Visit www.customs.gov.ky for more information. EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES United Kingdom Office located at the Governor’s Office Fifth Floor, Government Administration Building 133 Elgin Avenue, George Town Emergency contact number: (345) 9254307; Email: staffof@candw.ky Canadian Consulate Landmark Square #64 Earth Close, West Bay Road George Town, Cayman Islands Telephone: (345) 949-9400; Email: cdncon.cayman@candw.ky
US Consular Agency 202B Smith Road Centre 150 Smith Road George Town, Cayman Islands Telephone: (345) 945-8173; Email: CaymanACS@state.gov Spanish Consulate 49 Mary Street George Town, Cayman Islands Telephone: (345) 949-2400; (345) 5255603; Email: spainconsulate@candw.ky Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany 10 Waterloo Road Kingston 10 Jamaica W.I. Telephone: +1 (876) 631-7935-6 or +1 (876) 926-6728-9 After hours, on weekends and public holidays, German nationals can reach a duty officer in the case of a genuine emergency by phone under +1 (876) 819-4351; Email: info@kingston.diplo.de
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U S E F U L I N F O R M AT I O N EMERGENCIES In the case of an emergency, dial 911 for fire, police, or ambulance services. Most mobile phones will allow you to dial the number even when the phone is locked, not authorized on the mobile network, or out of credit. You can also contact emergency services through the universal 112 emergency number. GOVERNMENT The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory with a Queen-appointed Governor, Her Excellency the Governor Helen Kilpatrick. There is also a Legislative Assembly which is headed by a democratically elected Premier. GRATUITIES Tipping is anticipated at bars, restaurants, and service providers in the Cayman Islands, with most adding a 15-20% service charge to the bill automatically while leaving a space for an additional gratuity at your discretion. Most invoices or receipts will show the cost in both CI and U.S. dollars.
LANGUAGE The official language of the Cayman Islands is English, and because we are a British Overseas Territory, most spellings and pronunciations default to British English. POPULATION The population of the Cayman Islands is 60,413 (2015), with 58,217 people living on Grand Cayman and 2,196 people living on the Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. POST OFFICE There are 15 post offices located throughout the Cayman Islands – nine on Grand Cayman, five on Cayman Brac, and one on Little Cayman. Most post offices on Grand Cayman are open from 8:30am to 5pm Mondays to Fridays, with some opening 9am to 12:30pm on Saturdays. Most post offices on the Sister Islands are open from 9am to 3:30pm Mondays to Fridays, and 9am to 11:30am on Saturdays. For more information, please visit www.caymanpost.gov.ky
2018 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS (PROVISIONAL) JANUARY 1: New Year’s Day JANUARY 22: National Heroes Day FEBRUARY 14: Ash Wednesday MARCH 30: Good Friday APRIL 2: Easter Monday MAY 21: Discovery Day JUNE 11: Queen’s Birthday (Reason for date change to be noted and deleted afterwards: This holiday has to be confirmed, but it is usually the Monday after the second Saturday in June; not just chosen as the 3rd Monday in June.) JULY 2: Constitution Day NOVEMBER 12: Remembrance Day DECEMBER 25: Christmas Day DECEMBER 26: Boxing Day RELIGION Christianity is the most practiced religion in the country, with Anglican, Baptist, Catholic, and Protestant faiths among the most dominant. Because of the importance of religion in Cayman culture, many businesses and other local services are closed on Sundays. There are numerous churches and houses of worship on all three islands. TELEPHONE SERVICES Directory Inquiries: 411 Dialing Codes: Cayman Islands phone numbers are 7 digits and do not require you to dial the 345-area code first if using a local phone. To dial North America, Canada or Caribbean: 1 + area code + 7-digit number. To dial other countries: 011 + country code + telephone number
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Go for everything under the sun.
TIME ZONE The Cayman Islands are on Eastern Standard Time and remain at -5 UTC. The country does not adjust for daylight savings time, and from March to November are one hour behind east coast cities such as Miami, New York, and Toronto. TRANSPORTATION Public bus routes run from George Town to the areas of West Bay/ Seven Mile Beach, Prospect, Savannah, Bodden Town, East End, and North Side with fares
U S E F U L I N F O R M AT I O N circles), please refer to the traffic safety section on www.caymanroads.com. A visitor’s driving license is mandatory and can be obtained from any car rental agency or at the Department of Vehicle and Drivers Licensing on presentation of a valid driver’s license from your place of residence. Please use the designated crosswalks when crossing the road. Remember to look to your right, wait for the traffic lights and signals to change, and for cars to come to a stop before crossing.
starting at CI$2.00. Please note that Cayman buses are minivans rather than the full-size buses used in other countries. Taxis are widely available on the three islands, including at Owen Roberts International Airport, all resorts, and grocery stores. Fares are set at government fixed rates and vary depending on destination. Car rental companies serving the Cayman Islands include Andy’s, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. In addition to motor vehicles, you can also rent scooters, bicycles, or boats to explore all that the islands have to offer.
UTILITIES Cayman uses the standard voltage of 120V. The power sockets used are of the type A/B typically found in the US and Canada. Adapters and converters are widely available. The water in Cayman is safe to drink. However, bottled water is available for purchase throughout the islands. WEATHER The average temperatures in the winter range between 72-86 degrees Fahrenheit and between 80-90 degrees in the summer. Humidity levels tend to stay constant through the year, with the highest levels experienced during the summer rainy season.
KEY MARINE CONSERVATION LAWS • No litter or effluent of any kind may be dumped into Cayman waters. • No marine life of any kind may be taken while scuba diving. • No coral or sponges may be taken from anywhere in Cayman waters. • The use of spear guns without a license is prohibited; licenses are granted only to Caymanians, and no one may import spear guns and/or parts thereof into the Cayman Islands. • Wearing gloves while diving or snorkeling in Cayman waters is prohibited. • The export of more than three conch shells and/or any black coral requires a CITES permit, issued by the Department of Environment.
SAFETY
ROAD SAFETY Vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road, and the law requires you to wear a seatbelt at all times. Speed limits are in miles per hour and rigorously enforced. Cell phone use while driving is prohibited unless using a handsfree device. There is a new 25mph speed limit on West Bay Road/Seven Mile Beach. Speed limits vary with the maximum speed limit on Grand Cayman of 50mph and 25mph on Little Cayman. For those unfamiliar with roundabouts (or traffic
MARINE SAFETY AND REGULATIONS The weather changes quickly in our region; check the weather and sea conditions frequently on both the internet (www.weather.gov.ky or Windguru app) and the radio (107.9 MHz). If you need a more detailed weather briefing, you can call the CI National Weather Service meteorologists at +1 (345) 945-5773. SWIMMING AREAS Shore-based swimmers must stay within two hundred yards of the shore. They may go beyond that limit only during daylight hours and if they display a white float or divers down flag. Always exercise caution when outside the designated swim areas, and be aware of nearby boats. Swimming in navigational channels is prohibited, and a float or divers down flag is highly recommended for swimmers in areas of heavy boat traffic. Beach front properties may designate swim areas within 200 yards of the shore, marking them with white buoys bearing an orange diamond and the words “Swim Area.” No vessel may enter any such marked swim area unless engaged in rescue operations or an emergency, and unless the Master is satisfied that there is no danger to any swimmer. Riders on Jet-skis/wave runners and sailboats are required to wear a life vest. Keep up to date on marine rules and regulations in Cayman by visiting the Department of the Environment website at www.doe.ky where you can download the Cayman DOE Marine App (Android) or the SIREN Cayman app (iOS) for up to date information on marine laws and maps of the protected areas.
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C I TA D I R E C TO RY ACCOMMODATIONS Aqua Bay Club 345-945-4728 www.aquabayclub.com Beachcomber Condominiums 345-943-6500 www.beachcomber1.com Caribbean Club 345-623-4500 www.caribclub.com Casa Caribe Condominiums 345-945-4287 www.casacaribecayman.com Cayman Club 345-945-5258 www.thecaymanclub.com Cayman Condos 800-999-1338 www.cicondos.com Cayman Villas 345-945-4144 www.caymanvillas.com Christopher Columbus 345-945-4354 www.christophercolumbuscondos.com Colonial Club 345-945-4660 www.thecolonialclub.com Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort 345-949-0088 www.marriottgrandcayman.com Grand Cayman Villas and Condos 345-946-9524 www.grandcaymanvillas.net Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa 345-746-0000 www.seafireresortandspa.com Lacovia Condos 345-949-7599 www.lacovia.com Luxury Cayman Villas 844-Go-Cayman www.luxurycaymanvillas.com Margaritaville Beach Resort 345-640-6400 www.margaritavilleresort grandcayman.com Pirates Point Resort 345-948-1010 www.piratespointresort.com Plantana Condos 345-945-4430 www.plantanacayman.com Seven Mile Beach Resort & Club 345-949-0332 www.7mile.ky Silver Sands Condominiums 345-949-3343 www.silversandscayman.com Southern Cross Club 345-948-1099 www.southerncrossclub.com
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Sunset House 345-949-7111 www.sunsethouse.com
Blackbeard’s 345-945-2222 www.blackbeards.ky
Creativent 345-916-1474 www.creativentcayman.com
Sunshine Suites Resort 345-949-3000 www.sunshinesuites.com
Brasserie Purveyors 345-945-1815 www.brasseriecayman.com
Tamarind Bay Condominiums 345-949-4593 www.tamarindbaygrandcayman.com
C.L. Flowers & Sons 345-949-5299 www.flowersblock.ky
Dart Enterprises/ Camana Bay 345-640-3500 www.camanabay.com or www.deccolimited.com/dartenterprises/
The Anchorage Condominiums 345-945-4088 www.theanchoragecayman.com
Cay Direct 345-324-1300 www.caydirect.com
The Grandview Condos 345-945-4511 www.grandviewcondos.com The Heritage Club 345-945-4993 www.heritageclubcayman.com The Meridian 345-945-4002 www.meridian.ky The Renaissance 345-949-8246 www.caymanrenaissancevillas.com The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com/grandcayman The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa 345-945-3800 www.westingrandcayman.com The Wyndham Reef Resort 345-640-3100 www.wyndhamcayman.com Turtle Nest Inn 345-947-8665 www.turtlenestinn.net Villas of the Galleon 345-945-4433 www.villasofthegalleon.com ALLIED Accounting Concepts 345-946-1264 acl@caymannetwork.ky Acorn Publishing 345-946-3200 www.acorn.ky Active Capital 345-640-3600 Adorable Super Sitters & More 345-546-9378 www.adorablesupersitters andmoreltd.ky Atlantis Adventures Cayman (Atlantis Submarines) 345-949-7700 www.caymanislandssubmarines.com
CayFilm 888-610-5526 www.cayfilm.com Cayman Distributors Ltd. 345-640-5200 www.caymandistributors.com Cayman Enterprise City 345-945-3722 www.caymanenterprisecity.com Cayman Freight Shipping/Seaboard 345-949-4977 www.seaboardmarine.com Cayman Islands National Museum 345-949-8368 www.museum.ky Cayman Islands Red Cross 345-949-9309 www.redcross.org.ky Cayman Islands Sotheby’s International Realty 345-623-1234 www.sircaymanislands.com/eng Cayman Islands Triathlon Association 345-526-7000 www.triathlon.ky Cayman National Bank 345-949-4655 www.caymannational.com Cayman National Cultural Foundation 345-949-5477 www.artscayman.org
Divers Alert Network Inc. (DAN) 919-684-2948 www.diversalertnetwork.org Engel & Völkers 345-623-1400 www.cayman.evfinehomes.com
Big Daddy’s 345-945-2222 www.bigdaddys.ky
Craft Market 345-949-6999 www.tab.ky
Savage Consulting 345-326-3333 www.savage.consulting
Simply Computers 345-916-1238 www.simplycomputers.ky
Guy Harvey’s Gallery and Shoppe 345-947-8488 www.guyharvey.com/ caymanislands/
Sister Islands Tourism Association 345-916-4874 www.sita.ky
Health City Cayman Islands 345-525-2039 www.healthcitycaymanislands.com Island Companies Ltd. 345-640-5200 www.islandcompaniesltd.com Jacques Scott Group 345-949-7600 www.jacquesscott.com KPMG 345-949-4800 www.kpmg.ky Ktone 345-945-8663 www.ktone.ky La Mer Spa 345-949-2892 www.lamercayman.com
Massive Equipment Rental & Sales 345-949-7990 www.massivegroup.com
Best of Cayman 345-926-1979
RE/MAX Cayman Islands 345-949-9742 www.remax.ky
Foster’s Food Fair 345-943-8659 www.fosters-iga.com
Cayman Turtle Cente 345-949-3894 www.turtle.ky
Central Caribbean Marine Institue (CCMI) 345-948-1094 www.reefresearch.org
Puritan Cleaners 345-949-7104 www.puritan.ky
Silver Rain Spa 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ caribbean/grand-cayman/spa
Logic 345-745-5555 www.logic.ky
Celebrations 345-623-2044 www.celebrationsltd.com
Pinnacle Media Group 345-949-5111 www.pinnaclemedialtd.com
FitnessPLUS 345-916-1457 www.fitnesspluscayman.com
Cayman Spirits Company 345-546-6663 www.caymanspirits.com
Consolidated Water Co. Ltd. 345-945-4277 www.cwco.com
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Diamonds International 345-916-2394 www.diamondsinternational.com/
NSN (Cayman) Ltd. 345-949-7282 PO Box 133 www.northsouthnet.com
STR Global 615-824-8664 The Caymanian Land & Sea Cooperative Society Ltd. 345-946-8889 www.caymanlandandsea.com The Wick Candles & Scents 345-928-4800 www.thewickcandles.yolasite.com Tower Marketing 345-623-6700 www.tower.com.ky Underwater Supply 345-949-4812 www.underwatersupply.net West Indies Wine Company 345-525-9492 www.wiwc.ky Wineschool 3 345-938-0458 www.wineschool3.com/ Yello 345-943-4891 www.findyello.com/ ATTRACTIONS
Meals on Wheels 345-925-0230 www.mealsonwheels.com
Dolphin Cove 345-946-3396 www.dolphincove.ky
National Trust of the Cayman Islands 345-749-1121 www.iamcayman.com
Dolphin Discovery 866-393-5158 www.dolphindiscovery.com/ grand-cayman/
Netclues 345-925-2222 www.netclues.com
Hell 345-949-6999 www.tab.ky/hell.html
North Sound Golf Club 345-947-4653 www.northsoundclub.com
Pedro St. James 345-949-6999 www.pedrostjames.ky
C I TA D I R E C TO RY Pirates Week Festival 345-949-5078 www.piratesweekfestival.com/
Gino’s Pizzeria 345-943-3663 www.ginos.ky
The Brasserie 345-945-1815 www.brasseriecayman.com
Queen Elizabeth Botanic Park II 345-949-6999 www.botanic-park.ky/
Grand Old House 345-949-9333 www.grandoldhouse.com
RESTAURANTS
Guy Harvey’s Island Grill 345-946-9000 www.guyharveysgrill.com
The Wharf Restaurant and Bar 345-949-2231 www.wharf.ky
Agua Restaurant & Lounge 345-949-2482 www.agua.ky Al La Kebab (Gyro Hut LTD) 345-943-4343 www.kebab.ky Anchor & Den 345-949-0088 www.marriottgrandcayman.com Andiamo 345-943-9000 Ave Restaurant 345-746-4111 www.averestaurant.com Beach House 345-945-3800 www.westingrandcayman.com/ dining/ Blue by Eric Ripert 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ caribbean/grand-cayman/dining/blue Burger King 345-945-5304 www.burgerking.ky Burger Shack 345-949-2867 www.burgershack.ky Canton Restaurant 345-945-3536 Casanova’s By the Sea 345-949-7633 www.casanova.ky Chicken! Chicken! 345-945-2290 www.chicken2.com Cimboco 345-947-2782 www.cimboco.com Cracked Conch 345-945-5217 www.crackedconch.com.ky Deckers 345-945-6600 www.deckers.ky Duke’s Seafood & Rib Shack 345-640-0000 www.dukescayman.com
Cayman Aggressor IV (Ocean’s International) 345-949-5551 www.aggressor.com/cayman Cayman Diving Ltd. 345-916-4731 www.caymandiving.com
Vivo 345-749-8486 www.vivo.ky/
Cayman Eco Divers 345-938-4904 www.caymanecodivers.com
Hungry Horse Restaurant 345-949-8056 www.hungryhorsecayman.com
Wok N Roll 345-949-0168 www.woknroll.ky
Icoa Fine Foods 345-945-1915 www.icoa.ky
TRANSPORTATION
Cayman Islands Boat Rentals/Moore Marine Services 345-949-6672 www.caymanislandsboatrentals.com
American Airlines 345-949-0666 www.aa.com
Cayman Luxury Charters Ltd. 345-938-2525 www.caymanluxurycharters.com
Andy’s Rent A Car 345-949-8111 www.andys.ky
Cayman Turtle Divers 345-938-0184 www.caymanturtledivers.com
Island Naturals 345-926-9462 www.islandnaturalscafe.com Island Taste 345-949-1480 www.islandtastecayman.com KAROO 345-946-6633 www.deckers.ky Lobster Pot Restaurant 345-949-2736 www.lobsterpot.ky LUCA 345-623-4550 www.luca.ky Pirates Point Restaurant 345-948-1010 www.piratespointresort.com Rackam’s Waterfront 345-945-3860 www.rackams.com Ragazzi 345-945-3484 www.ragazzi.ky Ristorante Pappagallo 345-949-1119 www.pappagallo.ky Rum Point Restaurant 345-947-9412 www.rumpointclub.com Schooner’s Bar & Grill 345-916-4513 Seaharvest Restaurant 345-945-1383 www.sunsethouse.com/resort/ seaharvest-and-my-bar.htm Seven Prime Cuts & Sunsets 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ caribbean/grand-cayman/dining
Ferdinand’s 345-945-3800 www.westingrandcayman.com/ dining
Taikun 345-943-9000 www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ caribbean/grand-cayman/dining/ taikun
Full of Beans 345-943-2326 www.fullofbeans.ky
Thai Orchid 345-949-9755 www.thaiorchid.ky
Apex Car Rentals 345-949-4808 www.apexcayman.com Budget Rent A Car 345-949-5605 www.budgetcayman.com Caribbean Marine Services 345-945-9193 Cayman Airways 345-949-2311 www.caymanairways.com CICO / Avis Rent A Car 345-949-2468 www.aviscayman.com Island Air Ltd. 345-949-0241 www.islandair.ky Majestic Tours 345-945-1433 www.majestictours.ky Webster’s Tours 345-916-2057 www.websters.ky/tours.html WATERSPORTS Ambassador Divers 345-949-4530 www.ambassadordivers.com Avalon Marine 345-945-5103 www.yachtworld.com/avalon Brac Scuba Shack 345-948-8472 www.bracscubashack.com Capt. Marvin’s Watersports Ltd. 345-945-6975 www.captainmarvins.com Cathy Church’s Underwater Photo Centre 345-949-7415 www.cathychurch.com
Cayman University Divers 345-327-1238 www.caymanuniversitydivers.com
Indigo Divers 345-525-3932 www.indigodivers.com Living the Dream Divers 345-526-3483 www.livingthedreamdivers.com Lobster Pot Dive Center 345-946-8685 www.lobsterpotdivecenter.com Moby Dick Tours 345-927-9928 www.mobydicktours.com Neptune’s Divers 345-945-3990 www.neptunesdivers.com Ocean Frontiers Ltd. 345-947-0000 www.oceanfrontiers.com Off the Wall Divers 345-916-0303 www.offthewalldiverscayman.com Pirate Divers 345-324-3271 www.piratediversgrandcayman.com
Charter Cayman 345-923-4266 www.chartercayman.com
Red Sail Sports Ltd. 345-623-5965 www.redsailcayman.com
Deep Blue Divers 945-916-1293 www.deepbluediverscayman.com
Reef Divers Ltd. 345-946-5656 www.cobaltcoast.com
Divers Down 345-945-1611 www.diversdown.net
Resort Sports (Beach Club) 345-516-8401 www.resortsportscayman.com
Divers Supply (Cayman) Ltd. 345-949-7621 www.diverssupply.ky
Robert Soto Watersports 345-925-0230
Divers World 345-949-8128 www.diversworldcayman.com
Salt Watersports Cayman Ltd. 345-329-5555 www.saltwatersportscayman.com
Divetech Ltd. 345-946-5658 www.divetech.com
Seasports Diving 345-916-3261 www.seasportsdiving.com
DNS Diving 345-916-2490 www.dnsdiving.com
Seven Mile Watersports Ltd. 345-949-0332 www.7milediver.com
Don Foster’s Dive Cayman 345-949-5679 www.donfosters.com Eden Rock Diving Centre 345-949-7243 www.edenrockdive.com
Six Senses Cayman Adventures Ltd. 345-938-3303 www.sixsensescaymanadventures.com Sunset Divers 345-946-6789 www.sunsethouse.com
Epic Divers 345-323-3742 www.epicdivers.com
Tortuga Divers Ltd 345-947-2097 www.tortugadivers.com
Go Pro Diving 345-925-9092 www.goprocayman.com
Wall to Wall Diving 345-916-6408 www.walltowalldiving.com
Indepth Watersports 345-926-8604 www.indepthwatersports.com
White Sand Watersports 345-938-7263 www.whitesandwatersports.com V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S
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INDE X OF ADVERTISERS ACCOMMODATION CAYMAN VILLAS, p50 Cayman Villas, established in 1970, family owned and located on island, is the Cayman Islands’ premier vacation rental agency that specializes in private beachfront villas and condominiums. Ranging from budget friendly beach cottages to luxurious seven-bedroom villas. We have something to suit every travelers need. Visit us at: www.caymanvillas.com THE RITZ-CARLTON, GRAND CAYMAN, Inside Back Cover The Ritz-Carlton offers the ultimate collection of luxurious experiences. From the finest dining to an enchanting local art walk; from world-renowned la prairie Spa to the enticing call of Seven Mile Beach, guests can enjoy eco-adventures, luxury shopping and activities for all ages in this flagship resort of the Caribbean. VILLAS OF THE GALLEON, p50 Villas of the Galleon boasts luxurious Caribbean-style condominiums that are centrally located on world-famous Seven Mile Beach. They are in an enviable location, and offer a perfect setting for your Cayman holiday vacation, wedding, or honeymoon. Their selection of one, two and three bedroom villas are all fully equipped and each has its own private balcony or patio. ACTIVITIES (LAND) CAMANA BAY, p7 Located just steps from Grand Cayman’s world-famous Seven Mile Beach, the lively town of Camana Bay is a mustsee destination for visitors. At the heart of Camana Bay is a bustling Town Centre with world-class shopping and dining, family-friendly entertainment, local experiences, regular events, unique attractions and lush outdoor spaces, located on the harbour where boats come and go to the North Sound, visiting Stingray City, Rum Point and more. CAYMAN ISLANDS BREWERY TOUR, p93 Cayman has its own national brewery which produces several different beers. Visit the Cayman Islands Brewery and take a tour to taste all the beers fresh from the source, and buy gifts and beer from the retail store. Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and tours are offered Monday through Friday CAYMAN TURTLE CENTRE, p89 At the Cayman Turtle Centre you can swim with turtles in a lagoon full of colorful marine life. Come nose to nose with sharks and other predators of the sea. Explore a free light zone filled with local and exotic birds, or plunge down the Turtle Twister Waterslide. MAJESTIC TOURS, p54, p93 Majestic Tours is the premier transportation and tour company in Grand Cayman. All their employees are uniformed, professionally trained and attend certification courses so that they are tourism ambassadors ready to assist you. Together they insure that Majestic Tours offers the premier transportation service in Grand Cayman. Whatever direction you are heading..... Majestic Tours knows the way. NORTH SOUND GOLF CLUB, p94 North Sound Golf Club is the only 18-hole championship golf course in the Cayman Islands. A par 71, 6605-yard course offering a real challenge, perennial postcard views and sun-drenched greens, the North Sound
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Golf Club is ideal whether you are a novice or advanced. Amenities range from practice ground to quality club rentals to a fully stocked Pro Shop. PAMPERED PONIES, p93 Established in 1996, Pampered Ponies have gorgeous well trained horses. They are the originator of the Deep Water Swim in Grand Cayman! Find them on TripAdvisor, where they are an Award of Excellence winner! 355 Conch Point Road in West Bay. ACTIVITIES (WATER) ALLURA, p80 Take a stable, safe sailing excursion on the Allura catamaran and experience the beauty of Grand Cayman’s crystal-clear waters. Whether you choose to see the friendly stingrays at the sandbar or watch the Caribbean sun set below the horizon, Allura has a sailing excursion to fit your needs. ATLANTIS SUBMARINES, p9 With Atlantis Submarines, you don’t have to be a scuba diver to experience the underwater world. They offer unique options up to 100 feet under the sea. Get a captivating experience of a real submarine dive, in air-conditioned comfort, while discovering coral canyons and tropical fish day or night. BLUE WATER EXCURSIONS, p82 Your vacation time is precious, so don’t waste it. Make a day on the water with Blue Water Excursions the highlight of your trip. For half day or full day private charters for deep sea fishing, light tackle fishing, snorkeling and Stingray City, call Blue Water Excursions at 925-8738. DOLPHIN DISCOVERY, p83 Swimming with Dolphins is on almost everyone’s bucket list. At Grand Cayman, visitors get the chance to fulfill their dream in state of the art dolphinariums. Either at Dolphin Discovery or at Dolphin Cove, guests will have an up close experience with the most fascinating marine mammals in our planet. FIVE STAR CHARTERS, p85 Experience Grand Cayman your way with an exclusive private boat charter on a luxurious Sea Ray Sundancer 48’ yacht. All you need is your bathing suit — they’ve got everything else covered. Contact them to create your perfect Five Star day. GEORGE’S WATERSPORTS, p50, 82 Swim with millions of bright sparkles as you snorkel in glowing water at night in Cayman’s most exciting bioluminescence boat and snorkel tour. Also venture to Stingray City, Barrier Reef, Starfish Point, Rum Point and the mangroves in an exciting 5-stop eco tour which takes 12 people max. Free transport RED SAIL SPORTS, p84 Red Sail Sports is the only premier operations delivering full-service dive and watersports services island-wide. Dive Grand Cayman’s walls, the Kittiwake wreck or Stingray City. Sail on their 65’ catamarans to the Stingray Sandbar or the Kittiwake and snorkel Cayman’s beautiful reefs. Rent kayaks, paddleboards, Wave Runners or take a thrilling banana boat ride. RUM POINT CLUB, p84 Rum Point is famed for its soft white sand and clear shallow waters; a perfect destination for families. Daily trips to the Stingray Sandbar and watersports are provided by Red Sail Sports. Visit the home of the mudslide at the Wreck Bar & Grill. At night, Caribbean inspired cuisine and fine wine await at Rum Point Club Restaurant.
BUSINESS & FINANCE CONSOLIDATED WATER COMPANY LTD, p160 Consolidated Water Co. Ltd. designs, builds, operates and in some cases finances seawater reverse osmosis desalination plants and water distribution systems in several Caribbean countries, where the supply of drinking water is scarce and the use of SWRO is economically feasible. Rest assured you can safely drink the water in Cayman.
LITTLE CAYMAN CENTRAL CARIBBEAN MARINE INSTITUTE, p28 CCMI has celebrated 12 amazing years on Little Cayman and has established itself as the premier Marine Research Institute in the region. Focusing on research, education and conservation CCMI has developed the first coral nursery in the Cayman Islands and continues to study and eradicate invasive Lionfish.
LEGAL CHAMBERS CAYMAN LTD, p152 Boutique style law firm providing legal services for local and international markets in a variety of matters like voluntary liquidations, trademark and patents registration, aircraft & vessel registration services as well as advising on local practices including trade and business license applications & renewals, real estate, will & probate matters, family law and company formations and continuations.
PIRATES POINT RESORT, p32 Escape to the friendliest resort in Little Cayman. Enjoy unlimited bottom time, an open bar for divers, three gourmet meals daily, and a vacation focused on relaxation, the best diving in the world, personal service, and great camaraderie. Your island home away from home!
CAYMAN BRAC ROCK IGUANA, p40 Explore the bluff from a new perspective. Rock climbers from around the world have been coming to climb the bluff for years, and now there’s a local company with experienced instructors for visitors wishing to learn how to rock climb in a safe and fun environment or experienced climbers wanting to tackle the Brac. There are 90 trails up the bluff that give you the opportunity to explore the Brac – a secret gem with breath-taking limestone cliffs towering above cobalt Caribbean waters - in a new way. Rock Iguana [936-BRAC] offer rock climbing, rappelling, hiking and caving, only a quick hop away from Grand Cayman. All ages (8+), fitness and experience levels welcome. CLIMB ON! DIVING CAYMAN DIVING, p73 Whether you’re an advanced diver or looking to get certified, you can’t beat the experience of Cayman Diving, a PADI 5-Star Rated Diving School. Book your ultimate Cayman Diving experience with them today. Dive into “Big Adventures and Small Groups”. DIVERS DOWN, p71 Since 1996 Divers Down has offered personalized daily boat dives to the amazing walls, reefs and wrecks (including the Kittiwake) of Cayman as well as Stingray City adventures and night dives. Their full service PADI training department can teach Discover Scuba all the way up to Divemaster in a friendly, professional environment. Customized private charters available at competitive rates.
SOUTHERN CROSS CLUB, p34-35 The casually-sophisticated Southern Cross Club Fish, Dive and Kite Resort is Little Cayman’s original resort. It features 14 beachfront bungalows with a top-rated diving, fishing and kiting operation. A unique blend of rusticity and elegance, the resort is often described as “Barefoot Luxury”. Guests can expect friendly, diligent service, delicious food and inviting rooms with breath-taking views. SCOOTEN SCOOTERS, p33 Touring Little Cayman by scooter will be the highlight of your trip if you rent from Scooten! Scooters! Top quality Yamaha scooters will be delivered right to your door and collected whenever you’re finished. A free tank of fuel is also included. Scooten! Scooters! is your hassle-free rental company. HEALTH & WELLNESS AESTHETICS CAYMAN, p139 Located within a state-of-the-art dental clinic on the beautiful Seven Mile Beach, is The Dental Centre. Their main procedures are anti-wrinkle injections (‘Botox’), dermal fillers and injectable facial rejuvenation treatments, all complemented by the very best skincare products. The Dental Centre also offers all areas of dentistry, including dental implants and orthodontics and caters to both emergency and walk-in patients. HARMONY AESTHETICS, p139 Cayman’s ONLY Luxury Mobile Massage & Spa. Choose from a wide range of massages; Swedish, Aromatherapy, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone, Couples massage. Relax and unwind in your hotel room, villa or location of your choice. Dedicated to providing you with an exceptional experience. VIP services. Island wide services.
DON FOSTERS DIVE CAYMAN, p74 At Casuarina Point, on the waterfront in George Town. Daily 1 & 2 tank dives, shore diving, night dives, Stingray City trips, Kittiwake dive and snorkel trips, Resort Courses, PADI certifications, state of the art boats, on-site training pool, friendly knowledgeable staff, and a full souvenir and gift shop. Excellent dive package rates.
POLISHED NAIL SALON & GIFT BOUTIQUE, p139 Polished offers luxury nail services at affordable prices from their salon located on Seven Mile Beach in Galleria Plaza. Offering manicures, pedicures, gel polish and acrylics. Four state of the art Pedicure chairs with massage and glass bowls. Open Tuesday to Friday 10-7, Saturdays 9-6, Sundays 10-5. Closed on Mondays.
THE LOBSTER POT DIVE CENTER, p72 The 5 Star PADI Dive Center provides exceptional dive training for beginners to Divemasters. Situated on the waterfront in George Town, it offers boat trips with small groups for a personalized experience. It also boasts a stunning reef, perfect for shore diving and snorkeling, as well as full equipment rental, night diving, and a gift shop.
STUDIO 54 WEST, p139 Studio 54 West is a chic modern space where you will find only the best in natural haircare products with highly qualified professionals. They offer a full range of cutting edge salon and barber services including hair colouring & lengthening, make-overs, manicures, pedicures and gentlemen’s shaves. Discover the beauty within.
INDE X OF ADVERTISERS THE SALON, p139 The team of professionals at The Salon Cayman offer a full transformation with vibrant colours, natural curls and hair extensions. Your new look can be complemented by make-up artists fully equipped with air brushing technology or pure natural make up. A nail technician is on hand to complete the package with gel, acrylic or enhanced natural nails. REAL ESTATE AZURE REALTY LIMITED, p144-145 Azure Realty Limited, located in Galleria Plaza on Seven Mile Beach, brings new ideas to the real estate market in the Cayman Islands. A boutique agency with a local focus, Azure will also help manage your worldwide expectations. Their Agents always strive to provide outstanding customer service with the utmost discretion. ENGEL & VÖLKERS CAYMAN ISLANDS, p143 In September 2016 Capital Realty joined forces with the leading international real estate company Engel & Völkers, whose world-wide network and premium listings, combined with Capital Realty’s highly competent Cayman team, make a dynamic partnership of local market knowledge, customer service and innovation. Engel & Völkers Cayman Islands is a proud member of CIREBA and the MLS. PROVENANCE PROPERTIES, p147 The Residences at Seafire, a 62-unit, 10-storey seaside development, share a 12-acre site including blissfully open grounds, cascading pools and a boundless beach with the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa. Offering one to five-bedrooms, The Residences at Seafire boast spacious floor plans and picturesque views of both the North Sound and Seven Mile Beach. www.provenanceproperties.com CAYMAN ISLANDS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY, p149 Cayman Islands Sotheby’s International Realty and its sales staff are committed to delivering an unrivalled level of quality service and the finest presentation of property at all price points, for sale in the Cayman Islands. Fantastic global and local marketing plans. THE GROVE, p150 Opening Spring 2019, The Grove will be the newest mixed-use community on Seven Mile Beach. Shop and dine in a beautifully landscaped 1.5-acre courtyard with fountains and shaded seating. Own a one-bedroom residence and enjoy additional amenities such as private rooftop pools with wet bar and BBQing facilities, key-card entry, and underground parking. RESTAURANTS AGUA, p127 Agua, open 7 days a week, is a flavor mecca in Cayman. Whether you dine at Agua for lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch, you will find a variety of food like none other. Enjoy seating inside or out while trying their delectable menu or sipping on their custom cocktails. CASANOVA’S BY THE SEA, p123 Indulge your senses at Grand Cayman’s favorite Italian Trattoria, featuring the finest in Italian cuisine and fresh seafood creations. Casanova’s welcomes groups of all sizes and is family-friendly with a team that caters to your heart’s desire! Enjoy the
stunning vista of the Caribbean Sea, right on the water, or in air-conditioned comfort. CATCH, p127 With inviting sea views and tables under the stars, Catch is a fantastic spot to enjoy the wonders of the island and daily fresh catch brought in right from their pier. Catch has a wide range of choices on their menu, innovative cocktails and a wine list that is not to be missed! GELATO & CO, p117 Gelato & Co., located in Camana Bay and Cardinall Ave, produce Gelato (Italian ice cream) daily in house with only the freshest ingredients (no preservatives or artificial flavorings). They also serve sorbets, created with local fruits, which are entirely fat and dairy free and other delicious, non-frozen treats. Open 7 days a week up to 11 pm. GRAND OLD HOUSE, p124-125, 132 Grand Old House, a legend of the island established in 1908, retains the charm of the past yet caters to the present and future. With a panoramic waterfront seaside terrace, colonial style indoor dining, five private rooms, award winning wine list, Cuban cigar collection and live music, it is a must for romantic dinners, spectacular weddings and business events. GUY HARVEY’S ISLAND GRILL, p126 Guy Harvey’s Island Grill features a selection of popular West Indies and French entrees served in a comfortable setting overlooking George Town’s picturesque harbour. The decor is accented by an exclusive collection of artwork from renowned marine wildlife artist Guy Harvey. The atmosphere is as spectacular as the cuisine. THE WHARF, p124-125, 133 It is not surprising that with its gorgeous ocean setting, timeless charm, impeccable service, buzzed and heartfelt nightly entertainment, The Wharf has found its place on top of the must to do list when visiting Grand Cayman. For lunch, a happy hour drink or a memorable sunset dinner – the food will always be top notch and prepared with daily catches and local ingredients!
array of loose stones, designer brands, and one of-a-kind settings. Lauded for their excellent customer service and expertise, the friendly sales staff will help you select that perfect piece of jewelry to bring home from the Caribbean. EFFY JEWELLERS, p19 Inspired by trends from around the globe, Effy designs bold, stylish fine jewelry collections for anyone in search of a unique look for that memorable gift or keepsake. Effy, for over 30 years has built a loyal clientele and a strong reputation. Each stunning piece of our jewelry comes with a limited lifetime guarantee. FUNKY MONKEY, p107 Visit Cayman’s hippest apparel & fun wear boutique for all of your Sporty, Yogy, Beachy & Party inspired needs! Providing trendy fashion selections for the whole family, Funky Monkey Lifestyle Wear features favorite brands from Australia, France, Spain and the United States. From the beach to the street Funky Monkey has you covered from head to toe. GEMS INTERNATIONAL, p103 Now with three locations in George Town, Gems International is one of the fastest growing jewelry brands in the Caribbean. Their success is built on delivering quality items to their customers at exceptional prices. Visit their loose diamond center in which you can select the perfect diamond and create your own fully customized engagement ring. GUY HARVEY GALLERY & SHOPPE, p102 The Guy Harvey Gallery and Shoppe is a 4,000 sq ft located in the heart of Georgetown. Here you will find the largest collection of Guy Harvey merchandise. Choose from Original art, reproductions as well as apparel for the whole family, accessories and unique souvenirs.
SHOPPING BALACLAVA JEWELLERS, p104 Many of their precious jewellery pieces are rarely found elsewhere in the world. The workshop is where the magical artistry truly happens – innovative creations, top quality design and materials, and superb craftsmanship. Magnificent diamonds, breathtaking coloured gemstones or mysterious South Sea pearls combined with precious gold or platinum- the rarest of all. You will find them at Balaclava Jewellers.
KIRK FREEPORT, Inside Front Cover, p1, 2-3, p13, Back Cover Kirk Freeport has been a premier retailer of duty-free jewellery, watches, fragrances, leather, crystal and china, and accessories in the Cayman Islands since 1972. The Kirkconnell family has owned the company for six generations, and now have 22 locations, where they stock the widest range of dutyfree products in the Caribbean and are recognised as a world-class marketplace. Kirk Freeport is the official Rolex retailer of the Cayman Islands and carries a wide range of the world’s most sought-after watch and jewellery brands, including Breitling, TAG Heuer, Cartier, Omega, Patek Philippe, Panerai, David Yurman, Marco Bicego, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, and much more. For store locations, visit www.kirkfreeport.com
BEACH BUBBLES, p109 Using only natural ingredients, all Soaps and Lotions are made locally on island in Grand Cayman! With a 5 star rating on trip advisor, you will “LOVE” the Beach Bubbles products. Main shop: Boddentown on the way out to Rum Point. Products also available at: Turtle Centre, Margaritaville Resort 7 mile beach, Shellections & Carry Advent Fashions on the waterfront
KIRK MARKET, p111 Kirk Market offers a wide selection of international, gourmet, organic, natural, gluten-free and special dietary foods in addition to conventional name brand grocery items. Kirk Market features one of the island’s freshest salad bars and a hot bar that serves local and international dishes. Kirk Pharmacy is also located within Kirk Market.
DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL, p14 The premier jewelry retailer in the Caribbean, Diamonds International, has been offering top-notch diamond jewelry for over a quarter century with an extensive
ISLAND JEWELLERS, p4-5, p110 Island Jewellers (est 1978) is the place to find everything, from the simple to the spectacular. With brands ranging from Pandora, Alex and Ani and Swarovski
to Hearts On Fire, Hermes and Ulysse Nardin, there is something for everyone. With locations in George Town, Camana Bay, Kimpton Seafire and the airport they make it easy find the perfect gift. MAGNUM JEWELLERS p11 Magnum Jewelers in the Cayman Islands is home to exquisite diamonds, pearls, precious and semi precious stones of the finest quality and style. With the most popular brands available, like Roger Dubuis, JLC, Audemars Piguet, Mont Blanc, Hublot and Bell & Ross, Magnum serves a clientele who appreciates good taste, great design and impeccable service. For an unmatched customer service experience, with an elegant and fashionable selection, visit Magnum Jewelers. PENHA, p108 In the centre of George Town, find their three stores carrying luxury brands such as Estee Lauder, Clinique, M.A.C Boutique, Smashbox, Lancome, Biotherm, Victoria’s Secret and major fragrances like Chanel, Tom Ford, Hermes, Dior, Gucci, Boss, Versace, Michael Kors, Boucheron, Bulgari, Givenchy, Issey Miyake, Narciso & many more. ROCKY’S DIAMOND GALLERY, p106 Rocky’s specializes in creating jewelry that speaks for itself. Honesty backed with customer service is their greatest virtue. A family owned jewelry store with years of experience in custom jewelry, Rocky’s Diamonds is ranked the #1 Jewelry store in Cayman for their quality and customer service on TripAdvisor. SAND ANGELS, p118-119 Sand Angels is your passport to style with this season’s hottest new arrivals from around the world in swimwear, resort wear and accessories to suit all body types; with bra-sized, body control, one piece and bikini separates - from beach chic to super yacht glamour. SILHOUETTE, p117 Silhouette is Cayman’s premier intimate apparel boutique offering the finest selection of brands and sizes for both women and men. Their professionally trained bra fitters are sure to find the perfect fitting undergarments to boost your self-esteem and enhance your Silhouette! TRANSPORTATION BUDGET RENT A CAR, p158 It would be a shame not to see the many attractions Grand Cayman has to offer and Budget Rent-A-Car has one of the newest fleets available and the lowest prices. Whether you are looking for a low-priced economy car, a sporty SUV or a large 9-seater van, Budget has your requirements covered. WEDDINGS REBECCA DAVIDSON PHOTOGRAPHY, p134 Cayman’s wedding story teller, Rebecca is known for her fun and candid ‘lifestyle’ images, whether at your wedding, family shoot, surprise engagement or just hanging with your kids. Helping you plan your session from location suggestions, outfits to wear or just having a laugh to capture that real natural look for your family to treasure forever. V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S
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HISTO RY
KEY DATES IN HISTORY 1503
Christopher Columbus first sights the Cayman Islands on May 10
1586
Sir Francis Drake’s fleet of 23 ships spent 2 days on Grand Cayman and reported seeing “great serpents called Caimanas, like large lizards, which are edible.”
1658
First known settlers arrive in Little Cayman and Cayman Brac
1670
Spain cedes the islands to the English under the Treaty of Madrid
1790
Fort George constructed in present-day George Town location
1794
Wreck of the Ten Sail occurs off East End
1802
Population of the three islands is 933 people
1831
Decision to form an elected assembly taken at Pedro Castle, followed by the first democratic election
1863
The Cayman Islands become a dependency of Jamaica and are administrated by an appointed commissioner
YES! You can drink the water!
1937
First cruise ship, The Atlantis, visits Grand Cayman, starting the tourism industry on the islands
1959
Cayman receives its first written constitution, which grants women the right to vote
1962
Cayman separates from Jamaica after Jamaica’s independence and becomes a British Overseas Territory
1994
HM Queen Elizabeth II visits Grand Cayman to open the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Park
2015
The population of the Cayman Islands reaches 60,413
160
V I S I T C AY M A N I S L A N D S
Located throughout the Caribbean and in Indonesia, Consolidated Water ensures that everyone can enjoy pure, clear water directly from the tap. Our state-of-the-art desalination plants produce the high quality water that you drink.
That’s our business; that’s our commitment. On Grand Cayman we supply most of the hotels and condominiums as well, so both residents and visitors can have a drink on us. But please use this precious resource wisely and conserve when you can. You can join in our vision and our success by asking your financial advisor about ‘CWCO’ shares.
w w w.c wco.com Traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market as “CWCO”
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