The Cayman Islands were colonized from Jamaica by the British during the 18th and 19th centuries Administered by Jamaica from 1863, they remained a British dependency after 1962 when the former became independent
In addition to banking the islands have no direct taxation, making them a popular incorporation site, tourism is a mainstay, aimed at the luxury market and catering mainly to visitors from North America Total tourist arrivals exceeded 219 million in 2006, although the vast majority of visitors arrive for single day cruise ship visits 193 million About 90% of the islands' food and consumer goods must be imported The Caymanians enjoy one of the highest outputs per capita and one of the highest standards of living in the world The Cayman Islands are one of the richest islands not only in the Caribbean but in the world
Tropical marine Warm, rainy summers May to October and cool, Great vacation spot, relatively dry winters November to April In 2004 the Cayman Islands, and especially Grand Cayman, were hit hard by Hurricane Ivan
Low-lying limestone base surrounded by coral reefs Highest point: The Bluff on Cayman Brac, at 43 meters 141 ft
English is the official language and is spoken by virtually everyone Native Caymanians have a pleasant and unique accent with many charming turns of phrase For example, in Cayman rumours are not heard "through the grapevine", instead they're heard "along the marl road" Locals pronounce Cayman as Kay-MAN, and not KAY-min
Most shopping is in George Town and Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman
Many influences can be seen in Cayman cuisine Local specialties such as fish, turtle and conch are delicious and may be less expensive as they don't need to be imported With more than 150 restaurants, unwinding with a good meal in the Cayman Islands can include chic five-star dining as well as a more casual venue under the stars, or even a themed event From traditional Caymanian seafood to Caribbean and Thai to Italian and New World cuisine, discerning diners are sure to find something to fit their taste Other exciting options include dinner cruises on luxury catamarans and even an authentic tall ship Meal prices may range from $10 to over $30 per person at the high-end restaurants
While you are in Cayman ask your taxi driver their suggestion on restaurants Ask for their favorite local Jerk Stand MUST TRY and also ask them what tourist spot they suggest
Alcohol is very expensive on the islands, even from the liquor stores You can expect to pay approximately twice as much in the liquor stores as you would at stores in the United States, however it is still the cheapest way to purchase alcohol
Typical drink prices in bars and clubs range from $4-$7 CI $5-$875 US
Liquor stores close at 7PM, and are closed on Sundays
Visitors flying into the Cayman Islands are able to bring either 1 bottle of duty free spirits, 4 bottles of wine or champagne, or 1 12 pack of beer per person 18 years of age or older Exceeding this duty allowance will result in substantial taxation to the excess items
You will of course want to check out some of the local drinking establishments
Accommodations are ample but tend to be relatively expensive, even on the two smaller islands There are several luxury resorts with all amenities, as well as other less expensive options In addition, the cost of food and drink is high in Cayman, but many visitors stay in condominiums with kitchen facilities and take advantage of the first class supermarkets and cook and barbeque on the beach
Cayman is not known for all inclusive resorts, but there are two smaller Caribbean style properties that do offer this option
The majority of hotels and resorts are in Grand Cayman, where the main hotel "strip" is Seven Mile Beach, home to several major chain hotels and numerous condominiums
Off Seven Mile Beach are several dive resorts and, in the Eastern Districts, numerous private homes and villas, as well as several resorts and attractions for those preferring a more tranquil vacation
Little Cayman focuses on dive vacations and has a unique charm, as well as some of the best diving anywhere
Camping is illegal on all three islands at all times There are no campsites on any of the islands
Grand Cayman has growing offshore banking and tourism sectors Tourism represents about 60% of the economy About 30% of residents are expatriates working on "work permits" and unemployment is very low
