Interested in soaking up the sun under a palm tree? Looking to jump into a saltwater abyss of snorkeling and scuba diving? For a quiet, tropical getaway with great water sports, Grand Cayman may fit your bill.
Grand Cayman is just south of Cuba and the largest of the three Cayman Islands. It is known for its vast number of sea turtles, its water adventures and being a diver’s dream. If you aren’t a certified diver, snorkeling trips are available. You also can take an intro course to scuba diving during your stay.
Dining
Visitors revel in the local seafood. If you don’t enjoy fish, try Grand Cayman’s curry, jerk, stewed goat,
oxtail, turtle, or rice and beans. And don’t miss the Island’s other crustacean-type delicacies, including conch.
Shop
Sea turtles are the pride of Grand Cayman, and while you may only be able to enjoy them on vacation, you can purchase any number of souvenirs with sea turtle themes. You’ll find attractive locally-made jewellery (but beware of fake gems and scammers). Local artists also sell watercolours, sculptures and lacework.
Ocean adventures
You go to Grand Cayman for surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and some remarkable sights such as the parrot fish (which is two feet long!) and the West Bay Turtle Farm. You can also explore sunken ships in several dive locations.
What you need to know
- Grand Cayman is just 76 square miles – a secluded getaway.
- English is the official language.
- The Cayman Islands print their own currency. When converting your funds at the bank, 10 Cayman Island dollars will cost approximately $12.56 in Canada. Many major banks will not buy back Cayman Island dollars, so you may have to sell them back at a foreign exchange centre.
- The Islands use the same voltage as the U.S. and Canada, so you don’t need an electrical adapter.
For more information visit: caymanislands.ky
Originally published in Today’s Bride, July 2012
