Let’s familiarize ourselves with Cayman Islands before we enjoy these beautiful Caribbean islands.

Cayman Islands Capital

Cayman is one of the richest countries in the Caribbean. These three island territory belongs to the United Kingdom. It has beautiful weather as well as gorgeous beaches. The capital of the territory is George Town. It is located on Grand Cayman. Grand Cayman is also one of the largest financial centers in the world. Besides, islanders are renowned for their gracious hospitality and manners.  So,  don’t forget to greet people before asking for something.

Cayman Islands Location

The Cayman Islands are located directly south of Cuba and approximately 180 miles west-northwest of Jamaica. It consists of three islands; Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. The largest island is Grand Cayman, which is approximately 67 square miles. Its length is 22 miles and its width is 8 miles. The highest level on the island is only 60 feet above the sea level. Cayman Brac measures 14 square miles and Little Cayman 10 square miles.

Cayman Islands Population

The total of population is about 53,000 and Grand Cayman is inhabited by 39,335 people.

Cayman Islands Language

The official language of the Cayman Islands is English.

Currency

The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman islands dollar. But they also accept  United States dollars, credit card and travelers checks.

Grand Cayman Tourist Information

The main office of the Department of Tourism is located in the Tower Building and can be reached by dialing 949-7999.

Cayman Islands History

The Cayman Islands were named after “Caimanau”. It is the Carib Indian word for “crocodile”. The name “Caimanas” itself refers to the iguanas native to the islands which Christopher Columbus thought it was crocodile.

Though the islands were frequented by ships looking for fresh water and turtle meat, they remained unsettled until the 17th century. The islands were magnets for buccaneers such as Sir Henry Morgan and “Blackbeard” Edward Teach. Caymanians are proud of their seafaring heritage. The Cayman Islands were territories of Jamaica until 1962, when Jamaica gained its independence and Caymanians chose to remain British subjects. The colony has a British governor, appointed by the Queen who presides over an elected Assembly and the mixed Executive Council. Prosperity has arrived in the past 20 years as tourism and banking have become major industries of Cayman Islands.

Cayman Islands Transportation

If you visit Cayman Islands by cruise ship, you can find taxis easily at the pier. They are unmetered, but have set rates for each destination. Most taxis in Cayman are minicabs and charge per person. It is advisable that you confirm the fare with the driver before departing. Taxis to Seven Miles Beach are approximately $ 5 per person.

Shopping

All shops are within walking distance from the pier. They are open from Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Some stores are closed on Sundays. Grand Cayman is the largest designer jewelry and Swiss watch destination in the Caribbean. This port also has some of the best souvenir clothing and specialty shops in the world.

Bargaining

Bargaining is not acceptable in Cayman.

Bank

Banks are open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday. Some of them are open on Saturday mornings.

Post Office

The post office is located at the corner of Edward Street and Cardinal Avenue. It is open from Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm and from 8:30 am to 11:30 am on Saturdays. It has Philatelic Bureau for visiting stamps collectors. There are also several other sub post offices throughout the islands. You can buy postage stamps and use mail drop boxes at any of these locations.

Port Public Phone

Phones are located on the pier and also across the road from the North Terminal.

Public Holidays

Public holidays are good the best time to visit this small territory. You can enjoy various celebration while enjoying the beautiful beaches. The following dates are public holidays in the Cayman Islands:

1. January 1 – New Year’s Day
2. January 26 – National Hero’s Day
3. February 25 – Ash Wednesday
4. April 10 – Good Friday
5. April 13 – Easter Monday
6. May 18 – Discovery Day
7. June 15 – Queen’s Birthday
8. July 6 – Constitution Day
9. November 9 – Remembrance Day
10.December 25 – Christmas Day

Emergency Number

In case of an emergency, dial 911.