The Cayman Islands are the poster children for a tropical paradise. Lush green plants, long white beaches, beautiful clear water, and plenty of places to stay and enjoy. The view is spectacular in almost every direction you look. The people tend to be friendly and inviting. While the Caymans are a popular tourist attraction, it is not so crowded that it cannot be enjoyed.
In Georgetown, the gift shops, the Sea Turtle Farm, and the snorkeling on the northern part of Grand Cayman are all great. It costs a couple of bucks, but even the bus tour of the area is interesting. The sand along the beaches is some of the finest in the world. You can spend a day or a week and still be enjoying yourself. You can spend your US dollars in Georgetown with no problem. Because the city is well-developed and has a thriving economy, don't count on being able to bargain for much. You generally have to pay posted price.
The sun is intense because it is tropical. So, use plenty of sunscreen. There are excellent eateries and clubs to take advantage of while you are there. The cab and bus service are readily available almost instantly. The transportation prices are modest. Don't be deceived by the fact that you are on a relatively small island. In the hot tropical sun, even a walk of a half of a mile or so can seem long in the heat. Use the transportation available, and your stay will be more enjoyable.
The waves around the islands tend to be tranquil for the most part. But, like any ocean beaches, they can kick up in certain weather conditions. Because of this, the Caymans are a favorite for many snorkeling enthusiasts. The clear water makes an excellent venue for spotting the many species of fish and marine life that inhabit the waters in the area.
The islands are low lying. You won't want to ride out a hurricane there unless you have no choice. Many of the buildings on Grand Cayman are either new or recently received extensive repairs from the last hurricane passing through. Storm surges have been known to inundate entire islands including Grand Cayman.
The housing costs are huge. A small 4 or 5 room single story frame house on a modest lot can cost you $250,000. It will look more like a good shack than a run down house. There are some luxurious hotels and homes on the island, but their prices are set to match. A penthouse at the Ritz-Carlton can run $40,000,000. Restaurant prices tend to be about 50% or more higher than comparable food in the United States. If you buy an all-inclusive vacation or come by cruise ship, just plan on eating what you've already paid for unless you have deep pockets.
Overall, you should find the experience in the Caymans quite pleasant. The people, the weather, and the scenery all converge to make a great time. I look forward to a return trip sometime when I have more time to just kick back and take it easy.
