PARADISE IN THE CARIBBEAN: THE CAYMAN ISLANDS
The Cayman Islands is a group of three islands namely, Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, located in the western part of the Caribbean Sea. Administratively, they come under the rule of the United Kingdom, but they enjoy considerable autonomous powers so that they can govern themselves effectively.
What makes them a paradise?
There are several reasons which make them a true paradise in the Caribbean:
- The climate is such that they can be visited at any time of the year. It is of tropical marine nature with two distinct seasons, a wet summer from May to October and a relatively dry winter from November to April. The summer temperature hovers between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the day with usual thundershowers in the evening which cool the atmosphere. Whereas the winter temperature varies from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
If we consider the data that is available from 1981 to 2010, the average monthly rainfall during the summer is about 7 inches while that during the winter is about 2 inches.
- The landscape is scattered with limestone and dolomite rocks as the islands form part of a chain of partially submerged mountains starting from the south-east of Cuba to the Gulf of Honduras. The highest point is The Bluff, which is a limestone hill, just 43m from the sea-level.
And the vegetation varies from dry scrubs to dry trees and wet mangroves. You can hike through the Mastic Trail of Grand Cayman which connects Frank Sound to Old Man Bay. In the process, you will pass through a variety of flora and fauna which include Cayman Green Parrot, Caribbean Dove, West Indian Woodpecker, butterflies, lizards, frogs, etc. - The variety of food and drinks available is truly enormous. You can try Jerk Chicken (marinated in spices), Peas Rice, Moros Y Cristianos (Rice with Black Beans), Conch, Lobster, Turtle Stew and Steaks, Fresh Fish varieties, Mangoes, Seasoning Pepper, and Cayman Gourmet Pepper Jelly. You can go fishing and enjoy the catch back in the hotel or at the beach.
The major tourist attractions in the Cayman Islands are:
Camana Bay: This is a safe high-tech town where you will find all the privileges like restaurants, malls, theaters, music, fashion, sports and other events, business, schools, and the area is always growing.
Cayman Brac Caves: The Bluff, which is located in the middle of Cayman Brac, has caves where people take respite during the hurricanes. The Bat Cave offers numerous views to be photographed.
Cayman Motor Museum: An original Batmobile and an 1886-Mercedez Benz are among the ninety old cars that are on display in the museum.
Cayman Turtle Farm: Here you will find turtles in different stages of their life cycle. Apart from the turtles, a crocodile is also kept for show. There is a restaurant, which serves turtle stew, turtle steaks, and turtle burgers.
Atlantis Submarine: This submarine can be visited for a trouble-free adventure under the water. This is best suited for those who dare to dive or snorkel.
Seven Mile Beach: Arguably the best beach in the world, this beach is located at the western side of the Grand Cayman. There are many restaurants on the beach and the region is very well developed.
Stingray City: Snorkeling alongside stingray fishes can be great fun, which you can do at Stingray City located in North Sound on the Grand Cayman island. The stingrays can also be fed here by the visitors.
Surfing: Surfing lessons are provided at Black Pearl Skate. You can avail this facility to enjoy smooth surfing on the adjacent sea where there are no tall waves.
There are many luxurious resorts in the Cayman Islands where you can have a comfortable stay during the vacation. Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton at Grand Cayman, and The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa are some of them. Please inquire at the proper places, make a good itinerary and book your accommodation before moving out for an incredible journey to the Cayman Islands.
The Cayman Islands Flag
