Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands, in the western Caribbean Sea, was first seen by Christopher Columbus in May 1503 during his final voyage to the Americas. The Cayman Islands consist of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. It is paradise on numerous levels.

Pirates week in November is a hilarious fun-filled festival that attracts up to 35,000 visitors to this annual event. Nightlife is aplenty as is the live music scene, from local Calypso to international DJs. Accommodation ranges from 5-star resorts, the boutique and backpackers.

Grand Cayman, the largest island, has a multinational atmosphere with great restaurants, world-class diving, and the famous crescent-shaped Seven Mile Beach on the west side. Venture to the North Sound home to so many rays, it is named Stingray City. George Town, the capital, features traditional architecture along with indulgences, restaurants, bars, cafes and fantastic shopping.

Venture the Mastic Trail by foot or bike through the subtropical forest with numerous birdlife. Pedro St James in Bodden Town is the oldest building on the island built-in 1780. It was here the Slavery Abolition Act was announced in 1835. Nearby are the enchanting Cayman Crystal Caves, which do cost to visit. For those that like a hit of golf, the Ritz-Carlton has maybe the most challenging yet scenic 9-hole in the world designed by Greg Norman, while the North Sound Golf Club is a premier 18-hole course with equally spectacular views.

Nature lovers in and out of the water will enjoy Cayman Brac named after the 'brac', which is a bluff that dominates the island. There are breathtaking walks along the rocky bluff and to limestone caves, sinkholes, and historic sites. You will see rare and beautiful flora and fauna up close, such as endangered parrots and peregrine falcons, the fastest bird in the world. On the ground, you'll witness amazing flowers and the occasional reptile sunning itself.

Little Cayman is the smallest island and home to around 150 people. The atmosphere is a little more relaxed or as the locals say on 'island time'. Divers are drawn here to view Bloody Bay Wall, considered one of the world's best wall dives.

Don't forget to sample the rum as the Caribbean is home to rum, and it's guaranteed to be some of the smoothest you'll ever allow past your lips.

Best time to visit the Cayman Islands

With two seasons, the Wet and Dry, the islands are warm year-round. The coldest months are January and February, yet temperatures remain warm and only dip to around 20 degrees. The water is still warm enough and the tracks perfect for exploring on bike or foot.

The Wet season, from May to October, sees rain, but it usually only lasts a few hours at a time. Being on the western side of the Caribbean, the islands are sheltered from most hurricanes. Peak tourist time is dry. From March to June, there are some cheaper food accommodation and tour packages available.