Cayman Islands

Overview

The group of islands is made up of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. The former is easily the largest and the visitor could quite reasonably think they were in a US coastal resort in the capital Georgetown. This might seem odd considering the islands are in the Caribbean and are ostensibly the responsibility of the UK.

The extreme proliferation of banks is due to the lack many financial restrictions. Inevitably this attracts international organisations and certain characters whose occupations are rather harder to describe. This is certainly reminiscent of the days when the islands were used as a base for local pirates.

The smaller islands are less prima facie commercial but unfortunately are not any cheaper. The lack of many exciting geological formations can easily be overlooked when the number and range of dive sites are considered. All levels will find they have something to keep them busy, whether this is found in gentle snorkelling, reef and wreck diving or an exploration of an awe inspiring underwater giant cliff. If diving and various beaches are not enough to fill the day then there are a number of nature trails and species of wildlife to see including parrots and iguanas. On the other hand a relaxing round of golf can be enjoyed or a more strenuous cave exploration and hike. Although the conch is particularly popular, the national dish of turtle should certainly be tasted.

History

The Cayman Islands were colonized from Jamaica by the British during the 18th and 19th centuries. Administered by Jamaica since 1863, they remained a British dependency after 1962 when the former became independent. In addition to banking (the islands have no direct taxation, making them a popular incorporation site), tourism is a mainstay, aimed at the luxury market and catering mainly to visitors from North America. Total tourist arrivals exceeded 1.2 million in 1997, with 600,000 from the US. About 90% of the islands' food and consumer goods must be imported. The Caymanians enjoy one of the highest outputs per capita and one of the highest standards of living in the world. Christianity is pervasive here and religion is taken quite seriously. Cayman Islands ports are even closed to cruise ships on Sundays and other religious holidays.