A visit to the Cayman Islands is more than just sun and sand. You can hike pristine forests, visit colorful reefs, and enjoy world-class fare. The culinary scene is impressive, from roadside huts serving fried fish to upscale restaurants overlooking Seven Mile Beach. Don’t miss the Crystal Caves tour, where you walk through paths of stalactites and stalagmites.
It’s a Diverse Destination
The Cayman Islands are much more than a beach destination. They are where you can savor freshly caught seafood, experience a vibrant underwater world, and learn about the islands’ rich history. It’s no wonder why luxury travelers choose to vacation in the best resorts in Cayman Islands.
This Caribbean destination has a range of top-notch hotels and resorts, from opulent suites with ocean views to secluded beachfront villas. Luxury tourists will also enjoy exclusive events and activities responding to their interests.
As for the people, the Cayman Islands is a melting pot. More than half of its citizens are non-Caymanian, and many have roots in every country around the globe. This diversity is reflected in the island’s cuisine, known as one of the best in the Caribbean.
You can sample foods made with ingredients in the area, such as lionfish tacos and crispy conch fritters. The most popular activities revolve around the sea. You can rent a boat and see the dazzling kaleidoscope of coral reefs or swim with wild dolphins. Other top things to do include:
- Visiting the crystal caves and learning about the islands’ fascinating history in George Town
- Exploring the mangroves on a kayak tour
- Greeting the endangered blue iguanas at Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park
It’s a Tax Haven
Known for being a tax haven are the Cayman Islands. It means it is a location where many companies set up shell corporations to shield their assets from taxes. It is also a popular place for wealthy individuals to set up offshore bank accounts.
The absence of income tax, property tax, wealth or inheritance tax, and company tax in the Cayman Islands has made it a magnet for foreign investment. As a result, the economy is booming, and the standard of living has improved considerably for residents.
If you want to open a bank account in the Cayman Islands, you’ll need to provide certified copies of your identity documents and a utility bill or other document that shows where you live. You’ll be asked to describe your ties to the Cayman Islands, and banks are usually quite strict in determining what constitutes a tie.
If you’re not willing to risk being caught, finding a different jurisdiction for your banking needs is best. However, they can be more flexible if you have a strong enough connection to the island.
It’s a Place to Relax
Whether strolling Seven Mile Beach at sunset or sipping on a mudslide at Rum Point, the Cayman Islands provide an escape from the everyday. Here, you can live life to the fullest by soaking up the sun, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying a diverse culture with over 148 nationalities represented.
The islands have a strong Jamaican influence, seen in local food, music, and art. However, you can also see a unique blend of cultures throughout the islands, making them an exciting destination.
There is no shortage of things to do on the islands, from exploring underwater treasures to taking in a performance by a talented singer. You can canter along the pristine beach at Stingray City or take in the views from above on a helicopter tour.
You can also learn about the island’s storied history at Pedro St. James, where you can explore a 17th-century home and garden while learning about the history of democracy in the Caribbean. Then, head to a restaurant like Heritage Kitchen for some traditional Caymanian fare.
You can even get the adrenaline pumping by tackling some of the world’s best dive sites. Wear comfortable shoes and a dive watch since the Cayman Islands are located on the boundary between two tectonic plates, and minor tremors are common.
It’s a Paradise
The Cayman Islands are known for their beaches, but there is much more to do on these idyllic Caribbean isles. There are many chances to indulge your passion here, whether shopping, foodieing, or scuba diving.
The island’s relaxed atmosphere is a welcome departure from mega-resorts, where everything is planned for you. Here, you can discover a hidden snorkeling spot or sway in your hammock along a perfect shoreline vista without anyone telling you to do so.
The islands are a major international finance center, owing to their absence of direct taxes and liberal banking laws. It is a critical component of the economy and provides much-needed revenue for government spending. Tourism, especially cruise ship visits, contributes significantly to the local economy. Over two million people visit the islands yearly, spending time in resorts or vacation rentals.
Various cultural and natural attractions are also a draw for visitors. The National Museum in George Town offers an overview of the country’s history. At the same time, Pedro St James is a restored 18th-century home that gives visitors insight into the islands’ culture and heritage.
The Mastic Trail, a 2.3-mile path through the islands’ largest nature reserve, lets hikers explore native flora and fauna. You can even spot rare bird species on this peaceful stroll or pause to enjoy a meal at Tukka, a restaurant that serves Australian-Caribbean fusion fare like lionfish tacos and lobster spring rolls.
