Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Grand Cayman
This chapter covers the island of Grand Cayman, the heart of Cay-
manian tourism and the destination for most travelers. For easy navi-
gation, we have divided this chapter according to the island's four regions.
George Town
covers the capital city, the heart of the business
and banking industry that has made these islands so affluent.
The stop of all cruise ship passengers, George Town is also the
best place for those looking to learn more about Caymanian his-
tory, to do some duty-free shopping, and to enjoy some of the is-
land's best underwater fun.
East of George Town
takes a look at the land stretching east
of the capital city of George Town, much of it unimproved
swamp and buttonwood forest. A favorite of birders, hikers, and
those seeking a look at the flora and fauna of the islands, the
east end is little changed from its days before the boom in
Cayman tourism. This is the quietest part of Grand Cayman
and well worth a day-trip even for those staying on other areas
of the island.
The
Seven Mile Beach
section explores what for many travel-
ers
is
the Cayman Islands, a stretch of powdery beach lined not
just with palms and casuarina trees, but also with resorts, con-
dominiums, and innumerable watersports operators. The heart
of the Caymanian tourism business, this is one of the most pop-
ular beaches in the Caribbean.
West Bay
takes a look at the region to the north of Seven Mile
Beach, a quiet residential section that's also home to some of
the island's top tourism attractions: the Cayman Turtle Farm
and Hell.
Getting Around
Upon arrival at the
Owen Roberts International Airport
, con-
tinue through the airport past the baggage claim and outside to
the pick-up area. Here, vans and mini-buses offer passenger ser-
vice to local hotels for a fixed fee. Hotels in the Cayman Islands are not al-
lowed to send a courtesy van for airport pickup, so be prepared to pay for a
ride or rent a car.
Transportation around George Town and throughout Grand Cayman is
easy. Take your pick from taxis and group vans as well as rental cars,
Jeeps, bicycles, and scooters.
