Cost of Accommodation in the Cayman Islands

Many people visit the Cayman Islands for various reasons, but many do so to enjoy a much-needed vacation. With an average monthly rent price of about $1,200 Cayman currency per month and a yearly rental fee averaging around $15,000 Cayman currency, it is not a cheap place to stay.

The prices result from a combination of factors, including scarce land and an influx of expat retirees. As a result, many have to rent privately through Airbnb or similar services while visiting the island. There are also guesthouses available that can be found at prices starting around $25Cayman currency per night.

Price Range

If you are looking for a single bedroom in an apartment, expect to pay anywhere from $650 Cayman currency up to over $3,500 Cayman currency. For example, renting a room at Blue Horizon Apartments starts at about $760Cayman currency per month – not including utilities. The price goes up to $2,000Cayman currency for a room with two people.

Nevertheless, it is possible to find an apartment on the island that’s affordably priced by looking beyond the luxury options. The Cayman Islands are home to countless expat retirees who may be willing to rent out an extra bedroom in their homes or apartments at very reasonable rates.

Transportation Cost in the Cayman Islands

There are many options for transportation in Cayman, but they can be expensive. A car is the most popular mode of transportation because it allows you to have more freedom to come and go when you wish, but it can become costly if you lose your job or choose to stay at home. An alternative option is taking public transport or taxis if you plan to stay in one location.

Taxis are readily available throughout the island and can be called or hailed at any time of day or night. However, they are not cheap. A 10-minute ride to town will usually cost between $14-$20 Cayman dollars. While there is a government-regulated flat rate for certain locations, many drivers will offer a lower price than the regulated fare to tourists.

If you want to save money on transportation, taking the bus may be the best option. The government-regulated fares are relatively cheap and can take you all over the island. Children under five years old travel free, while up until they are 11 years old only pay half the price.

Why Living in the Cayman Islands in 2022

As more countries turn to cryptocurrencies, the Cayman Islands – an island country in the Caribbean Sea – is also looking at digital currency as a viable option for their future. This section will examine five reasons you should consider moving to the Cayman Islands in 2022 if they implement cryptocurrency into their economy.

The Government Has Embraced Blockchain Technology

The Cayman Islands government has been enthusiastic about blockchain technology ever since they first introduced it in 2013. This enthusiasm has seen the creation of their Blockchain Task Force, which aims to encourage innovation in this space by engaging with local businesses and entrepreneurs.

A Small Island with a Lot of Potential

With more than 60,000 residents in the country, which accounts for 1/400th of the population of London, the Cayman Islands is still an attractive destination to live and work in. The government has also encouraged foreigners to start businesses and contribute to the local economy.

This process is to ease some regulations on foreign companies. This means that there are a lot of opportunities for skilled foreigners to work with smaller companies in the country and build something from the ground up.

A 2-Hour Flight Away From New York City

Having strong ties with the United States, the Cayman Islands is an easy destination for US citizens to emigrate due to its short distance from New York City. It is also a short flight away from other Caribbean destinations such as Jamaica and Cuba, allowing for weekend getaways to nearby islands without traveling via plane.

There Are No Capital Gains Taxes in the Cayman Islands

As a country that thrives on tourism and finance, there are currently no capital gains or income taxes levied in the Cayman Islands for local and foreign residents. This means; you will get to keep more of your money than if you lived in countries such as the US, UK, Japan, or Singapore.

A Country That Encourages Entrepreneurship

The Cayman Islands has also been actively advocating for their residents to be entrepreneurs, with the Small Business Development agency providing free consulting services for new businesses and entrepreneurs in the country. This seems like an ideal destination to live and work in if you are serious about growing your own business without having to worry too much about regulatory issues.

Ways to Live Comfortably in the Cayman Islands

The good thing about living in the Cayman Islands is that you are guaranteed to have something to do. There are many ways to make money, spend quality time with friends and family, or simply contribute to your community.

However, it can be hard for newcomers to know what’s available when they don’t know the history. Why did the Cayman Islands become a tax haven? What were the key points in the independence of the islands from England? Who were some prominent figures throughout modern history, and what did they do?

Well, living in the Cayman Islands is very different than living in many other parts of the world, but there are ways to make your life here more comfortable. Here are five tips to make your transition easier.

1)    Housing

Housing options vary widely depending on how long you plan to live in the Caymans. If you’re moving for just a short time, it may be best to look for an apartment or condo in one of the larger towns on Grand Cayman, such as George Town.

Condos tend to run a bit more expensive than a house with a yard, but both options provide some privacy and comfort. Of course, prices will depend on the size of your family.

2)    Groceries

It’s easy to forget how much you can save by buying groceries in the US and bringing them over with you in your luggage. Many apartments are close to a grocery store, but there are usually shops where people who live on their boats will sell you what you need at very reasonable prices.

3)    Medical care

If you plan to live in the Caymans for several years, or if you have a medical condition that requires ongoing treatment, it’s important to research what options are available to you here. In many cases, it will be much more affordable here than in the US because of government subsidies and other factors. The Cayman Islands recently opened a new hospital and has plans for further expansion into the future.

4)    Schools and Education

Education in the Cayman Islands is free and compulsory from age 5 to 16 and highly regarded in many circles around the world (and in most cases, even better than schools in the US). The majority of schools are in Grand Cayman, so you probably won’t have much choice but to send your children there.

5)    Transportation

Car rentals are affordable here, especially if you’re coming from the US. However, they can be quite costly during the high season (December-April). It’s also worth noting that traffic tends to be very busy around George Town and Seven Mile Beach due to all the tourists, so you might consider moving somewhere a little more secluded.

What Is The Cost Of Living In the Cayman Islands?

The cost of living (how much things like groceries, gas, etc.) in the Cayman Islands is quite high for people used to prices in Canada. Some low-income jobs are available for locals and expats alike, but these do not pay much. The best way to live on a budget is to live with a roommate or two, share rent, and split utilities.

What Are The Employment Opportunities?

There are few employment opportunities available for locals seeking high-paying jobs in the Cayman Islands. Most of the better-paying jobs go to foreigners who have relocated there, either on their own or through their company. Jobs available to expats include general labor, construction, and tourism. The tourism industry is the best-paying job available, with positions paying up to CI$30/hour.

Are There Business Opportunities In the Cayman Islands?

The best job opportunities for people looking to start a business in the Cayman Islands are the tourism and construction industries. Both of these industries have work year-round, though there is more work in construction during the summer months. Vacation rentals are also a good source of income.

Conclusion

Cayman Island is one of those places where you can leave the world behind and relax after a hard work week. It’s also a perfect place to move with your family or just for vacation. Nonetheless, we’ve highlighted the cost of living. So, the follow-up is to know what it takes to live in the Cayman Islands.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory located in the Caribbean Sea. The population is estimated to be over 50,000 people. The islands consist of three groups of semi-submersible reefs called Little Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Grand Cayman. They enjoy a diverse mix of cultures, including those from Jamaica, Haiti, and other Caribbean islands.

The Cayman Islands are well known for their pristine beaches and breath-taking crystal clear waters; it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. It has grown tremendously in popularity with holidaymakers because some local islanders feel that it neglects other important areas within its economy.

Despite the Cayman Islands becoming a popular tourist destination, it is still an expat hotspot. Other than some of the more upmarket resorts, which are frequented by guests from other Caribbean islands and the USA, most of the government positions within immigration and customs enforcement are still held by ‘locals.’

This means that for some people moving to the Cayman Islands could be seen as a step down from living in other countries. The cost of living here is also considered very low compared to nations such as the USA and the United Kingdom, making it a popular retirement destination for people from these parts of the world.

Numerous factors affect the cost of living in the Cayman Islands, so it is important to first understand them before arriving on the islands. In this article, we will walk you through those factors. Not only is that, but you’ll understand why living in the Cayman Islands is worth it in 2022. Read further!

Factors Affecting Cost of Living in the Cayman Islands

Over the past ten years, the Cayman Islands have become a popular tourist destination for visitors worldwide. With beautiful beaches and resorts, it’s no wonder why this archipelago in the Caribbean is so sought after. But what about living in the Cayman Islands? What is it like to live on these islands surrounded by the sea?

The standard of living in The Cayman Islands is high, and the expat community has been growing over the past few years. However, some factors affect the cost of living here. Let’s take a look at the cost of living in the Cayman Islands and five factors affecting it:

• Transportation and commuting
• Utilities (electricity, water, etc.)
• Shopping for food and clothes
• Education for children
• Housing costs

Transportation and Commuting In the Cayman Islands

The first factor that affects the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is a transportation and commuting. As a Caribbean island territory, the Cayman Islands have a developed road network, but many locals commute by boat.

This is because; the Cayman Islands do not produce their own food; all goods are brought in from the Mainland, which means they must be transported by boat. As a result, food tends to cost more than on the mainland, while transportation costs are higher too – gas prices are high, and there is a road tax on all cars.

Utilities (Electricity, Water Etc.)

The next factor that affects the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is utilities. Utilities are generally more expensive in the Cayman Islands than on the mainland due to the lower standard of living. Things like electricity, gas, water, etc., are very expensive, costing almost twice as much here.

But don’t worry – if you want to live comfortably in an apartment or home with all utilities included, this is still possible, but it will cost you a bit more.

Shopping For Food and Clothes

Another factor that affects the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is shopping for food and clothes. There are plenty of supermarkets on the islands with a wide range of products worldwide. If you’re looking for a bargain, you can visit the local supermarkets and buy from the weekly specials.

However – just like on the mainland – your clothes will be more expensive in the Cayman Islands due to the import costs of shipping things here from all over the world.

Education for Children

And another factor that affects the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is education for children. If you want your child to attend an international school, this will be expensive due to high tuition fees. You can send your child to a local school instead, which will be much cheaper – but this means they won’t have the opportunity to study overseas, which is an important part of their education.

Housing Costs

The last factor that affects the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is housing costs. If you’re looking to rent a house or apartment, there are plenty available, and you’ll be able to find something suitable for your needs with ease.

Where it can be expensive, however, is owning a home on the island. As the Cayman Islands are surrounded by water, there is no space for building on the land. Instead, many homes are built on stilts in the sea or on top of hills. Because of this unique characteristic, housing is expensive here, and it can be pricey to own a home on The Islands.

Cost of Living Charts in the Cayman Islands

Depending on the product or service provider, costs may vary. The following is a list of January 2022 average prices in the Cayman Islands.

Cost of Education in the Cayman Islands

The cost of education in the Cayman Islands is pretty high. Therefore, many students opt to study abroad. The international schools are good schools that offer excellent teaching and sports programs. However, they can be expensive with tuition rates that rise each year by $2,000 to $5,000 depending on the programme offered.

The most popular school in the Cayman Islands is JC School. It is a private, college preparatory, coeducational day school. This school has an advanced curriculum and high quality of education that will prepare any student for university admittance. The academic year at JC School begins in September and ends in July with five terms consisting of three months each.

The international school is a private school in Grand Cayman, the Cayman Islands, offering a different educational experience to their students. It offers a curriculum that follows the International Baccalaureate Organization’s PYP and MYP scholastic programmes.

Cost of Healthcare System in the Cayman Islands

The cost of the healthcare system in the Cayman Islands is very good, but not the best. The private health care services can be compared with Europe. The quality of service is high, and there are no long lines to wait for the doctor.

Insurance companies provide good coverage for children to adults under 35 years old, while older people have to pay more, so it is better to have private insurance. The Healthcare System in the Cayman Islands has a few weak points: the number of specialists and doctors is not so big considering the population.

This can sometimes cause problems waiting for a doctor’s appointment or surgery. Also, it could be difficult to find a doctor to accept insurance for foreigners. So, although the healthcare system in the Cayman Islands is not bad, but it may be difficult to find a good doctor.

Also, it’s challenging to schedule time for treatment, especially if you do not have private health insurance. In general, the healthcare system’s cost in the Cayman Islands is average. Not too expensive but also not cheap.

Cost of Utility Bills and Payment

So you’ve moved to a new home in the Cayman Islands, and things aren’t going well. You’re constantly disappointed with how cold your house gets in the winter and how hot it is in the summer. And then there’s all this rain! What is going on?

The good news is that while Cayman’s climate might not be to your liking, the cost of utility bills is on the low side. And it’s so low that you might be able to get by without turning on your heating or air conditioning at all.

The Cayman Islands do not have an especially abundant amount of natural resources. One major resource they lack is oil. That means no petroleum-powered vehicles in the Cayman Islands, making gasoline costs low.

These low gasoline costs are passed on to residents of the Cayman Islands. And because there aren’t many people living here either, garbage disposal costs are kept quite affordable as well. Moreover, Caribbean Utilities Company, Ltd. (CUC) is the sole electricity provider to Grand Cayman.

The Cayman Islands Digital Nomad Visa

Becoming a digital nomad is the dream of many people who are tired of living an ordinary life. The nomadic lifestyle can be very rewarding, but it does come with its own set of challenges. One such challenge comes when you want to go on short trips without having to worry about re-entering your country after you come back. Enter the Cayman Islands Digital Nomad Visa.

The Cayman Islands are a group of islands home to an astounding number of world-leading financial service providers, with over 100 banks calling the country their home. This has made it possible for many foreigners to settle down in the island nation without worrying about visa restrictions, making it perfect for digital nomads.

The Cayman Islands Digital Nomad Visa is a visa made especially for those individuals who make their income through online means and would like to travel from country to country without having to worry about re-entry or work visas. This type of visa is usually not easy to get as it requires proof.

Concept of Living in the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands Department of Immigration has announced a new digital nomad visa. The visa is intended for individuals who work remotely, and it offers several benefits, including a longer stay and the ability to work without a sponsor.

To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, applicants must meet the following requirements: they must be a citizen of a country that is not listed on the Cayman Islands’ list of countries eligible for visa-free travel, they must demonstrate a working knowledge of computers and basic Internet usage, and they must be able to support themselves financially without having a job offer or sponsor.

In addition to establishing their financial independence from an employer, applicants need to show that they have a genuine interest in the Cayman Islands and contribute to its economy. This includes having a solid plan for spending their time in the islands and proving that their business or project can generate income for the Cayman Islands.

Applicants must also prove that they have a clean criminal record and are not objectionable to the Cayman Islands. The digital nomad visa offers several benefits, including:

• A longer stays: The visa allows for a stay of up to six months.
• No sponsorship required: Unlike other work visas, the digital nomad visa does not require a sponsor. This makes it easier for remote workers to relocate to the Cayman Islands.
• Work permit: The visa allows applicants to work without a work permit.
• Ease of entry: Applicants do not need to have a job offer or sponsor in order to be eligible for the visa. They need to demonstrate a working knowledge of computers and basic Internet usage.
• No need to be physically present: Applicants can apply for the visa in their home countries, and they do not need to be in the Cayman Islands when they apply. They need a valid passport from a nation not included in the list of countries eligible for visa-free travel to the Cayman Islands.

7 Benefits of Being a Digital Nomad

Nomadic lifestyles are becoming more popular in the west, with many people rejecting corporate life in favor of travel. Nowadays, many people can work remotely from anywhere globally, allowing them to visit exotic locations without arranging extended holiday time. Here are seven benefits associated with traveling while working.

1)    Save Money

Possibly one of the most significant reasons for many to become a digital Nomad is that it saves you money. If you are not tied down to an expensive apartment or house, you can move around with ease and save huge amounts on rent. Additionally, when traveling, prices are often lower than in your own country thanks to a lower local buying power.

Furthermore, you can choose to rent an apartment in areas where it is most suitable for your needs. Besides, often, the cost of living is lower in developing countries than in first world ones, so that you can save a lot of money this way as well.

2)    Travel More

Given that digital Nomads travel a lot, it only makes sense that they also see more places. It’s not always easy to find an excuse to leave your hometown if your job requires you to stay there. However, when you have no fixed workstation, finding jobs becomes much easier, and the world is your oyster. You can pick up clients from anywhere around the globe with an internet connection, so getting a remote position is by no means impossible.

3)    Explore More Interesting Places

Digital Nomads are always on the lookout for interesting new places to live. There is no sense in limiting your options to one country when you can have a different home every month. It’s also great because if you find somewhere particularly interesting, you can relocate there and explore it to your heart’s content. Additionally, moving around allows you to meet people from all walks of life, giving you a more well-rounded view of the world.

4)    Increased Productivity

When you’re not tied down to one place, it’s often easier to get work done. This is because there are no distractions, and you can focus completely on your task at hand. This increased productivity also means that you can get more work done in a shorter amount of time, which is great for those who want to move on to the next destination as quickly as possible.

5)    Increased Flexibility

Being a digital Nomad gives you a great deal of flexibility, which many people crave. For starters, you can choose your hours and take time off when you want to. Additionally, if a project isn’t working out, you can leave without giving notice.

This increased flexibility also extends to where you can work. You have not limited to an office or a specific place; as long as you have an internet connection, you can do your job from anywhere in the world.

1.    Improved Skillset

Last but not least, one of the benefits of being a digital nomad is that you get to improve your skillset. When you’re constantly learning new things and trying different work methods, your skillset naturally expands. This is especially beneficial if you plan on working in the same field for the rest of your life. Even if you don’t, the diversity of experience will be helpful in future endeavors.

2.    Increased Happiness

In a study by Voucher cloud, it was found that happiness levels increased in people who traveled more. This is likely because when you’re constantly on the move, you experience more new things and see more of the world. This increased happiness is also likely because of the freedom of being a Digital Nomad. You are free to do whatever you want without having to answer anyone else.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Just like we explained recently in our guide to moving to the Cayman Islands as an expat, you still need to understand the living guide to this island. Of course, moving to the Cayman Islands is, for many, a lifelong ambition fulfilled. Not only is that, but an opportunity to live on the Caribbean Island.

Besides, you can enjoy fabulous beaches, balmy year-round weather, a high standard of living, a low crime rate, and a community of international residents who extend a Caymankind welcome. In fact, the locals are friendly, and you’ll have the opportunity to be welcomed excitingly when you just visit the country.

However, the Cayman Islands are one of the British overseas territories that have quietly become a major attraction among expats from all over the world as of today. The Cayman Islands are one of the biggest offshore tax havens, has only led more expatriates to want to settle down here for many years.

Have you been surfing the internet to know what living cost in Cayman entail? Do you wish to know more about living in Cayman today? If that sounds like what you’ve been looking for, look no further, as you’ve landed on the right platform. A very small section of settlers here consists of Spanish locals and even members of the Jamaican Patwa community. So, it’s somewhere you’d want to try.

In this article, we will walk you through the guide to living in the Cayman Islands as an expat. Aside from this fact, we have compiled this article to explain the visa requirements to living in the Cayman Islands, the top ten tips to relocate to this country, and many other things, to mention a few. Would you like to know more? If that sounds like a yes, read further to see what we have for you.

Top 10 Tips to Moving to the Cayman Islands

We all know that moving to a new country is never an easy task. Let alone doing everything on your own can be pretty challenging. That’s why; it’s quite essential to check different platforms or make research about the country before you catch a flight or get a visa. Here, we have compiled the tips to relocate to the Cayman Islands; check it out below.

1.    Renting or Buying a Property

One thing you need to worry about when moving to a new country is how to find suitable accommodation. Well, finding the right one can be quite difficult, as the supply of condos for rent on Seven Mile Beach has become limited due to the increasing number of expats and demand.

Although there are other areas such as South Sound, George Town, Prospect, and many others that have rental properties, but you’ll need an experienced realtor to help you find a suitable one. Therefore, if you’re looking to buy a house in the Cayman Islands, the process is relatively simple. On the other hand, you’ll need an experienced realtor that’d help you find a suitable one.

2.    Getting a Job in the Cayman Islands

If you haven’t gotten a job on the Islands, lots of works are available to English-speaking people. While it may be pretty difficult to apply for this job overseas due to the huge number of applications most businesses in the Cayman Islands receive, you’re better off keeping whatever job you have at hand now.

However, if you’re able to work remotely and apply for jobs whilst you’re on the islands to improve your chances of getting one, sites such as SteppingStones, Affinity Recruitment, and many others can be helpful. Therefore, we advise you to better get a job before traveling to the islands as an expat.

3.    Having a Monthly Budget

Always know that your first new month in a country can be quite expensive. And this same rule applies to the Cayman Islands. With rentals deposits, utilities, cars, and other deposits eating up huge chunks of your money, you may need to work out how much this will be for a month.

Now, you should consider what to expect, living conditions, and utilize spending on whatever that’d allow you to spend beyond your budget. Well, the cost of living in the Caymans has been likened to London. So, keep in mind the cost of living in London to have a glance at what you’d live on in Cayman.

4.    Taking you Own Car

You’d think that living on an island that’s only 22 miles long and 4 miles wide would eliminate the need for a car, right? Unfortunately, due to the humidity in the summer months, having a car is essential if you probably choose to avoid heatstroke.

In fact, taxis are very pricey in the Cayman Islands, and buying a car in this territory can be quite difficult as well. So, you’re best off bringing your own car with you. Not only is that, but you can either come over with it or have it imported.

5.    Sorting Out your Legal Documents

Most times, moving to a country where the security measures are high can be very daunting to cope as an expat. That being said, moving to the Cayman Islands without the proper documentation in place is a terrible idea.

But the government services are quite efficient on the islands, but in order for you to process your residency in the country, you’ll need original or notarized copies of the following documents.

• Your University and other professional designations
• Birth certificate and marriage license
• Driving record from your current car insurance company
• Appropriate bank references and records from credit companies
• Criminal records check in your home country

In addition to this fact, advanced planning to make sure you have all these documents is advantageous. However, certain documents should be left until just before you leave.  Some of these documents include; bank references and your criminal record checks. And this is solely because; these documents need to be as recent as possible.

6.    Opening a Bank Account

One thing you need to know after moving to a new country is the opening of a bank account. And of course, you know that you can’t use your home-country local bank account to receive money in the new destination’s currency.  With that being said, you should set up a bank account in the Cayman Islands as soon as you arrive in the country. This will help you establish accounts for your telecommunications.

Most times, all banks require two forms of photo ID, a bank reference as said earlier in the article, a personal reference, verification of employment and salary, and many others. Some of the banks to choose from include; Scotiabank, RBC, CIBC, Butterfield, FirstCaribbean, and many others, to mention a few.

7.    Getting Healthcare Insurance

Aside from opening a bank account, getting the best healthcare insurance is also another thing to consider. Besides, you should know that every resident is legally required to have healthcare insurance. Moreover, the government mandates that employers pay for their employees ‘insurance, but they can deduct up to 50 percent from their salary.

But be rest assured that the standards of healthcare on the island are particularly excellent. Meanwhile, you should know that there are actually four hospitals despite the islands’ relatively small size.

8.    Planning Ahead for Pets

Recently, we compiled a post about the countries to relocate with pets and its requirements. And since this article is geared towards people who are living or moving to the Cayman Islands on their own, you need to understand how pet works in this British territory.

Furthermore, the islands are a great place to have pets with plenty of outdoor space and a great network of veterinarians. Meanwhile, it has some downsides which might contribute to a difficult time relocating as an expat. That way, you need to plan at six months ahead before moving to your destination. Some of the things you need to consider include the following.

• Have up-to-date vaccination and be fitted with a microchip
• Ensure you have a rabies blood test
• Make sure you have an official veterinary
• Have tick and tapeworm treatments
• Ensure you have an official veterinary health certificate

9.    Check for COVID-19 Restrictions

As much as we’d like to pretend that the Covid-19 pandemic is over, sadly, we still need to take precautions. And for the fact that there are a number of rules you may need to follow, such as choosing to be able to enter islands and having PCR tests along the way, it’s quite essential that you research about the territory and get a full breakdown of the regulations you have to follow.

10. Join a New Club or Community

This is the last on our list today. And for the fact that there are lots of different sports clubs to join, such as Gaelic football, hockey, rugby, and many others, to mention a few, staying in shape with this community can be helpful. Not only is that, but also a great way to meet new people in the country.

A Brief History of Cayman Islands you should know

Living in the Cayman Islands remained largely uninhabited until the 17^th century, as research disclosed. In fact, a variety of people settled on the islands, including pirates, refugees from the Spanish inquisition, deserters from Oliver Cromwell’s army Jamaica, slaves, and shipwrecked sailors.

We can tell you that the majority of Caymanians are of African and British descent, with considerable interracial mixing. Afterward, Great Britain took formal control of the Cayman Islands, along with Jamaica, under the Treaty of Madrid in 1670. Following several unsuccessful attempts, permanent settlement of the Islands began in the 1730s.

The Cayman Islands historically have been popular as a tax-exempt destination. And also, legend has it that Caymanians in 1788 rescued the crews of a Jamaican merchant ship convoy that had struck a reef at gun bay and that the Caymanians were rewarded with King George III’s promise never again to impose any tax.

And as of today, the Cayman Islands, initially administered as a dependency of Jamaica, became an independent colony in 1959. However, they now are a self-governing British Overseas Territory. So, you can travel to the Cayman Islands as you wish, but it’s quite essential to follow our guide to know more.

7 Interesting Things to do in the Cayman Islands

Well, there are many things to do or explore in the Cayman Islands. In fact, many expats will tell you that just sitting anywhere or under a palm tree or from a hotel balcony watching the waves hit the shore is good for them. But, more than anywhere else, you’’ enjoy your stay in Grand Cayman, a perfect spot for a true vacation. Are you planning to live in the Cayman Islands but don’t know where to explore? Check it out!

1.    Visiting the Rum Point

This is one of the first places to take into consideration. Also, we can tell you that there’s a lot of recreation here. Not only is that, but you’ll also see an open-air waterfront restaurant, gift shop, ample lounging space, and many others, to mention a few. Moreover, it’s busiest when cruise ships are in port at Grand Cayman.

2.    Cayman Turtle Centre

The Cayman Turtle Center, also known as the Cayman Turtle Farm, is another popular cruise excursion. Per Sarah, this changed dramatically after Hurricane Ivan. Still, before that, it was an intimate experience that allowed you to get close with turtles while also sharing information about their conservation. Now, the experience is more touristy.

3.    Starfish Point

This location is listed as a hidden gem in just about every Grand Cayman travel guide. In this cruise arena, you’ll definitely see a variety of Jet Ski and boat tours that stop here and absolutely pack during the day. This doesn’t mean we do not recommend it, but it has even made it to our top 5 list.

4.    Exploring the Mile Beach

Another place to put into consideration is Mile beach. Sublime Seven Mile Beach frequently graces lists of the best beaches in the Caribbean, known for good reasons. Not only is that, but fringed with casuarinas and coconut palms, this ravishing sweep of flour-soft sand and turquoise sea is the kind of place you dream about.

Despite its name, this mile beach is only about 5.5 miles, but even with cruise ship passengers flocking to its shores, this broad stretch of beach provides a peaceful patch of sand for everyone.

5.    Stingray City

If you’d love to experience part of the best places in the Cayman Islands, it’s no doubt that this is among the best. Anyone with a fear of stingrays will be cured after this trip. Besides, the stingray city is one of the most famous shallow water snorkels and dive sites in the Caribbean and one of Grand Cayman’s top tourist attractions.

In spite of that, custom-built boats zip out to a shallow sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear water where you can feed, kiss, and cuddle these satiny creatures. So, if you’re a little frightened to touch them, you can kneel on the sandy bottom and just watch in awe as these gentle creatures glide all around you.

6.    Diving in the Cayman Islands

Surrounded by reefs, the Cayman Islands are one of the best diving destinations in the Caribbean. Best of all, we can tell you that many of the top sites lie only minutes from shore. And that’s why diving highlights include diverse coral formations, grottos, caverns, tunnels, steep walls, and the visibility is typically excellent. Also, off Grand Cayman, the stingray city is one of the most famous shallow dives in the world.

7.    Exploring the Atlantis Submarines

Atlantis submarines offer a chance for you to experience the underwater world without getting wet. Not only is that, but this 48-passenger submarine plunges to depths of 30 meters, where you can peer through the submarine’s large viewing windows at kaleidoscopic vistas. Aside from this fact, tropical fish, shallow reefs, underwater canyons, and even shipwrecks are just some of the sights to enjoy.

3 Reasons to Explore the Cayman Islands in 2021

We know how hard it is when it comes to traveling to a new country or deciding on a holiday. As of today, there are so many options to choose from and so many factors to think about. So, have you been wondering where to stay or what to do? Remember, you need to know exactly why you’d love to visit this country. In this section, we have compiled the reasons to explore the Cayman Islands. Check it out now!

Cayman Beaches

The Cayman beaches are one of the first things that’d tempt you to visit this British territory. This is solely because; it’s home to some of the best beaches in the world. And in fact, seven Mile Beach, as said earlier, is consistently voted one of the Traveller’s Choice awards. Here, you can experience the soft white sand and calm while it is the perfect place to enjoy your hours in Grand Cayman.

Weather and Nature

The average temperature in the Cayman Islands is certainly known to be 28°C. So, it is perfect for a spot of year-round sunshine, and January is the coolest month with temperatures around 25°C. Besides, the warm trade winds providing a gentle breeze could bless your day while living in the Cayman Islands.

However, there are several nature-based activities to enjoy in this British territory. These range from bird watching at the islands ‘sanctuaries to kayaking through mangroves. During this period, you can learn more about the different flora and fauna. Not only is that, but if you’re a naturalist, you’ll love the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park where the rare, indigenous Blue Iguana roams, and many others, to mention a few.

Food and Cayman Brac

Cayman Island is proud to be known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Moreover, it is also seen as the haven for foodie. In fact, you can enjoy fresh seafood, vibrant flavors, and a strong farm. Aside from enjoying Cayman’s food, a mere 30-minute flight from Grand Cayman to Cayman Brac could grace your day. This is because; it has a lighthouse located at the end of the Bluff to provide spectacular views of the cliffs and ocean.

Frequently Asked Questions about Living in the Cayman Islands

Can I just move to the Cayman Islands without preparation?

We can tell you confidently that the answer is no! Moving to Cayman Island requires planning ahead and preparing for a new lifestyle. Besides, it’s an opportunity to live on a Caribbean island with fabulous beaches, a low crime rate, a standard of living different from your home country, and many others.

Is the Cayman Islands a good place to live?

As of the time of writing this article, we can tell you that the Cayman Islands is recognized for offering one of the highest living standards in the world. With that being said, modern infrastructure, well-appointed grocery stores, reliable utilities, and communications and quality residential properties all contribute to the ease of living in the Cayman Islands.

Can expats buy property in the Cayman Islands?

Of course, you can buy property in the Cayman Islands. Again, we can tell you that the process of buying property in the Cayman Islands is relatively straightforward. Here, the government guarantees the right of ownership of each parcel of land. Moreover, there are no restrictions on foreign ownership of a single property, and there’s no income, capital gains, or even property tax.

How long can I live in the Cayman Islands?

After having been legally and ordinarily residents in the Islands for eight years, you may apply for permanent residence at any time before the end of nine years. This means; as long as you continue to be legally and ordinarily be a resident of this British Territory, you can live without disturbance from any uniform men or by any government agencies. So, be rest assured that living in Cayman is quite easy.

Conclusion

You shouldn’t expect a stressful life when relocating or living in the Cayman Islands. And for the fact that these Islands are known for their tropical climate, pleasurable way of life, and stunning beaches, the benefits of living in this territory cannot be overemphasized. So, make your trip now, and enjoy a wonderful moment in the Caribbean nation.