Cayman Islands info
A short overview of the Cayman Islands
Located in the Northwestern Caribbean Sea are the Cayman Islands, known as the “Little Switzerland” of the western hemisphere. Its geographical location proves be a perfect locale for vacationers and business travelers alike. The Cayman Islands are situated approximately 480 miles south of Miami, Florida and approximately 180 west of Jamaica.
The Cayman Islands are made up three islands, Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. These islands are limestone peaks of a submerged mountain ridge; in fact, the islands are surrounded by a protective coral reef – then drops to depths in excess of 6000sq ft, making the islands a premier diving destination in the world.
The total area is about 100 sq miles – the largest is Grand Cayman, about 22 miles by 8 miles with the highest point being only 60 ft above sea level, Cayman Brac is next at 14sq miles and then Little Cayman at 12 square miles. Approximately 53,000 people live here – less than half that are native Caymanians. The Cayman Islands population are split evenly between native Caymanians and expatiate workers from all corners of the globe. There is a true sense of friendliness and international taste throughout the Cayman Islands – everyone seems to know each other and treat each other as good neighbors.
The Cayman Islands is a British Crown Colony, one of the few remaining of the once flourishing global British Empire. The Queen appoints a British Governor and there is a 15 member Legislative Assembly elected by the people every four years. The elected 15 then elect a five member Ministerial Cabinet who is responsible for the daily administration of the country. The Governor must normally take the advice of the Cabinet except in matters of defense, internal security, external affairs, police and civil service.
Temperatures are lowest in February ranging from 60 to 80F, rising to a maximum of close to 100F in July, August and September. Typically the mild rainy season runs June until October, usually consisting of a mid-afternoon shower most of the season. The average daily temperature is 85 degrees with not much variation between summer and winter months.
Drive on the left while you are in the Cayman Islands, and the seat belt law is in strict effect. The roads are very good in keeping with Cayman’s position in the world. A visitor will need a Visitor’s Driving Permit, which is easily obtained from the car rental agencies with proof of valid drivers license from the home country. Drinking and driving carries a heavy penalty. Authorities have a zero tolerance policy towards illegal drugs. The legal drinking age is 18 years.
The Cayman Islands has it’s own currency – the Cayman Island Dollar. Locally, prices (unless specified otherwise) are listed in CI$. The exchange rate is fixed to the US$ at US$1 = .80 CI dollars. In other words, US$10 is worth CI$8. There is no need to exchange US dollars for CI dollars as the US$ is accepted everywhere. Other international currencies can be exchanged at any bank.
Fourteen major airlines including the nation’s flag carrier, Cayman Airways service the Cayman Islands from North Central and South America – as well as Europe through London’s gateway Heathrow. There are also multiple inter-island flights servicing the three islands provided by Cayman Airways Express.
With low crime and an income of over US$35,000.00 per capita, the Cayman Islands is the richest country in the Caribbean. Though not really considered a ‘bona fide’ Caribbean Island because of its remote location it still boasts some of the world’s finest beaches and wonderful weather. Designer stores and fine dining restaurants equal or surpass those in any capital city in the world. The Cayman Islands, though being the fifth largest financial centre in the world does indeed have that Caribbean ‘laid – back’ pace of life.
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