Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands were colonized from Jamaica by the British during the 18th and 19th centuries. Administered by Jamaica from 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 2.19 million in 2006, although the vast majority of visitors arrive for single day cruise ship visits (1.93 million). 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. The Cayman Islands are one of the richest islands not only in the Caribbean but in the world.

Climate

Tropical marine. Warm, rainy summers (May to October) and cool, Great vacation spot, relatively dry winters (November to April). In 2004 the Cayman Islands, and especially Grand Cayman, were hit hard by Hurricane Ivan.

Landscape

Low-lying limestone base surrounded by coral reefs. Highest point: The Bluff on Cayman Brac, at 43 meters (141 ft).

• The Cayman Islands is a very low-crime area.
• Hurricanes are possible from June through November.
• The Cayman Islands is not a safe place for Gay and Lesbian Toruists. The Island has been known for protests against arrival of gay cruises, and some gay cruises are forced to turn away from the Islands after the government refuse to let them dock. It is best to avoid Cayman Islands as a destination if you are gay or lesbian.

• Many locals won't eat barracuda because it is likely that it is poisonous. Be aware that. Other reef fish (groupers, amberjack, red snappers, eel, sea bass, and Spanish mackerel) are not likely to cause ciguatera (fish poisoning).
• No natural fresh water resources; drinking water supplies are met by desalination plants and rainwater catchments.
• Make sure you have sunscreen on if you plan on walking around town. It is sunny all year.