Grand Cayman

Photo credit: Digital Vision

The largest of the three islands and a real diving mecca, Grand Cayman has become one of the hottest tourist destinations in the Caribbean in recent years. With more than 500 banks, its capital, George Town, is the offshore banking center of the Caribbean (no problems finding an ATM here!). Retirees are drawn to the peace and tranquillity of this British Crown colony, site of a major condominium development. Almost all the Cayman Islands' population of 32,000 live on Grand Cayman. The civil manners of the locals reflect their British heritage.

Despite the emergence of Grand Cayman as a major tourism destination in the 1990s, don't go to the Cayman Islands expecting fast-paced excitement. Island life focuses on the sea. Snorkelers will find a paradise, beach lovers will relish the powdery sands of Seven Mile Beach, but party-hungry travelers in search of urban thrills might be disappointed. Come to slow down and relax.

The Caymans, 773km (479 miles) due south of Miami, consist of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. Despite its name, Grand Cayman is only 35km (22 miles) long and 13km (8 miles) across at its widest point. The other islands are considerably smaller, of course, and contain very limited tourist facilities, in contrast to well-developed Grand Cayman. George Town on Grand Cayman is the capital and is therefore the hub of government, banking, and shopping.

English is the official language of the islands, although it's often spoken with an English slur mixed with an American southern drawl and a lilting Welsh accent.

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