Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands are a peaceful British Overseas Territory in the western Caribbean. The island country consists of Grand Cayman, the largest and most populous island, and Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, which lie roughly 89 miles east-northeast of Grand Cayman. The three islands are the tops of an undersea mountain range called the Cayman Ridge. Due to the porous nature of the limestone rock that the islands are formed from, they lack rivers and streams. The fact that there's no runoff gives the surrounding Caribbean Sea spectacular visibility, often over 120 ft. Combine this with the healthy coral reefs that lie close to the shore and the beautiful sun-kissed beaches, and it's easy to see why the islands are an ideal location for diving, snorkeling, and sportfishing. Grand Cayman is the home of nearly all of the islands' rental villas, with a plethora of activities and points of interest and all the modern conveniences to make your stay comfortable. George Town, the capital city, boasts some of the finest dining and shopping in the Caribbean.
Population
roughly 45,436 (2006 est.)
Size
262 square kilometers or 100 square miles
Highest Point
The Bluff (Cayman Brac) 43 m
Currency
While the Cayman Islands has its own currency, the Cayman Islands dollar, it is not necessary to exchange your US dollars into CI dollars when visiting. The CI dollar has a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar: CI$1.00 equals US$1.25 or US$1.00 equals CI$0.80. Most retailers quote their prices in both CI$ and US$, and you can pay in either currency. Be prepared to receive change in CI$. Major credit cards (except Discover) are also widely accepted.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements vary for each destination; it is your responsibility to verify you have the correct documents prior to travel. After 31 December 2006 a valid passport is required for travel to all the Caribbean and Mexico.
Time Zone
Cayman Islands Standard Time is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-5). Cayman Islands Time does not operate Daylight-Saving Time.
Driving
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road in the Cayman Islands.
Voltage
The Cayman Islands use the same electrical standards as the USA - 110 volts, 60 Hz.
Language:
English is the primary language.