Cayman Islands FAQ

The uniqueness of the Cayman Islands brings to our mind a number of questions beyond well know facts that make this a restful and exciting area, one of the top Caribbean destinations with highest standards of living and very low unemployment. The following are the most common enquiries.

► Where are the Cayman Islands located?
Cayman Islands are situated just 290 km (180 miles) northwest of Jamaica, 240 km (150 miles) south of Cuba, and around 770 km (480 miles) south of Miami, in the western Caribbean Sea.

► How many islands form the Cayman Islands?
They are composed of 3 islands, Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.

► Are there any other small islands associated to these?
No, however the 3 islands are divided in 7 districts: Bodden Town, Cayman Brac, East End, George Town, Little Cayman, North Side, and West Bay, each with different characteristics.

► Are the Islands plenty of Caymans?
The name of Caymans Islands came after the first settlers who found crocodiles and lizards. Today, the National Trust has named 3 natural Islands’ symbols, and none of them is related to crocodiles. The national bird is the Cayman parrot, the natural flower is the wild banana orchid, and the silver thatch palm is the national tree

► How is the weather in Cayman Islands?
Weather is generally nice and mild. The climate features trade winds and average temperatures of 80º Fahrenheit from May to October. During the winter, temperatures remain near 75º Fahrenheit, while water temperature ranges from 80° to 85° Fahrenheit throughout the year.

► Should I expect storms and hurricanes, since it is a tropical area?
Phenomena affecting the atmosphere are not 100% predictable anywhere. At the Islands the annual rainfall averages 46 inches, being October the month with higher rain precipitation, and the driest months are March and April.

► What is the time zone of the Islands?
Eastern Standard Time (-5 GMT)

► Who leads the government of the Islands?
A Governor appointed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, remember that Cayman Islands are a British Dependent Territory.

► What is the capital city of Cayman Islands?
The capital is George Town, situated in Grand Cayman, the largest of the 3 Cayman Islands.

► What language is spoken in the Islands?
The official language is English, spoken with a strong dialectal of Scottish, Irish or Jamaican accent. There are also minorities who speak Caribbean Spanish.

► Are these Islands heavily populated?
The Cayman Islands has nearly 33,600 inhabitants, and about one third of the Islands’ global population lives in George Town.

► Besides tourism, is there any other economic activity?
In fact, tourism is the biggest industry of the Cayman Islands, but economy includes also banks and insurance companies as top income generators.

► Are there any special requirements to visit the Islands?
American citizens must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship and a through or return ticket. The requirements for citizens from other countries may vary.

► What type of identity proof is needed?
It is enough with your passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers.

► Are there restrictions that I should I know?
Yes, purchasing turtle products is absolutely forbidden. In addition, turtle products are not allowed into the U.S. There are several environmental restrictions to keep in mind, including live plants, raw fruits and vegetables. Like in other countries, illegal drugs, spear guns and firearms are strictly prohibited.

► How long can I stay at Cayman Islands?
All visits are limited up to 6 months. When the visit is over, visitors must pay $10 US departure tax.

► What is the currency used in the Islands?
All of the 3 island share the same currency, the Cayman Island Dollar which has a fixed exchange rate of CI$1.00 equals US$1.25. (CI$.80 = US$1.00). Despite CI Dollar is worth more than U.S. dollar, the American currency is widely accepted and the most popular tourist destinations quote in both currencies.

► Then, should I negotiate in American Dollars or Caymanian dollars?
This questions can only be answered by the service provider, just make sure your are talking about the same currency to avoid confusing situations.

► Would a visit to Cayman Islands disconnect me?
In terms of telecommunications, the answer is no. Cayman Islands have a worldwide direct dialing system, providing phone, telex and fax services, including dial up and High Speed Internet (broadband). Electricity is not a problem either: 110 Volts/60 Cycles AC time.

► Are public transportation facilities available?
Yes, ranging from mini-buses and vans to chartered taxis and car rentals. All fares are fixed and posted publicly. Many of the buses are privately owned, and there are scooters, bicycles and mopeds for rent.

► Is my actual driving license valid to rent a car in Cayman Islands?
Car rentals must be reserved with anticipations and a local driving permit is required, presenting a valid driving license, if you are over 21 years old.

► How much does the permit cost?
Local permits cost $5 USD, and can be obtained either at the car rental agency or the police station. Driving in Cayman Islands in on the left, but because of the European influence, there are both right hand and left hand driving vehicles available for your convenience. Mention your preference at the time you make a reservation.

► What about air transportation?
Grand Cayman’s airport is only an hour flight from Miami, and locally there are many connecting flights between Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. The flight time is 45 minutes on average.

► Are tips included in airport services?
No, most tips and taxes in this and many other facilities or services are not included, except in restaurants that automatically add a 15% service gratuity to your bill. However, you can always ask if tips and taxes are included.

► Are night activities available at Cayman Islands?
Yes, particularly in Grand Cayman, with dozens of comedy clubs, concerts and theater performances. All the islands have many clubs and discos to dance with the rhythm of calypso, reggae, salsa, and merengue.