Quick Links: |
Contact Us for More Information | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CAYMAN ISLANDS The islands are the limestone outcroppings of an underwater mountain range called the Cayman Ridge. The islands have around 250 dive sites lavished with a plentitude of colorful fish, rays (Eagle and Sting), sea turtles, amazing wall diving, wrecks, beautiful coral reefs, and excellent visibility. The coral reefs offer magnificent black coral, along with a variety of sponges (giant barrel, elephant ear), and exciting swim-throughs. Click here for a map of the Cayman Islands Click here to see descriptions of available accommodations/liveaboards in the Cayman Islands TRAVEL TIPS/INFORMATION
Seasons/ Weather/Climate/Water Conditions
Hottest Months: July and August (85 to 90) The Caymans are tempered by tradewinds that create a tropical climate with average air temperatures around 80 F. Average water temperatures range from 76F to 80F, and water visibility varies around 130 ft most days, with better visibility in the sister islands. The climate is generally pleasant without extremes in temperatures. Lightweight clothing is suitable all year round.
Transportation There is no ferry service available between the islands. Taxis are available at the airport and all resorts, and generally have fixed rates to precise locations. In the alternative, you may choose to rent a car while in the Cayman's. When traveling by car in the Caymans, you will drive on the left hand side of the road. To rent a car, a valid national or international (English Language) driver's license is needed. If the driver's license is not in the English language, the visitor must carry a translation with the license. The rental company will issue a permit for the time that you are on the island at a rate of $7.50 (US). Some rental companies also have a minimum driver age of 21. Please note that a seat belt law is in effect which applies to every person in the vehicle including children.
Entry and Exit Requirements Beginning December 31, 2005, the United States will require a valid passport or other secure/accepted documents (Border Crossing Card, SENTRI, NEXUS or FAST cards) for re-entry of either U.S. Citizens, or legitimate foreign visitors/nationals. For more information and any updates on these new regulations visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html. For Specific Questions regarding entry into the Cayman Islands, please contact the Cayman Islands Department of Immigration at (345) 949-8052. Upon arrival, you will be issued a pink Immigration slip. You must redeem this slip with your other travel documents when departing. There is a $25.00 (US) departure tax for the Cayman Islands that is included in the price of your airline ticket.
Currency/Banks/Taxes The most commonly accepted credit cards are American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and their affiliates. Should you be using travelers checks during your stay in the Caymans, know that you will incur a 10% tax for cashing them in. Banks in the Caymans are normally open Mon. - Thurs 9.00 am to 4:00 pm, and Fri. from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) accepting VISA and MasterCard with Cirrus affiliation can be located at the Cayman National Bank, other larger banks, and at Owen Roberts International Airport.
Telephone/Cell Phone
Important long-distance access numbers include: While visiting the islands, you may choose to purchase a pre-paid phone card, which is available in values of CI$10, $15 and $30. These phone cards can be purchased at the Cable and Wire main office located in Anderson Square in George Town (Grand Cayman), or at the Cayman Brac post office and most services stations. Mobile phones are available for rent, or with prior set-up you could bring your own mobile phone with you. Cayman's mobile network is compatible with 800MHz Analogue or TDMA digital networks. Please contact your telecommunications carrier for activating international roaming while you are visiting the Cayman Islands.
Electricity
Medical Information
Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac have modern medical facilities available for your safety:
Grand Cayman Hospitals (open 24 hours a day): George Town Hospital & Hyperbaric Facility (345) 949 - 8600 (Hyperbaric ext. 2795), and Chrissie Tomlinson (345) 949 - 6066.
Shopping in the Caymans When shopping in the islands, avoid buying any black coral, or items made from the shell of the sea turtles as they are endangered species. Furthermore, customs officials in many countries will seize such items when not accompanied by a proper permit.
|