So much to love about the Caribbean. If it weren’t worth the love affair, some of the world’s most popular musicians would have to write about something else. The sun and the sea play the starring roles in these island dramas.
It was spring break for my young children, and it was April. Perfect time to head for warmer weather if you are from Baltimore, MD. Our maritime culture, though strong, gives way to seasonal ebb and flow (pun intended). We had a few criteria. 1. Short(ish) Flight. 2. Sun and Beach. 3. Interesting Things to See and Do. I like to sink my toes into the sand and hunker down with a good book like the rest of them, but I don’t like feeling like I am on a deserted island with nothing but sand by day and night. [I know you are thinking that I’m crazy, but I like to DO STUFF.]
A week on Grand Cayman, the largest of The Cayman Islands, fit the bill (speaking of the bill, it’s expensive here, so don’t plan on pinching pennies). We stayed at an awfully pretentious sounding hotel on Seven Mile Beach that I would not recommend, so I won’t give them press here. However, there’s plenty of fun to be had wherever you stay and getting out on the water should be first on your list. There are also scads of great restaurants, so don’t just eat at your hotel. Ask around. Take a cab if you must. It will be worth it.
Our family thought these worthy of recommendation:
Sting Ray City
Book a tour to swim with the rays at Sting Ray City. It’s a great opportunity to get out on the water, to get t0 know these amazing creatures up close and personal and to do some fine snorkeling too! I booked through Red Sail Sports.
Our kids were ages 7 and 9 at the time so we decided to spend the day here. It was definitely worth it, but keep in mind the entire facility, while well run and interesting and fun, is not the most well maintained “theme park.” The kids were able to handle live turtles, learn all about all the different types of turtles and have fun in the water. We ate lunch there and the food was decent and you can get alcoholic beverages and lounge by the pool. We opted to hop onto the public bus from our hotel and skip the cab. The bus is a couple dollars and cab rides in Grand Cayman are quite expensive.
This is a great place to learn about the indigenous creatures like the Blue Iguana and what threatens their survival.
Our family of 4 had a great evening out at this popular restaurant on the water. Make reservations. We sat outside on the deck on the water. It was a bit windy, so keep in mind your hair might be blowing in your face if it’s long and not tied back. Wonderful meal, but not the most attentive server. Good thing we weren’t in a hurry. Island life.
I think this was the best meal we ate in Cayman. The food was delicious, very authentic Italian. The staff is super friendly and allowed our kids to check out their resident birds.
Global Staci 