The Cayman Islands offers a range of attractions, activities and dining experiences sure to please any discerning traveler. Just an hour from Miami, Cayman is made up of three islands — Grand
Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac each an unparalleled and a one of the best tropical vacation spots in the Caribbean.From fine dining, spas and horseback riding to hiking and prolific dive sites, there’s a diversity of activities.
In the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,” epicureans can indulge in the 6th annual Cayman Cookout, a weekend-long event (Jan. 16-19, 2014) hosted by chef Eric Ripert of the acclaimed
Le Bernardin (New York) and Blue by Eric Ripert at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. The event rings together renowned chefs, wine connoisseurs and spirits enthusiasts. Visitors can also experience the 26th Taste of Cayman (Feb. 8, 2014), a showcase of delicious offerings by local restaurateurs, where guests can sample tasty treats and beverages while enjoying chef demonstrations and live music.
For a unique cultural celebration, join the festivities
surrounding the Cayman Carnival Batabano (May 1-3, 2014) and Junior Parade and Family Fun Day (April 26, 2014). This lively event features a kaleidoscope of music and dance reflecting the region’s cultural melting pot.
Don’t miss the excitement of the annual Pirates Week festivities (Nov. 6-16, 2014), where revelers can take part in street dances,
heritage days and a fun-flled foat parade. For true immersion in the Cayman culture, visitors can participate in Cayman Thanksgiving (starting the Friday preceding the frst Sunday
in December), which captures the soul of Caymanian music, fare and fun.
Guests will enjoy Cayman’s vast underwater world, with more than 365 dive sites available for exploration. From snorkeling off the shores of famous Seven Mile Beach to Stingray City, adventures await. For more information on this destination, visit caymanislands.ky
GRAND CAYMAN
Seven Mile Beach is Grand Cayman’s gold ring.
But this grand arc of sand and water varies. The section in front of Plantana is, as TripAdvisor reviewers rate it, “just right.” The stretch has a wide band of “spotless” white sand and is near
happening areas with water sports, yet is blissfully quiet, reviewers exclaim. Adding to the justifications for the condo hotel’s 2013 Certificate of Excellence are “very comfortable and roomy” accommodations, a friendly staff who add “personal touches” like welcome and departing gifts and provide “immaculate housekeeping” services, a “private swimming pool with abundant lounge chairs,” and restaurants a “short walk” away.
As a condo hotel, Plantana is comprised of homey, furnished, well-equipped apartments with kitchens housed in low-rise, three-story buildings. The complex has lush landscaping, a welcoming pool, and barbecue areas on the beach and in the gardens. Families, couples and groups of friends gather at Plantana to enjoying the tranquility of the space along with coveted amenities.
404-474-4344, plantanacayman.com
Drop off the grid even farther at The Reef, a family- owned resort located on Grand Cayman’s quiet East End. The Reef, “Home of the Ultimate Island Vacation,” not only has a private 1,600-foot stretch of white beach, but also promises sea views from every studio and one- or two-bedroom suite.
The Reef is both intimate and grand, with personal service amid three landscaped pools, two beach swimming areas, a full-service spa, a restaurant and a beach bar. A concierge will help plan your stay and arrange a rental car. And all guests are free to enjoy the property’s beach-volleyball court, bicycles, offshore snorkeling and scheduled activities.
Stay at The Reef a la carte, or opt for an allinclusive
package. You can choose from three meals a day with soft drinks or enjoy the unlimited-meals option that includes all your drinks, including top-shelf alcohol, tax and tip. The Reef is regarded as one of the best tropical vacation spots in the Caymans.