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The Cayman Islands offer modern infrastructure, great political stability, amazing food and culture, and sunny, warm weather year-round.
But did you know these facts about the islands?
Columbus, the First European to Discover the Islands, Had a Different Name in Mind
When Christopher Columbus became the first European to sight the Cayman Islands in 1503, he called the islands “Las Tortugas,” or “The Turtles,” as a result of the turtles he saw swimming about. The Cayman Islands later became a center of Caribbean turtle trade.
The Cayman Islands Are Home to Nearly 200 Shipwrecks
While the MV Captain Keith Tibbetts and the USS Kittiwake may be among the most famous, the Cayman Islands are home to nearly 200 shipwrecks, including the wrecks of the Balboa, Pallas, and Oro Verde.
Seven Mile Beach Is Only 5.5 Miles Long
Don’t let that stop you from investing there, though, as Seven Mile Beach offers stunning sights and scenes and is home to some of Grand Cayman’s most exclusive upscale communities.
Cayman Islands Currency Is Tied to the US Dollar and Does Not Fluctuate
The Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD) exchanges at a rate of 1:1.25 USD and never fluctuates. Also, banks are widely dispersed across the islands.
No Electrical Adapters Are Needed
The Cayman Islands use 110V electricity and Type A and B electrical outlets, just like in America. If you’re traveling there from the states, you won’t need any special adapters.
Most Businesses Are Closed on Sunday
Most businesses are closed on Sunday in the Cayman Islands, so don’t expect to do your shopping then. Only some essential businesses, like gas stations and hotels, remain open.
They Drive on the Left
Remember, the Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory, so they drive on the left. But, if you’re coming from an applicable country and have a driver’s license and proof of insurance, you won’t need any other additional special dispensation to drive there.
The Cayman Islands Are Home to a Semi Precious Gem
Never heard of Caymanite? It’s a real gem, and it’s formed from the accretion and compaction of dolomite, calcite, and aragonite. It’s an exceptionally hard gem that is difficult to work, but its soft, warm, striated earth tones are worth the effort.
The Cayman Islands Are Only About a Third the Size of New York City
At just under 102 square miles (101.9 to be exact) the Cayman Islands are just about a third the size of New York City (302.6 square miles).
But don’t let that small size fool you. The Cayman Islands are rich in natural and historical heritage and are a cultural center of the Caribbean.
The Cayman Islands Do Not Levy Any Restrictions on Foreign Ownership of Land
One more interesting fact about the Cayman Islands is that the government has not levied any restrictions on foreign ownership of land and it can be held not only in the name of an individual but also by a corporation.
Make It Home: Work with a Cayman Real Estate Company
If the above facts surprised you and you’re thinking about investing there (or making the islands home) then working with an experienced, credible Cayman real estate company is an imperative.
Work with a member of CIREBA like Crighton Properties, who has been helping buyers navigate the proverbial waters for over 50 years.
Since the 1970s, Crighton Properties has served as a resident expert on Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac. To get started exploring residential and commercial opportunities in the Cayman Islands, contact this Cayman real estate company today.
