Christopher Columbus discovered this island south of Cuba in 1503, and the Spanish influence was felt strongly here for the next century and a half. It was originally called "Tortugas," the Spanish word for turtle, because of its abundance of the creatures. When Spain ceded the island to England in 1670, and, along with Jamaica, became part of what became known as the British West Indies.
Grand Cayman has a rowdy, romantic past. Its early denizens were routinely subject to run-ins with pirates and the buccaneer ships that marauded through the warm Caribbean waters. The early Spaniards spent a lot of time defending the area from invaders, and skirmishes continued under British rule as well.
Today, Grand Cayman is subject to pleasant invasions of tourists and sun seekers who come to enjoy its restful island charm. The climate is temperate, and winter is dry season, making it an ideal place for northern country denizens to get a break from the snow and ice. Air temperatures average between 78 and 90, depending on the time of year, and the waters are always comfortably warm.
Scuba diving is a popular water activity for visitors, and there are many commercial companies to choose from on Grand Cayman and her sister islands of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Much of the coastline is ruggedly beautiful, and divers cruising the shoreline can enjoy the amazing sights both in and out of the waters.
The capital city is Georgetown. It boasts a medical school, great shopping for everyone, art galleries, and an active night life. Although the island's economy is largely tourism driven, it is also supported by the international banking business.
Banking aside, fun is still the order of the day in this tropical paradise. The island hosts a Rio-styled carnival in the winter and, true to its roots, puts on a Pirate Festival in the late fall. So no matter what season you care to visit, you are sure to enjoy beautiful weather, friendly people, and a rip roaring good time.
There are plenty of places to stay, from hotels to luxurious condos to glorious villas by the sea. Imagine having breakfast on the balcony of your rental condo, with a lovely view of the clear waters and sandy beaches!
If you are considering a Caribbean vacation, take a look at Grand Cayman Island. It is a pearl in the middle of the ocean that is just beginning to come into its own.
If you plan to visit and stay on Grand Cayman Island are would like to get Cayman rental information, visit the beautiful properties at www.grandcaymanvillas.net (http://www.grandcaymanvillas.net/). Art Gib is a freelance writer.
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