Family by design: Program connects kids with volunteer ‘grandmothers’

The Cayman Islands are a trio of islands in the western Caribbean (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman) known for being a high-end travel destination and a global powerhouse in offshore finance. As of early 2026, the islands are experiencing a major tourism boom, with record-breaking visitor numbers and a growing reputation for “relaxed authenticity” over flashy spectacle. ### The Three Islands * **Grand Cayman:** The largest and most populous. It houses the capital, **George Town**, and the world-famous **Seven Mile Beach** (which is actually about 6.3 miles long). It’s the hub for luxury resorts, fine dining, and the “Stingray City” sandbar. * **Cayman Brac:** Known for “The Bluff,” a massive limestone outcrop that rises to 140 feet. It is a magnet for hikers, birdwatchers, and divers seeking shipwrecks. * **Little Cayman:** The quietest of the three, with a population of only a few hundred. it is home to **Bloody Bay Wall**, often cited as one of the best diving spots in the world. ### Economy & Lifestyle The Cayman Islands boast one of the highest standards of living in the world, fueled by two main pillars: * **Financial Services:** It is the fifth-largest banking center globally. There is **no direct taxation** (no income, corporate, or capital gains tax), making it a “tax-neutral” jurisdiction. * **High Cost of Living:** Because almost everything is imported, prices for groceries and utilities are significantly higher than in the U.S. or UK. * **Safety:** It is consistently ranked as one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. ### 2026 Travel & Trends * **Winter Momentum:** The 2025–2026 winter season has seen record stayover arrivals, particularly from the U.S. and Canada. * **Culinary Capital:** Often called the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean,” it hosts the famous **Cayman Cookout** every January, featuring world-renowned chefs. * **Sustainability Focus:** The government is currently implementing environmental initiatives, including a recent push to manage the feral chicken population and protect the endemic **Blue Iguana**. ### Fast Facts | Category | Detail | | — | — | | **Status** | British Overseas Territory | | **Currency** | Cayman Islands Dollar ($1 KYD = $1.20 USD) | | **Driving** | Left side of the road | | **Official Language** | English | | **Highest Point** | The Bluff on Cayman Brac (approx. 43m/141ft) | **Would you like me to help you plan a 5-day itinerary for Grand Cayman, or perhaps look into the specific residency requirements for moving there?** #caymanislands #Cayman #caymangt4 #grandcayman #grandcaymanislands #littlecayman