Cayman Culture

With a population of about 55,000, the Cayman Islands are often regarded as the safest islands to visit and its people, the friendliest in the Caribbean. Each island has its’ own personality. From the cosmopolitan energy of Grand Cayman to the adventurousness of Cayman Brac, to the tranquil atmosphere on Little Cayman, you can always count on warm hospitality and genuine concern for your personal enjoyment.

Our streets and beaches are hassle-free. You will have the freedom to just wander around and after spending just a few hours on our beloved islands, you’re bound to fall in love with its natural beauty and the kindness of its people.

Traditionally, Cayman is a tight-knit community of natives and long-term residents who have integrated seamlessly into the local population. While most Caymanians have lived on the islands for several generations, we also have many long-term residents have come to reside here because of their love for the islands and its people. Over the few decades, the islands’ centuries-old tradition of Caymanians all knowing each other, has given way to a melting pot of diverse nationalities. Due to this diversity, whenever a Caymanian meets someone he is unfamiliar with, he is bound to ask the ever-popular question:

"Who you fa?" (hoo – yoo – fah) a.k.a. “Who you belongs ta?” Definition: 1. Who are you, and who are your parents, siblings, grandparents, etc.? 2. To which family do you belong?

History

On May 10, 1503 Christopher Columbus was on his fourth and final voyage to the New World when a chance wind blew his ship off course.  Intending to sail to Hispaniola (present day Haiti and the Dominican Republic), he was thrust westward toward "two very small and low islands, full of tortoises (turtles), as was all the sea all about, insomuch that they looked like little rocks.” Click here to read more

Traditions

The splendor of the Cayman Islands goes deeper than the scenery.  Take a look around and you’ll see one of the most vibrant and inviting cultures in the world. When you’re not enjoying the serenity listen to the local music sweetly filling the air. Stroll through George Town at any pace you like. Click here to read more

Food

Anything you can make with conch, coconut, plantain, cassava, yams, rice and peas, tuna, snapper, mangos and mahi, has been prepared in the Cayman Islands.  Traditional dishes include conch stew, Cayman-style beef, and an old fashioned fish fry. Many of these traditional dishes have inspired unique recipies that can be found in our restaurants. Click here to read more

Music

Enjoy a nice walk on your Cayman Islands holiday and you may be surprised when your hips start to swing to a soothing rhythm.  What you hear is a traditional Cayman Kitchen Band, ringing out warm notes in step with the Caymanian spirit.  The soul of jazz is important to the musical tradition here, as is the happiness of calypso and the message of reggae.. Click here to read more

Art & Architecture

Cayman’s artistic traditions are strong and growing stronger.  For centuries, artists have strived to capture the vibrancy of the people and the beauty of the seas in simple, yet appealing paintings based on various hues found naturally in Cayman  Many independent galleries dot the islands, offering a rich insight on the influences that create Cayman style.. Click here to read more

Maritime Heritage

Completely surrounded by some of the deepest waters in the world, the sea was an intrinsic part of life for early Caymanians.  For about two hundred years, most Caymanians survived on the fruits of the sea. Bordered by gorgeous reefs teeming with marine life, Caymanians made catboats to go fishing at these nearby reefs and were recognised as master shipbuilders. Click here to read more