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Cayman Islands IntroductionThe Cayman Islands are unique among the Caribbean islands. Island Hideaways' Cayman villa guests will find a quiet and restful destination which boasts the highest standard of living in the Caribbean. The Cayman Islands are well known as one of the top diving and fishing destinations in the world. If diving, snorkeling or fishing are on your list of desired activities, you should consider vacationing here.
Capital:
George Town, Grand Cayman
Language:
English is the official language. You will here it spoken with a "brogue" reminiscent of Scotland as well as with a Jamaican lilt.
Politics:
The Cayman Islands are a British Dependent Territory with a Governor who is appointed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Population:
33,600; about one third of the population lives in the George Town district. Residents enjoy a high standard of living and unemployment is very low.
Industry:
Banking, tourism and insurance industries top the island's economy.
Entry Requirements:
Proof of U.S. Citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization papers or passport) and a return or through ticket. Visits are limited to 6 months and there is a U.S.$10 departure tax. Firearms, spearguns and illegal drugs are strictly prohibited. Live plants, raw fruits and vegetables are tightly restricted. Do not purchase turtle products. You can not bring turtle products into the U.S.
Money:
The Cayman Islands are one of the few places in the Caribbean where the basic unit of exchange (in this case the Cayman Island Dollar) is worth more than the U.S. Dollar. The Cayman Island Dollar has a fixed exchange rate of CI$1.00 equals US$1.25. (CI$.80 = US$1.00) Because U.S. currency is so widely accepted, many prices are quoted in U.S. dollars. This can be very confusing - just be sure of the currency quoted when you are negotiating. Many restaurants will automatically add a 15% service gratuity to your bill; be sure to inquire if you are not sure if the tip has been included.
Natural Symbols:
The National Trust has named three natural symbols of The Cayman Islands: the Cayman parrot is the national bird, the wild banana orchid is the national flower, and the silver thatch palm is the national tree. Look for a new issue of stamps commemorating this event.
Communications:
Worldwide direct dialing system, telex and fax services. Effective September 1 1996, the area code for The Caymans is 345.
Electricity:
110 Volts/60 Cycles AC TIME - Eastern Standard Time year round
More Information:
Visit Caribbean Edge Magazine: Cayman Islands section. In the Caymans, pick up a copy of the KEY TO CAYMAN or What's Hot magazine for current local information. Friday's issue of the Caymanian Compass is a good place to find out "What's Happenin".
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