Cayman Islands are one of the safest Caribbean destinations and have the highest HDI (human development index) in the region. When traveling to the islands be sure to visit the 7-mile beach and the stingray city for an amazing experience. Although generally safe the island may have some unpleasantries.

Travelling info

To enter the Cayman islands by air the visitors will be required to present a valid passport, immigration card, and customs declaration card which will be given to you by the plane crew. Canadian citizens are not required to present a passport but are required to present some form of identification. Visitors traveling by a cruise are not required to obtain a Visa. (official requirements in sources). When it comes to driving the visitors are allowed to use their national driver’s permit for up to 3 months and after that time they must either transfer to Cayman drivers permit or obtain an IDP (international driver’s permit). IDP holders must beware that it does not substitute for the original driving permit and must always be complemented by it. Take note that Cayman Islanders use the left-hand side of the road to drive.

Travelling hazards

Roads are in very good condition and it is easy to navigate around without using a GPS or maps due to good signage of the roads which are also very well lit. Locals drive well and are polite on the road. The biggest problem witnessed on Cayman roads is probably the traffic jams during rush hours.

Environmental hazards

The Cayman Islands take its name from the once large population of crocodiles that have drastically decreased now however it is the host to two species of these large reptiles. The American crocodile and Cuban crocodile both inhabit the island in small numbers. Although crocodile attacks on people are extremely rare it is advised not to come close to these creatures. Except for the large reptiles the only land animals to be of any danger are the centipedes and spiders which both have a nasty venom that can be deadly to infants and elderly however the brown recluse spider will not attack unless harmed unlike the centipede which is a highly aggressive creature and will attack you if such chance arises. Like most of the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands waters are full of different kinds of creatures with some to definitely avoid. The lionfish which recently began to inhabit the waters of the Caribbean will not attack you unless harmed. This fish has nasty spikes that cause extreme pain and sometimes even paralysis. As anywhere else swimming at dusk is not advised as some larger fish such as shark is mostly active at that time however the most common shark to be seen around the Caymans is the nurse shark which is considered to be the least aggressive species.
Like all of the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands experience the cyclone season that begins in June and ends in November. During that time there is a chance of hurricanes which may cause minimal or catastrophic damage to the entire island.

Health hazards

There are no vaccines required upon entry however the standard vaccinations such as routine vaccines aka MMR vaccines, Hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies vaccines are recommended. The healthcare is on the same level as any European system. There are 3 modern hospitals with advanced equipment. 2 of these are private and one of them is public however visitors should purchase health insurance or be able to pay for their own treatments. George Town hospital is responsible for all the emergencies.
In case of an emergency dial 911.

Crime

Although the crime rate has risen in the Cayman Islands it is still considerably lower than any other place in the Caribbean. Most commonly committed crimes are theft and burglary however these happen less often than in the rest of the region. The local police force has the appropriate means to respond to any type of crime with usually a successful outcome. However treat your stay here like you would in any other place, leave most your valuable in the hotel, do not carry excessive amounts with you and wear a money belt to ensure you won’t be pickpocketed. Drugs of any kind are illegal and highly punishable.

Summary

The Cayman Islands for its size hosts a massive amount of visitors mainly due to the fact that it is the safest and most well-developed spot with some of the best beaches in the world. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visas)
http://www.caymanislands.ky/planatrip/travelrequirements.aspx
(Crime)
https://www.numbeo.com/crime/country_result.jsp?country=Cayman+Islands
(Driving permit exchange)
http://www.dvdl.gov.ky/portal/page/portal/vlthome/drivers/foreigndrivers
(Vaccines)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/cayman-islands