Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Grand Cayman? Grand Cayman is about 480 miles southwest of Miami. It is 150 miles southwest of Cuba. The Island is 22 miles long and 8 miles wide.

What airlines fly to the Cayman Islands? Many charters fly into Grand Cayman, as well as American, United, Continental, Northwest, Delta, and US Air.

What documents do I need to enter the Cayman Islands? A valid Passport is required to enter the Cayman Islands.

Can I use US dollars in the Cayman Islands? You can use US dollars anywhere on the island. In addition, most places will take Visa and Mastercard credit cards.

Is Grand Cayman Island safe? Grand Cayman is one of the safest places in the Caribbean. It is probably safer than where you live now. There is very little crime on the island. All laws are strictly enforced. DO NOT BRING OR USE ILLEGAL DRUGS.

Are there medical facilities on Grand Cayman Island? Yes, there is a modern hospital on the island. Grand Cayman has ambulance service. You call 911 for emergency service.

Is there anything I need to know about driving? There are lots of car rental places right at the airport. A temporary drivers license costs $7.00. You may want to consider getting insurance from the car rental company. Remember to drive on the LEFT side of the road. You will get used to it in no time.

Is there taxi service on Grand Cayman Island? Yes, there are taxis on the island. They are at the airport and most major hotels. To really enjoy your trip and the island, it is best to rent a car.

What is the weather like on Grand Cayman?

What should we wear? Cayman Islands is a "proper" British Crown Colony and is conservative by nature. Swim suits or scanty beach wear should be worn on the beach only. Neat , casual, and comfortable tropical attire is appropriate everywhere else.

What about the food? The supermarkets are huge and carry all of the basic items that you would buy in the U.S. Most have a deli and a bakery. All have fresh meats, seafood, fruits and produce. There are two on the main road from the airport to the condos: Foster’s is near the Airport and Hurley’s is on the way to the condos. Remember, supermarkets are not open on Sundays. It is best to pick up your groceries on the way to the condo. There is a small store just before the condos called Chisholm’s. It has the basics, but no fresh meat.

Can we drink the water on Grand Cayman? Yes, you can drink the water without worry of getting sick.

Are there telephones in the condo? Yes, there are phones in the condos and you can make local calls. To make long distance calls, you need a credit card or phone card.

Will I be able to connect to the Internet from the Condo? Yes, you can use the complementary high-speed wireless internet in the condo.

Where are the condos located? The condo is about 21 miles from the Airport. It’s about a 40 minute drive. We are on the north side of the island at Rum Point. There are maps at the Airport or at the car rental companies. We are in a residential area and surrounded by upper bracket homes. It is very quiet and peaceful.

What is the building like? The Retreat was completely renovated in 2006. The condo features poured concrete to withstand any hurricanes. There are 23 units in the Retreat. Our condo faces the ocean. There is plenty of parking. The heated pool is really nice. There are pool and beach chairs provided. There are also beach towels in the condo.

What’s the beach like? The beach is soft, white sand right out into the water. It is just gorgeous. Walk barefoot right out the front door and you are on the beach. You can take long walks on the beach and it is never crowded. You can snorkel right out from of the condos.

What is the condo like? The condo is a main-floor unit right on the beach. it has 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. There is also a queen size sofa/sleeper in living room. The unit is beautifully furnished.

You will love the screened porch overlooking the ocean. it is great for relaxing or reading a book, and the views are fantastic. The master bedroom, living room have great ocean views with sliding glass doors. Both bedrooms have attached bathrooms. The unit has central air conditioning. The living room has an entertainment unit with TV, DVD, stereo, and CDs. The kitchen is beautiful and fully equipped. There is a washer/dryer unit in the condo.

Who do I call for assistance? We have our own manager for the condos. Her name is Barbara Whittaker. She can be reached at 947-9505. For emergency, fire or police, call 911.

How do we get in the condo? When you arrive, the manager will have opened the front door and the key will be on the kitchen counter. When you depart, just leave the key on the counter and lock the door behind yourself.

Are there restaurants close by? Yes. They are all very good. On Sunday nights, try the BBQ at the Driftwood. It is very informal, and the food is great. They have chicken, steak, ribs, and fish. Try the “ Mudslides “ and watch your favorite sports game.

Is there entertainment on Grand Cayman?

What is there to see on Grand Cayman? The Queen’s Botanic Park, The Mastic Trail, The Turtle farm, Castle at Pedro/St. James, National Museum, The Blowholes, Hell, Cardinal D’s Park, Atlantis Submarine to name just a few attractions. We suggest picking up pamphlets at airport.