Mary

My husband and I have been to the carribean 5 times,and we love Aruba,by far, the most..We've been to Dominican Republic,Jamaica,Barbados and Aruba twice....I would love to try the Cayman Islands in January....We are really into the beaches...snorkling...and a nice hotel,,any advice would be welcomed, and I thank you in advance.Mary

Michele

Hi Mary. Not sure what type of advice you're looking for...but, I've been to the Cayman Islands three times and I can guarantee you that you will not be disappointed. Of course, if you go, you must go to Stingray City. Big tourist location, but lots of fun. Also highly recommend going to Rum Point. Very relaxing (hammocks on trees), great diving, best frozen drinks, and live music. If you have any specific questions, post again, I have a friend that lives in the Cayman Islands that could definitely help you out. Have a great trip!

Mary

Michele..Thanks for letting me ask more questions and tour speedy response. What about the weather in the begining of Jan? I read on another post,that the months of Nov.,Dec. and Jan. are dull,is this true? Also,how about downtown shopping?is it safe and not alot of people bothering you to buy at their shops? Thanks...P.S. Are the waters as beautiful as I"ve read? M

Sandy

Mary,<BR>The water in Grand Cayman is 10 shades of gorgeous blue!! It's postcard perfect!! Clear, warm and calm.<BR><BR>As far as shopping, you won't find vendors trying to sell you things at all. None on the beach or in Georgetown. It's very safe shopping or doing anything on GC. <BR><BR>Have you considered maybe renting a condo instead of staying at a hotel? Condo's can save you a lot of money, by having kitchen facilities for some of your meals. Food is very expensive on GC, and being able to fix breakfast or lunch at your condo saves big $$$$. <BR><BR>Check out caymanvacations.com for condo and hotel listings. The further north on 7MB you go the nicer the beach and fewer crowds. Many places on 7MB you can just walk out and snorkle right from the beach. It's a beautiful island, and you won't be disappointed!

CAROL

MARY, GOOD MORNING - WE HAVE GONE TO THE CAYMAN ISLANDS FOR THE LAST 5 YEARS IN FEBRUARY - THE WEATHER IS PERFECT.<BR>WE LIKE STAYING AT THE WESTIN - THE PLACE IS BEAUTIFUL AND THE BEACH IS GREAT AT THE WESTIN'S LOCATION - WE ALSO LOVE ARUBA AND GO THERE IN JUNE. <BR>JANUARY SHOULD BE GREAT. THE RAINY SEASON IN THE CAYMANS IS IN JUNE - HAVE FUN, CAROL

Trish

Grand Cayman is ideal for people who are really into beaches and snorkeling, as well as a safe island with great restaurants. There really are no upscale hotels, including the Westin. A condo would offer you a better value and you would be just as comfortable.

sonny

There truly are no wonderful hotels on Grand Cayman.<BR>The Westin has four star prices with two star service. The Ritz Carlton will finally open in 2003, but until then the way to go is a condo. The Avalon and Coralstone Club are the best for<BR>accomodations and beach location. They are run like hotels but one has the luxury of the extra space a condo provides and having a kitchen to have morning coffee will help when you see the prices in the restaurants. Where Grand Cayman exceeds other islands is the fantastic choice of restaurants with great food. 7MB is beautiful and safe and no locals selling anything. Everyone loves Grand Cayman the first time and even more the second time once you get the jist that a condo is the best way on this island.

Mary Z.

Hi Mary,<BR>We are currently booking our 4th visit to Grand Cayman. If you are REALLY into beaches and snorkeling; not shopping, bars and crowds; RUN do not walk to your computer and rent yourself a small house on the north side of the island. Many of these cottages are RIGHT ON THE REEF and you just swim right off your beach and snorkel till your lips turn blue. I have snorkeling in a lot of places, and G.C. is my second favorite after Roatan in Honduras. I use the people at Cayman Villas to help me find the best rental. A small, simple house is less than the big hotels and rental cars are cheap. (You will need one) Save $$$ on breakfast and lunch, then splurge on Pappagallo's or Sunday brunch at the Hyatt (short ferry ride from Rum Point) Food is great on G.C. The island is classy, safe and fun fun fun. I can't wait to return. Have a great time !!!<BR>Mary Z.