About the Cayman Islands of the Carribbean

The Cayman Islands are located in the western Caribbean Sea, situated 180 miles south of Cuba and 185 miles northwest of Jamaica. They are a British overseas territory and are comprised of three islands. Grand Cayman is the largest of the three at approximately 77 square miles.

Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, the "sister islands" are located about 80 miles east of Grand Cayman. These islands are much smaller than the "mother island" with Cayman Brac at about 14 square miles and Little Cayman around 10 square miles.

The islands were colonized; by the British during the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1959, the islands became a territory within the Federation of the West Indies, but when the Federation dissolved in 1962, the Cayman Islands chose to remain a British dependency. The native language of the Cayman Islands is English at 95 percent and Spanish is second at approximately 3.5 percent of the population.

The current (2008) population of the Cayman Islands is believed to be approximately 49,000; with the majority occupying Grand Cayman. Cayman Brac is populated by 1,200, while Little Cayman with its 10 square miles has approximately 200 residents.

The economy of the Cayman Islands was once centered around hunting turtles. The abundance of giant sea turtles made this a lucrative trade. However, the turtle population dwindled in the twentieth century. During the 1970's, tourism and financial services became the economic mainstays. It is believed that Caymanians enjoy the highest standard of living in the Caribbean.

The Cayman Islands is in the northeast trade wind belt of the Caribbean and enjoys a stable climate. The weather in the Cayman Islands is measured as two seasons; summer being tropical, warm and rainy with winters being cool and relatively dry. The islands weather is occasionally influenced by winter storms known through the Cayman Islands as Nor'westers.

Tourism accounts for 72-78 percent of the annual revenue of the Cayman Islands. Millions of tourists visit the islands annually, with 99 percent of them paying a visit to Grand Cayman. George Town, the capitol of the Cayman Islands, also serves as a major cruise ship port, which brings in thousands of tourists a day.

The Cayman Islands are blessed with natural attraction, such as the spectacular ocean views, beautiful beaches, and stunning coral reef areas. Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Caymans is
considered some of the best in the world. The islands boast of crystal-clear blue waters and an abundance of colorful sea creatures.

The beauty found in the Cayman Islands is unsurpassed by any.

About the Author

Grand Cayman Villas (http://grandcaymanvillas.net) lists some of the most beautiful Cayman condo rentals on the island. Not only do you have a place to stay when you go out, but a place that is fun to stay in. Art Gib is a freelance writer.

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