Cayman Islands
About Cayman Islands
| Currency | Cayman Islands dollar (KYD) |
| Language | English |
| Capital | George Town |
The Cayman Islands are located in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica, and include Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. The population is about 55,000 people. The islands are a British Overseas Territory, and the government is a parliamentary democracy with the Queen of Great Britain as chief of state represented by a governor. A premier is the head of government. The islands have a high degree of self-government under a constitution ratified in 2009.
Christopher Columbus discovered the islands in 1503 and named them Las Tortugas, after the giant turtles that he sighted in the surrounding seas. After facing the threat of extinction, these turtles are now bred at the Cayman Turtle Farm and are released into the wild every year.
The Cayman Islands are a major offshore financial centre and tax haven. The number of registered businesses is more than the population. Tourism and international finance provide the main revenue. Tourists can enjoy the Seven Mile Beach, Pedro St. James Castle, scuba diving, and snorkeling. The Blue Iguana, an endangered reptile, can be found on Grand Cayman.
Recommended Vaccinations For Cayman Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination may be considered for travellers who might come in contact with bats.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Recommended Medications For Cayman Islands
There are no recommendations for Cayman Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Cayman Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Cayman Islands.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Cayman Islands through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
Dengue Fever
Outbreaks of dengue fever may occur.
For Some Travellers
Rabies
Rabies may be present in Bats.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Cayman Islands, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Zika Fever
There is a very low risk of Zika Fever in this country.
Safety & Security in Cayman Islands
Personal Safety
The crime rate is low in the Cayman Islands, and most travellers have no trouble. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or other theft can occur anywhere in a crowded area or tourist destination. Always be alert to your personal safety and security. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers.
Although homosexuality is legal in the Cayman Islands, there is a lack of acceptance towards same-sex behaviour due to the conservative nature of the island. Avoid public displays of affection.
