Money:
The Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD) is the official currency, which
is divided into 100 cents. It is fixed to the US dollar at US$1.20.
Currency can be exchanged at the banks, bureaux de change and many
hotels. Banks are open Monday to Saturday. US Dollars are accepted
as payment in most establishments and are the preferred currency
for exchange as both cash and as travellers cheques. ATMs are
widely available and major credit and debit cards are accepted.
Time:
Local time is GMT -5.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 110 volts, 60Hz. American style
two-pin plugs are standard.
Language:
English is the official language.
Health:
Generally there are no specific health risks and food and water
are considered safe, however note that some types of tropical reef
fish may be poisonous when eaten, even well cooked. Dengue fever
has been reported from the Caribbean region and insect protection
measures should be taken. Medical facilities are relatively good;
there is both a public and private hospital, one with a
decompression chamber. Serious cases will normally be transferred
to Miami. Visitors should take out adequate travel and medical
insurance to cover the possible need for air ambulance.
Tipping:
Most restaurants and hotels automatically add a 10 to 15%
service charge to the bill, otherwise a gratuity of the same amount
is expected. At hotels, a 10% government tax is also usually added
to the cost of your room. Taxi drivers expect a 10 to 15% tip.
Safety:
The Cayman Islands has a relatively low crime rate.
Nevertheless, visitors are advised to take the usual sensible
precautions as they would anywhere else in respect of their
personal safety and belongings. Do not leave valuables lying about,
keep them in a hotel or other safety deposit box. Visitors should
be aware of the risk of flooding during hurricane season (June to
November) and follow local advice with regards to leaving the
island in the event of an approaching hurricane.
Customs:
The culture is a blend of American, British and West Indian
traditions. The churchgoing Caymanians appreciate politeness and
modesty - topless bathing and nudity is illegal and beachwear in
not acceptable off the beach.
Business:
The Cayman Islands are one of the principal financial centres in
the world. The hub of business occurs in George Town on Grand
Cayman. Business dress within the financial industry is formal, but
other businesses may have a more relaxed protocol. After hours
meetings are usually fairly casual. Handshakes on introduction are
followed by the exchange of business cards. General business hours
are 8am to 5pm, while banks open at 9am and close at 4pm Monday to
Friday.
Duty Free:
Travellers entering the Cayman Islands may take 200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars or 225g of tobacco, as well as one litre of alcohol,
without paying duty on these.
Communications:
The international access code for the Cayman Islands is +1, in
common with the US, Canada and most of the Caribbean, followed by
345. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code
(e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom). International direct dialling
is available. Mobile phone coverage is good and operates on a GSM
900/1800 network; phones can be rented. Internet cafes are widely
available.