When you move to a new country, it goes without saying that you embark on a new way of life. However, when that move is to a rock in the Caribbean, it takes the “new way of life” to a whole new level.
Living in the Cayman Islands is idyllic; the beach, the sun, the warm waters, and of course the kindest people you will ever meet, but here are some observations that you wouldn’t expect:
1. Courtesy Driving: Driving on the left is a challenge, roundabouts can get your heart racing, and potholes are abysses, but the biggest adjustment? Courtesy. Caymanians actually stop to let you pass and even turn left, they also slow down to let you enter a lane! Most drivers actually grasp the concept of “sharing the road”, they are not rushing to get through the yellow light, and they respect school zones. So leave your big city road aggression at home, because in Cayman, civility rules.
2. Some like it Ccccold: Although we live in a warm climate, don’t be surprised to see co-workers in blazers, sweaters, and even pashminas. Most offices, shops and restaurants are kept very cool, so take long sleeves to work, because that AC blasting overhead will make you want to sit in your hot car at the end of the day.
3. Foodapalooza: the food scene in the Cayman Islands is at par with some of the world’s largest metropolises. World class chefs, top bar staff and excellent service, means that there is always a great place to eat out. Cayman Cookout, a yearly event, is considered to be the Caribbean’s “premier epicurean event”, a weekend celebrating food, wine and the natural beauty of the Caribbean. World famous chefs, sommeliers and spirit blenders produce themed tastings, demonstrations, tours and dinners.
4. Social Butterfly: Be warned, your social life will explode. There is always a boat trip to go on, a sports event to attend, a BBQ on the beach, or a Sunday brunch to enjoy. The expat life brings people together, and living in a tropical paradise makes us all feel like we live on a permanent holiday. So be sure to stay social, but you don’t have to say “yes” to everything.
5. Free parking: Having moved here from a large city, we were used to paying for parking everywhere we went, from the grocery store, parks, malls, to even the hospital. This amounted to a near $200/ month expenditure! Here on Grand Cayman, there is free parking everywhere, the bank, downtown street parking, shopping plazas, even hotels! Now all we have to do is decide what to do with that extra $200…
6. Don’t worry, work happy! Although the work environment is more casual here, there is a high level of accountability and professionalism. It is also a very welcoming and collaborative scene. This extends to everyday life as well, Caymanians are always willing to offer assistance of any kind, even if they have just met you. Cayman Kind, is a true way of life.
“For those who inhabit our islands, Caymankind is a way of presenting yourself to the work that is at all times courteous, compassionate and caring.
From smiles to experiences worthwhile, the Cayman Islands has something to make your day brighter than it already was – that’s Caymankind.” https://www.caymanislands.ky/aboutcayman/caymankind.aspx