Genvisec advises that all business and leisure travel should continue.

 

Crime

 

Crime rates are low, but you should take sensible precautions to protect your personal safety and belongings. Do not leave valuables lying about. Use a hotel safe or a safety deposit box where possible. Take particular care of your passport as this can’t be renewed or replaced in the Cayman Islands. Report the theft or loss of your passport immediately to the police (from whom a written report must be obtained). 

 

Road travel

 

Minibuses are the only form of local public transport. They run only on the main routes. For other journeys, taxis are available or you can hire a car, driving is on the left. Observe the speed limits, wear your seat belt at all times and do not drink and drive. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, offenders face a mandatory fine of CI$150.

 

Air travel

 

Airlines require earlier check-in times for passengers and luggage. Both hold-loaded and carry-on luggage is subject to being hand-searched. Allow extra time at the airport and check the recommended check-in time for your flight with your airline. Travellers must ensure they comply with local immigration requirements, eg retention of immigration card issued on arrival for departure.

 

Health

 

Contact your doctor around 8 weeks before your trip to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. 

 

There is a relatively new and well-equipped hospital on Grand Cayman in the capital George Town and a smaller facility, Faith Hospital, on Cayman Brac, which can cope with most routine medical and dental problems. Treatment is expensive and more serious cases will normally be stabilised in the Territory before being transferred to Miami. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad. Your insurance should include air ambulance, third country (USA) medical treatment and repatriation.

 

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance. You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.

 

Money

All major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and local shops. The local currency is the Cayman Islands Dollar (CI$) but transactions using non domestic credit cards will be charged in US$. The US dollar is widely accepted throughout the islands. The CI$ is fixed to the US dollar at $1.25 US Dollars equals $1.00 Cayman Island Dollar.

 

Local laws and customs

There are harsh penalties for those caught with drugs of any kind. A number of British nationals have been arrested in the past, attempting to smuggle marijuana on British Airways flights to London. As a consequence, these flights are still being closely monitored by the local customs authorities. Observe customs regulations on the import and export of agricultural products and the protection of marine and animal life. There are a number of marine and animal specimens that may not be taken from the islands. If in doubt, check with the customs office before buying, or attempting to import or export such items.

 

Passport validity

 

You must hold a valid passport to enter the Cayman Islands. Your passport should be valid for at least the duration of your intended stay in the Cayman Islands.

 

 

 

 

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