Of the 3 Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman is by far the most well known but more and more people are discovering the sister islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. They too have become world famous for their diving, particularly their underwater walls and breathtaking marine life. These 2 small islands are perfect if you are looking for a place to truly get away from it all. They are less developed, less commercialized and have created a truly relaxed Caribbean lifestyle that is yours to discover. People have searched all over the world for the kind of elusive tranquility and island charm that is just naturally found on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
Cayman Brac is the most easterly and smallest of the islands, just 14 square miles of natural wonder. With the charm and friendliness of a traditional seafaring community, it is here that you will find the country’s most dramatic scenery. The openness found among the residents (all 1600 of them!) on “The Brac,” as they call it, is one that will greet you with arms wide open and an infectiousness that you can’t help but feel and return. It is one of the safest and crime free islands found on the Caribbean; even locking one’s car has become a lost art!
In Cayman Brac, diving is what attracts most people, there are literally so many dive sites that you rarely have to travel for more than 100 ft to get from one site to the next! Whether you are looking for shallow or deep wall dives, all the ingredients for an incredible dive experience can be found here. The newest attraction for divers is the wreck of a Russian built Cuban naval frigate. The 330 ft. M/V Captain Keith Tibbetts, which was sunk off the island’s northwest coast in 1996 and is now the home of an incredible array of marine life. It is perfectly situated for divers of all skills. There are 2 other wrecks that can be found off the Brac’s coast, and the walls found here are literally pictures of perfection. The arches, swim thrus, cracks, gorgonia, sponges and fans will be unlike anything you have ever seen. Shine a light on the muted blue structures and the reds, yellows, oranges and purples will whirl all your color wheels at once.
The Brac’s most dominant attraction is a limestone ridge that rises from the west along to the center of the island standing at 140 ft at the eastern tip. It is a sheer cliff that drops dramatically into the blues of the Caribbean below, sculpting the landscape into vistas carved with caves and covered with a variety of trees and plant life. You can experience the incredible view on the bluff from the lighthouse, or go exploring through the inviting caves and sinkholes that are high above the water, or maybe you’d like to take a wander through the woodlands that are filled with exotic flowers, plants and wildlife.
Cayman Brac is also becoming known for its climbing and has even been listed in the Top 10 for Exotic Climbing Sites in the world. There are seven areas on the island which have been bolted and are all around the east end of the bluff. Getting to these climbing sites is almost as much fun as the climbs themselves which challenges climbers to go from sea level, to the top of the bluff.
Little Cayman is the least developed of the Cayman Islands, with a population of less than 170, and a landmass that is only 10 miles long and 1 mile wide; most of this island remains uninhabited. Little Cayman offers you miles of untouched tropical wilderness, secluded, white sparkling beaches and a place where rare birds and timid iguanas outnumber humans. It is blessed with stunning coastlines and incredible coral reefs that are teeming with over 500 different species of fish and over 150 kinds of coral.
Bloody Bay Wall and Jackson Point are the main attractions and are world renowned diving sites. Bloody Bay Wall is one of the most pristine underwater sites in the world with a sheer coral wall that begins at 20 ft that plunges to over 6000 ft. It has been rated as the best diving in the Caribbean by National Geographic photographers and is protected for future generations with its designation as a marine park. With more than 50 unique dive sites located on Little Cayman that feature colorful coral gardens, wavering sea plumes and exotic tropical fish, it is a true underwater paradise.
Fly, lake and deep sea fishing are also very popular on Little Cayman, not to mention the multitude of watersports available. Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, wind surfing, hobie-cat sailing and for avid kite boarders, Owen Island features the best launch site; for those who would prefer to be a spectator, you can enjoy watching from the beachfront hammocks! There is also plenty of hiking, cycling and bird watching to be found. Over 40% of Little Cayman is covered by pristine wetlands and raised viewing platforms around the island allowing observers excellent bird watching. Visitors who come to this island retreat, make a return to simpler times; enjoying the privacy, quiet and timeless beauty of this incredible natural world.
To get to the islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, there are numerous flights that are offered daily from Grand Cayman. If you’re looking for a different adventure, avid divers can even choose a live-a-board dive boat for a week and visit all three islands.
An enchanting world and an ecotourism paradise for divers and nature-lovers, there is something truly special that can only be found on the islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.”
Swashbucklers fought for it and connoisseurs covet it. Rum has always enthralled passionate Caribbean travelers. Swaggering pirates like Captain Kidd, Calico Jack and Blackbeard ruled the waves, their sloops gliding ominously under the skull and crossbones of the infamous flag known as the Jolly Roger. Legend? Not in the Caribbean. Buccaneers were part of the region’s history — although the tales we hear have been infused with fiction, to be sure. These nefarious sailors were after not only gold coins and fine silk but another precious product: rum.
One can hardly blame them. The Caribbean produced then as now arguably the world’s finest rum. The 17th-century British Royal Navy allowed its sailors a daily ration – a practice that continued until 1970! Some believed it cured hangovers.
Early mariners were convinced a nip of Mount Gay improved their sailing abilities. In production for more than 300 years, this venerable rum recently celebrated its tri-centennial with regattas, parties and a limited-edition blend in specially designed decanters.
It’s a rare journey to the Caribbean that doesn’t include a sampling of this famous product. The number of preeminent distilleries are legion. In addition to Mount Gay, big-name Caribbean producers include the Puerto Rican company Bacardi, Jamaica’s Appleton Estate, Haiti’s Barbancourt and St. Croix’s Cruzan.
Originally an offshoot of the islands’ sugar-cane industry, rum is distilled from cane juice or molasses, a by-product of sugar production. Visit one of the Caribbean’s many distilleries (listed below) to observe the process: The cane juice or molasses is fermented with yeast, distilled and then aged, usually in oak casks.
Light rums are generally used for mixed drinks, while full-flavored dark rums, after years of aging, are suitable for sipping, much like fine scotch. The Caribbean produces most of the world’s rums and consumption spans the globe.
Even Caribbean geography illustrates rum’s prominence: you’ll see Rum Cay in the Bahamas and a Rum Point each in Grand Cayman and Belize. Museums on several islands are dedicated to rummy history.
Just the names of rum drinks hint at Caribbean allure: Goombay Smash, planters punch, piña colada, Cuba Libre, daiquiri. You’ll find almost limitless variations of rum punch. In the Spice Island of Grenada, for instance, don’t be surprised to find a cold glassful dusted with nutmeg.
Flavored rums are the newest twist. Look for Bacardi’s Limón and orange-flavored O, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, and Cruzan’s vanilla, orange, pineapple, banana and coconut varieties.
This versatile spirit can also be mellowed into liqueur, and the varieties are as diverse as Caribbean destinations. In Guadeloupe, for instance, enjoy the mellow flavor of Shrubb, a blend of rum, orange peel and sugar. In Venezuela and the Dutch Caribbean islands, the eggnog-like cream liqueur Ponche Crema is a favorite. St. Maarten contributes the woodsy Guavaberry liqueur and Jamaica fans are familiar with coffee-flavored Tia Maria. Rum’s not just for drinking, either. Nearly every fine-dining restaurant has at least one rum-enhanced dish.
Looking for the perfect souvenir for that sweet tooth on your gift list? Rum cakes, consumed throughout the Caribbean at weddings and other occasions, abound. One of the most famous, Tortuga Rum Cake, is from Grand Cayman, but you’ll also find “black cake” from Guyana, piña colada cake from the Bahamas and Blue Mountain coffee-rum cake from Jamaica.
From today’s glorious potables through a less glorious past (the slave trade was inextricably involved in the industry), the Caribbean’s history cannot be told without rum. Legends abound: Wonder, for instance, about the song lyrics, “Fifteen men on a deadman’s chest/yo ho ho and a bottle of rum”? It’s said that the pirate Blackbeard abandoned mutineers with just a dagger and a bottle of rum on the British Virgin Islands islet called Dead Man’s Chest. Well, it could have been worse: They could have been marooned with a jigger of juice.
Source: Caribbean Travel, by Rich Rubin
Grand Cayman has long been known as a small, charming island and its capital city of Georgetown is no different. Where this picturesque, walkable city is lacking in glitz and glamour, it answers with historic architecture, one-of-a-kind sites and excellent shopping opportunities. Take a walk through Georgetown and you will see why this city and the island of Grand Cayman are unlike any other destinations in the Caribbean.
One of the first stops for most visitors in Georgetown is the Cayman Islands National Museum. Housed in a colonial courts building constructed in 1833, the museum opened to the public in 1990 with a collection of more than 2,000 artifacts. Oddly enough, much of the initial collection was purchased from an intrepid local historian, Ira Thompson, who had amassed one of the Caribbean’s finest private collections over a period of 50 years. The initial collection, much of which is still on display today, included a wealth of historical documents, local flora and fauna samples, rare Caribbean coins and plenty of local oddities.
Today, the Cayman Islands National Museum’s exhibitions focus on the remarkable success of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. Together, these three islands measure just over 100 square miles, nearly half of that land occupied by low-lying mangrove swamps. As the Cayman Islands lacked the natural resources of other colonial Caribbean locations, residents once relied entirely on fishing, turtling and the export of thatch rope. However, throughout the late colonial period and well into the 20th century, Caymanians came to be known as exemplary seamen. In fact, until the rise of Caribbean tourism in the 1970s, the income of such skilled sailors drove the islands’ modest economy.
In addition to the fascinating story told within the museum, visitors should also take time to enjoy the views of Hog Sty Bay. With Grand Cayman’s most historic structure set against the picturesque shoreline, the view has become one of the most celebrated and photographed on the island. Before leaving the museum for other sites in Georgetown, visitors can also enjoy the gift shop which features a fine selection of books, jewelry, locally-produced arts and crafts and free walking maps of Georgetown. The Cayman Islands National Museum is open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturday, 10 AM to 4 PM.
Also near the Georgetown waterfront, visitors will spot the Elmslie Memorial United Church. This peaceful church, named for the island’s first Presbyterian missionary, has long been at the center of Caymanian cultural and religious life. Known as a simple, friendly society, Grand Cayman’s values are reflected in the details of this beautiful, but modest building. Featuring a stunning vaulted ceiling with wooden arches and an austere, but majestic interior, Elmslie Memorial United Church has been revered as a place of peaceful contemplation by locals and visitors alike.
While Grand Cayman’s capital is known as quiet, historic city, shopping has become a favorite activity for travelers. As Grand Cayman has no sales tax and many stores offer duty-free merchandise, there are plenty of great values to be found throughout Georgetown. Throughout the small, independent shops and larger shopping malls, visitors will find everything from designer clothing and accessories to unique artwork and souvenirs. One of the best places to find local products is the Cayman Craft Market located in central Georgetown. Regardless of where you decide to shop in Georgetown or throughout Grand Cayman, tax-free and duty-free shopping will lead you to plenty of incredible bargains.
If you want to experience live music, theatre or the bar and restaurant scene of Georgetown, the Friday edition of the Caymanian Compass is the first place to start. This local paper features listings for all of the island’s upcoming entertainment and highlights the best spots for any type of tourist to find dinner, drinks and fun. The paper is distributed throughout Georgetown, but copies will also be available through the concierge or front desk at most resorts.
Georgetown is one of the most unique cities in the Caribbean and there are plenty of ways to explore its treasures. From the rich history of the Cayman Islands National Museum to the deals found around every corner, Georgetown helps set Grand Cayman apart.
The Grand Cayman Blue Iguana (Cyclura lewisi) is a unique and magnificent creature, but one which stands on the brink of extinction. Fortunately, due to the National Trust for the Cayman Islands’ Blue Iguana Recovery Programme and the assistance from a variety of volunteers, it has managed to take a few steps forward over recent years.
The Blue Iguana is endemic to Grand Cayman – meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. It is related to the Rock Iguana found on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, but is quite distinct. It gets its local name from its remarkable blue colouration which is particularly notable in adult males.
Being cold-blooded creatures, iguanas need to warm themselves in the sunshine to become active. Early in the day, when they are cool, the adult iguana is a uniform dark grey. This colour absorbs heat very efficiently. As the animal warms up, it has to ensure that it does not overheat. To achieve this, the cells responsible for this colouration (known as chromophores) contract. This reveals the distinctive powder blue colour underneath, which is paler and does not absorb heat well.
Iguanas are large lizards with red eyes and a row of spines which run from the back of the head to the tip of the tail. The male is larger than the female and has substantial jaw muscles giving it a very strong bite! They are, however, vegetarian, foraging for fruits, flowers and leaves.
Iguanas never stop growing, although the growth rate does slow down with age. Adults of five feet in length from nose to tail are not uncommon. They are not sociable creatures and tend to live alone, not encouraging others to stay in their territory. When feeling threatened, iguanas turn themselves sideways to the foe, draw themselves up as high as possible on their four legs and flatten their bodies laterally so that the area they expose to their opponent is as large as possible. Fierce fights do occur amongst males during mating season.
The behaviour of males and females leading up to the short mating season (usually the first two weeks in May) is markedly different. The female selects an area with enough food supplies to sustain her which is also suitable for her nest. This is particularly crucial as the eggs will not hatch if they get too hot, too wet or too dry. Males, on the other hand, roam widely and can cover the territories of many females, ready to mate with each as they come into season. Much of their time is spent warding off rivals, which means that the largest and strongest of the males mate most frequently. This behaviour continues into late May, until all the females cease to be receptive and the males gradually loose interest.
Six weeks after mating, the female will excavate her nest in a patch of earth and lay her eggs which are comparable in size to a chicken’s egg. Young females lay fewer eggs in a clutch than mature mothers who can produce as many as fifteen or twenty eggs at a time. The tunnel leading to the egg chamber is carefully filled in and disguised with leaves, grasses and other debris. The female then guards her nest site for a few more weeks to ensure the safety of her brood. The whole process takes a lot out of the iguana and by this time she can be quite emaciated and gaunt. She must roam more widely to feed and build up her strength again. This explains to a large extent why females are never as large as the males.
After an incubation period of about ten weeks, the baby iguanas start to hatch. At birth they are already about eight inches long, having been curled up tight inside the egg. The hatchlings wait until all their brothers and sisters are also hatched, each drawing nourishment from its egg sac, before exiting the nest using their joint strength to dig their way to the surface. Once out in the open air, they quickly scatter into the undergrowth. Each must then fend for itself. The young iguanas are very vulnerable to birds and snake (their main predators) at this stage, although they grow extremely fast.
It is a sad fact that the major problems facing Cayman’s iguanas are human related. When the first settlers arrived nearly 300 years ago, it is thought that many of these creatures lived on the coast, laying their eggs in the sand on the edge of the beach: a pattern of behaviour that can still be seen in the Little Cayman Rock Iguana. As time passed, humans, who bought with them dogs, cats and rats, preferred these areas too, and soon the iguanas were forced to retreat inland, where nesting sites were harder to find.
Yet the iguanas were able to hang on. They learned that the edge of newly cleared farmland was a suitable habitat with open areas for sunning themselves, soil for nesting, and ample bush for foraging and security. The dangers posed by roaming pets and the farmer’s gun were not quite enough to destroy the population entirely. But now things are changing again.
When initial studies were done in the 1980’s, prospects for the Grand Cayman Blue Iguana looked bleak. They had already disappeared from over 90% of the island, and a remnant of those that had survived faced seemingly insurmountable odds with rapid development, illegal trapping, feral dogs and cats and road kills. The Trust’s Blue Iguana Recovery Programme was set up in 1990 combining field research, captive breeding, public education, habitat protection and reintroduction. It is only with this continued effort that it may still be possible to save this unique creature from extinction.
Source: Cayman Islands National Trust
Getting around the Cayman Islands is not a problem if you are staying in a built up area. The largest island in the chain, Grand Cayman, has most of the facilities and activities that would be drawing tourists, so that is where it is easiest to get around. If you are hanging out in a downtown area like George Town then you will have no problem just walking to and from places. There are a lot of shops and other activities to do in town, and this is where a lot of the tourists congregate. If you are a bit further out, however, you can always take a taxi. There are taxis all over the islands, and they generally hang out in busier spots. However, if you call ahead you can have a car come and get you. They will all charge a flat rate agreed upon before the car ride begins. If you want to, you can rent a car from a number of different agencies located on the island, however, it is important to remember that in the Cayman Islands, the driving is on the left side of the road. Also as another option, you could rent a scooter or mo-ped if you don’t plan to go too far and want to conserve money on gas.
Source: Trip Advisor
Grand Cayman has a new shipwreck! On January 5th, the ex-USS Kittiwake was purposefully sunk off west side of Grande Cayman near Seven Mile Beach. From 1945 to 1994, the USS Kittiwake was a submarine rescue vessel and support ship in the US Navy. Now, the 251 foot long wreck of the Kittiwake sits upright at a depth of about 65 feet. The tall wreck reaches from the ocean floor to about 10 feet below the surface, making this site accessible to almost all scuba and skin divers.
As coral and other marine life slowly take up residence on the wreck, the USS Kittiwake will form the substrate for an artificial reef. Years, if not decades, are required for coral to claim a shipwreck so divers interested in a wreck thriving with marine life may have to wait. Still, early videos of the USS Kittiwake wreck show all levels of divers enjoying the dive site, which offers divers spectacular visibility and the chance play in three dimensions along the decks and passageways of the wreck.
The USS Kittiwake shipwreck is a private marine park – special entrance fees and permits apply.
Divers interested in going inside the wreck of the USS Kittiwake should remember that special training and certifications are needed to safely enter a shipwreck!
Source: About.com Guide, by Natalie Gibb
Along the western shore of Grand Cayman rests a stretch of sand known throughout the travel community as one of the world’s best beaches. With placid waters and endless amounts of pure white sand, Seven Mile Beach is what makes Grand Cayman special. Though the beach comes up a mile and a half short of its name, there is certainly no shortage of space to relax in the sun. Furthermore, as you walk along the beach you will notice activities that range from cafes and bars beneath the palms to scuba diving and snorkeling. When you visit Grand Cayman, you will immediately see why Seven Mile Beach is at the top of so many lists.
Courtesy of the calm water and casual atmosphere, Seven Mile Beach is known as one of the most family-friendly recreation sites in the Caribbean. The warm water has a sandy bottom, making it a great place for children to swim. Families can rent all types of water toys, from snorkeling equipment and paddle boats to jet skis and windsurfers for the grownups. There are also a few spectacular scuba diving sites off the shore of Seven Mile Beach. Where the gently sloping shoreline meets the coral wall surrounding the island, you will find the popular reefs known as Paradise and Aquarium.
Seven Mile Beach is also the site of the island’s best resorts and restaurants. Even if you aren’t staying on Seven Mile Beach, many of the resorts have facilities that are open to the public. As many of the resorts open directly onto the beach, you will find several bars and snack stands equipped with peaceful lounge seating. Throughout this area you will find several world-class restaurants, serving everything from rustic Italian fare to fresh seafood with a Caribbean twist. The resorts also make it easy to rent water sport equipment without leaving the beach. Most importantly, all these activities (and, of course, the beach itself) are open to the public, whether or not you are lucky enough to spend your nights here.
At the southern end of Seven Mile Beach is one of Grand Cayman’s favorite family attractions – The Butterfly Farm. Inside the farm’s tropical gardens, you can view the life stages of butterflies amongst exotic flowers and peaceful ponds. Many early morning visitors are granted the pleasure of seeing new butterflies emerge from their cocoons to take their first flight. On guided tours of the facility, specialists will allow you to handle both caterpillars and butterflies. As butterflies are attracted to bright colors and perfumes, those who want some personal attention from the fluttering creatures should dress to impress. Open daily at 9 AM, The Butterfly Farm also allows visitors to return throughout their vacation with one paid entry. If you don’t see a butterfly emerge from its shell the first time around, you can stop by and snap more photos any time you like.
Most of Grand Cayman’s other premier sightseeing opportunities are located within a few miles of Seven Mile Beach. To the south of the beach is the island’s capital city, Georgetown. This historic capital features plenty of great boutiques, art galleries and shopping areas set amongst a stunning array of colonial architecture. Georgetown also has several great dining and nightlife options.
North of Seven Mile Beach, you will find popular attractions such as Hell and The Cayman Island Turtle Farm in the small town of West Bay. Known for its devilish black coral formations, Hell is a favorite of witty travelers hoping to send friends and family correspondence from the underworld. On the other hand, The Cayman Island Turtle Farm is a great family destination where children can interact with these endangered creatures. Besides its conservation efforts, The Cayman Island Turtle Farm also calls to mind the colonial history of the island. Upon arrival, Christopher Columbus named the islands “Las Tortugas” (The Turtles) in honor of the multitude of sea turtles along the coast.
Whether you want to relax in the sand, find adventure in the water or experience world class dining and attractions, a stroll down Seven Mile Beach will put you in the heart of the action.
Sport fishermen come to the islands for its abundance of blue marlin, wahoo, sailfish, mahi mahi, and tuna.
The Caribbean has some of the best fishing grounds in the world. Saltwater flyfishing for bonefish is popular as is deep-sea fishing for bluefish, swordfish, shark, marlin, and other billfish. These waters have also seen some big catches: many of the International Game Fishing Association’s world records were registered here. Anglers will also find barracuda, bonefish, kingfish, tarpon, amberjack, grouper, and snapper closer to shore. Many islands hold local fishing tournaments that add to the excitement.
Licensed operators on most islands offer full-day and half-day charters with a knowledgeable captain and capable crew, who know the best fishing grounds in the region. Keep in mind that requirements vary from island to island. Some may require permits; others may have a catch and release policy. Many islands have good fishing year-round, while others may have their best fishing from January to April or June. Be sure to inquire about local conditions and policies before booking your charter.
Here are some guidelines to some of the regions’ fishing grounds.
Bahamas
The waters around these islands are a favorite of saltwater flyfishermen in search of bonefish.
Barbados
Year-round fishing is to be had on this island, but the most ideal conditions exist from January to April. Deep-sea fisherman will find plenty of billfish, while the calmer coastal waters will yield wahoo, barracuda, and other small fish.
Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands attract deep-sea fisherman in search of tuna, wahoo, and marlin. Others choose to bottom-fish along the reefs for grouper and snapper. Bloody Bay off Little Cayman is well known for its good bonefishing.
Dominican Republic
This island attracts fishermen after sailfish and bonito as well as marlin and wahoo. The best fishing is between January and June.
Puerto Rico
Some 30 world records have been set here earning Puerto Rico a reputation as the fishing capital of the Caribbean.
Virgin Islands
Both the British and U.S. Virgin Islands have a reputation as good deep-fishing grounds. Fisherman from around the world come here to compete in the local tournaments for the largest bluefish, wahoo, swordfish, and shark. The U.S. Virgin Islands have seen world records registered including eight for blue marlin. Bonefishing is also popular. The best fishing off St. Croix is from September to June when fishermen seek out kingfish, wahoo, swordfish, marlin, and yellowfin tuna.
CONCH FRITTERS
1 lb. conch meat
1/2 lg. onion
2 stalks celery
1/2 red pepper
1/2 green pepper
1/4 c. buttermilk
1/4 tsp. Tabasco
Salt to taste
1 egg
1/3 c. self rising cornmeal
1/3 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
Directions:
Put conch through food grinder or food processor. Process next four ingredients and mix with conch, adding salt and egg. Mix well. Mix together cornmeal and flour. Add conch mixture. Mixture should be thick. Add buttermilk and Tabasco. Drop by heaping tablespoon into deep oil until light brown. Drain. Serve with Grey Poupon mustard, mayonnaise and lime juice.
CASSAVA CAKE (HEAVY CAKE)
Provided by Ann-Rose Washburn (nee Bodden)
3 lbs grated cassava 2 lbs light brown sugar
2 – 14oz cans coconut milk – wash cash out with a little water
2 tablespoons vanilla essence
1 teaspoon Cayman Sea Salt
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ tea cloves
1 stick of margarine or butter
4 heaping teaspoons cornstarch diluted in a little water
1.) In large mixing bowl add cassava and stir in coconut milk and vanilla. Then brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Stir well.
2.) In small covered container add corn starch and just enough water to dissolve. Shake. Then add to contents already in bowl.
3.) Now add melted margarine or butter. Stir well.
4.) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly butter glass baking pan and pour in the above mixture in pan. Bake for at 350 degrees for about an hour or until a firm golden brown is achieved.
CARIBBEAN JERK SPICED TUNA
1 medium onion peeled & roughly chopped
1 bunch scallions
2 scotch bonnet peppers, seeded
1 tabs chopped fresh ginger
1 tabs fresh thyme leaves
1 tabs ground pimento seeds
1 tabs ground allspice berries
½ tabs fresh ground black pepper
½ cup soy sauce
½ cup cane vinegar
1 teasp dark brown sugar
2lb boneless, skinless tuna loin
¼ cup vegetable oil
Place all the ingredients for the marinade in a food processor and blend to a smooth puree. Place the tuna in a non-reactive dish and cover with the marinade. Allow to marinate for 24 hours, chilled.
Place the oil in a sauté pan over high heat until smoking, quickly sear the tuna on all sides and remove from the pan before the flesh becomes cooked.
ROCK LOBSTER & CORN FRITTERS
CHEF NAME: Vidyadhara Shetty
REPRESENTING: Cayman Islands
1lb Caribbean rock lobster meat, diced
¼ cup chopped cilantro
¼ cup diced red bell pepper, sautéed
1 cup fresh corn kernels, cooked
2 whole eggs
1 cup all purpose flour
1 tabs baking powder
Splash hot sauce
Salt & pepper
Preheat fryer to 350F.
Place the lobster meat, cilantro, red pepper, corn and eggs in a bowl and mix well to combine, add the flour and baking powder and mix thoroughly. Season with hot sauce and salt & pepper.
Spoon the mixture into the fryer using a tablespoon or scoop and fry until golden, 3-4 minutes.
The Cayman Culinary Society
Formed in 1989, The Cayman Culinary Society is an organisation of professional Chefs and Food & Beverage personnel whose aim is to promote the Cayman Islands Food & Beverage Industry.
CCS hosts an annual culinary competition each summer. The two day event is open to the public and includes a live cook-off to identify the chef of the year. There is also an ice carving and bartenders competition, as well as a large trade show. The Society selects its Cayman Islands National Culinary Team from this event, which competes annually in the Caribbean Championships. The association boasts 15 years participation in this event and has earned a medal every year.
The Cayman Culinary Society hosts several fund raising dinners each year as well as organising training seminars for local chefs and sending member chefs overseas to perform at trade shows and media events.
The society is also active in the field of education, through lectures and demonstrations at local schools and at the University College of the Cayman Islands.
While the Cayman Islands might be renowned for our sugar sand beaches and crystal clear waters, our interiors are fascinating worlds of their own. There may be no better way to experience all that Cayman has to offer than on foot. Hikers on our three islands are afforded a glimpse of diverse flora and fauna: our national tree, The Silver Thatch Palm, mangrove forests, Wild Banana Orchids, the Cayman Parrot and the largest colony of red-footed boobies in the Western Hemisphere await hikers in our island paradise. Whether on a nature tour or a self-guided stroll, time spent walking on one of our many hiking trails is sure to add another dimension to your Cayman Islands visit.
Hiking trails are as diverse as the islands themselves. On Grand Cayman, the Mastic Trail is a two mile stretch back in time – dating back at least 100 years through one of the last remaining example’s of the Caribbean’s dry, subtropical forests. A hike on the Mastic Trail will delight you with glimpses of animals and plants unique to the Cayman Islands.
Our Sister Islands are a nature lover’s paradise and offer hiking experiences second to none. Adventurous hikers are thrilled by the glory of Cayman Brac with its spectacular cliff walks on the 140-foot bluff that thrusts vertically from the ocean floor. Saunter along one of the many forest or beach trails that dot the island. On Little Cayman, hikers can stroll along one of more than a dozen secluded beaches on a mostly undeveloped coastline, or spend time exploring the lagoons, mangrove forests, salt ponds and pristine wetlands that make up this tiny island paradise.