In April of 2006 I set off on a 16 day trip with a couple of friends to the Mentawai Islands off the west coast of Sumatra. Leading up to the trip I did a lot of research on how to prepare for the unknown. The trip was virtually charter boat based with only a couple days on land at the beginning and end of the trip. Granted, on-board accommodations were plush by local standards. Still, I wanted to be prepared.
Some important things to pack are light cotton long sleeve shirts and pants, a couple wide brim hats (the sun is intense along the equator). Plenty of waterproof sunblock; 50 spf would be recommended. Take along reef booties, the low cut, split toe kind work great. Powdered vitamin packets that dissolve in water, energy bars and sea sick aids would be a good idea if you are prone to motion sickness.
Mosquito repellant with Deet! This is a must, especially if you will be on land in the evenings. The mosqitoes are relentless at dusk and dawn. The main concern is in populated areas where mosquitoes can easily feed from one person to another possibly spreading malaria along the way. While on the boat you still need to be vigilant, wear your long clothes and lather up with repellant, but you can relax a bit. Make sure you have some lights on to keep an eye out for mosquitoes. The main ones to watch out for have the 'tiger stripes" on the wings. At dusk you will notice campfire smoke wafting up through the trees along from the island villages. The locals do this to keep the "mozzies" at bay. Do some research on anti-malarial drugs and consult your doctor.
Bring along a first aid kit. If you travel with someone who works in the healthcare industry have them bring sutures, anesthetic, etc... If not get ahold of some if you can, there is bound to be someone on the boat who is experienced in stitching. Take butterfly bandages to help close up any cuts from the reef while out of the water. Speaking of the water (from the hotel or restaurant plumbing). Don't drink it. Go bottled.
For the start of your trip you may want to consider a sleep aid depending how far you are traveling. I flew out of San Diego stopping in Japan, Singapore and Central Sumatra before landing in Padang. It was just about 24 hours worth of flying over about a couple day period. The flight was long and almost unbareable toward the end. Consider taking along something such as Ambien or go natural with Melatonin. Remember not to drink alcohol while taking a sleep aid. Consult with your doctor.
So to recap on first aid supplies and other suggestions keep the following on your list:Quality Cloth Medical Tape, Bandages & Latex Band Aids, Second Skin, Sleeping Pills, Betadine, Hydrogen Peroxide, Lomotil or other Anti-Diarrhea, Anti-Biotic Ointment, Anti-Fungal Powder, Aspirin, Sun Block & Lip Block and Sunburn Lotion.When traveling to this region of the world along the equator, it is very important to research and prepare for the climate and local customs. Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world and their religious customs run deep. You will most likely not run into fanitical Muslims who harbor great resentment for Westerners. You may want to avoid areas in Jakarta, Timor though. The Indonesian people are largely warm and welcoming; the epitome of happiness and a great many of them are dirt poor! We could learn alot from them. When in public it is considered respectful to wear long pants as exposing alot of skin, even for men, is considered somewhat inappropriate. If you are a surfer and want to wear shorts in the high, heat high humidity. Go ahead, they will usually understand however; do not enter into any religous site or otheriwise religously significant location in your baggies.
I hope this has been of value, feel free to contact me if you have any questions.Greg
Greg Campbell is a San Diego based entrepreneur, independent agent for United First Financial, surfer, husband and father of 2. Greg has been in the real estate and mortgage industry for many years. With the emerging real estate mortgage debt America is accumulating, Greg has shifted his focus on helping people overcome their financial bondage. For more info or to contact Greg, visit: http://www.DissolveYourMortgage.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Campbell
Indonesian Surf Travel - Mentawai Islands Boat Trip
Naxos Island Best Travel Tip For Greek Island Beach Vacations
Naxos island is the largest island in the Cyclades the group of islands in the center of the Aegean. The Naxos island island is eighteen miles in length and 12 miles wide and is oval in shape.
It is also the most fertile, and this makes it one of the most beautiful. But it is the miles of unbroken golden sandy beaches that attracts the majority of the thousands of summer tourists that flock to Naxos island every year.
For the holidaymakers who can drag themselves away from the glorious beaches, Naxos island provides a wealth of ancient Greek remains as well as plenty of Byzantine and Venetian history. The Naxos island's capital, also called Naxos, has a Venetian fortress as well as an ancient Greek temple to Apollo.
This temple is usually the first thing that a tourist sees when visiting Naxos island by ferry because it stands proudly on the tip of the Naxos island, marking the way into the busy ferry port. The temple dates back to 522 BC but its ruinous appearance is not because much of it has been lost to the passage of time, but rather because the ancients never finished building it.
Naxos island town is very picturesque port with a maze of whitewashed streets and alleyways, designed with the frequent invasions from Aegean pirates in mind. Its typically Cycladic architecture blends with the Venetian and every turning invites the visitor to explore.
With such romantic charm and mystique, it is little wonder that Naxos island has long been popular with writers and artists. Lord Byron visited in his youth and never forgot the experience, referring to it in his writings as the 'Dream Island' and often saying that he would love to return some day.
Naxos island has 41 villages and most are worth exploring. They are found in the green fertile, valleys that are sandwiched between the rugged, arid mountains. Many of these are over 2000 feet high and the highest, Mount Zeus is 3,200 feet.
Naxos island enjoys the economic rewards of being a tourist island but it does not depend on them for its prosperity. A great deal of farming takes place in its rich valleys and the cultivation of lemons is especially successful. In addition to lemons, Naxos island produces cherries, pomegranates and other fresh fruit. It also produces olives, nuts and potatoes whilst its grapes make some of the best of Greek wines.
Naxos island is deservedly popular with discerning tourists but unlike nearby Mykonos island, it is not in danger of being turned into a mass tourism resort. What has saved it from doing so is its lack of an international airport. There is however an excellent airport providing domestic flights and some tourists, mainly Greek holidaymakers, arrive in Naxos this way, flying from Athens. The majority of tourists arrive by ferry however, and there is no better way to start a Greek island holiday than this. You can sail all the way from Athens but it will take at least six hours. Or you can fly to Mykonos island and get on a ferry that takes only two hours. Both options have their pros and cons. We flew to Mykonos island one year only to find all the ferries were booked. Another travel tip, whichever route you choose, is to be careful that you get off at the right island. The first time we visitedNaxos island , we misheard a landing announcement and got off the ferry only to see a sign that read 'Welcome to Paros '. Luckily, we had enough time to re-board and complete the remaining minutes of the journey to neighboringNaxos island. Enjoy your holiday, vacation or honeymoon there.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stewart_Palmer
By Stewart Palmer
Greek Island Holiday in Symi
The Greek island of Symi (also spelt Simi) is a small island in the Dodecanese group, situated twenty four miles, or about an hour's ferry ride, north-west of Rhodes.
Symi is just eight miles long and only five miles at its maximum width. But if the island's size seems small when measured in miles; measuring it by the time it takes to get from one place to the next, presents a very different picture. This is because Symi is extremely steep and mountainous, its highest point towering over two thousand feet above the sea.
The spectacular nature of Symi's steep coastline, combined with one of the most picturesque harbour towns in Greece, has for many decades, attracted artists, photographers and ramblers, many of whom have taken up residence on the island. Several writers have also made Symi their home.
Lovers of broad sandy beaches within easy reach of their holiday accommodation will be disappointed with Symi, as the mountainous terrain and steep cliffs mean that most of its beaches are small, pebbly coves. However, their natural beauty more than compensates for their lack of sand, whilst their inaccessibility is more than outweighed by the views from the water taxi trips which are required to reach most of them.
Symi is a great island for people who enjoy walking and several of its beaches can be reached within a couple of hours walk from either of the island's main holiday resorts; Yialos and Pedi. Serious walkers with heads for heights, can enjoy challenging treks to the more inaccessible coves. The most demanding can take four to five hours so it is a good idea to start off early in the morning, spend the afternoon on the beach and then catch a water taxi for the return journey back to Yialos or Pedi. As well as the walks across the island to coastal destinations, many inland walks to monasteries, chapels, historic sites and beautiful valleys can also be enjoyed.
The picturesque harbour town of Yialos is the capital of Symi. It is connected to the Chorio (hill town) by Kali Strata, a street of comprising of four hundred steps. The walk up the Kali Strata is rewarded by passing many beautiful, preserved, nineteenth century mansions and by the wonderful views from the top. A medieval castle built by the knights of St John once stood proudly on the site of an ancient Greek acropolis but some imagination is needed to visualise how it would have once looked, dominating Chorio and the valleys below.
Yialos, also referred to as "Symi Town", is a beautiful town by both day and night. Many of its colourful buildings have been carefully restored to their former glory and have a preservation order like the mansions on the Kali Strata. The picturesque and romantic quality of the place has put it on the map of stop off ports for cruise ships. As a result, restaurant and bar prices in Yialos tend to be a bit pricier than elsewhere in the Greek islands. However, several of the local restaurants offer a standard of cuisine more than matching the price.
A holiday in Symi is best enjoyed sometime between April and October. Most of the island's holiday accommodations are only available during this period and during the winter months there is always the risk of ferry services from Rhodes being cancelled because of stormy weather. Even as late as the end of May one year, we had to spend two days in Rhodes waiting for the weather to calm sufficiently for our ferry to set sail.
Although it is possible to reach Symi directly by ferry from Athens, sailing from the port of Piraeus, the journey takes twenty hours. Rhodes is a major Greek Island holiday destination with an international airport, receiving cheap flights from all over Europe including most U.K. airports. The ferry takes only one hour to get from Rhodes to Symi and a hydrofoil does it in half the time. Unless you are masochist or someone who fanatically enjoys inter island ferry journeys, there is little point in using the Athens alternative. This article is free for republishing
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_550387_29.html.
Patmos Island, Greek Island Holiday Destination Revelation
Patmos island is part of the group of Greek Islands known as the Dodecanese. Our holiday base was on the neighbouring, and much larger, island of Samos where we had hopped on a boat to take us across the ten miles or so of the Aegean sea that separates the two islands. A one day visit was all we needed to know that Patmos island was our kind of holiday destination.
We stood in a candle lit cave, our usually sceptical, rational selves already feeling vaguely challenged by the possibility that supernatural phenomena might, after all, exist. The darkness and coolness was a stark contrast to the dazzling brightness and heat of the midday sun we had left to descend into this underworld of prophecies and priests.
The silence of the grotto was suddenly interrupted by a heavily accented voice, speaking in English. "Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is six hundred threescore and six."
Half expecting a beast with 666 stamped on its forehead, we turned to see a bearded man, dressed in the priesthood robes of Greek orthodoxy. He was not looking in our direction and at first it seemed that the biblical quotation had been a soliloquy. But the puzzle of why a Greek would talk to himself in English was solved seconds later, when the first of a party of Americans came into view. As soon as they began to fill the limited space of the cave, we recognised them as being a group of "Christian Tourists" we had seen earlier that day. The spell had been broken; the cave had lost its supernatural feeling, replaced by something as mundane as an evangelical meeting. It was time for us to go back up to the world of dazzling sunlight.
Our visit to the Sacred Grotto of the Revelation, where John the Divine is supposed to have foreseen and written of the Apocalypse, was part of a wonderful day we spent exploring the beautiful island of Patmos.
Above the cave is the Byzantine monastery of Saint John and the wonderful medieval village of Hora. Laying fifteen to twenty minutes walk below Hora is the island's capital, Skala. This charming little port is the largest settlement on Patmos island. Scooters wiz noisily around narrow, street corners where men sit at pavement cafés on rickety chairs playing backgammon games. Pickup trucks, pull up to unload fruit and vegetables without paying any heed to the honking horns of other motorists who shout and gesticulate that their way has been blocked. Yet somehow, in a quintessential, Greek Island way, the noise and bustle blends seamlessly into an atmosphere that is totally laid back and relaxing.
Patmos island has other several other pretty villages that are worth exploring but its most attractive feature is its convoluted coastline. A new vista of wonderful beaches appears from around every headland. Some are sandy and some are adorned in pretty white pebbles. Several are fringed by lush vegetation whilst others are found amongst rocky, yet no less attractive, settings. Some have sun beds and parasols but none have overdone this concession to modern tourism.
Many of the beaches are lapped by very calm, shallow seas, ideal for small children to paddle in but the prettiest beach of all, Psili Ammos, is washed with sometimes, huge waves and is surrounded by wild, beautiful scenery. Psili Ammos is one of the most remote beaches on Patmos island and is twenty minutes walk from Diakofti, the nearest village over a mountain footpath. If you prefer a less energetic way of reaching Psili Ammos, you can hop aboard one of the regular boats from the main port.
Nearly every Greek island offers glorious holiday destinations.<>
by: Stewart
Source: www.island4holiday.com
Grand Bahamas Island: Perfect holiday destination
By: Suzane Gray
If you are exhausted with the grueling work schedule at office, then this could be your perfect time to think for a blissful break from work and go for holiday or vacation. Plan a healthy vacation with your forsaken family and have an utmost pleasure of visiting the best exotic locations of the world. And, while deciding on the destination places, the first name that comes to your mind is the rejuvenating location of grand Bahamas Island. The fascinating sight of several white, crystal clear beaches, beautiful gardens, clean golf courses and amazing shopping opportunities have compelled the visitors to terms this place as traveler's paradise. Moreover, as grand Bahamas Island holds something in the bag for every age group, your entire family and friends are assured of having an unforgettable holiday experience at grand Bahamas island.
Grand Bahamas Island presents a perfect example of natural beauty served with luxuries of contemporary facilities. Every earthy grace is intelligently preserved with style and comfort for the pleasure of the visitors. Water lovers will simply adore grand Bahamas Islands as it banks more than 200 beaches with countless sports activities available for the travelers. You can easily pick up your favorite water sports such as scuba diving, swimming, under water diving fishing and many more. However, those who are not much fond of water activities can also have the luxury of developing your skills on the golf courses. It may be possible that tourists have to pay an extra amount of charge for using this facility but obviously the most intriguing pleasure of playing golf on one of the best courses in the world is indispensable. Grand Bahamas island is blessed with countless nine holes and eight holes golf courses that are widely available at all hotels and motels.
Therefore, if by now you have selected grand Bahamas Island to be your next vacation spot then do not take long to book your cheap holiday package. Many vacation planners and travel agencies are actively providing suitable packages that allow the visitors to explore this amazing site in limited amount of cash. Moreover, as this place is specifically designed for the tourists, one can stay assured with the fact that a specified budget will be able to bear all the expenses. Various hotels and other accommodations are present in this region to suit different budgets of the travelers. As far as the conveyance is concerned, special bus service and facilities are available for the tourists. However, it is still recommended to carry maps and guide books with your belongings.
Most people believe that grand Bahamas Island is a place that invites tourist over and over again with its undying charm and magnificent hospitality. In addition to this, shopping experience at Bahamas is commendable. You may not find the regular metropolitan malls here, but the collection at bazaars and market will not let you complain either. Do not forget to buy junk jewelry, stone stuff and other hand made items for your friends and relatives. In fact the grand Bahamas islands is one place one beautiful location in the world that will make you forget all your problems allow you to live life king size.
Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_575240_29.html
South Padre Island Texas
Situated at the eastern tip of Cameron County in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas, South Padre Island is one of the premier coastal resort destinations in the United States. It is bordered by Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico and is connected to the mainland by the Queen Isabella Causeway. South Padre Island is an excellent place for deep-sea fishing, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of adventure and recreational activities. It is one of the least developed and longest barrier islands in the world. Also, it is a popular destination for college spring breaks. Every year, thousands of students and vacationers visit South Padre Island.
South Padre Island is named after a Catholic priest and settler named Father Padre Balli. The population is about 3,000 and the total land area is 4.9 km². South Padre Island boasts a sub-tropical atmosphere with warm breezy summers and mild dry winters. It is one of the greatest places in the United States to see wildlife in its natural form. The attractions of the island include Andy Bowie Park, Los Ebanos, Port Isabel Historical Museum, Island Blanca Park, Sea Turtle, Island Equestrian Center, Whaling Wal, Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark, and Gladys Porter Zoo.
South Padre Island is a holiday paradise with more than 5,500 accommodations to suit everyone from families to honeymooners. The area is easily accessible by air from nearby cities. Valley International Airport (HRL), McAllen-Miller International Airport (MFE), and Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) all serve South Padre Island. The South Padre Island Visitors’ Center provides detailed information about the area. Various tour packages are available.
In short, warm gulf waters, beautiful beaches, boating, bird watching, fishing, and a variety of year-round activities make South Padre Island one of the most sought-after recreation destinations in the world.
South Padre Island provides detailed information on South Padre Island, South Padre Island Texas, South Padre Island Hotels, South Padre Island Condos and more. South Padre Island is affiliated with Spring Break Contests.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ross_Bainbridge
Alphonse Island Holiday
Alphonse Island is part of the Alphonse Group that extends 16km from North to South and comprises three islands: Alphonse in the North the majestic Bijoutier in the middle so named for its jewel-like beauty, and St. Francois in the South, named after Saint-Francois de Sales. Each of the islands offers guests turquoise lagoons frequented by turtles and, at low tide, the giant blue mud crab. The sky teems with terns and frigate birds.
By air from Mahe Island the flight will take approximately 60 minutes and with daily flights, Alphonse Island Resort offers guests the space and comfort of paradise. The colonial style rooms are 'A-frame' bungalows with thatched roof and built on stilts in traditional fashion, each designed to blend seamlessly with their tropical environment and each affording a vista of the ocean. Tastefully styled and furnished, all rooms are equipped with the usual facilities including an outdoor African Style shower. The Executive Villas have the same style and again elegantly furnished but generally more spacious.
There are numerous activities available for guests to enjoy, sensitively located to avoid comprising the tranquil atmosphere of the hotel. These include a range of water-sports, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and fly fishing. Canoes are the best way to discover the Alphonse Island lagoon whilst indoor games (scrabble, chess) will keep you entertained. Pedalos, sailing, snorkeling equipment, windsurfing and the rackets for their tennis courts are all activities that Alphonse provide at no additional cost.
"Dive the walls on Alphonse Island" Alphonse Island Resort is a "must" for "Certified Divers", who will discover exceptional walls, giant gorgonians and an extraordinarily rich underwater landscape. Dive sites are not further away than a half an hour boat ride. The diving facilities of the Centre are staffed by PADI qualified professional instructors and dive masters. Diving for beginners as well as for certified divers is provided on Alphonse. The diving-club is equipped to welcome upto 15 divers with new Scubapro equipment.
St Francois Lagoon is a thirty minute boat trip from Alphonse Island. The lagoon is one of the world's premier fly-fishing locations. Alphonse Island is well positioned for excellent Deep Sea Fishing. All the fishing sites can be reached in under thirty minutes and teem with fish: Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, Barracuda, Dorados and Wahoos will be found in a typical day's catch.
Excursions to nearby islands, round-trips, sunset cruises, snorkeling trips and bottom fishing are available.
http://www.justseychelles.com
Caribbean Islands
When making a decision to go on holiday to the Caribbean Islands you can easily be spoilt for choice, with over 7000 islands, islets, reefs and cays in the region, the Caribbean islands are an island chain stretching up to 2,500 miles long and 160 miles wide, enclosing the Caribbean Sea. Caribbean Islands holidays offer fine white sandy beaches, palm trees, warm translucent waters and a wonderful climate. You also get a wide choice on what type of holidays in the Caribbean Islands you're after, whether you fancy the vibrant nightlife in the Dominican Republic or something a little more traditional in somewhere like Nevis or parts of the Grenadines.
When visiting the Caribbean Islands the ideal trip would always include soft white beaches, beautifully warm seas and a wonderful all year round tropical sunny climate, with a wide variety in terms of style and culture from Aruba in the Dutch Antilles to English-speaking islands like the Bahamas and Barbados. The Dominican Republic and Margarita Island have a real Latin American feel and the islands of Jamaica and Cuba are truly exceptional in terms of character and culture. Mexico shows that you don't need to be on an island to enjoy the enchanting experience of the Caribbean Islands and the friendly people; romantic locations and stylish accommodation also make the Caribbean Islands a favoured choice for honeymoons. Whatever you want from a dream Caribbean Islands holiday, it has it all; sun, sea, sand and secluded spots to unwind are just waiting for you.
Getting there and getting around
Flights to the Caribbean Islands mostly operate from major UK airports such as Manchester, Gatwick, and Glasgow. Caribbean flights range from about 8 to 10 hours depending on your chosen destination. When booking a Caribbean Islands package holiday, coach transfers are usually included and if you've gone for a tailor made holiday, taxis are readily available at most airports to take you to your resort. To view the Caribbean's natural breathtaking surroundings it can be sometimes more worthwhile to book excursions such as boat trips and jeep safari tours with your holiday representative to get the most from your Caribbean Islands holiday destination.
Things to do
With so much variety at travel.co.uk, it's hard not to find your perfect Caribbean Islands holidays, whether it be to somewhere like Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba or Jamaica, you can't fail to enjoy this paradise world. The Caribbean offers fantastic diving, sailing, water sports, hiking, horse riding, ecotourism and wildlife. Caribbean Islands carnivals are renowned, with festivals right throughout the year, packed with music, dancing and street parades. Each island has its own individual carnival and being part of the lively atmosphere is an unforgettable experience and a true insight into the Caribbean Islands culture. The main holiday destinations in the Caribbean Islands are Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Barbados, Bahamas, St Lucia, Antigua, Grenada, Tobago, St Lucia, Margarita Island, Cuba and Mexico.
Food and drink
Food and drink in the Caribbean Islands reflects the colourful vibrant life and culture of the local people; the local produce forms the staple diet, fresh and nutritious, the locally produced rum is a must to try whilst lazing on the beach. From traditional rice and beans to luxurious all inclusive hotel cuisine, it is all on offer on holidays in the Caribbean Islands. Cuisines from all over the world are also served up in holidays to the Caribbean Islands, including Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern and other international tastes such as fast food outlets.
New Caledonia Island
Where is New Caledonia
New Caledonia is located in the western section of the South Pacific between Vanuatu and Australia. Travel to New Caledonia is easy - just 2 hours 30 minutes flight from Sydney so is a convenient holiday destination for many Australians and New Zealanders. New Caledonia has seven islands, comprising the very large cigar-shaped island of Grande Terre, while the others are much smaller offshore islands. Most tourism activity is on the western side of the main island, with the capital Nouméa on the southern end of this coastline. It was colonialised by the French in the mid-19th century and has been likened to a South Pacific version of the Riviera, with modern hotel accommodation, fine restaurants, and smart boutiques.
New Caledonia is unique in that instead of a volcanic origin, it was actually a segment of the southern continent that separated in eons past. Grande Terre is the third largest island in the South Pacific after PNG and New Zealand. Latitude 19° - 23° south and longitude 158° - 172° east.
Getting to New Caledonia: Distances are 1,500 km from Australia, 1,700 km from New Zealand, 5,000 km from Tahiti, 7,000 km from Japan, 10,000 km from the West Coast of the USA and 20,000 km from France.
New Caledonia Attractions
What New Caledonia has to offer
* Well-established New Caledonia tourism infrastructure
* New Caledonia lodging and vacation rentals include a wide range of resorts, hotels, and other options from low-cost up to 5-star. Suitable for honeymoons, weddings, family and budget travelers. Many great specials and packages, including all inclusive packages.
* French style cafés and fine New Caledonia restaurants feature many different cuisines.
* Boutiques and Parisian style designer label shops
* Easy access from Australia's east coast
* Flora, Fauna and Marine species unique to New Caledonia
* White sandy New Caledonia beaches and Mountain Retreats
* Grande Terre has a fringing reef forming the largest lagoon in the world
* Opportunity to explore indigenous traditional Melanesian Kanak culture on the eastern side of Grande Terre
* Mostly English is spoken. A few words of French can be fun to employ! Melanesian language is also heard.
* A vast array of New Caledonia activities, watersports and adventure travel
* New Caledonia's semi-tropical climate makes it perfect for those who find the full tropical climate a bit warm and humid.
There are many more unique and interesting features of New Caledonia to explore and enjoy
Bonjour and Welcome to Nouvelle Caledonie (New Caledonia) !
Cayman Islands Facts at a Glance
The Cayman Islands are a British Crown colony with an envious standard of living, combining one of the world's largest banking centers with first-class scuba diving and watersports. Come and snorkel with the stingrays or relax on the famous Seven Mile Beach! The Cayman Islands are one of the cleanest and most relaxing travel destinations in the Caribbean. An abundance of amenities, teamed up with a low crime rate plus modern infrastructure and communications have created an enviable lifestyle in this laid back tropical paradise.
Location & Geography
The Cayman Islands are located in the western Caribbean Sea . They are the peaks of a massive underwater ridge, on the edge of the Cayman Trench, 8000 feet deep. The islands lie in the centre of the Caribbean south of Cuba and North West of Jamaica . But even Grand Cayman, the largest of the three islands, is not visible on many maps. The three islands are situated about 480 miles (770 km) south of Miami, 150 miles (240 km) south of Cuba, and 180 miles (290 km) northwest of Jamaica. Grand Cayman is by far the biggest, with an area of 76 square miles (197 km²). The two " Sister Islands " of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are located about 90 miles (145 km) northeast of Grand Cayman and have areas of 14 square miles (36 km²) and 10 square miles (25.9 km²) respectively.
All three islands were formed by large coral heads covering submerged ice age peaks of the western extension of the Cuban Sierra Maestra range. Grand Cayman and Little Cayman are mostly flat. Cayman Brac has The Bluff, which rises to 140 feet (42.6 m) above sea level, the highest point of all three islands.
Electricity & Drinking Water
Electricity is the same in the Caymans as it is in the United States & Canada (110 volts, 60 cycles); it's reliable throughout the islands. Desalinated water is produced by the reverse osmosis process and centrally distributed to West Bay, Seven Mile Beach, Savannah, Bodden Town and some parts of North Side. Many residents still maintain cisterns for catching and storing rain water. Although "city water" is safe to drink, familiar brands of bottled water are also sold island wide at gas station, convenience stores and the major supermarkets.
Currency & Money
The Cayman Islands print their own currency, the Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD), which is pegged to the U.S. dollar at a fixed rate of 1 KYD = 1.227 USD. Thus, the C.I. Dollar's rate of exchange with all other countries is directly tied to the U.S. dollar's rate of exchange with those same countries. It is generally accepted that US $1.00 cash equals CI $0.80 (eighty cents CI). Travelers' checks and major credit cards are widely accepted at most stores. ATMs accepting MasterCard and Visa with Cirrus affiliation are readily available, particularly on Grand Cayman; you usually have the option of U.S. or Cayman dollars. The Cayman dollar (CI$) is made up of notes of $1, $5, $10, $25, $50, and $100. There's no $20 bill. There's no need for visitors to exchange their US dollars into local currency. Many merchants quote their prices in both CI$ and US$ and you can pay in either currency. If you pay in US$, you will receive your change in CI$.
Work Permits
In order to work in the Cayman Islands as a non-citizen, a work permit is required. This involves passing a police background check and a health check.
The Cayman Islands presently imposes a controversial "rollover" policy in relation to expatriate workers who require a work permit. Non-Caymanians are only permitted to reside and work within the country for a maximum of seven years (non-renewable) unless they satisfy the criteria of key employees. The policy has been the subject of some controversy within the press, and concerns have been expressed that in the long term, the policy may damage the pre-eminence of the Cayman Islands as an offshore financial centre by making it difficult to recruit and retain experienced staff. Government employees are exempt, although this has also been controversial.
Visas & Passports
As of January 23rd, 2007 all U.S. citizens were required to possess a valid passport to enter the Cayman Islands. Visas are not required for U.S., U.K., or Canadian citizens. More details: travel documents & Cayman Islands Immigration entry requirements...
History
The Cayman Islands – often (but never by locals) referred to as "the Caymans", "Caymen Islands", or just "Cayman" – were first sighted by Christopher Columbus on May 10, 1503 during his fourth and final voyage to the New World. He spotted Cayman Brac and Little Cayman and named them Las Tortugas after the numerous sea turtles in the waters. The first recorded visitor to the islands was Sir Francis Drake, who landed in 1586 and named the islands the Cayman Islands after the Neo-Taino nation's term (caiman) for crocodile (Zayas, 1914).
The first recorded permanent inhabitant of the Cayman Islands, Isaac Bodden, was born on Grand Cayman around 1700. He was the grandson of the original settler named Bodden who was probably one of Oliver Cromwell's soldiers at the taking of Jamaica in 1655.
The islands, along with nearby Jamaica, were captured by the Spanish, and then ceded to England in 1670 under the Treaty of Madrid. They were governed as a single colony until 1962 when the Cayman Islands became a British Overseas Territory and Jamaica became an independent commonwealth realm.
Grand Cayman was hit by Hurricane Ivan on September 11 - 12, 2004, which destroyed many buildings and damaged 90% of the island's homes. Power, water and communications were all disrupted as Ivan was the worst hurricane to hit the islands in 86 years. However, Grand Cayman promptly engaged in a major rebuilding process, and within two years its infrastructure had nearly returned to pre-Ivan levels. The Cayman Islands currently enjoy the highest standard of living in the Caribbean aided by thriving tourism and banking industries ... more Cayman Islands history...
Culture: Demographics & Statistics
The latest population estimate of the Cayman Islands is about 51,992, from spring 2006, representing a mix of more than 100 nationalities. Out of that number, about half are of Caymanian descent. Caymanians are about 60% mixed race (mostly African-European). Of the remaining 40%, about half are of European descent and half are of African descent. The islands are almost exclusively Christian. The vast majority of the population resides on Grand Cayman. Cayman Brac is the second most populated island with about 2,000 residents, followed by Little Cayman with around 200 permanent residents. The capital and major city of the Cayman Islands is George Town, which is located on the southwest coast of Grand Cayman.
Economy
The economy of the Cayman Islands was once centered on the turtling trade. However, this industry began to disappear in the twentieth century and tourism and financial services became the economic mainstays during the 1970s. The United States is the Cayman Islands ' largest trading partner. With an average income of around $42,000, Caymanians enjoy the highest standard of living in the Caribbean . According to the CIA World Fact book , the Cayman Islands GDP per capita is the 8th highest in the world.
Tourism
Tourism accounts for 70-75% of the annual GDP of the Cayman Islands. Of the millions of tourists that visit the islands annually, 99% visit Grand Cayman. George Town also serves as a major cruise ship port, welcoming 4,000 to 22,000 tourists a day, five days a week, depending on the number of ships in port.
One of Grand Cayman's main attractions is the world-famous Seven Mile Beach on which a number of the island's hotels, resorts and condominiums are located. Seven Mile Beach is regarded by many as one of the best beaches in the world. Historical sites in Grand Cayman such as Pedro St. James National Historical Site, a restored Caribbean ‘Great House'; Bodden Town's Mission House; and the Mastic Trail between the north and south coasts; give visitors an idea of what island life was like 100-150 years ago. The 'Sister Islands' of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac supply their own unique charm -- a more relaxed pace, no crowds, and a little bit of the “islands time forgot” feeling.
The Cayman Islands is regarded as one of the world's best SCUBA diving destinations because of its crystal-clear waters and accessible wall dives. Little Cayman is frequently chosen as a favorite dive destination. Divers can find two shipwrecks off the shores of Cayman Brac, including the MV Keith Tibbetts. The popular Stingray City, in Grand Cayman, gives snorklers a thrill by allowing them to swim with and feed relatively docile Southern Stingrays.
Other Grand Cayman tourism attractions include the ironshore landscape of Hell; the 24-acre marine theme park Boatswain's Beach, also home of the Cayman Turtle Farm; and the annual Pirates Week Festival. On Cayman Brac, nature trails, rock climbing, and exploring the Bluff's caves draw many enthusiasts. Little Cayman's aboundant wildlife attracts fishermen and nature lovers, especially bird watchers in search of the island's Red-footed Booby population and the endangered West Indian Whistling Duck.
Financial Services & Banking
The Cayman Islands is widely recognized to be one of the world's leading offshore financial services centres.
The Cayman Islands financial services industry encompasses banking, mutual funds, captive insurance, vessel and aircraft registration, companies and partnerships incorporation, trusts, structured finance and the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange. As of December 2005, just over 70,000 companies were incorporated on the Cayman Islands including 430 banks and trust companies, 720 captive insurance firms and more than 7,000 funds.
A recent report released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) assessing supervision and regulation in the Cayman Islands' banking, insurance and securities industries, as well as its anti-money laundering regime, recognized the jurisdiction's comprehensive regulatory and compliance frameworks. "An extensive program of legislative, rules and guideline development has introduced an increasingly effective system of regulation, both formalizing earlier practices and introducing enhanced procedures," noted IMF assessors. The report further stated that "the supervisory system benefits from a well-developed banking infrastructure with an internationally experienced and qualified workforce as well as experienced lawyers, accountants and auditors," adding that, "the overall compliance culture within Cayman is very strong, including the compliance culture related to AML ( anti-money laundering ) obligations...". The Cayman Islands had previously (briefly) appeared on the FATF Blacklist in 2000, although its listing was thought to be harsh, and was criticized at the time.
Government
The Cayman Islands is currently a British overseas territory, listed by the UN Special Committee of twenty-four as one of the last non-self governing territories. A fifteen-seat Legislative Assembly is elected by the people every four years to handle domestic affairs. Of the elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), five are chosen to serve as government ministers in a cabinet headed by the governor. The head of the elected government is the Leader of Government Business, which is currently The Honourable Kurt Tibbetts.
A Governor is appointed by the British government to represent the monarch. The governor can exercise complete executive authority if he/she wishes through blanket powers reserved to him/her in the constitution. He/she must give royal assent to all legislation, which allows him/her the power to strike down any law the legislature may see fit for the country. In modern times, the governor usually allows the country to be run by the cabinet, which is made up of the five elected ministers and three high ranking civil servants: the Chief Secretary, the Attorney General, and the Financial Secretary. The civil service is managed by the Chief Secretary, who is the Acting Governor when the Governor is not able to discharge his usual duties for one reason or another. The current governor of the Cayman Islands is His Excellency the Governor Stuart Jack, CVO, and the current Chief Secretary is The Honourable George McCarthy, OBE, JP.
The 1999 White Paper Partnership for Progress and Prosperity: Britain and the Overseas Territories sets out the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's policy on the Overseas Territories. This includes support and encouragement of constitutional modernization. Following the collapse of the Euro Bank Corporation in 2003, constitutional modernization has become an important issue in the Islands' politics. The prosecution in the trial was forced to reveal that MI6, on behalf of the British government and with the consent of the Governor, had planted moles (and used wire taps) throughout the Islands' banking industry. This caused the trial's collapse and subsequent release of those charged with wrongdoing. The only mole known at the time was allowed to leave the country, never to answer for what he (or the United Kingdom ) had done. This infuriated the elected members of the Legislative Assembly as they maintained that the Governor and the United Kingdom had put into question Cayman's reputation as a well-regulated offshore jurisdiction. Some saw this as the United Kingdom meddling in the territory's affairs to benefit itself (and the EU), at the expense of the islands' economy.
Constitutional talks however went on hold following Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Subsequently, in May 2005 elections, the ruling UDP Party was ousted by the PPM. A Constitutional Review Secretariat was opened on 1 March 2007. A timeline has been established, with public consultation on proposed constitutional changes leading up to the islands' first referendum before negotiations begin with the UK .
Taxes
Caymanians and Cayman Islands companies are not subject to any form of direct taxation. However, the Cayman Islands Government's primary source of income is indirect taxation. An import duty of 20% is levied against goods imported into the islands. Few goods are exempt; notable examples include books, cameras and baby formula. Duty on automobiles is charged on a sliding scale with the duty reaching 40% for expensive models. The government charges a flat licensing fee to financial institutions that operate in the islands. Each tourist that arrives on the islands is also charged a small fee, including 10% government tax added to all accommodations.
Education
Caymanian children are entitled to free primary and secondary education. The education system is a Caribbean-American-UK hybrid, reflecting the founders' and teachers' backgrounds. Various churches and private foundations operate private schools offering curricula derived from the American and UK education systems from kindergarten to grade twelve. Grand Cayman is also home to St. Matthew's University, which includes a medical school and a school of veterinary medicine.
The Cayman Islands Law School (CILS), affiliated with the University of Liverpool in the UK, is also based on Grand Cayman. Situated in George Town, the law school has been in operation since 1982. As taken from the student handbook: "The Law School provides tuition for both full and part-time programmes leading to the Bachelor of Law (Honours) Degree of the University of Liverpool and the qualification of Attorney-at-Law of the Cayman Islands, following successful completion of the postgraduate Professional Practicum Course (PPC).”
Grand Cayman is home to the International College of the Cayman Islands (www.icci.edu.ky) which is located in Newlands about seven miles east of George Town. The college was established in 1970 and offers Associate's, Bachelor's and Post Graduate degree programs. The Cayman Islands Government operates the University College of the Cayman Islands (www.ccci.edu.ky). Begun in 1975 as a community college, the institution has grown over the years and now offers Associate and Bachelor's degrees.
Healthcare
The Cayman Islands have a modern healthcare system. There are two hospitals in George Town, the government run Cayman Islands Hospital and the smaller, private Chrissie Tomlinson Memorial Hospital. Additionally, Faith Hospital is a small (eighteen-bed) facility on Cayman Brac. The Government maintains a satellite clinic on Little Cayman and health clinics in each of the districts on Grand Cayman .
Health insurance is handled by private insurers and a government-run company (CINICO). There is no universal health coverage as in the UK.
Currently the islands lack facilities for cardiac catheterization, though many feel the population is large enough to support the procedure. Various attempts to establish a cath lab at the Cayman Islands Hospital have stalled out. Cayman also lacked an MRI since one was destroyed during Hurricane Ivan. Recently, CT Scan, MRI and nuclear imaging capabilities were added at the Chrissie Tomlinson Memorial Hospital.
Military & Police
The defense of the Cayman Islands is the responsibility of the United Kingdom. The Islands have their own police force, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service; Regular off-shore marine patrols are conducted by the RCIP.
Foreign Relations
The foreign relations of the Cayman Islands are largely managed from the United Kingdom, as the islands remain an overseas territory of the UK. However, the Government of the Cayman Islands often resolves important issues with foreign governments alone, without intervention from Britain. In its early days, the Cayman Islands' most important relationships were with Britain and Jamaica. In recent years, the Islands have developed a significant relationship with the United States.
Though the Cayman Islands are involved in no major international disputes, they have faced challenges. Located between North and South America, the Islands have been used for trafficking illegal drugs. In addition, all off-shore financial centres face criticism about money laundering. In an attempt to address these issues, the Government entered into the Narcotics Agreement of 1984 and the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty of 1986 with the United States . In more recent years, Government has stepped up the fight against money laundering by limiting banking secrecy, introducing requirements for customer identification and record keeping, and requiring banks to cooperate with foreign investigators.
Due to their status as an overseas territory of the UK, the Cayman Islands have no representation either at the United Nations, or in most other international organizations. However, the Cayman Islands still participates in some international organizations, being a full member of the Central Development Bank, International Olympic Committee and FIFA, an associate member of Caricom and UNESCO, and a member of a sub-bureau of Interpol.
Source: http://www.gocayman.ky/content/view/22/65/#Tourism_
Long Island
The three resorts include: Club Crocodile, Peppers Palm Bay and South Long Island Nature Lodge.
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Peppers Palm Bay is a boutique resort that boasts no telephones or TV's and caters to a maximum of 42 guests.
South Long Island Nature Lodge is located on Paradise Bay and promotes connection with nature to a maximum of 12 guests. There's also a camping ground located at Sandy Bay on the western side of the island.
Nearest Airport: Hamilton Island ( 18 Kilometres )Source: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/destinations/islands/long-island/index.cfm
Hook Island
Hook Island is mostly national park and boasts beautiful beaches and walking tracks. Make sure to try the track that leads to Butterfly Bay, so named because of its unique shape and the butterflies which swarm around its shores.
There are also two magnificent five kilometre fjord-like inlets, Nara and Macona, cut into the southern end of Hook Island to provide a spectacular anchorage for yachts.
There are a couple accommodation options on Hook: camping at several sites around the island or the resort at Hook Island Wilderness Resort.
Source: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/destinations/islands/hook-island/index.cfm
Hamilton Island
Set amidst pristine surroundings, Hamilton Island offers a multitude of activities to participate in and luxurious accommodation options to suit the most discerning traveller. You'll be spoiled for choice with sea-kayaking, game fishing, scenic helicopter flights and 'Breakfast with the Koalas' at the Koala Gallery. Of course, you might simply want to concentrate on doing nothing at all, and lay around one of the pools or simply relax on the beach. Hamilton Island is also a gateway to other gems in the Whitsundays including Heart Reef, Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach.
Every taste and budget is accounted for on Hamilton Island. From the luxurious and intimate beachfront setting of the Beach Club to the sweeping views of the Coral Sea at The Reef View Hotel. If it's a little more independence you're after, you can choose from the Polynesian style Palm Bungalows or the Palm Terraces which are both ideal for families. All accommodation has easy access to the beach, restaurants and resort centre.
Carlisle Island
Carlisle Island is a hilly continental island with dense eucalypt forestand rainforest in gullies. The island is 518 hectares of National Park and is surrounded by fringing coral reef, allowing snorkellers the opportunity to walk off the beach into the water and view coral and tropical fish. Sandbank access to Brampton Island is at low tide.
Booking for camping on the island is essential; access to the island is via private boat or water taxi with Brampton Island. Transfers from Brampton Island to Carlisle Island are available by prior arrangement with the resort.Campers and visitors to the island need to be self sufficient, please ensure you take water and a gas barbecue as fires are not permitted on the island. Other island facilities include picnic tables, sheltered shed, toilets and drinking water. Permits need to be obtained from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service for camping.
St Bees Island
Source: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/destinations/islands/st-bees-island-9005394/index.cfm
Lindeman Island
Lindeman Island has seven stunning beaches with Gap Beach a fantastic location for snorkelling and oystering. Golden orchids grow on the mangroves at the end of the beach and over 90 species of birds dart through the trees.
Dolphins can often be spotted from the shore all throughout the year. While during whale-watching season from July to November, Humpback whales can often be seen as well.
Lindeman Island is also home of Australia's first Club Med Resort. There are plenty of activities on offer for you to do as little as much as you'd like on your holiday. There is also a camping ground at Boat Port in the north of the island.
Lindeman Island combines natural beauty with sophistication and style for a truly memorable holiday experience.
Nearest Airport: Hamilton Island ( 30 Kilometres ) Source: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/destinations/islands/lindeman-island/index.cfm
Hayman Island
On a sparkling sunny day the colour of the water of Hayman's lagoon and Whitsunday Passage are simply stunning - the hues range from turquoise to emerald and sapphire. There's excellent snorkelling directly off one of the beaches on Hayman in Blue Pearl Bay. Some argue this is the best beach snorkelling in the Whitsundays.
At the resort, all rooms have magnificent views of the Whitsundays or the tropical landscaped gardens. Visitors receive the best of both worlds, combining magnificence with the natural beauty of a tropical paradise. The most discerning traveller will be satisfied, but most likely delighted, at the luxurious amenities at the resort.
Nearest Airport: Hamilton Island ( 15 Kilometres )Source: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/destinations/islands/hayman-island/index.cfm
Daydream Island Australia
Source :http://www.holiday-whitsundays.com/locations/daydream-island.php
Daydream Island
You'll be able to snorkel directly off the beach to the fringing reef or go sea kayaking, water skiing or even windsurfing. There are also several walking tracks on the island for you to explore. The centre and highest point of the island is a small but dense jungle of tropical vegetation inhabited by parrots and tiny sunbirds.
Daydream Island Resort occupies the majority of the island and offers many activities and impressive facilities including an excellent mini-golf putt-putt course.
To get there you can fly direct to nearby Hamilton Island Great Barrier Reef Airport from most Australian cities and transfer to Daydream Island by ferry. Or fly into Proserpine/Whitsunday Coast Airport, travel by coach to Shute Harbour, and then by ferry over to Daydream Island.
Nearest Airport: Hamilton Island ( 12 Kilometres ) Source: http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/destinations/islands/daydream-island/index.cfm
Brampton Island, The Whitsundays
Located at the southern end of the world-renowned Whitsunday Island Passage, 32km North-East of Mackay and 50km South of Hamilton Island, Brampton Island is the ideal haven for couples seeking a romantic escape. This large and beautiful National Park Island is surrounded by sparkling azure waters, twelve golden sandy beaches, coral gardens and an array of National Park walking and jogging tracks - each affording spectacular views or the perfect secluded beach for a romantic picnic.
With fewer rooms than many of the resorts at the nearby Whitsunday Group of Islands, and with no day trippers to interrupt the peace and solitude, you will undoubtedly find a special place for you and your partner to be truly as one. To reconnect with your true self and your partner, we simply recommend you leave the kids at home! Brampton is all about fun, reward, romance, adventure or pure escapism.
Brampton has twelve beautiful beaches, with seven being easily accessible via the National Park walking trails. Just off shore is a diverse range of fringing reefs where you can discover an amazing array of marine life and soft and hard corals. After an adventure of snorkelling and exploring, treat yourself and your partner to a rejuvenating massage, facial, or body wrap in The Sea Spa.
Brampton has a rhythm of its own and there are activities to enjoy at every imaginable tempo - from fast and furious water sports and heart-thumping sports activities, to relaxing by the pool or enjoying a rejuvenating massage. As the sun sets, the fun continues and we invite you to join in the lively atmosphere of our theme nights and live entertainment.
The Brampton Island team is delighted to assist you with planning your days and arranging your activities. It's your choice to do it all or do nothing at all.
Source: http://www.brampton-island.com/
